FW
Blending streetwear style with traditional golf apparel, Adidas is re-introducing its iconic Originals trefoil logo to the golf world
Inspired by Adidas’ classic designs and featuring clothing, shoes and accessories for both men and women, the new ‘Originals Golf’ collection is however, tailored for the golf course.
To be launched on April 3, 2025, the collection will help bridge the gap between fashion and golf culture. Emphasizing detailed styling, the range invites golfers to express their individuality on the course. Some pieces from this collection will be worn by Adidas athlete Ludvig Aberg at a major golf tournament.
Highlighting the brand’s history, Dylan Moore, Senior Creative Director, Adidas Golf, notes, the introduction of the trefoil logo's in 1972 and the inspiration drawn from past fashion trends in golf. The apparel line features intricate designs with a color palette of blues, whites, greens, and yellows.
The menswear range includes knit polos with argyle patterns, pleated pants, and quarter-zip sweaters while the women’s collection offers printed trefoil polos, pleated skorts, and cashmere knit sweaters. The collection also introduces new golf footwear style; the Coursecup which is inspired by a 1986 design, and the Gazelle Golf, a first-time golf adaptation of the classic shoe. The range also offers the updated versions of the Stan Smith Golf, Samba Golf, and Superstar Golf shoes.
Masun Denison, Director-Global Footwear, Adidas Golf, emphasizes the brand's effort to combine function and style in golf footwear. The Coursecup and Gazelle Golf models offer enhanced comfort and performance, while maintaining classic Adidas aesthetics, he says.
The collection is completed with premium accessories like leather gloves, headcovers, golf towels, carry bags, and Boston bags. The ‘Originals Golf’ Some pieces will be worn by Adidas athlete Ludvig Aberg at a major golf tournament range will be available exclusively on Adidas.com, the Adidas app, and select retailers.
While the global narrative centers on diversifying supply chains away from China (China Plus One), a subtler, yet potentially more impactful, scenario is unfolding in the textile and apparel sector. Is China, the undisputed giant of global textile manufacturing, strategically maneuvering to keep India, its closest competitor, out of this lucrative shift?
Industry analysts and financial experts say the answer is a resounding yes. A quiet, calculated strategy is underway, where China is subtly reshaping the global textile and apparel production network, ensuring India remains a peripheral player.
The silent chess game
"No noise. No headlines. Just silent industrial chess," asserts Vivek Khatri, a chartered accountant and finfluencer, echoing the sentiment of many observers. While India focuses on policy dialogues and summitry, China is actively redrawing the supply chain map, particularly in labor-intensive sectors like textiles and apparel, where India possesses a competitive edge.
While China's overall inbound Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has significantly declined, its outbound investments are growing, but not towards India. As an analysts says, "Beijing’s strategy shifts dramatically when it comes to India. Despite India’s population overtaking China’s and its economy growing, Chinese firms are holding back." This disparity is crucial in the textile sector, where investments in new manufacturing facilities and supply chain infrastructure are vital.
China's outbound investment: Data indicates Chinese companies are strategically investing in countries that offer favorable trade agreements and align with their geopolitical interests. These investment often involve establishing or increasing textile and apparel manufacturing bases, but excluding India.
India's FDI challenges: Despite India's demographic advantage and growing market, FDI into its textile and apparel manufacturing sector remains tepid. Industry reports suggest, many international textile firms that consider India ultimately choose other destinations.
Export control: There are reports indicating China is quietly restricting the export of key textile machinery and inputs to India. This could hinder India's efforts to upgrade its manufacturing capabilities.
Textile & apparel specific hurdles
India's ambition to become a major textile and apparel export hub faces several internal and external challenges.
High import tariff is a major one. India's high import tariffs on textile machinery and components increase production costs, making it less competitive compared to countries with more liberal trade policies. The country’s rigid labor laws too, create operational hurdles for global apparel manufacturers accustomed to more flexible environments.
Infrastructure bottleneck is another bugbear. Inconsistent and fragmented infrastructure further complicates logistics and supply chain management. China's supply chain integration is another plus for them. Countries like Vietnam a major textile and apparel exporter benefit from their deep integration with China’s existing supply chains, making them a natural destination for companies relocating from China.
The missed opportunity
The ‘China Plus One’ strategy, designed to diversify manufacturing away from China, has largely benefited Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam and Bangladesh. These countries have seen a significant influx of textile and apparel investments, while India has struggled to capitalize on this shift. In fact as a trade expert points out, foreign investors are increasingly asking if India will seize this rare opportunity or let Vietnam and Mexico solidify their lead.
India's response
Interestingly, India's policymakers are aware of these challenges. The government is offering incentives to boost textile and apparel manufacturing, and actively pursuing trade deals to improve market access. However, addressing the underlying infrastructure and regulatory issues is crucial.
Despite its maneuvers, China faces a dilemma. As noted by the Observer Research Foundation, Chinese textile and apparel firms must decide whether to cede ground to Western competitors in India or risk building up India's manufacturing capacity.
China's actions raise serious concerns about India's ability to capitalize on the ‘China Plus One’ opportunity in the textile and apparel sector. While India possesses the potential to become a global manufacturing powerhouse, it must overcome significant hurdles and counter China's silent strategy to secure its place in the evolving global supply chain. The coming years will be critical in determining whether India can break free from China's shadow and realize its textile and apparel manufacturing ambitions.
Celebrating outstanding export performance in FY2023-24, The Manmade and Technical Textiles Export Promotion Council (MATEXIL), formerly SRTEPC hosted its Annual Export Award Function in Mumbai. The event recognized member companies with 50 awards across various categories within the manmade fiber textiles sector.
Giriraj Singh, the Union Minister of Textiles, graced the event as the Chief Guest, presenting the awards to the winning companies. The function was attended by senior government officials and industry leaders from the textile sector.
A significant highlight of the evening was the unveiling of MATEXIL's new website and trade dashboard, designed to provide comprehensive trade insights on manmade fiber and technical textiles.
Praising MATEXIL, Singh emphasized on the importance of reliable textile data for policy formulation, and stated that the dashboard would address a crucial information gap. He also reaffirmed the government's commitment to boosting textile exports, aiming for a target of $100 billion by 2030.
Bhadresh Dodhia, Chairman, MATEXIL, highlighted the resilience of the manmade fiber textiles sector despite global challenges. He reported a positive growth rate of over 6 per cent, crediting this success to the hard work of exporters and the government's support. He also expressed gratitude to Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, for his continuous support of the industry.
Shaleen Toshniwal, Vice-Chairman, MATEXIL, emphasized on the importance of the Export Awards in motivating industry players and encouraging new exporters to strive for greater achievements in the global market.
Leading companies such as Reliance Industries, Grasim Industries, D’Décor Exports, Sangam India, Vardhman Textiles, RSWM, and Banswara Syntex were among the award recipients.
The Export Award Function served as a vital platform to acknowledge industry excellence and inspire Indian companies to expand their global presence in the manmade fiber textiles sector.
Vietnamese enterprises are weaving eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Tencel into their production processes, says Vu Duc Giang, Chairman, Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS).
With an aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 under the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, these enterprises are harnessing advanced technology in their designs and production. Investors are working to optimize production capacity, streamline supply chains, and improve product quality to stay competitive in both domestic and global markets.
Many of these Vietnamese textile and apparel firms aim to shift to a sustainability-driven, circular business model between now and 2030. By 2031-2035, they plan to fully integrate Vietnam into a circular economy, strengthen its domestic value chain, and secure a high-value position in the global supply chain.
The firms are not only investing in sci-tech, upskilling the workforce but also developing hi-tech textile and dyeing projects in industrial zones. They are also expanding their production of natural, eco-friendly materials, accelerating digital transformation, and building a robust fashion ecosystem with globally and regionally recognized brands.
With over 7,000 apparel companies employing more than three million workers, Vietnam’s garment-textile industry is emerging as a true powerhouse. The industry exports up to 80 per cent of its products while reserving the remainder for domestic consumption.
Last year, Vietnam increased its apparel exports by 11.26 per cent to nearly $44 billion. This achievement consolidates the nation’s position as the world’s second largest garment-textile exporter, behind only China.
Supported by 17 next-generation free trade agreements (FTAs) already in effect, the industry is poised for further growth, targeting $48 billion in export revenue this year.
A global leader in home textiles with a strong presence in the US and UK markets, Welspun is now focusing on expanding its reach within India. The company aims to bring its innovative and sustainable products to Indian consumers, capitalizing on the country's rapidly growing market.
Keyur Parekh, CEO Global & Whole Time Director, emphasizes, India's diverse consumer preferences require a strategic approach. Welspun plans to educate consumers about the benefits of its products, highlighting features like Hygro Cotton, which becomes softer over time and regulates temperature. The brand is also focusing on sustainability, aligning with global standards.
Welspun's product strategy caters to both mass and premium markets. Brands like Spaces target luxury segments, while British heritage brand, Christy offers exclusive experiences. The company is also expanding into flooring solutions, meeting the demands of India's booming construction sector with durable and aesthetic options.
Further, Welspun is implementing an omnichannel approach to ensure accessibility across various consumer segments. The company’s quick commerce platforms address immediate needs, while luxury offerings maintain exclusivity through direct-to-consumer channels and partnerships with high-end retailers.
Welspun's success is rooted in its ability to provide more than just products; it offers experiences. Its innovations, like Hygro Cotton, focus on comfort and functionality. The brand is committed to sustainability, ensuring products are made without harmful chemicals.
Looking ahead, Welspun plans to integrate Indian design sensibilities into its luxury range, personalizing offerings for Indian consumers. The company targets a 30 per cent growth in the coming year, driven by increased consumer awareness, expanded distribution channels, and continued product innovation. The brand’s goal is to redefine India's home textile landscape by providing comfortable, stylish, and sustainable solutions.
After two years of contraction, the Indian textile industry is projected to recover this financial year, as per a report by the Business Standard. This growth will be fueled by stable cotton prices, increased ready-made garment (RMG) exports, and consistent domestic demand, the report says.
The resurgence of RMG exports is particularly beneficial for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which constitute 80 per cent of the textile supply chain. These SMEs were severely impacted in the previous fiscal year due to a 25 per cent decline in cotton prices and weakened RMG exports, despite steady domestic demand.
This year, while domestic demand for cotton yarn will decline slightly, stable prices will boost revenue growth. Conversely, cotton yarn exports are anticipated to decline as Chinese demand normalizes.
The primary growth driver for the industry will be RMG exports, forecasted to increase by 10-12 per cent this year, driven by restocking activities by Western retailers and robust discretionary spending in the US and EU.
Domestic RMG demand is expected to remain stable, with a projected growth of 3 -4 per cent, supported by a recovery in H2, FY25.However, garment prices are likely to remain flat or increase only marginally by 1 per cent.
On the supply side, domestic cotton prices are experiencing slight upward pressure due to reduced production, stable consumption, and an increase in the minimum support price. In contrast, international cotton prices are facing downward pressure due to increased global production. Consequently, domestic cotton prices are trading at a small premium to international prices, although they remain relatively stable compared to the previous year.
Export-oriented RMG clusters, such as Tirupur, Bengaluru, and Gurugram, are expected to see stronger revenue growth due to the revival of RMG exports. Conversely, clusters focused on domestic markets, like Kolkata, Kanchipuram, and Ludhiana, will likely experience slower growth.
The profitability of textile companies is also expected to improve this fiscal year, driven by stable cotton prices.
In the medium term, the RMG sector is poised for growth, supported by free trade agreements with key markets like Australia and the UAE, the establishment of PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel Parks, and incentive programs such as the Production Linked Incentive and Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies, which will boost domestic manufacturing and exports.
Textile waste has become a significant global issue, Prime Minister Narender Modi emphasized in his monthly radio broadcast, ‘Mann Ki Baat.’ He voiced concerns about the growing problem of textile waste and the increasing popularity of fast fashion in this program.
Informing listeners about global research efforts to address the textile waste problem, Modi noted, less than 1 per cent of textile waste is recycled into new clothing.
This poses a considerable challenge for India as the country is the third-largest producer of textile waste globally, he pointed out.
However, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about the various commendable initiatives underway in India to tackle this issue.
Highlighting the numerous Indian startups that are engaged in developing textile recovery facilities, Modi said, teams across the country are working to empower ragpickers. Youngsters are engaging themselves in sustainable efforts like recycling old clothes and footwear, and distributing these to those in need. Various items, such as decorative pieces, handbags, stationery, and toys, are being made from textile waste.
Many organizations are now promoting circular fashion brands, Modi added.
Discussing the emergence of clothing rental platforms, Modi noted, designer clothes are being made available for rent. Cities like Panipat in Haryana re merging are new global centers for textile recycling.
Bengaluru is also establishing a unique identity with innovative tech solutions, Modi noted. The city collects over half of the country’s total textile waste. Tirupur in Tamil Nadu manages textile waste through wastewater treatment and renewable energy, Modi added.
Lululemon’s Q1, FY25 revenues to fall short of Wall Street expectations, reaching only $2.36 billion
Lululemon forecasts, the brand’s revenues for Q1, FY25 are likely to fall short of Wall Street's expectations, projecting $2.34 to $2.36 billion compared to the anticipated $2.39 billion. This comes as the high-end athletic wear brand is experiencing a shift in consumer behavior.
Despite a 13 per cent Y-o-Y in net revenue during Q4, FY24, Lululemon's comparable sales in the Americas remained flat compared to the previous year. Placer.ai data indicates a significant slowdown in store traffic growth, rising only 2.4 per cent Y-o-Y year-over-year, as against 8.2 per cent in the previous quarter.
Calvin McDonald, CEO attributes this to weakening consumer demand, despite new product launches. He cites the current macroeconomic environment, marked by economic and political uncertainty, as a key factor driving more cautious consumer spending. A company survey conducted with Ispos revealed rising concerns about inflation and the economy leading to reduced spending.
Lululemon's premium pricing, with items often exceeding $100, makes it susceptible to budget cuts during economic downturns. Consumers in the US are increasingly turning to secondhand clothing as a cost-saving measure. Secondhand apparel market in the country grew by 14 per cent in 2024, its strongest growth since 2021.
Furthermore, recent tariffs imposed on goods imported from China, Mexico, and Canada are expected to further drive consumers towards more affordable options like secondhand apparel. As per a ThredUp and GlobalData survey, 59 per cent of consumers are likely to seek cheaper alternatives if tariffs increased apparel prices, and 34 per cent plan to allocate their apparel budget to secondhand purchases in the next year.
In response to these challenges, Lululemon plans to focus on product innovation to navigate the uncertain economic landscape. The brand emphasizes its commitment to delivering new and innovative products that meet customer expectations.
A global fashion icon, Levi’s is boosting customer loyalty in Europe by expanding its Red Tab membership program to Ireland, Denmark, Poland, and Switzerland. A part of Levi's direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategy, this initiative aims to strengthen customer engagement and drive sales.
Launched in 2020, the Red Tab program currently boasts nearly 40 million members worldwide, with a significant portion in Europe. Levi's views this expansion as crucial for delivering a seamless, omnichannel shopping experience, fostering lifelong brand loyalty. Members enjoy various perks, including earning coins on purchases, which can be redeemed for vouchers, free shipping, birthday rewards, and early access to exclusive collaborations.
A key differentiator is the in-store tailoring service, allowing members to customize and repair their Levi's garments. Along with an extended product guarantee, this service emphasizes Levi's commitment to quality and durability. The program also offers unique experiential benefits, such as access to music events and curated trips, enhancing the emotional connection between the brand and its customers.
Levi's is focused on using the Red Tab program to gain deeper consumer insights and personalize the shopping experience. By connecting digital and in-store environments, the program allows for tailored recommendations and supports Levi's expansion into new product categories beyond denim.
The company reports strong growth in member acquisition and engagement, with Red Tab members demonstrating higher purchase frequency and customer lifetime value. Notably, these members contribute over 50 per cent of Levi's DTC revenue. The program's pan-European nature allows members to enjoy benefits across multiple countries, fostering a consistent brand experience. Levi's also prioritizes gathering customer feedback to continually improve the program and ensure it meets their needs.
A significant contributor to the national economy, the Indian textile sector is experiencing a transformation with the rapid growth of the technical textiles sector. While traditional textiles remain vital, specialized fabrics designed for specific functions are gaining prominence. Used in diverse industries like automotive, construction, healthcare, and agriculture, these technical textiles are crucial for enhancing product performance and safety.
To boost this sector, the Indian government launched the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) with a budget of Rs 1,480 crore, spanning from 2020-21 to 2025-26. The NTTM aims to drive innovation, market development, export promotion, and skill development within the technical textiles industry.
The mission focuses on four key components: research and innovation, market promotion, export enhancement, and education and skill training. Significant funds have been allocated and utilized for various projects, including research grants, startup funding, and educational programs. Notable initiatives include the Grant for Internship Support for Technical Textiles (GIST 2.0) and the Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT) scheme, fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Skill development is a core focus, with plans to train 50,000 individuals through specialized courses developed by leading textile research associations. A part of Bharat Tex 2024, Technotex 2024, showcased India's advancements in technical textiles, highlighting innovative projects and prototypes.
Success stories like Eicher Goodearth's Mahina, India's first bonded leak-proof period underwear, demonstrate the sector's innovation. State governments, such as Tamil Nadu, are also investing in technical textiles through initiatives like PM MITRA Parks and increased capital subsidies.
These concerted efforts are propelling India's technical textiles sector, strengthening its position in the global market and creating new opportunities for growth and employment. The NTTM, along with related schemes, is driving innovation, enhancing skills, and promoting indigenous production, ensuring the sector's sustainable development.
