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VF Corp-owned brand, Timberland has appointed Darren McKoy as its new Global Vice President-Product Design and Creative Direction. He previously served as the Creative Director for Dr Martens for three years.
This marks a return to VF Corp for McKoy, who was earlier engaged as the Product Manager-EMEA, The North Face from December 2010 to February 2012.
The announcement comes just months after McKoy departed the iconic UK footwear brand Dr. Martens in January. At Dr Martens, he progressed through various roles since joining in 2015.
His extensive career also includes stints at Adidas, Mamas & Papas, and Asics, in addition to his prior role at The North Face. At Timberland, McKoy will be engaged in managing the brand’s boots business.
This isn't the only significant creative appointment Timberland has made this year. In February, the brand named Drew Villani as its Global Creative Director, Marketing. Having previously worked at Calvin Klein, Villani is tasked with bringing Timberland's creative vision to life across all facets of brand marketing.
After months of signaling its intent to divest the California-born chino brand, the American denim giant, Levi Strauss & Co has inked a deal to sell Dockers to Authentic Brands Group (ABG) for $311 million.
The agreement may also include performance-based bonuses that could earn Levi Strauss up to an additional $80 million in the coming years.
Having recently launched its updated brand message ‘Always a fit,’ Levi Strauss & Co registered a 4 per cent decline in revenue to over $323 million in 2024. The brand made up about 5 per cent of Levi Strauss & Co's total revenue, which totaled $6.4 billion last year.
This sale allows the company to further align its portfolio with its strategic priorities - focusing on its direct-to-consumer strategy, expanding its international footprint, and investing more deeply in its women’s and denim businesses, says Michelle Gass, President and CEO, Levi Strauss & Co.
The sale is a part of the company’s broader Project Fuel transformation plan, which has already included several major shifts including shutting down its Denizen brand, closing its Plock manufacturing facility in Poland, exiting the footwear business, reducing its workforce, doubling down on the Levi’s label and its growing athleisure brand, Beyond Yoga
Known for operating through licensing partnerships, the Authentic Brands Group will fold Dockers into its vast portfolio, which includes Ted Baker, Van Heusen, Arrow, Izod, Nautica, and Eddie Bauer, among others.
Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, ABG, says, Dockers is a brand with strong consumer recognition, deep heritage, and a well-established licensing foundation. The brand helped define the casual workplace aesthetic and offers tremendous opportunity to expand in that legacy across various categories.”
The deal is expected to close around July 31, 2025, for Dockers’ intellectual property and operations in the US and Canada. It’s European and Asian operations - including stores and retail partnerships - are expected to transition to ABG by January 31, 2026.
Until then, Dockers will continue to operate under Levi Strauss & Co.’s infrastructure during the transition.
Meera Cotton & Synthetic Mills is expanding its garmenting division with a new, state-of-the-art factory in Bhiwandi.
Slated to begin commercial production by June 2025, this facility will triple Meera's garmenting capacity. It's a fully compliant unit, boasting 500 advanced Juki stitching machines, a completely automated Lectra-Gerber cutting room, and even a dedicated bonding (seam-sealing) setup for performance wear like tights and sports bras.
By mid-May, the factory will begin producing over a million garments monthly. It will focus exclusively on MMF-based knitted fabrics for garments. The company also plans to double its yarn and fabric manufacturing capacity by 2027, signaling significant future growth.
Beginning its journey in 1994 with polyester yarn, Meera expanded into circular knitting by 2000, launching its garment division in 2012. Initially focused on woven fabrics, the company smartly pivoted to polyester knits post-Covid. Today, Meera operates over 500 knitting machines, including more than 400 open-width and finer gauge machines specifically for producing Juric, a high-performance polyester fabric. Nearly 50 per cent of their garments feature Juric blends, known for moisture-wicking, stretch, and UV protection.
The company's strength lies in its vertical integration, controlling the entire process from yarn to finished garment. This provides superior agility and quality control, crucial for knitted fabrics where even minor inconsistencies can cause defects. Meera produces about 44,000 metric tons each of yarn and fabric annually, with 80 per cent of its yarn used internally to ensure consistency and speed. Their current garmenting capacity stands at 3.6 million units per year.
Meera supplies fabrics to thousands of customers and boasts direct clients like Arvind Ltd and Ginza Industries. In garments, they specialize in MMF-based knitwear, including activewear and fashion items like T-shirts, sports bras, and shorts. They cater to major domestic retailers such as Reliance Retail and Aditya Birla Group, and internationally, they supply prominent European brands like Lefties and Terranova, also handling large volumes for LPP.
As a part of its broader strategy to revitalize its cotton, textile, and apparel (T&A) sector, the Kenyan Government has launched a new initiative aims to boost manufacturing and create jobs under the ‘Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.’
During a recent official visit to Benin, Dr Juma Mukhwana, Principal Secretary for Industrialization, emphasized the sector's crucial role in Kenya's industrialization and job creation goals. The T&A sector in Kenya is a priority value chain for the Kenya Kwanza government, Dr Mukhwana stated, adding that textiles have been identified as a key driver for economic growth and job creation.
Dr. Mukhwana led a delegation from the State Department for Industrialization and Rivatex East Africa on a benchmarking mission to Benin, a leading cotton producer in Africa. This visit followed a January 2025 Cabinet decision to restructure Rivatex, a state-owned textile firm, by bringing in strategic non-equity partners.
One of the companies being considered for a partnership is ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), which specializes in developing and operating industrial parks and special economic zones across Africa. Dr Cleophas Lagat, Board Chair, Rivatex confirmed the visit was part of the due diligence process for ARISE IIP, a finalist in the tender to lease the Eldoret-based textile firm.
Employing nearly 900,000 people, the cotton industry in Benin produced 553,000 tons in the 2023/24 season. The government supports the sector with fertilizer and pesticide subsidies, and strong cooperation among farmers, ginneries, and the government has streamlined its value chain. Dr. Mukhwana noted that Kenya is studying how to replicate Benin's model of robust backward linkages between cotton farmers, ginneries, and manufacturers to reduce reliance on imports and add local value.
Despite Kenya benefiting from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade deal with the United States, its local production capacity remains underutilized. In 2022, apparel exports to the US under AGOA reached $603 million, accounting for 67.6 per cent of Kenya's total U.S. exports. Dr Mukhwana highlighted, despite high demand for Rivatex products, nearly 40 EPZ-based textile factories still import raw materials that could be sourced locally.
The Kenyan Government is optimistic that the planned restructuring of Rivatex and strategic partnerships with experienced players like ARISE IIP will significantly enhance Kenya's competitiveness in the global textile market.
As a part of its efforts to connect with a broader international customer base, casual fashion brand Hazzys has launched a new global online store. Besides Korean, the new website also offers services in English and Chinese languages.
The website allows customers worldwide to shop online, find store locations, receive updates on flagship stores, and browse a comprehensive archive of Hazzys' brand campaigns.
Currently serving markets such as China, Vietnam, and Taiwan, the new website will also help the brand gather and analyze customer data to inform its global marketing strategies, says Hazzys.
During a two-week trial period, the site was accessed from 63 different countries, with new user registrations from seven.
For the English-language version, the highest traffic came from Vietnam, the United States, Indonesia, Russia, and India, in that order. Meanwhile, the Chinese-language service saw the most visits from Taiwan, mainland China, Hong Kong, the US, Japan, and Australia.
Known for its preppy, British-inspired style, Hazzys continues its international expansion, with plans to enter both the Indian and Middle Eastern markets later this year.
In April, the United States' imposition of ‘reciprocal tariffs’ on global trading partners increased uncertainty for China's textile and apparel(T&A) exports.
However, despite these challenges, China's textile and apparel exports increased by 1.5 per cent Y-o-Y and 3.4 per cent M-o-M in April to $24.19 billion. Textile exports by the country by 3.4 per cent Y-o-Y to $12.58 billion while apparel exports declined by 0.5 per cent Y-o-Y to $11.61 billion.
From January to April 2025, cumulative textile and apparel exports by China increased by 1.1 per cent Y-o-Y to $90.47 billion. Of these, textile exports increased by 3.8 per cent Y-o-Y to $45.85 billion while apparel exports declined by 1.5 per cent Y-o-Y to $44.62 billion.
When viewed in Chinese Yuan (CNY) terms, the cumulative textile and apparel exports from January to April amounted to 649.54 billion yuan, a 2.2 per cent Y-o-Y increase. Within this, textile exports rose by 4.9 per cent Y-o-Y to 329.17 billion yuan, while apparel exports declined by 0.5 per cent Y-o-Y to 320.37 billion yuan.
In April alone, CNY-denominated textile and apparel exports increased by 0.5 per cent Y-o-Y and 3.3 per cent M-o-M to 173.44 billion yuan. Textile exports increased by 2.4 per cent Y-o-Y to 90.21 billion yuan during the year.
In April 2025, the US consumer sentiment recorded a shift as confidence levels dipped, indicating potential headwinds for the economy. The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index revealed a sharp 7.9-point drop to 86.0 (1985=100), reflecting growing concerns about the future. This decline, largely due to deteriorating expectations, offers critical insights into evolving consumer behavior and its implications for the market.
Indicators and Consumer Sentiment
The report highlights a stark contrast between consumers' assessment of the present situation and their outlook for the future. While the Present Situation Index, which gauges current business and labor market conditions, saw a marginal decrease of 0.9 points to 133.5, the Expectations Index painted a more worrisome picture. This index, reflecting short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions, plunged by 12.5 points to 54.4—the lowest since October 2011 and well below the recessionary threshold of 80.
Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist at The Conference Board, noted, "Consumer confidence declined for a fifth consecutive month in April, falling to levels not seen since the onset of the COVID pandemic," emphasizing the significant role of dampened expectations.
Income concerns, inflation add to fears
Several factors have led to this decline in confidence, directly impacting consumer behaviour.
• Job market pessimism: A substantial portion of consumers (32.1 per cent) anticipate fewer jobs in the next six months, reminiscent of the Great Recession era in April 2009.
• Income concerns: For the first time in five years, income prospects turned negative, indicating that economic worries are now affecting personal financial situations.
• Inflation and tariffs: High inflation and the rising cost of living remain significant concerns, with tariffs also weighing heavily on consumers' minds due to their perceived impact on prices and the economy.
• Financial market volatility: Uncertainty in the financial markets has further eroded confidence, with a large percentage of consumers (48.5 per cent) expecting stock prices to decline.
• Recession fears: The proportion of consumers anticipating a recession within the next 12 months has increased to a two-year high.
Shifts in spending and purchasing plans
The report also indicates a shift in consumer spending and purchasing plans. It indicates reduced spending intentions that means, overall intentions to purchase services have declined across nearly all categories. Also, plans to spend more on dining out, previously a leading spending intention, have seen one of the most significant month-on-month declines on record. What’s more, purchasing plans for homes and cars have decreased, alongside reduced vacation intentions, although plans for appliances and electronics have shown mixed trends.
Table: Consumer Confidence Index Indicators
|
Index |
April 2025 value |
Change from March |
|
Consumer Confidence Index |
86 |
-7.9 points |
|
Present Situation Index |
133.5 |
-0.9 points |
|
Expectations Index |
54.4 |
-12.5 points |
|
12-Month Inflation Expectations |
7% |
Increase |
|
Consumers Expecting Stock Prices to Decline |
48.50% |
Increase |
The decline in consumer confidence is widespread, affecting various demographic groups. The sharpest decline was observed among consumers aged 35 to 55 and those in households earning over $125,000 annually. Interestingly, consumer confidence has decreased across all political affiliations. Guichard's underscore the gravity of the situation and says, "The decline was largely driven by consumers' expectations. The three expectation components—business conditions, employment prospects, and future income—all deteriorated sharply, reflecting pervasive pessimism about the future."
Thus the April 2025 US Consumer Confidence Report reveals a notable downturn in consumer sentiment, it’s largely due to concerns over economic outlook, inflation, and personal finances. This shift is influencing consumer behavior, leading to reduced spending intentions and increased caution in purchasing decisions. As consumers brace for potential economic headwinds, businesses and policymakers must closely monitor these trends to navigate the evolving economic landscape.
Global Standard, the non-profit body behind the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), released its 2024 Annual Report, marking a transformative year in its mission to advance organic textiles and sustainable practices worldwide. The report highlights the organisation's broadened scope, rising certification numbers, and its strategic role amid evolving global regulations.
GOTS ended 2024 with 15,441 certified facilities across 87 countries, reflecting a 5.2 per cent increase from the previous year, as reported by 26 GOTS-approved certification bodies. Managing Director Claudia Kersten emphasised the growing relevance of voluntary sustainability standards, stating that regulatory changes, particularly in Europe, have turned such frameworks into critical tools for compliance and sustainable development.
Key milestones in 2024 included the full implementation of GOTS Version 7.0 in March. The standard introduced the most robust due diligence requirements to date, supported by online training modules and a comprehensive Due Diligence Handbook for Auditors released in November. Work also began on Version 8.0, which entered its first public consultation phase. The new version aims to include circular economy principles, climate resilience, and further enhance human rights criteria.
In a strategic evolution, Global Standard announced its expansion as a Voluntary Sustainability Standard (VSS) setter, revising its Vision and Mission for the first time in 22 years. This move will allow the GOTS framework to be applied to a wider range of sustainable fibres, with new standards set for public comment in 2025 and final release thereafter.
A major technological innovation came with the Satellite Cotton Monitoring Project in India, conducted in partnership with the European Space Agency and AI firm Marple. Achieving 97 per cent accuracy in identifying cotton fields and over 80 per cent accuracy in determining organic status, the initiative promises to improve traceability and certification efficiency.
Consumer engagement also soared through the expanded BehindTheSeams campaign, which reached over 70 million people in September. With 265 GOTS brands participating, the campaign included interactive quizzes, giveaways, and grand prizes, deepening public understanding of organic textiles.
With these advancements, Global Standard continues to position itself at the forefront of sustainable textile transformation.
Scoop, the UK’s leading contemporary fashion and lifestyle trade show, will return to London from 13-15 July 2025 with an exclusive preview of Spring/Summer 2026 Cruise collections. Hosted at Olympia National Kensington, the show will feature over 200 premium fashion, lifestyle, home, and beauty labels, setting the tone for the upcoming resort season.
Curated by Scoop Founder and Managing Director Karen Radley, the event promises a refined showcase of effortless luxury and modern elegance, featuring both established names and rising design talent. Among the international highlights is Athens-based Devotion Twins, whose intricate craftsmanship and luxurious fabrics define its chic resortwear. Fellow Greek brand Haris Cotton unveils its SS26 collection Aegean Reverie, inspired by the Cyclades, blending painterly prints with natural textures in breathable linens.
Ro’s Garden, a new brand by designer Roberta Freymann, will make its Scoop debut with vibrant kaftans and dresses influenced by global travels. Thessaloniki-based Sorena brings its sustainable, handmade accessories and resort-ready apparel, combining Greek style with practical elegance.
Australia’s Oneseason offers breathable cotton pieces designed for warm-weather ease, currently available in the UK online and poised for retail expansion. UK-based Aspiga will showcase a collection rooted in artisanal craftsmanship, featuring hand-embroidered details and a sun-drenched colour palette in organic fabrics.
Karen Radley said, “This season’s Cruise collections reflect the spirit of effortless luxury and modern design that defines Scoop.”
With its intimate, curated atmosphere and a global mix of directional brands, Scoop continues to be a key destination for buyers seeking the next big trends in resort fashion and sustainable design.
Italy’s Tonello will make a dual appearance from May 21 to 23 at Denim Premiere Vision in Milan and Kingpins China in Hangzhou, spotlighting its latest innovations in garment finishing and dyeing technologies.
In Milan, Tonello will host a live dyeing workshop showcasing the G1 Lab, its most compact dyeing machine, enhanced by Wake technology. The session will highlight sustainable dyeing practices using natural materials like dried flowers, berries, and roots. Alongside, the company will present Sulfur Essence, a creative exploration of sulfur and indigo dyes made possible by DyeMate the first indigo garment dyeing system that also supports sulfur and VAT dyes.
On May 22, Tonello's Fashion Designer and Laser Specialist, Marco Visentin, will present Where Indigo Wanders in the Pitch Area. His talk will delve into the sensory and aesthetic potential of DyeMate, reimagining indigo and sulfur through bold, conscious design.
Simultaneously in Hangzhou, Tonello will unveil the next chapter of its Laundry (R)Evolution with a new generation of energy-efficient dryers developed entirely in-house. These systems aim to meet the industry’s rising demands for sustainability, high performance, and process optimization.
Visitors to Kingpins China will also experience Denim Renaissance: The Beauty of Time, a creative showcase at the venue entrance. The collection celebrates denim as a living canvas shaped by craftsmanship, nature, and time.
Tonello’s dual presence underscores its global mission: fusing innovation and tradition to lead the future of denim finishing.
