FW
The Winter 2025 edition of Texworld NYC will mark the debut of the Industry Insight Series, a one-day event crafted to deliver cutting-edge knowledge and foster meaningful connections within the global textile and fashion community. Scheduled for January 2025, the series will be held in collaboration with Business of Fashion and other prominent industry leaders.
This premier initiative is tailored for professionals seeking to gain valuable insights and engage with the visionaries shaping the future of fashion and textiles.
One of the highlights of the event will be an exclusive keynote address by Nick Blunden, President, Business of Fashion. Blunden will delve into findings from the State of Fashion 2025 report, developed in partnership with McKinsey & Co. Renowned as a go-to resource for industry decision-makers, the report offers a comprehensive analysis of critical trends, macroeconomic developments, and emerging growth opportunities. It blends rigorous research with expert insights to provide an actionable guidance for navigating the rapidly evolving fashion landscape.
The agenda will also feature a thought-provoking panel session, moderated by Brittany Sierra, Founder & CEO, Sustainable Fashion Forum and host of the Green Behavior podcast. The discussion will explore the transformative role of sustainability in fashion, offering attendees practical strategies for integrating sustainable practices into their operations.
In addition to the knowledge-sharing sessions, the series will include a complimentary networking lunch, creating an ideal platform for attendees to connect with peers and industry leaders.
The series is designed to help professionals not only keep up but stay ahead, avers Eileen Small, Market Development, Fashion & Apparel Textiles.
The Indian textile and apparel sector, a significant contributor to the country's economy, recorded mixed performance in the first half of the fiscal year 2025 (H1 FY25). While certain segments exhibited robust growth, others faced challenges that impacted overall profitability.
Key performance indicators, as reflected by the Wazir Textile and Apparel indices, highlight the sector's positive trajectory.
Wazir Textile Index: A strong performance
The Wazir Textile Index, which tracks the performance of leading textile companies, recorded significant growth in H1 FY25 compared to the same period in the previous year. Key highlights include:
Sales surge: The sales index increased by 13 per cent, indicating robust demand for textile products both domestically and internationally.
Profit boost: The EBITDA index witnessed an impressive 43 per cent increase, signaling improved operational efficiency and cost management.
Consolidated growth: Consolidated sales of selected top textile companies grew by 8 per cent, while consolidated EBITDA improved by 1 percentage point.
The Wazir Apparel Index, which monitors the performance of leading apparel companies, also showed positive trends in H1 FY25. The sales index grew by 25 per cent, reflecting strong consumer demand for apparel products. The EBITDA index increased by 17 per cent%, indicating improved profitability despite rising input costs. Consolidated sales of selected top apparel companies grew by 25 per cent, while consolidated EBITDA remained relatively stable.
Considering the performance of all listed textile and apparel companies, the sector as a whole demonstrated solid growth in H1 FY25. Consolidated sales for all listed companies increased by 8 per cent compared to the same period last year. However, consolidated EBITDA declined by 1 per cent due to factors such as rising input costs and competitive pressures.
The positive performance of the textile and apparel sector in H1 FY25 was due to strong domestic demand. Robust domestic consumption, rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences, drove growth. Increasing global demand for Indian textiles and apparel, particularly in key markets like the US and Europe, too boosted export revenues. And government support, including schemes like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, provided a significant boost to the sector. To add to it adoption of advanced technologies in manufacturing and supply chain management improved efficiency and reduced costs.
Outlook for the future
While the short-term outlook for the textile and apparel sector remains positive, certain challenges such as rising input costs, global economic uncertainties, and geopolitical tensions could impact future growth. However, the long-term growth prospects for the sector remain strong, driven by increasing domestic consumption, favorable government policies, and the potential for further export market penetration.
As the sector continues to evolve, companies that focus on innovation, sustainability, and brand building are likely to emerge as leaders. By adapting to changing consumer preferences and leveraging emerging technologies, the Indian textile and apparel industry can solidify its position as a global manufacturing and export hub.
Despite political instability and labor unrest, Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) sector has witnessed a remarkable 12.34 per cent year-on-year growth in exports, reaching $16.12 billion between July and November 2024. This increase is due to the pre-holiday rush in Western markets and a backlog of orders, raises questions about the factors contributing to this resilience and the industry's future prospects.
Growth amidst uncertainty
There are several reasons for this unexpected growth. Pent-up demand is one of them. A backlog of orders from August and September, combined with increased demand for the holiday season in key export markets like the US and Europe, have driven significant growth. Meanwhile Bangladeshi manufacturers have invested in expanding production capacity, enabling them to complete larger orders and cater to growing global demand. And despite rising production costs, manufacturers have been compelled to accept orders at lower rates due to higher competition and the need to utilize expanded capacity. This has made Bangladeshi garments more attractive to price-conscious buyers. The dedication and resilience of Bangladeshi garment workers too has played a crucial role in maintaining production levels despite challenges.
While export growth is encouraging, it has come at a cost. Mahmud Hasan Khan, a former vice-president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), notes manufacturers have been compelled to accept orders at reduced rates due to increased competition and the need to utilize expanded production capacity. This pressure on pricing poses a challenge to the long-term profitability and sustainability of the sector.
According to EPB vice-chairman Md Anwar Hossain, the labor situation in the RMG sector has improved, with most factories operating at full capacity. However, concerns remain about potential unrest due to the recent political instability and economic challenges faced by workers.
Sectoral and country-wise Exports
Both knitwear and woven garment sub-sectors have shown robust growth.
Table: Sector wise growth
|
Sub-sector |
July-November FY25 |
Growth (%) |
|
Knitwear |
$8.96 billion |
12.23% |
|
Woven Garments |
$7.17 billion |
12.48% |
Major export destinations for Bangladeshi RMG products include the US, the European Union, and Canada. Reports suggest that major US retailers have increased sourcing from Bangladesh due to competitive pricing and the country's ability to meet large-scale production demands. In fact, some international buyers have reportedly shifted orders from competing nations like China and Vietnam to Bangladesh due to factors such as political stability and favorable trade agreements.
Future outlook
Despite recent growth, the Bangladesh RMG sector faces challenges.
• Maintaining price competitiveness: Balancing competitive pricing with ensuring fair wages and profit margins remains a key concern.
• Political and economic stability: Ensuring political stability and a conducive business environment is crucial to attract and retain foreign investment.
• Enhancing product diversification: Expanding into higher-value garments and diversifying product offerings can help mitigate risks associated with price fluctuations in the global market.
• Sustainability and ethical concerns: Addressing environmental and social sustainability concerns is essential to meet the evolving demands of international buyers and consumers.
Mahmud Hasan Khan warns, "The aftershocks of recent political instability and labor unrests could surface in the coming months, as buyers might reconsider placing orders if the instability persists." Therefore, addressing the challenges of political instability, pricing pressures, and sustainability concerns is crucial to ensure the sector's long-term growth and competitiveness in the global market.
The Board of Directors of Rieter Holding Ltd has announced the appointment of Emmanuelle Gmur to the Group Executive Committee as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective January 1, 2025. Gmur succeeds Tom Ban, who is pursuing opportunities outside the company.
With extensive expertise in human resources, strategic leadership, and organizational development, Gmur brings significant international experience and in-depth knowledge of the textile industry. From 2013 to 2024, she served as Chief Human Resources Officer, Global Head of Communication, and a member of the global management board at Triumph Group, based in Bad Zurzach, Switzerland. Additionally, she held supervisory roles at Triumph France SA and Triumph Austria AG, where she served as deputy chairwoman from 2015 to 2024.
Gmur’s career also includes leadership roles at Qualintra SA in Geneva as Head of Consulting and at British Telecom plc in London, where she specialized in organizational development and business transformation.
Thomas Oetterli, Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Rieter Group, highlighted Emmanuelle Gmur’s extensive expertise in human resources and proven leadership, emphasizing her role in advancing the HR department. He noted that her international experience and business acumen would significantly contribute to the Group Executive Committee’s efforts to implement the company’s new strategy.
Gmur holds a Core MBA from Helsinki University of Technology and a Master of Science in Business from Ecolesuperieure de commerce de Reims, France. Born in 1976, she is a French citizen.
Rieter, a global leader in textile machinery and components, is confident that Gmur’s appointment will strengthen its executive team and advance its strategic goals.
Concerned that the UK-based fashion brand PrettyLittleThing might lose with its customers, Umar Kamani, Founder and Former CEO, has rejoined the company after an 18-month hiatus.
On the other hand, Nicki Capstick has quit from his position as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at the brand. Having assumed the responsibility in July 2023, as part of various leadership changes in the company, Capstick departure is being attributed to the Kamani’s earlier departure from the company.
A member of the marketing team of the Boohoo-owned business since 2011, Chapstick held several management positions in the company over the years. He was the marketing director of a renowned company in 2020 and head - marketing in 2017. Capstick assumed his responsibilities as a CEO alongside Tom Binns, who had been appointed COO besides being promoted to CMO.
Bangladeshi textile recycling mill, Cyclo is expanding its closed-loop production approach by launching a collection of sustainable denim fabrics.
Launched at the Kingpins Amsterdam in October 2024, the Cyclo Denim fabric range comprises blends of upto 95 per cent Cyclo recycled cotton. These include a 95 per cent recycled cotton with 5 per cent recycled polyester fabric, and a 90 per cent recycled cotton with 10 per cent Tencel lyocell blend, designed for improved hand feel and enhanced recyclability.
To address the denim industry's demand for stretch fabrics, Cyclo integrates recycled cotton in the warp and pairs it with spandex-containing yarn in the weft. This approach achieves over 50 per cent recycled cotton content, even in stretch garments. Cyclo’s yarn production accommodates various counts to create light and heavy-weight fabrics.
Mustafain Munir, President, Cyclo, highlights the environmental benefits of their process, which avoids water, dyes, and chemicals by using mechanical recycling. The company invests in customised machinery and advanced processes to extend fiber length, a key challenge in achieving high recycled content. The company makes collaborative efforts with mills, laundries, and designers to refine the product’s ability to endure denim’s rigorous washing and finishing processes.
To emphasise on the importance of achieving virgin-like quality, the company collaborated with Dreüss Worldwide, a Dhaka-based design and virtual manufacturing firm, to develop its debut collection.
Currently producing 200 tons of fiber monthly in Bangladesh, Cyclo plans to expand operations to Pakistan by 2025. To set new benchmarks in sustainable denim production, the company aims to double its denim recycling capacity in 2025.
A flagship company of the LNJ Bhilwara Group and one of India’s largest textile manufacturers, RSWM has appointed Rajeev Gupta as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With over 30 years of transformative leadership across various industries, Gupta boasts of an unparalleled expertise in operational optimisation, strategic vision, and technological advancement.
Known for his proficiency in driving operational excellence, Gupta has successfully applied Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and TQM methodologies to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Having experience across the textile, home textile, and pulp & paper industries, he has played leadership roles at leading organisations including Reliance, Trident, and Vardhman. At these companies, he led several initiatives resulting in substantial EBITDA and revenue growth.
RSWM is expected to accelerate its transformation initiatives under Gupta’s leadership. The company will particularly leverage advanced technologies to improve efficiencies. Gupta’s strategic approach will help consolidate RSWM’s reputation for innovation, particularly as the textile industry faces rapid changes and evolving consumer demands.
Reflecting on his new role, says, he is committed to advancing this foundation by adopting modern technologies and practices, driving efficiency, and meeting the evolving needs of the industry while reinforcing its dedication to sustainable value for stakeholders.
Riju Jhunjhunwala, Chairman and Managing Director, RSWM, adds, Gupta’s industry knowledge and exceptional leadership abilities will help the company realise its business objectives. Along with his operational expertise, his strategic mindset will help strengthen the company’s operations and expand into new markets.
With a history spanning over six decades, RSWM continues to prioritise growth through market expansion, product diversification, and sustainability. Gupta’s appointment will help enhance the company’s competitive edge significantly, reinforcing its leadership position in the industry.
Marking a significant step towards waste reduction and sustainability promotion in the Middle East, the Landmark Group has inaugurated the first textile recycling facility in the region in Dubai World Central.
The state-of-the-art facility was officially opened by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman, Landmark Group alongwith Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.
Known as Landmark Circulife, the new facility will convert discarded textiles and fabrics into valuable recycled fibers that can be used again to create new items. To be utilised to manufacture a variety of products, from clothing to home furnishings, this facility will help the area reduce its dependence on virgin materials and stop the textile waste loop.
To have a major impact on the environment, this facility will prevent thousands of tons of garbage from getting into landfills, with an initial capacity of 2,000 metric tons of textile waste annually.
The facility will drive the larger sustainability initiatives of Landmark Group. With an aim to be climate-positive across its entire value chain by 2050, the Group aims to establish a closed-loop system to give used textiles a second chance at life.
Landmark Circulife’s introduction is in line with the UAE’s larger Circular Economy Policy, which seeks to minimise waste, maximise resource utilisation, and promote sustainability in all sectors of the economy. The facility is projected to handle approximately 11,000 metric tons, or 5 per cent of the UAE’s textile waste, which is set to grow significantly.
As a major contributor to the UAE’s efforts to reach its sustainability goals, the facility will help reduce 140,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions over time, save 107 GWh of electricity, and conserve millions of liters of water.
Kim Glas, President and CEO of the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), released a statement supporting the Biden administration’s Section 301 investigation into Nicaragua’s human rights, labor rights, and rule of law violations under the Ortega-Murillo regime.
“The US textile industry strongly condemns the actions of President Ortega and Vice President Murillo,” Glas stated, emphasizing the importance of enforcing human rights and labor standards in trade agreements. She called for carefully measured responses that promote reforms without destabilizing the USCentral American textile supply chain.
Glas highlighted Nicaragua’s significant role in the USCAFTA-DR trade agreement, with the US exporting nearly $350 million in textile and apparel products to Nicaragua in 2022. She noted that the interconnected supply chain, spanning countries like Honduras and Guatemala, supports $1.5 billion in trade and sustains jobs across the region.
The textile sector, a major employer of women in Nicaragua, could face adverse impacts from penalties such as Section 301 tariffs, which might inadvertently benefit China by undermining CAFTA-DR’s competitive position. Glas cautioned against actions that harm workers while failing to address human rights violations effectively.
NCTO pledged to collaborate with the US Trade Representative’s office throughout the investigation and public comment process to ensure a balanced policy approach that upholds fairness, economic stability, and shared regional values.
Sokkar Mecca, an Egypt-based manufacturer of sewing machines unveiled its latest range of high-quality machines in partnership with Jack Technology.
Projected to boost productivity and quality in Egypt’s RMG sector, these machines were unveiled during a conference showcasing the company’s latest innovation –C7 URUS overlock machine. Attended by prominent figures in the textiles and garment industry, the conference was also participated by major industrial sewing machines distributors and leading RMG manufacturers. It focused on the machine’s advanced features and transformative capabilities.
Moataz Sokkar, General Manager, highlighted, the company addresses the growing needs of the Egypt’s RMG sector by providing efficiency and precision enhancing equipment, enabling them to meet local and export market demands.
The company plays a crucial role in driving growth within Egypt’s RMG industry, Sokkar added further noting, possessing an ability to sew all types of fabrics, these machines are equipped with advanced artificial intelligence technologies. This allows them to sense fabric thickness and automatically adjust accordingly. Sarah Sokkar, Commercial Director, ‘Sokkar’ Sewing Machines, notes, the launch of this new machine is a part of the company’s efforts to foster innovation in Egypt’s RMG sector and support manufacturers to achieve new productivity and quality levels. Praising the company’s partnership with ‘Sokkar, Steven Chen, General Manager-Marketing and Planning, Jack Technology, says, the machine helps deliver latest technologies developed by the Chinese company for factories including new advancements in various types of sewing machines. These innovations help factory owners improve production quality and efficiency by reducing waste and saving time by 10.8 per cent, thanks to key features like the ‘pressure foot converter’ and ‘smart feeding speed.’ Dr. Mohamed Abdel Salam, Head - RMG and Home Textiles Chamber, Federation of Industries, points out, an increase in Egypt’s RMG exports necessitates ongoing improvements in the quality of equipment and technology used. These new generation of sewing machines address technical and production challenges, commending the partnership between ‘Sokkar’ and ‘Jack Technology’ in supplying equipment and machines to Egyptian factories, he adds. In 9MFY24, Egypt’s RMG exports rose by 18 per cent to $2.04 billion, as per the Ready-Made Garments Export Council. The council aims to increase Egypt’s textile and garments exports to $1.4 billion by 2025-end.
