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Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) and H&M Foundation have formed a new collaboration to bolster the efforts of the Global Circular Fashion Forum (GCFF).
Over the next three years, this partnership will inject substantial funding into GFA's circularity impact initiatives while also acting as a catalyst for expanding the National Circular Fashion Partnership programs. These programs are currently active in Bangladesh, with plans for development in Cambodia, Vietnam, Türkiye, and Indonesia.
Since its launch in 2022, GCFF, a global initiative established by GFA and supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ), has been instrumental in driving global and local action in textile manufacturing countries to accelerate and scale the recycling of post-industrial textile waste. By November 2023, GCFF and its National Circular Fashion Partnerships had successfully recycled 10,685 tonnes of textile waste, equivalent to approximately 60 million t-shirts. This was achieved by building a collaborative community comprising 179 manufacturers, 15 waste handlers, and 22 recyclers.
With the invaluable support of H&M Foundation, continued partnership with GIZ, and collaboration with project partners Circle Economy, Closed Loop Fashion, Reverse Resources, and local stakeholders in targeted regions, GFA is poised to extend the reach and amplify the influence and impact of GCFF. Together, these organizations aim to establish an effective ecosystem for scaling circularity within the fashion industry.
The ultimate vision of GCFF is to spearhead a long-term, scalable, and just transition towards a fully circular fashion industry. This will be accomplished through a strategic blend of knowledge exchange, multistakeholder facilitation, and mobilising industry commitment.
The Spring Edition of the global apparel flagship fair Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics concluded on March 8 after three days of fostering cross-border business and facilitating various Spring/Summer 2025 fashion forums.
With the government's relaxation of visa requirements, the event witnessed a significant surge in international exhibitors by 22.9 per cent compared to the previous edition, drawing nearly 90,000 visitors from 116 countries and regions. International visitor numbers soared by 99 per cent, with an impressive 87% returning on Days 2 and 3, reflecting strong sourcing intent.
Spanning 190,000 sqm and seven halls at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair experienced high domestic buyer demand, particularly for luxury, sustainable, and functional textiles. The top visiting countries and regions included Korea, Hong Kong, India, Russia, and Japan, with over 100 buyers from industry associations representing various nations. Notably, pavilions and zones from France, Italy, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Türkiye garnered significant attention, alongside group pavilions from key players like Korea Textile Center, Lenzing, and OEKO-TEX®.
New exhibiting countries brought diverse products to the spotlight, such as Ethiopia's sustainable fabrics, Peru's cotton knitted garments, and Spain's fashion and interior pattern designs. Exhibitors praised the renewed ease of doing business and the robustness of the domestic market.
As the apparel fair coincided with other textile-related events, including Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition, Yarn Expo Spring, CHIC, and PH Value, it offered a comprehensive platform for networking and business opportunities across the entire textile value chain.
Organized by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT, and the China Textile Information Centre, the fair showcased the dynamism and innovation of the global apparel and textile industry. Future editions promise to continue this tradition of excellence, with upcoming shows scheduled in Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Vietnam.
Bangladesh’s RMG exports to the EU surged by 3.27 per cent to $16.23 billion during the July-February period of the current fiscal year compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year (FY23).
According to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Bangladesh's RMG exports to Spain, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and Denmark increased by 68 per cent, 4.72 per cent, 14.55 per cent, 21.82 per cent, and 32.81per cent respectively over the eight-month period.
However, RMG exports to Italy declined by 0.93 per cent and to Germany by 11.63 per cent totaling $4.09 billion during the July-February period compared to the previous fiscal year.
During the same timeframe, Bangladesh’s RMG exports to the US declined by 2.58 per cent to $5.46 billion. Conversely, exports to the UK and Canada reached $3.85 billion and $998.77 million respectively, with growth rates of 14.64 per cent and 1.81 per cent Y-o-Y.
Notably, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to non-traditional markets surged by 10.83 per cent to $6.30 billion compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. Among these non-traditional markets, exports to Japan, Australia, and South Korea increased by 7.12 per cent, 21.29 per cent, and 17.16 per cent respectively. However, apparel exports to India declined by 22.99 per cent.
Despite allegations by French lawmakers of failing to address the downsides of fashion, Shein has cultivated a legion of fans by engaging micro-influencers, ordinary individuals who endorse the brand on social media platforms.
Shanghai-based Shein currently faces accusations of exploiting underpaid and overworked garment workers while contributing to environmental degradation. Critics argue that the company promotes excessive consumerism and sells disposable clothing.
While Shein's marketing strategies have contributed to its rapid growth, analysts warn against overestimating the importance of social media in its success. They emphasise that Shein's competitive advantage lies in its efficient supply chain and product development processes.
What distinguishes Shein, analysts say, is its highly efficient supply chain and product development process. By leveraging China's extensive textile manufacturing industry and advanced e-commerce infrastructure, Shein has been able to offer an astonishing 1.5 million apparel items for sale last year, far surpassing its competitors.
Shein's success lies in its agility and minimal waste management. The company adopts an on-demand strategy, producing small batches of products based on real-time customer feedback to avoid overproduction.
In a bid to revolutionize winter sports equipment, Fuse GmbH's innovative use of hemp tapes in ski production has garnered attention, promising both ecological sustainability and high performance.
Amidst the escalating demand for eco-conscious solutions in the manufacturing sector, natural fibers are emerging as key players, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials. Fuse GmbH's hemp-based composites, recognized by the prestigious JEC Composites Innovation Award, epitomize this shift towards environmentally friendly practices.
Fuse GmbH's commitment extends beyond mere product development; the company is dedicated to optimizing the entire value chain of bio-based fiber materials. Currently, they are spearheading project to manufacture hemp-based alpine skis, slated to run for three years starting from January 2023.
Partnering with industry leader Karl Mayer Technische Textilien GmbH, Fuse GmbH is leveraging cutting-edge technology, notably the Cop Max 5 multiaxial warp knitting machine, to process hemp tapes into reinforcement textiles tailored for high-performance winter sports equipment. The forthcoming JEC World in Paris and Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main will showcase the innovative 'HempSki' at the Karl Mayer Group stand, highlighting the fusion of athleticism with environmental stewardship.
This initiative seeks to address the existing gap in large-scale production of eco-friendly ski equipment, currently limited to small-scale batches by niche manufacturers. By harnessing renewable resources and waste streams, the HempSki project aims to revolutionize ski manufacturing, setting a precedent for sustainable industrial practices.
Fuse GmbH's hemp-based UD tapes, impregnated with bio-resin, offer a versatile solution with applications ranging from sandwich elements to composite components. Notably, these materials are sourced entirely from sustainable regional cultivation in Europe, ensuring a transparent and efficient supply chain.
The successful integration of hemp tapes into textile reinforcement surfaces, demonstrated by the Cop Max 5, marks a significant milestone in advancing bio-based composites. Looking ahead, the project's expansion into water sports and automotive sectors promises to further cement hemp as a viable material for industrial production.
With the transition from prototype construction to industrial-scale manufacturing underway, the HempSki project heralds a new era of sustainability in winter sports equipment. As discussions unfold across various industries, the potential for hemp-based composites to drive efficiency and sustainability remains paramount, supported by ongoing research and development efforts.
In a bid to quell market uncertainties, S K Sundararaman, Chairman of The Southern India Mills Association (SIMA), emphasized the significance of adhering to official estimates in the cotton industry. Addressing concerns stemming from recent price fluctuations, Sundararaman underscored the importance of relying on data from the Committee on Cotton Production and Consumption (COCPC), a body chaired by the Textile Commissioner and inclusive of key stakeholders across the cotton textile value chain.
The COCPC, formerly known as the Cotton Advisory Board under the Ministry of Textiles, has been instrumental in providing realistic estimates regarding cotton supply and demand dynamics. Drawing upon inputs from various industry representatives and primary data collected by the Office of Textile Commissioner, the COCPC furnishes comprehensive insights into key metrics such as opening stock, crop production, imports, and consumption patterns.
Sundararaman cautioned cotton textile mills against succumbing to market speculation, urging them to exercise prudence amidst price surges. He highlighted the recent spike in cotton prices, attributing it to speculative trading rather than fundamental shifts in supply and demand dynamics. Referring to the COCPC's projections for the 2023-24 cotton season, he reiterated the need for stakeholders to place trust in scientifically derived estimates to navigate market uncertainties effectively.
Furthermore, Sundararaman commended initiatives aimed at bolstering transparency and quality within the industry. He lauded the Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI) for enforcing fair quality standards and applauded the introduction of Kasturi Cotton Bharat, a new indigenous cotton brand. Additionally, he praised the efforts of the Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL) in promoting the Kasturi Cotton Bharat brand and emphasized its potential to command premium value in the market.
Despite challenges posed by intermittent price fluctuations, Sundararaman expressed confidence in the resilience of the textile industry, particularly acknowledging the role of CCI in supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) amid market uncertainties. As stakeholders navigate through volatile market conditions, Sundararaman's call to prioritize official data serves as a beacon of stability in the ever-evolving cotton landscape.
Lululemon Athletica anticipates annual revenue and profit to remain below expectations due to weakening demand for its premium athleisure wear, particularly in North America.
In the US market, sporting goods retailers are grappling with excessive inventory levels, leading to reduced orders for sportswear and apparel companies like Adidas and Foot Locker. This cautious approach comes in response to fluctuating consumer spending patterns.
During a post-earnings call, Calvin McDonald, CEO acknowledged that Lululemon's first-quarter sales in North America are sluggish, reflecting a challenging consumer environment, particularly in the US. The company reported a mere 9 per cent growth in fourth-quarter North American sales, a significant decline from the 29 per cent increase seen a year earlier.
For fiscal year 2024, Lululemon expects revenue between $10.70 billion and $10.80 billion, falling short of analysts' estimates of $10.90 billion. Profit is projected to range between $14 and $14.20 per share, with the midpoint below the expected $14.13.
Lululemon's weaker forecast mirrors the broader struggles faced by retailers, as price pressures prompt consumers to reduce discretionary spending and opt for more affordable brands, says Rachel Wolff, Analyst, Insider Intelligence
Despite Lululemon's fourth-quarter revenue of $3.21 billion surpassing expectations, driven by the success of new styles for both men and women, such as the Cityverse casual sneaker and Beyondfeel running shoes, the company remains susceptible to prevailing consumer caution and market dynamics, adds Mari Shor, Senior Analyst, Columbia Threadneedle.
The Lenzing Group has spearheaded an initiative aimed at preserving glaciers while catalyzing sustainable practices across the textile industry. Entitled "Glacial Threads: From Forests to Future Textiles," this pioneering concept was unveiled during the International Day of Forests festivities at the United Nations Office in Geneva.
With global warming exacerbating glacier melt, the conventional use of geotextiles made from fossil-based fibers has posed environmental threats. These materials contribute to the introduction of harmful microplastics into ecosystems, amplifying ecological damage. Lenzing's solution lies in their biodegradable and recyclable Lenzing fibers, offering a sustainable alternative to safeguard glaciers.
A recent field test on the Stubai Glacier showcased the efficacy of Lenzing's innovation, where the application of Lenzing fibers prevented four meters of ice from melting. Extending beyond Austria, where the pilot project successfully covered all glaciers frequented by tourists, Lenzing aims to implement this solution globally.
Moreover, Lenzing emphasizes circularity within the textile value chain. Collaborating with partners like Marchi & Fildi Spa, Candiani Denim, and Blue of a Kind, Lenzing pioneers the recycling of geotextiles into fashionable garments, exemplified by the creation of the "Glacier Jacket." This endeavor underscores the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
Florian Heubrandner, Executive Vice President Commercial Textiles at Lenzing, highlights the collaborative effort's significance in driving sustainability across industries. Similarly, Krishna Manda, Vice President Corporate Sustainability, stresses the urgency of transformative change amidst the climate emergency, affirming Lenzing's dedication to intertwining innovation with sustainability.
The presentation of this innovative concept, artistically curated by Michelangelo Pistoletto, at the Palais des Nations underscores its global significance, coinciding with the International Day of Forests. Lenzing's initiative not only offers a solution to glacier protection but also serves as a beacon for collective action in combating climate change and promoting sustainable practices worldwide.
Two distinguished figures from different design realms, Aurélia Stouls and India Mahdavi have teamed up to design a new handbags collection. Inspired by their shared passion for colors and design, these two designers embarked on a journey to create something truly unique. Mahdavi's penchant for vivid hues harmonised seamlessly with Stouls' vision, resulting in a collection that exudes vibrancy and sophistication.
Delving into Stouls' repository of leftover materials, Mahdavi's keen eye selected the traditional tartan print, which was then reimagined in a striking array of pink, yellow, and purple. This infusion of colors breathed new life into Stouls' designs, transforming them into a visual delight reminiscent of a chic confectionery.
Their commitment to ethical design practices led them to embrace upcycling, turning remnants into exquisite pieces of art. Rejecting the notion of leftovers, they saw each creation as a fresh expression of creativity and innovation.
The culmination of their collaboration is evident in the limited-edition Justin bag and Mahdavi's iconic Gelato armchair, adorned with the vibrant tartan pattern. These pieces, imbued with a sense of exclusivity and sustainability, epitomise the ethos of their partnership.
As they prepare to unveil their creations, Stouls and Mahdavi remain steadfast in their belief in the power of collaboration. Through their shared vision and passion, they have created not just handbags and furniture, but a testament to the beauty of partnership in the world of design.
Hosted at Mahdavi's eclectic showroom-cum-gallery, their launch event symbolises their commitment to fostering a community of independent designers and artists. In a world dominated by corporate giants, they champion the spirit of collaboration as the key to survival and success.
For Stouls, this venture represents a new chapter in her illustrious career, one that she hopes will resonate with women on the go, much like her iconic leather T-shirts did two decades ago.
With the limited-edition totes priced at €1,950 and the singular Gelato armchair at €6,000 their creations embody not just luxury but also a sense of purpose and sustainability.
In the second quarter, spanning Oct-Dec‘24, Bangladesh's RMG sector exports recorded a marginal increase, as outlined in the ‘Quarterly Review on RMG: October-December of FY24’ released by the Bangladesh Bank.
During this period, the import value of essential raw materials for garment production, including raw cotton, synthetic/viscose fiber, yarn, and textile fabrics, amounted to $3,373.29 million, representing 28.65 per cent of the total RMG export earnings, which stood at $11,773.84 million.
Consequently, the net exports from the RMG sector reached $8,400.56 million in Q2 FY24, constituting 71.35 per cent of the total exports for Oct-Dec’24.
Comparatively, the preceding quarter spanning July-Sept’24 recorded net exports of 70.78 per cent, reflecting a modest increase of 0.57 percentage points over three months. However, the growth was limited, with only a 2.16 per cent rise from the previous quarter and a 2.45 per cent decrease compared to the same period in the FY23, which saw net exports at $8,611.93 million.
The data also indicates that total RMG export earnings for Oct-Dec’24, encompassing both woven and knitwear products, amounted to $11,773.84 million, marking a slight 1.35 per cent increase from the previous quarter but a notable 7.46 per cent decline from the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year.
Various challenges, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, currency depreciation, subdued global demand, and inflationary pressures, have contributed to a marginal decline in exports during this quarter, according to the central bank.
The report highlights the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, and Belgium as key destinations for Bangladesh's RMG exports. In Oct-Dec’24, these nine countries accounted for $7,954.77 million of RMG export earnings, representing nearly 68 per cent of total exports.
However, RMG export earnings from these countries declined by 1.87 per cent compared to the previous quarter and 11.81 per cent compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year.
Looking ahead, the central bank cautions that the RMG sector may face further challenges due to global economic uncertainties. To mitigate these challenges, the government and Bangladesh Bank have implemented various initiatives, including pre-shipment credit, export incentives, and funds for export development and green transformation.
The report emphasises the need for inter-apparel diversification, reduced lead times, enhanced efficiency, research and development, exploration of new markets, skilled workforce development, and modernisation of production processes to boost RMG export earnings in the future.
In the previous fiscal year (2022-23), Bangladesh achieved RMG exports worth $46.99 billion, underscoring the sector's significant contribution to the country's economy.
