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Meta Description: British Wool and NFYFC offer 50 per cent discounted shearing courses, empowering young farmers to enhance skills and industry standards
British Wool and the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) are once again partnering to provide YFC members with a 50 per cent discount on shearing training courses. This marks the seventh consecutive year of collaboration, supporting young farmers in developing essential skills.
The two-day courses, available across the UK, cover machine and blade shearing for all skill levels-beginner to advanced. Participants receive hands-on instruction in small groups, with a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio. The training emphasizes technique improvement, animal welfare, equipment use, and safety in the shearing shed.
YFC members can register for the discounted rate of £110 plus VAT until March 31, 2025. Non-members can also join at £220 plus VAT. Richard Schofield, Shearing Manager at British Wool, highlighted the program's impact, “This incentive provides an excellent opportunity for members to enhance their skills and maintain high shearing standards.”
NFYFC Chair Drew Bailey noted that over 700 members have benefited from the discount, which aligns with the federation’s commitment to improving industry standards.
2025 NFYFC Sheep Shearing champion Sam Jones urged others to seize the opportunity: “Keep attending courses, practice, and don’t hold back. The more you shear, the better you’ll become.”
The initiative ensures young farmers are equipped to excel in their roles while fostering professional growth.
Meta Description: TMAS drives filtration innovation with advanced automation, boosting efficiency, sustainability, and quality in air and liquid filtration manufacturing
Members of TMAS, the Swedish textile machinery association, are driving innovation in the filtration industry by providing advanced manufacturing and automation solutions. Filtration systems, relying on technical woven and nonwoven fabrics, are vital across sectors including aerospace, transportation, industrial processes, and household appliances.
At Interfil’s plant in Skjak, Norway, 230,000 air filter units are produced annually, with 9,000 products moving through production stages daily. Similarly, Filtration System Products (FSP) in St Louis, USA, manufactures over 2,200 filter hoses daily. Both companies have achieved significant efficiency gains using automated systems from TMAS member Eton Systems.
Eton’s overhead conveyor systems, operational at Interfil since 2014, link production halls, reducing manual handling and transport while enhancing safety and traceability. Since 2023, FSP has increased output by 60 per cent with Eton’s system, which optimizes space and ensures only defect-free products are unloaded.
Another breakthrough comes from TMAS members ACG Kinna Automatic and ACG Nystrom, in collaboration with Juki Central Europe. Their fully automated microfactory produces 120 finished filter bags per hour. The system, comprising the Smart Filter Line and Filtermaster 2.0 modules, automates fabric feeding, seaming, and final assembly with precision and speed.
“These advancements reflect our members' commitment to sustainable and efficient automation, which is essential for maintaining competitiveness,” said TMAS Secretary General Therese Premler-Andersson.
By eliminating labor-intensive processes, TMAS innovations are transforming the filtration sector globally.
Pune Municipal Corporation plans first textile waste processing facility to handle 100-125 tons daily, promoting eco-friendly waste management solutions.
To address the 100-125 tons of textile waste produced every day, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) plans to establish first textile waste processing facility in the city. The facility will help process textile waste that cannot be handled with ordinary solid garbage.
Sandip Kadam, Head - Solid Waste Management (SWM) Department, PMC, says, to prevent damage to nature, the textile waste would be handled by the processing unit in an environmentally friendly way. Many people fail to consider the environmental impact of this waste, he points out.
Around 1,200 to 1,300 tons of dry waste and 900 to 1,000 tons of wet waste is generated in Pune every day. Around 100-125 tons of textile waste is generated in the city on a daily basis.
The cost of setting a dedicated unit to process this textile waste is around Rs 4 crore, as per official estimates, though this may vary according to the allocation of land and machinery for the unit.
Kapital partners with L Catterton for growth, blending Japanese craftsmanship and playful style while preserving its iconic charm and authenticity.
Having long skirted a broader reach cult, Japanese clothing brand renowned for blending craftsmanship with playful style, Kapital is finally entering the mainstream with the LVMH-backed investment firm L Catterton acquiring a majority stake in it.
Founded by Toshikiyo Hirata and later helmed by his son Kiro, Kapital gained international acclaim through its unique mix of whimsical designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Known for its skeleton-stitched denim, trucker hats, and boro-patched Kountry line, the brand appeals to workwear enthusiasts, streetwear fans, and luxury fashion lovers alike. Its crossover appeal has cemented its status as one of Japan’s most iconic workwear brands, with stockists spanning workwear retailers, progressive boutiques, and streetwear stores worldwide.
However, this is not Kapital’s first brush with luxury conglomerates. In 2013, the brand collaborated with Louis Vuitton under the leadership of Kim Jones, Managing Director, on blending its patchwork aesthetics with LV’s luxury touch. The collaboration hinted at Kapital’s potential as a global brand, a vision L Catterton now seeks to amplify as Kapital nears its 30th anniversary in 2026.
Some fans have expressed concerns about the acquisition, fearing the brand’s quirky ethos may be diluted. Kapital is famously selective about its retail partners, ensuring exclusivity and authenticity.
Kapital’s inclusion under L Catterton’s ‘Asia’ strategy aligns with broader investments in Japan, reflecting the firm’s focus on growing local brands with international potential. The investment is likely to help Kapital expand while staying true to its roots, ensuring its unique charm continues to captivate a global audience.
AEPC urges tax incentives, e-commerce reforms, and zero customs duty on machinery in Union Budget 2025 to boost India's apparel exports.
Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has urged the government to announce tax incentives in the upcoming Union Budget 2025. The incentives sought by the Council include removal of a provision requiring payments to MSMEs to be made within 45 days to claim deductions, and exempting garment machinery imports from customs duty on garment machinery imports.
AEPC has also requested the government to announce a 5 per cent interest equalization rate in the upcoming Budget, scheduled to be unveiled on February 1, 2025 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
The council’s other demands include extending the concessional tax rate for new manufacturing units to encourage setting up of new garment units; simplifying import procedure for trims and embellishments under IGCR (Import of Goods at Concessional Rate); and liberalizing e-commerce export procedures.
The Ready Made Garments (RMG) sector also demanded removal of Sec43B (H) of IT Act pertaining to payment to any MSME companies within a maximum 45 days' time to claim tax deductions. This Act not only increased tax liabilities but also disrupted the cash flow of exporters, says the sector
Further, the sector has demanded increasing the cap per consignment of export value under e-commerce to minimum Rs 25 lakh and extending the export realization period to 12 months.
India's garment export sector relies heavily on imported machinery to maintain quality and global competitiveness, as domestic production is insufficient to meet demand. High import duties make Indian garments exports less competitive vis-a-vis countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam. AEPC recommends continuing existing exemptions besides reducing the customs duty on remaining garmenting machinery to zero to enhance the sector's efficiency.
Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman, AEPC says, the Union Budget presents a great opportunity to the council to urge the government to consider its demands for long-term policy support.
The sector needs to adopt new strategies urgently to benefit from the reorientation of the evolving supply chain. It can outplace global competitors by upscaling its production capacity, channelizing investments, upskilling workforce and launching new labor reforms, adds Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary, AEPC.
Featuring latest industry innovations, networking, seminars, and exclusive perks for MGMA members, the event will be held from February 26-28, 2025 in Vietnam,
The 2025 edition of Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) will be organized jointly by Messe Frankurt (HK) and Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam.
To be held from February 26-28, 2025, this premier event will take place at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The event will be attended by all the members of the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA) and feature a Business Matching Program, Fashion Show, On-site Seminars, Panel Discussions, Product Presentations, and networking events. Attendees to the event can explore cutting-edge technologies, gain industry insights, and connect with global peers. Serving as a comprehensive platform for the textile industry, the event will showcase latest innovations, trends, and opportunities in the industry.
MGMA members participating in the show will enjoy airport pick-ups, complimentary two-night accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City, exclusive access to the Buyer Delegates Lounge, Business Matching Events, and Fashion Show entry.
The global fashion industry is changing constantly, pushed forward by evolving consumer demands, technological advancements, and socio-economic pressures. To stay ahead of the curve, brands and retailers are adopting innovative strategies to redefine how they design, manufacture, distribute, and market their products. Here are five of the most significant shifts…
1. Embracing sustainability, from trend to necessity
With growing consumer awareness and concerns about the environmental impact of fast fashion, brands are integrating sustainability into their core strategies. This shift goes beyond using organic cotton; it involves rethinking the entire supply chain. For example, Patagonia a pioneer in sustainable practices, has built its brand on environmental and social responsibility. They use recycled materials, support fair labor practices, and even encourage consumers to repair their clothes instead of buying new ones. This commitment has resonated with consumers, fostering loyalty and driving growth. "We aim to use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis,"says Yvon Chouinard, Founder of Patagonia. Their initiatives have increased consumer trust, brand differentiation, and reduced environmental footprint.
2. Digital transformation, when omnichannel is king
The lines between online and offline shopping are blurring. Brands are investing in digital technologies to create seamless omnichannel experiences, personalize customer journeys, and gather valuable data. Nike for example has seamlessly integrated its online and offline channels, allowing customers to browse online, reserve items in-store, and even customize products. Their mobile app provides personalized recommendations and fitness tracking, further enhancing customer engagement. "Our digital transformation is about serving the consumer personally at scale," opines Adam Sussman, Chief Digital Officer, Nike. Their moves have enhanced customer experience, increased sales, and improved inventory management.
3. Direct-to-consumer (D2C), cutting out the middleman
By selling directly to consumers, brands can build stronger relationships, control their brand narrative, and gather valuable customer data. Everlane the online retailer built its brand on transparency, ethical production, and fair pricing by eliminating traditional retail markups. Their D2C model allows them to communicate directly with customers and build a loyal following. "Radical Transparency. Know your factories. Know your costs. Always ask why,"is Everlane's brand philosophy. This has helped in increasing profit margins, greater control over brand messaging, and deeper customer relationships.
4. Personalization, catering to individual needs
With access to vast amounts of data, brands are leveraging AI and machine learning to personalize product recommendations, marketing messages, and even shopping experiences. Stitch Fix, the online personal styling service uses data and algorithms to curate clothing selections tailored to individual customer preferences. This personalized approach has disrupted the traditional retail model and attracted a loyal customer base. As per Stitch Fix, they use data science to personalize the shopping experience and deliver items that clients love. This has increased customer satisfaction, improved brand loyalty, and higher conversion rates.
5. Circular economy, closing the loop
To minimize waste and maximize resource utilization, brands are exploring circular economy models, including resale, rental, and recycling programs. Rent the Runway for example, a platform that allows customers to rent designer clothes, is reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion and providing access to luxury items at a fraction of the cost. "We believe in a future where renting is the norm, not the exception," explains Jennifer Hyman, CEO of Rent the Runway. This strategy has helped in reducing the environmental impact, increased customer access to high-end fashion, and new revenue streams for brands.
These strategic shifts reflect a fundamental change in how fashion brands operate. By embracing sustainability, leveraging technology, and prioritizing customer relationships, brands are not only adapting to the evolving landscape but also shaping the future of the industry.
India’s textile industry, a key contributor to the national economy, is facing significant challenges, particularly with rising raw material costs, especially for cotton and man-made fiber (MMF). Industry leaders are calling for urgent reforms to enhance the sector’s global competitiveness, with an eye on the ambitious $350 billion target by 2030, including $100 billion in exports. The following are key policy recommendations aimed at boosting the industry’s growth and sustainability.
Ensuring raw material availability at competitive prices
One of the most pressing concerns is the high domestic prices of raw materials, which are significantly above global rates. The imposition of Quality Control Orders (QCO) on MMF fibers and yarn has created non-tariff barriers, restricting the free flow of essential raw materials. Industry experts are advocating for the liberalization of import policies, specifically reducing the basic customs duty (BCD) on MMF fibers, filaments, and essential chemicals like PTA and MEG. These measures would reduce costs for downstream textile products and support millions of jobs within the sector.
Removal of import duty on cotton varieties
To meet global quality demands, India is increasingly importing specialized cotton varieties such as organic and sustainable cotton. However, the import duty on cotton is inflating domestic prices, making Indian cotton 15-20 per cent more expensive than international counterparts. Textile industry stakeholders are pushing for the complete removal of import duties on all cotton varieties to make Indian cotton more competitive in the global market.
The volatility of cotton prices continues to be a concern for both farmers and manufacturers. Stakeholders suggest the creation of a Cotton Price Stabilization Fund, offering interest subventions and extended credit limits. They also propose transitioning the Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement process to a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) model, allowing farmers to sell cotton at prevailing market prices without waiting for government intervention. This would improve liquidity for cotton farmers and help stabilize market prices.
To boost cotton production and meet the demand for high-quality cotton, experts recommend scaling up output from 5.5 billion kgs to 7.5 billion kgs by 2030. They propose the reintroduction of the Technology Mission on Cotton, with a focus on advanced seed technologies, better agronomy practices, and the adoption of international best practices in cotton farming.
Extending the interest equalization scheme
The Interest Equalization Scheme (IES), which has been instrumental in reducing interest rates for textile exporters, is set to expire in 2024. Industry leaders are urging the government to extend the scheme for at least three more years to continue supporting textile exports and improve India’s global competitiveness.
India’s textile industry is heavily driven by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). To help MSMEs grow, industry representatives call for the establishment of an Alternate Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme, offering capital subsidies and performance incentives. Additionally, a special scheme to develop indigenous textile machinery would reduce dependency on imports and foster sustainable manufacturing practices.
Addressing polyester fiber deficits
India's textile industry is also struggling with a severe shortage of polyester-based raw materials, which are crucial for high-demand applications such as fashion, home furnishings, and technical textiles. Key materials such as Polyester Mother Yarn (semi-dull and bright), Mechanical Stretch Yarn, Polyester Monofilament Yarn, and specialized yarns are facing large deficits, hindering production.
For example, India’s domestic production of polyester mother yarn is only 5,720 tons per month, against a demand of 9,000 tons per month, leaving a deficit of 36.4 per cent. The absence of critical materials like high-tenacity polyester yarn and proprietary fibers like Polylana and Solucell, due to patent restrictions, further complicates the situation.
To address these shortages, industry experts are calling for policy reforms to foster local production and encourage technological advancements in polyester fiber manufacturing. Strengthening domestic production would reduce India's reliance on imports and strengthen its position as a global textile hub.
With these comprehensive reforms, India can ensure a sustainable and competitive textile industry that not only caters to domestic needs but also competes effectively on the global stage. By addressing critical issues such as raw material availability, price volatility, and technological upgrades, the Indian textile industry can reach its $350 billion target by 2030, positioning the country as a leader in the global textile market.
The Indian government has extended the Minimum Import Price (MIP) on specific categories of synthetic knitted fabrics. This measure, effective from 15th September 2024 to 31st December 2024, aims to regulate the influx of imported fabrics and maintain stability in the domestic textile industry.
Background:
Rising imports: India has witnessed a surge in imports of synthetic knitted fabrics, particularly from China, in recent years. This has put pressure on domestic manufacturers, who struggle to compete with the low prices of imported goods.
Impact on domestic industry: The influx of cheap imports has led to job losses and factory closures in the Indian textile industry.
Government intervention: In response to concerns raised by the domestic industry, the government imposed an MIP on certain synthetic knitted fabrics in March 2024. This initial measure was set to expire in September 2024.
Current Measures:
Extension of existing MIP: The government has extended the MIP on five specific ITC (HS) codes, encompassing various types of synthetic knitted fabrics.
New MIP: In addition to the extension, the government has also introduced a new MIP of US Dollar 3.50 per kilogram on the CIF value of eight additional ITC (HS) codes.
Objective: The move is anticipated to curb the inflow of low-priced synthetic knitted fabrics, ensuring a level playing field for domestic producers. By stabilizing the market and promoting self-reliance, the government aims to foster the growth and competitiveness of the Indian textile sector.
Data:
|
Year |
Import Volume (Tons) |
Average Import Price (USD/kg) |
Domestic Production (Tons) |
|
2022 |
100,000 |
2.5 |
500,000 |
|
2023 |
150,000 |
2 |
450,000 |
|
2024 (Jan-Jun) |
100,000 |
1.5 |
200,000 |
The extension of the MIP on synthetic knitted fabrics is a significant step taken by the Indian government to protect the domestic textile industry. The move is expected to stabilize the market and provide a level playing field for domestic producers. However, the long-term success of this measure will depend on the government's ability to enforce it effectively and address other challenges faced by the industry, such as high input costs and outdated technology
H&M Move's Wellness Edit featuring SoftMove Yoga Leggings combines comfort with functionality.
Alongside H&M Beauty and H&M Home, H&M Move has launched Wellness Edit, a curated collection of yoga leggings made with Lycra Sports fabric using the brand’s SoftMove technology.
Delivering a perfect combination of softness and functionality, these leggings fit customers like a second skin offering them unparalleled freedom of movement. The collection is available globally in select stores and online at hm.com starting January 2, 2025.
Inspired by January’s unique light, both crisp and warm, the new SoftMove Yoga Leggings collection symbolizes a fresh start for the brand and guides it toward self-investment and growth, says Marie Fredros, Head - Design at H&M Move.
The Wellness Edit embodies everyday indulgence with the SoftMove Yoga Leggings as its premier product, offering unmatched comfort and adaptability. Available in calming natural tones like off-white, grounding neutrals, and buttery yellow, the collection is designed for low-intensity activities such as yoga, pilates, or meditation.
Key new pieces in this collection include minimalist sports bras, deep triangle bras, flared bottoms, and biker shorts, all designed to pair seamlessly with the Yoga Leggings. Layer up with padded jackets, crewneck sweaters, or hoodies, and elevate your practice with stylish wrist weights.
Supporting the collection, H&M Home offers plush embossed towels, matching robes and bathmats.
Overall, the Wellness Edit invites customers to invest in theme selves, making self-care a daily ritual and starting the year with intention and balance.
