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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.
The company’s new $8.8 million facility in the Qantara West Industrial Zone will create 1,000 jobs and boost SCZONE's textile manufacturing hub.
Turkish garment manufacturer Denim Rise is establishing a factory in Egypt’s Qantara West Industrial Zone, with an investment of $8.8 million. Set to open in H2, 2025, this facility will create 1,000 jobs and export 70 per cent of its production.
The contract was signed by Huseyin Güzel, a board member of Denim Rise, who described the project as ‘a start for further expansions for the company in foreign markets.’
This initiative is part of the Suez Canal Economic Zone's (SCZONE) ongoing development of the Qantara West Industrial Zone. SCZONE has signed contracts for nine such projects in the zone’s first phase, totaling $317.8 million in investments across 777,000 sq m, creating approximately 15,200 job opportunities.
Highlighting Qantara West’s strategic advantages for labor-intensive industries, Waleid Gamal El-Dien, Chairman, SCZONE, says, its proximity to the Suez Canal and Delta regions, along with its location between SCZONE’s ports on the Red Sea and Mediterranean provide investors with seamless access to regional and international markets.
Denim Rise’s expansion coincides with other Turkish investments in the Qantara West Industrial Zone. Last year, SCZONE signed contracts with Turkey’s Eroğlu Global Holding AS to establish a jeans garment factory producing 7.2 million units annually. Eroğlu Holding is also developing a $40 million RMG factory in the zone, which will create over 3,000 jobs.
These projects underline SCZONE’s growing reputation as a hub for textile and garment manufacturing in the region.
Shahi Exports publishes third sustainability report focusing on renewable energy, coal elimination, biofuels, water recycling, and zero discharge in textile operations.
Shahi Exports has published its third sustainability report, offering insights into the company’s efforts in improving sustainability across its operations. Created in line with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines, the report highlights Shahi Exports' progress and future commitments, including key areas such as traceability and due diligence. The company’s factories and mills sourced 65 per cent of their electricity from renewable sources in FY24, with a goal to reach 100 per cent renewable energy by FY27.
A major focus of the company’s sustainability efforts is in energy management, particularly in its use of thermal energy for boilers, which are essential in fabric processing. While thermal energy has traditionally been sourced from coal, the global shift towards cleaner energy is prompting change. With a global commitment to phase out coal by 2030 in OECD countries and 2040 for non-OECD countries, Shahi Exports is determined to move ahead of schedule. Many of the large brands it works with expect their suppliers to eliminate coal usage by 2025. In response, Shahi Exports is exploring alternatives, such as biofuels and biomass, to replace coal. However, the company conducted a study on the feasibility of switching to electric boilers and full electrification, finding that current technology would make the return on investment (ROI) of such a transition around 40 years. Consequently, the focus will be on eliminating coal usage by next year, with future plans to phase out biomass as well.
Water management is another critical area of focus for Shahi Exports. The company operates its largest textile mill in Shimoga, Karnataka, where strict regulations around water discharge require extensive investment in water treatment. The company has developed treatment plants that ensure zero discharge of chemicals. Currently, around 80 per cent of the water used in operations is recycled, and the company aims to achieve 100 per cent water recycling in the near future.
The state prioritizes textile industry growth with an investment of Rs 10,000 crore, boosting value chain, employment, and sustainable manufacturing.
To boost its economy and attract investments worth Rs 10,000 crore, the Andhra Pradesh government is prioritizing the development of textile and garment industries in the state. Leveraging abundant raw materials, the initiative aims to strengthen the textile value chain and create employment opportunities.
Unlike the previous YSRCP government, which introduced a five-year textile policy but failed to implement operational guidelines, the N Chandrababu Naidu-led NDA government has crafted a new textile policy with actionable guidelines to ensure smooth execution and sectoral growth.
Andhra Pradesh is India’s sixth-largest cotton-producing state, yielding 15.41 lakh bales in 2022-23. This presents vast opportunities for value addition within the state, says S Savita, Textiles sand Handlooms Minister. The state is equipped with 106 spinning mills, approximately 3 lakh spindles, and 12,635 power loom units, which helps attr investment to generate employment.”
Emphasizing on the the state’s skilled workforce, supported by educational institutions offering textile technology courses, Savitha says, the government plans to establish skilling centers in Vizag and Rayadurg to meet industry needs. She highlights, untapped opportunities in value-added activities such as weaving, knitting, processing, and technical textiles can drive large-scale employment while minimizing environmental impact. The ministry aims to convert the entire yarn produced in Andhra Pradesh into fabric, preventing value migration, she adds.
The new policy promotes key components of the textile value chain, integrated units, and technical textiles. Andhra Pradesh already hosts seven dedicated textile parks and five private parks, with Brandix India Apparel City standing out as a leading example of success in integrated textile operations.
The government is now focused on enhancing Venkatagiri Textile Park and Chirala Handloom and Textile Park while supporting emerging private industrial parks. This strategic approach aims to transform Andhra Pradesh into a hub for sustainable and value-driven textile manufacturing.
