FW
Being held from May 08-11, 2025, the second Vietnam Outstanding Export Products Fair or the HCM City Export 2024 fair features over 400 companies across 450 booths.
The event showcases the country’s major export industries including textile, garment, footwear, handbags, rubber, plastics, food and beverages, farm and fisheries produce, furniture, handicrafts, electronics, and supporting services. Most of Việt Nam's major export firms, including Masan Consumer Holdings with the Chinsu brand, Vina T&T Group, Bình Tây Food JSC, Vantrgap Food JSC, and Phước Hải Leather Box-Handbag Trading Production Co Ltd are participating in the fair.
The fair also features a forum titled ‘Promote linkages towards green exports’ that will discuss solutions for sustainable exports. Additionally, business matching programs will be organised to bring together local firms and foreign supermarket and retail chains such as Central Retail, MM Mega Market, Amazon, and Alibaba and buyers from India and Russia.
Organised by the city Department of Industry and Trade and the Việt Nam Trade Promotion Agency, the fair is expected to attract 20,000 visitors and buyers from major markets such as the US, Europe, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and Korea, and e-commerce platforms.
The brand lineup for Copenhagen Fashion Week’s (CFW) SS25 edition features a blend of international stalwarts and Nordic innovators.
This year, the event integrates runway shows and presentations as two distinct formats within its official schedule. This amalgamation will offer a more diverse array of expressions, engaging brands, and reflecting the evolving creative landscape of the Nordic fashion industry, thus solidifying CFW’s stature as a leading global fashion event.
Alongside the inclusion of new player Berner Kühl in the CPHFW New Talent program, established names like Alectra Rothschild / Masculina, Stamm, and Rolf Ekroth also feature. The event will also be graced by returning favorites such as A. Roege Hove, (di)vision, Jade Cropper, Latimmier, and Rabens Saloner. This juxtaposition of esteemed Nordic labels with international frontrunners across 46 shows and presentations underscores Copenhagen Fashion Week's global significance within the fashion calendar.
Notably, SS25 has announced Sinead O’Dwyer as the new Zalando Visionary Award winner. Recognised for their innovative and purpose-driven approach to fashion, O'Dwyer will present their Spring/Summer collection in a runway show, showcasing their visionary design ethos and commitment to impactful creativity.
Additionally, Bonnetje, Sól Hansdóttir, and Stem are recognised as Ones to Watch, presenting their upcoming collections as part of the August 2024 edition.
Meticulously vetted by the official Show & Presentation Committee and Sustainability Committee, Copenhagen Fashion Week’s SS25 lineup comprises 46 brands and institutions. Cecilie Thorsmark, CEO, Copenhagen Fashion Week says, this season's showcase brings together a diverse array of brands amidst challenging economic, political, and environmental landscapes. The event serves not only as a platform for fashion but also as a testament to a progressive mindset and a collaborative spirit.
Selected brands undergo rigorous screening against Copenhagen Fashion Week’s 18 Minimum Standards, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability and ethical practices
The CPHFW New Talent scheme continues to nurture emerging talent, with four brands supported for SS25, including the addition of Berner Kühl. It offers designers three seasons of support, encompassing financial assistance, mentorship, partnership opportunities, and extensive PR exposure through CFW’s international networks. Graduating designers then join the esteemed alumni network, further enriching the fashion community.
Rooted in creativity, social impact, and innovation, the Zalando Visionary Award honors Sinéad O’Dwyer for their boundary-pushing designs that transcend conventional norms. O'Dwyer's distinctive blend of artistry and technical prowess resonates with themes of identity, body positivity, and self-expression, making them a deserving recipient of the €50,000 monetary prize and runway showcase at SS25.
Ending a two-year upward trend, UK’s imports of men’s or boy’s knitted or crocheted clothes declined by 18.3 per cent to 92 million units in 2023. However, the total import volume rose at an average annual rate of 1.1 per cent from 2013 to 2023, albeit with noticeable fluctuations in certain years. The peak import volume of 128 million units was reached in 2016, but from 2017 to 2023, imports remained lower.
In terms of value, imports of men's knitwear declined to $753 million in 2023, according to IndexBox estimates. However, there had been a significant expansion in total imports from 2013 to 2023, with a value increase averaging 3.6 per cent annually over the last decade. The highest growth rate was recorded in 2022, reaching 15 per cent, leading to a peak of $978 million, followed by a sharp decline the following year.
Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan emerged as the top exporters of men's knitwear to the UK, accounting for 57 per cent of total imports. The exports of Vietnam grew at a CAGR of 17.6 per cent , outpacing other leaders.
In terms of import prices, there was a noticeable decrease in 2023, with the price per unit dropping to $8.2 (CIF, United Kingdom), marking a 6 per cent decrease from the previous year. However, over the decade, import prices had been on an upward trend, increasing at an average annual rate of 2.6 per cent. Notably, there were significant price differences among the major supplying countries, with Belgium having the highest price per unit at $24 and India among the lowest at $4.1.
China saw the most notable rate of price growth from 2013 to 2023, with an increase of 8.3 per cent, while other major suppliers experienced more modest growth rates.
Colarado-based firm, Crocs Inc, recorded a 6.2 per cent rise in revenues during Q1,FY24. The firm’s revenues grew to $939 million during the quarter with the brand Crocs’ revenues offsetting a double-digit decline in HeyDude sales.
Revenues of the brand Crocs increased by 14.6 per cent to $744 million during the quarter. The firm’s DTC revenues increased by 18.3 per cent to $282 million while wholesale revenues expanded to $462 million. Crocs’revenues in North America also increased by 9 per cent to $383 million while international revenues surged 21.3 per cent to $361 million.
On the other hand, revenues of the brand HeyDude declined by 17.2 per cent to $195 million while DTC revenues declined by 11 per cent to $60 million. The company also recorded a 19.7 per cent decline in wholesale revenues to $135 million.
During the three months, Crocs’ income from operations decreased by 3.6 per cent to $226 million from $235 million, resulting in operating margin of 24.1 per cent
Crocs aims to reduce its revenue expectations for the brand HeyDude for the remainder of the year, says Andrew Rees, CEO. The company is confident of the opportunity for the brand in the long-term. It has appointed Susan Healy as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Crocs Inc, effective June 3.
Healy succeeds Anne Mehlman, who will continue to serve as chief financial officer until Healy resumes duties. She will join the executive leadership team and report directly to Andrew Rees, CEO.
With over three decades of financial and operational leadership experience, Healy joins Crocs, Inc. from IAA, Inc, where she served as chief financial officer and led the company through its $7 billion merger with Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Incorporated.
Prior to 2021, Healy served as senior vice president of finance for Ulta Beauty. Earlier in her career, she held various senior financial leadership roles in addition to a 12-year tenure at Goldman Sachs.
Thriving on a wave of eco-consciousness and fashion savvy, Europe's second-hand clothing is likely to grow at CAGR of 7.70 per cent to $36,368.10 million by 2034 from $17.3 billion in 2024. As per a report by the Future Market Insights, this growth will be driven by easing of the purchase and sale of pre-loved clothes by websites and apps like Depop and Vinted.
Consumers continue to embrace individuality by personalising their second-hand garments. Resale businesses are also launching their own DIY workshops and customisation services. Fashion influencers are promoting second-hand clothing, particularly among younger generations, making it trendy and desirable.
While the women's segment dominates, Italy, Germany, France, and Spain each show unique growth patterns within the European market. Major players like Depop and Vestiaire Collective are capturing consumer interest with innovative strategies while traditional retailers continue to launch their own second-hand offerings.
Lines between high-end fashion and sustainability are becoming increasingly blurred with the growing collaborations between luxury brands and resale platforms. Recent acquisitions and partnerships, like Poshmark buying Premium Garage Sale and H&M entering the resale space, highlight the industry's dynamism.
However, a few consumers continue to associate second-hand clothing with being used or of lower quality. Concerns about condition and logistical hurdles like managing inventory and shipping also threaten to deter the industry’s growth.
To thrive in this competitive environment, innovation, brands need to adapt to emerging trends besides prioritising sustainability. This will help ensure a bright future for Europe's second-hand clothing market.
In a significant stride towards sustainable textile innovation, Spinnova’s Research and Development (R&D) yarn spinning line has been inaugurated at Tearfil’s mill in Portugal. The collaboration between Spinnova and Tearfil, initiated in June 2023, has culminated in the establishment of a yarn development cooperation agreement, leveraging the cutting-edge spinning line machinery provided by Rieter, a leading supplier of yarn production systems.
Located in Guimarães, Portugal, the R&D spinning line serves as a pivotal platform for product development and testing of Spinnova fibre, aiming to facilitate its integration into various applications within the textile value chain. Tearfil, responsible for operating the line, anticipates that this collaboration will streamline the development process, enabling the creation of guidelines for industrial application of Spinnova fibre.
Shahriare Mahmood, Spinnova’s Chief Product and Sustainability Officer, underscores the significance of yarn spinning in transitioning Spinnova fibre from novelty to widespread commercial adoption. Maria de Belém Machado, Tearfil's CEO, expresses enthusiasm about the partnership's potential to drive sustainable innovation within the textile industry. Additionally, Franziska Hafeli, Head of Sales and Marketing at Rieter, reaffirms the company's commitment to supporting Spinnova's journey towards producing fully innovative, sustainable yarn.
The inauguration of Spinnova's R&D spinning line marks a pivotal milestone in the collaborative efforts of industry leaders towards a more sustainable future in textiles.
A recent study reveals that 19 per cent of products sold by US and global retailers in the past year contained traces of banned Chinese cotton, underscoring the ongoing struggle to adhere to US regulations aimed at preventing imports linked to forced labor in China.
Conducted by researchers from natural resource analytics and testing firms Stratum Reservoir and Applied DNA Sciences, the study analyzed garment samples, cotton swabs, and shoes from major retailers and e-commerce platforms. The retailers involved were not disclosed.
Employing isotopic testing, experts traced cotton origins by analyzing stable element concentrations. The focus was on Xinjiang, China's major cotton-producing region, amidst allegations of human rights abuses.
Despite US legislation enacted in 2021 to curb such imports, the study suggests ongoing challenges. A federal report indicates Xinjiang cotton accounted for a significant portion of China's production and global supply. Notably, countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bangladesh, major cotton producers, import finished fabric from China, often leading to US distribution.
Of the 822 products tested, 19 per cent contained Xinjiang cotton. Alarmingly, 57 per cent of these items falsely claimed US origin, while two-thirds blended Xinjiang cotton with materials from other regions.
Applied DNA Sciences, one of the testing firms, refrained from disclosing specific brands or retailers but emphasized sourcing within the US and from e-commerce brands catering to the country.
Pure London x JATC, the dynamic collaboration celebrating British fashion, announces its eagerly anticipated return for its second season. Scheduled from July 14th to 16th, 2024, at Olympia, this fashion extravaganza promises to spotlight the best of British design prowess.
Following a triumphant debut, Pure London x JATC is primed to once again dazzle the industry with an impressive lineup of fashion collections. From renowned British labels to emerging designers, the event is poised to unveil the latest trends and innovations destined to shape the UK market.
Anchored by fashion visionaries Anita Mehan & Rita Abrol, Another Sunday is set to mesmerize buyers with its latest collection in the Women's segment. Renowned for its ageless, aspirational, and distinctly feminine designs, Another Sunday offers a range of stylish pieces for every occasion. Also returning is Louche, a perennial favorite renowned for its subtle British flair and affordable yet excellent designs.
Drawing inspiration from the Cornwall coast, Bridie & Bert's collection evokes nostalgic seaside charm with its range of comfortable beach cover-ups. Meanwhile, Wkndgirl, established by seasoned fashion experts, will showcase its latest collection blending creativity with affordability.
Making its debut is Matilda London, infusing American, European, and Middle Eastern influences into sustainable, handmade pieces. Similarly, Rainmakr London, Nova of London, and other homegrown brands are set to impress with their unique offerings.
Among the highlights is sustainable brand Pink Lemons, which champions India's rich craft traditions and a slow fashion ethos. In the Jewelry segment, Love Rocks' handmade pieces featuring conflict-free gemstones stand out for their meaningful charm.
Gloria Sandrucci, Event Director of Pure London, expresses excitement about partnering with JATC once again, emphasizing their commitment to showcasing the best of British fashion talent. Against the iconic backdrop of Olympia, this collaboration promises to elevate UK fashion onto the global stage.
In 2024, Gildan Activewear anticipates flat to low-single digits growth in revenue, and an adjusted operating margin slightly above the high end of its 20 per cent target range.
Despite a 1 per cent decline in sales to $696 million in the first quarter, Vince Tyra, CEO remains optimistic about the company's performance. Describing the Q1 financial results as ‘solid,’ Tyra attributes the slight decrease in revenue to lower net selling prices and an unfavorable product mix. During the quarter, the company’s shipments remained consistent with expectations, with activewear sales increasing by 1 per cent to $592 million. This growth was driven by increased shipments and positive trends in point-of-sale across various regions, along with seasonal replenishment at distributors.
Notably, national account customers contributed to the strong momentum in activewear sales, while international sales showed signs of stabilisation and recovery in certain regions.
However, sales in the hosiery and underwear category declined by 10 per cent compared to the previous year, primarily due to an unfavorable product mix and the phasing out of the Under Armour business.
In terms of financial performance, Gildan Activewear’s net sales for Q1 2024 declined by 1 per cent to $695.8 million from the same period last year. Operating income declined by 17.9 per cent to $105.1 million, and net income declined by 19.4 per cent to $78.7 million.
Despite these challenges, Tyra remains optimistic, emphasising the company's strong business model and focus on key priorities. He highlights the positive momentum in ring spun and fleece products .
The Karl Mayer Group emerges triumphant from Techtextil, the premier industry trade fair held in Frankfurt am Main from April 23 to 26, 2024. Positioned as a leading player in the Technical Textiles sector, the global giant showcased its prowess in addressing contemporary challenges across various domains such as Warp Knitting, Flat Knitting, Composites, Digitization, and Care Solutions.
Engaging exhibition draws attention
The exhibition garnered significant attention, with approximately 380 registered visitors flocking to the Karl Mayer stand. Additionally, 76 customers journeyed to the group's headquarters in Obertshausen for an exclusive in-house show, underscoring the eagerness to witness the latest innovations firsthand. Notably, the majority of attendees hailed from Europe, with Germany leading the pack, while others hailed from the USA, India, Turkey, and the UK. Impressively, 32 per cent of the attendees marked new connections, signaling a promising influx of fresh interest.
Quality conversations take center stage
While visitor numbers maintained consistency compared to the previous edition of Techtextil, the quality of interactions saw a notable upswing, according to feedback from the trade fair team. Discussions revolved around translating ideas into actionable projects, exploring specific machine capabilities, and assessing the application scope of Karl Mayer's cutting-edge technologies. Particularly, inquiries surged from the composites sector, reflecting keen interest in multiaxial warp knitting machines and those with weft insertion capabilities.
Prospects abound for future collaborations
Hagen Lotzmann, Sales Manager of the Technical Textiles Business Unit, expressed optimism, citing numerous fruitful discussions that have laid the groundwork for potential projects in the ensuing months. Key focal points included KM.ON's digital solutions, Care Solutions' offerings, and the transformative potential of Karl Mayer warp preparation machines in bolstering business opportunities and scaling operations.
Spotlight on industry trends
Techtextil not only serves as a platform for product showcases but also as a barometer for industry trends. Michael Kieren from Karl Mayer's Business Development department remarked on the prevailing optimism, with manufacturers across diverse sectors, from fashion to automotive, actively seeking innovative solutions. Notably, brands exhibited a heightened inclination towards investing in groundbreaking product advancements.
Innovations pave the way
The industry is witnessing a surge in products characterized by unprecedented surface textures, structures, and functionalities, facilitated by the integration of conductive or luminous materials into textiles. Karl Mayer's Textile Circuit initiative, which explores innovations with conductive yarns directly incorporated into warp knitting machines, garnered significant attention. Spacer fabrics, renowned for their versatility in upholstery and ventilation applications, emerged as a topic of widespread discussion, showcasing their vast potential across various domains.
Setting standards with sustainability
Amid growing environmental consciousness, sustainability emerged as a pivotal concern. The utilization of recycled materials and resource-efficient production methods gained traction, with preformed knitted fabrics from Stoll machines emerging as a frontrunner. These fabrics, tailored to individual applications, promise minimal waste generation and versatile material sourcing options. Seamless knitted medical products, offering both comfort and efficiency, are poised to revolutionize production processes in the years ahead.
Defense textiles take center stage
A noteworthy trend at Techtextil was the prominence of defense textiles, mirroring global security concerns. Exhibits featuring camouflage attire and protective gear permeated the event space, signaling a heightened focus on defense applications. Warp knitting, particularly in the production of nets and spacer fabrics, has found a niche in this sector, providing comfort and functionality in diverse defense-related products.
Innovative outlook for the future
As the industry continues to evolve, the Karl Mayer Group remains at the forefront of innovation, spearheading advancements across various textile domains. With a keen eye on emerging trends and a commitment to sustainability, the group is poised to shape the landscape of the Technical Textiles sector for years to come.
