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In Q4, FY25, major Indian textile company and a part of the LNJ Bhilwara Group, RSWM turned around from its previous quarterly losses to post a consolidated profit of Rs 16 million.
Driven by higher sales volumes and prices The company registered a 7.2 per cent Y-o-Y increase in quarterly revenue to Rs 125.6 billion. While its revenues rose by 5 per cent Q-o-Q.
Supported by strict cost controls and operational efficiencies, the company’s EBITDA for the fourth quarter increased by 44.8 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 7.9 billion while EBITDA margins improved by 163 basis points to 6.2 per cent.
For the full FY25, RSWM's revenue increased by 18.9 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 482.5 billion, while EBITDA grew significantly by 76.8 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 23.3 billion. Although the company posted a net loss of Rs 4.1 billion for the fiscal year, this reflects a substantial improvement in operating performance compared to FY24’s profit of Rs 3.5 billion, attributed to investments in sustainability and product innovation.
A key highlight of fiscal year 2025 was the launch of ‘Panchtatva,’ a textile innovation platform inspired by nature’s five elements. This initiative aligns with the Indian government’s Mission LiFE, combining ancient Indian wisdom with modern sustainable textile technologies.
RSWM also entered a Joint Development Agreement with Birla Cellulose (Grasim Industries) and TACC to develop graphene-enhanced functional textiles. This aims to create high-performance fabrics with enhanced strength, breathability, and conductivity, positioning RSWM at the forefront of technical textiles.
The company is also diversifying into sustainable energy, having signed an agreement with Bhilwara Energy and other stakeholders, including a Rs 25 billion investment from Singularity Fund.
Riju Jhunjhunwala, Chairman and Managing Director of RSWM, stated, FY25 marked a shift towards a more sustainable future, with improved operational and financial performance. He also noted that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement is expected to significantly boost Indian textile exports. The company is also targeting expansion into Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Looking ahead to FY26, RSWM's priorities include scaling exports, leveraging digital technologies for process efficiency, and reinforcing its commitment to ESG goals.
Established over 63 years ago, RSWM is a major Indian manufacturer and exporter of value-added yarns, denim, knitted fabric, and green polyester fiber, exporting to over 70 countries and serving leading global brands.
Textiles major Mafatlal Industries recorded highest ever revenue growth from operations to Rs 2,807 crore in FY25 with the company also reporting a net profit of Rs 98 crore during the full financial year.
Meanwhile, Mafatlal Industries’ revenue increased by 41 per cent to Rs 450 crore in Q4, FY25 ended March 31, 2025. However, the company’s net profit declined to Rs 23 crore during the quarter as against Rs 33 crore in the year-ago quarter.
According to MB Raghunath, CEO, this growth is been primarily driven by the successful execution of large institutional orders, robust supply chain network and a well-established vendor ecosystem that remain a core strength of its business.
Having a strong order book of approximately Rs 700 crore, Mafatlal continues to see promising opportunities across the textiles, digital infrastructure, and consumer durables segments, Raghunath adds.
A flagship company of the Arvind Mafatlal Group, Mafatlal Industries is a prominent textile player offering a wide range of products including suitings, shirts, fabrics, voiles, uniforms, etc.
To meet the rising market demand, Andritz will showcase its advanced process solutions at the Textile Recycling Expo in Brussels, Belgium, from June 4-5, 2025.
The expo will focus on technologies for the automated sorting of textiles and subsequent recycling processes, serving both textile and nonwoven applications.
A leader in providing industrially and economically sound solutions for automated textile sorting and fiber preparation, Andritz is also involved in developing mechanical and chemical recycling processes.
At the expo, the company will emphasize its industrial capabilities for recycling a wide range of pre- and post-industrial and post-consumer textile waste for various applications, including acoustic and thermal insulation, bedding, and automotive padding. With over a century of experience, Andritz possesses extensive expertise in high-quality tearing equipment for the efficient production of fibers for both nonwovens and yarn manufacturing.
Andritz and Pellenc ST will also present the latest advancements from their automated sorting process at the Nouvelles Fibres Textiles facility in Amplepuis, France.
This new plant features a complete automated sorting line on an industrial scale, a pre-tearing line, and a research and development center fully equipped with Andritz and Pellenc ST machinery. Customers can conduct trials, test processes, and recycle textiles into fibers at the facility.
The line is capable of automatically sorting garments by composition and color, addressing the needs of both the post-consumer and post-industrial waste markets. It can remove hard components like buttons and zippers and preparing the material for further processing on an Andritz tearing machine. The automated textile sorting line can process textile waste to produce recycled fibers for the spinning, nonwovens, and composites industries.
Driven an increased textile sales volume, the consolidated net profit of textile and apparel giant Arvind Ltd increased by 48 per cent to Rs1.55 billion in Q4, FY25.
Having a posted a net profit of Rs 1.04 billion in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year, the company announced, it is pausing all non-essential and optional capital expenditure (capex) plans until the situation regarding US tariffs becomes clearer.
The company’s consolidated revenue from operations increased to Rs 22.21 billion during the quarter from Rs 20.75 billion in the corresponding period a year ago.
Total expenses increased to Rs 20.91 billion in the fourth quarter compared to Rs 19.44 billion in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
For full FY25 ending March 31, 2025, the company’s consolidated net profit increased to Rs 3.67 billion compared to Rs 3.53 billion in FY24. Its consolidated revenue from operations increased to Rs 83.29 billion during the year from Rs 77.38 billion in FY25.
The fourth quarter saw promising growth in demand. Sales of denim fabric increased by 14 per cent to 14.6 million meters during the quarter, achieving their highest volume growth in the last eleven quarters. For the full FY25, denim fabric sales increased by 8 per cent to 51.6 million meters with a 90 per cent capacity utilization rate, the company reported. Woven fabric production, operating at nearly 100 per cent capacity utilization, achieved a volume of 33.2 million meters in the fourth quarter, a 5 per cent increase. For the full fiscal year 2025, it recorded 128 million meters, the company added.
Arvind Ltd’s garmenting division achieved a total garment volume of 9.5 million pieces in Q4, FY25 the highest in the past twelve quarters. For the full FY25, the division’s garment production increased by 16 per cent to 37.2 million pieces.
The Advanced Materials Division (AMD) reported a 14 per cent volume growth during the quarter, showing improved performance compared to previous quarters.
Regarding the outlook for FY26, the company stated, the recent India-UK free trade agreement is a positive development for the entire industry and opens up a new key market for the company, which currently accounts for less than 2 per cent of its business.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has inked a $2.4 billion deal to acquire the global sneaker retailer Foot Locker. The deal includes acquisition of the brand’s roughly 2,400 stores operating in nearly 20 countries.
Dick’s Sporting Goods confirmed plans to retain all of Foot Locker’s brand banners, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos. Combined, these brands generated $8 billion in revenue during the last fiscal year.
Based in Pittsburgh and founded in 1948, Dick’s Sporting Goods reported $13.4 billion in revenue last year. The group currently operates more than 850 stores across the US under several banners: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Public Lands, and Going, Going, Gone! It also manages e-commerce channels and the Dick’s mobile app.
In addition to its core retail network, the company operates experiential concepts like Dick’s House of Sport, Golf Galaxy Performance Center, and GameChanger — a digital platform offering live streaming, scheduling, and team management for youth sports.
Ed Stack, Executive Chairman, Dick’s Sporting Goods, says, Foot Locker’s cultural relevance and value alongwith its dedicated team of Stripers offers significant growth potential for the company in the market. The partnership aims to leverage the complementary strengths of both organizations to better serve the broad and evolving needs of global sports consumers, he adds.
Dick’s first major expansion beyond the US, the acquisition presents new opportunities as well as strategic challenges. The company expects to realize synergies between $100 million and $125 million.
Lauren Hobart, President and CEO , Dick’s Sporting Goods affirms, with this acquisition, the company is creating a new global platform that will meet these needs through iconic concepts consumers know and love, enhanced stores and omnichannel experiences, and product assortments that resonate across diverse customer bases.
A better than expected growth in Q2, FY25 sales and a strong demand for its pricier range of sandals and clogs led to German footwear brand Birkenstock raising annual forecasts for the year.
Newer editions of Birkenstock products such as Arizona Essentials and Madrid Big Buckle have been boosting demand for the brand’s products, lifting sales amid lingering tariff uncertainty. Birkenststock has also been witnessing a stronger demand for its comfort-driven designs, especially from younger customers, at retail stores such as Nordstrom and Footlocker, strengthening Birkenstock's new store opening plans.
The current tariff situation is expected to create a unique shift in consumer behavior in the footwear category with a split between the few brands, like Birkenstock, says Oliver Riechert, CEO, Birkenstock.
The company invested about €21 million ($23.53 million) in capital expenditure in Q2, FY25 as it looks to expanding its production capacity to cater to growing demand in regions such as the Americas.
The company’s biggest market, the Americas witnessed a 23 per cent boost in net revenue during the quarter ended March 31, compared with 19 per cent a year earlier.
The company now expects FY25 revenue to be at the high end of its previous forecast range of 15 per cent to 17 per cent in constant currency basis.
The company’s annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margin are likely to remain between 31.3 per cent and 31.8 per cent during the quarter. It posted quarterly revenue of €574.3 million, compared with analysts' estimates of €567.7 million euros as per data compiled by LSEG.
A global hub for apparel innovation
Istanbul will welcome leading global players in garment, embroidery, and textile machinery from June 25 to 28 as it hosts the Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition at the Istanbul Expo Center (IFM). This major industry event will bring together top names from the garment, embroidery machinery, spare parts, and sub-industry segments, reinforcing the strategic importance of Turkiye’s apparel sector in global trade and exports.
Under the theme ‘Innovative Touch to Fashion,’ the exhibition will highlight technologies that cover the entire garment production chain from cutting and sewing to ironing, packaging, denim, and embroidery systems. With top brands, leading manufacturers, and tech developers gathering under one roof, the exhibition aims to provide a comprehensive view of the industry's fast-paced transformation and innovation.
Strategic platform for business collaboration
Garment Tech Istanbul is more than a conventional trade event; it is a dynamic business platform where stakeholders across the apparel supply chain can explore new opportunities. It will serve as a meeting ground for manufacturers, suppliers, international investors, and brand leaders looking to create long-term strategic partnerships. Exhibitors will benefit not only from immediate sales opportunities but also from exposure to global networks and long-term business development prospects. The event is poised to facilitate high-value interactions as decision-makers discuss supply chain integration, production strategy upgrades, and regional expansion plans.
Turkiye’s garment industry, known for its robust manufacturing capacity and skilled workforce, will showcase its global potential through this event. The four-day gathering will foster face-to-face meetings and deal-making, enabling companies to attract investments, find reliable partners, and enter new markets. With the entire sector engaged from design and manufacturing to logistics and sales Garment Tech Istanbul will act as a catalyst for sector-wide growth and transformation.
Smart manufacturing and sustainable solutions
One of the key highlights of the event will be the display of state-of-the-art machinery and automation systems. Visitors will experience firsthand the latest innovations in sewing and embroidery machines, digital cutting technologies, pressing equipment, and eco-conscious systems. From AI-powered automation and Internet of Things (IoT) applications to energy-efficient solutions, the exhibition will present tools to help companies boost productivity while aligning with global sustainability goals.
Smart manufacturing and data-driven production models will be front and center, giving attendees insight into future-ready operations. For textile professionals, this is an opportunity to adopt best-in-class solutions, reduce waste, and meet growing demands for sustainable production methods.
Istanbul’s strategic edge in global trade
Thanks to its unique location bridging Europe and Asia, Istanbul offers unmatched accessibility for global participants. Its advanced transportation infrastructure and visa-free access from numerous countries make the city a natural meeting point for the global apparel sector. Thousands of professionals from more than 60 countries including India, China, Pakistan, Iran, Germany, and the UK have already registered online for the exhibition.
Beyond business, participants will enjoy Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and culinary delights, making their trip both productive and memorable. With this event, Istanbul reaffirms its position as the beating heart of the global garment and textile trade
Panipat, a city synonymous with textiles, is rapidly evolving from a traditional weaving hub to a powerhouse of sustainable yarn and fibre production. While the world grapples with escalating textile waste, this Indian city is pioneering solutions, transforming discarded fabrics into valuable resources. Beyond the numbers highlighted in recent reports, a deeper look reveals a complex ecosystem driving this transformation.
The challenge and the opportunity
The global textile waste crisis is alarming. Ellen MacArthur Foundation says, less than 1 per cent of the material used to produce clothing is recycled into new clothing, a loss of more than $100 billion worth of materials each year. A report by Quantis, a sustainability consultancy, highlights the fashion industry contributes up to 8 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. In India alone, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) estimates millions of tonnes of textile waste are generated annually, with a significant portion ending up in landfills.
However, this challenge leads to a substantial economic opportunity. The global recycled textile market is projected to grow significantly. A report by Grand View Research say the global recycled polyester fiber market size was valued at $6.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2 per cent from 2023 to 2030.
Panipat's unique position
Panipat's strategic location and decades of experience in textile processing have positioned it as a key player in this growing market. The city's MSMEs, numbering over 2,000, are at the forefront of this transformation. These MSMEs have adopted various methods to boost their textile processing business.
Table: Panipat's textile industry snapshot
|
Metric |
Value |
Source/Context |
|
Annual Textile Waste Processed |
250 tonnes/day |
Industry Reports, Local Estimates |
|
Annual Turnover |
Rs 50,000 crore (approx. $6.02 billion) |
Industry Reports |
|
Export Turnover |
Rs. 12,000 crore (approx. $1.44 billion) |
Industry Reports |
|
Direct & Indirect Employment |
8-10 lakh workers |
Industry Reports |
|
Number of Registered Textile Units (MSMEs) |
>2000 |
Industry Reports |
|
Recycled Yarn Production (KS Spinning) |
40,000 metric tonnes/year |
Company Data |
|
Recycled PET Bottles used (KS Spinning) |
>60 million bottles/year |
Company Data |
Diversification and service-based solutions: Companies are moving beyond mere product recycling to offer comprehensive waste management solutions. This includes handling specialized recycling of items like national flags, demonstrating a commitment to responsible disposal and corporate social responsibility.
Technological advancements in sorting: While manual sorting remains crucial, the adoption of advanced technologies like NIR scanners and UV-based conveyor systems is improving efficiency and accuracy. Innovations that allow for the sorting of multi blend materials is increasing the availability of usable fibre.
Focus on high-quality yarns: The shift towards producing finer count yarns (NE 10s and above) signifies a move towards higher value-added products. This allows companies to cater to a wider range of applications and meet the demands of discerning international buyers.
Vertical integration and R&D: Companies are investing in vertical integration, controlling the entire process from waste collection to yarn production. This ensures quality control and enables the development of specialized yarns. Moreover, significant investment in R&D is aimed at producing even finer yarns and expanding product offerings.
Emphasis on certifications: The growing demand for certified sustainable products is driving companies to obtain certifications like GRS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and ISO 9000. These certifications enhance product credibility and attract environmentally conscious buyers.
PET bottle recycling: Companies such as KS spinning are using recycled PET bottles to create polyester blends, reducing the reliance on virgin polyester. This practice is growing in popularity and is being adopted by more companies.
Despite its success, Panipat's textile recycling industry also faces several challenges. For example, access to capital and technology is still an issue. MSMEs often struggle to access the capital needed for technological upgrades and innovation. The inconsistent quality and availability of textile waste also poses challenges to maintaining consistent output quality. Growing local and global competition requires companies to innovate and produce differentiated products. And brands and manufactures need to design products that are easier to recycle to stay ahead of competition.
However, the industry's commitment to sustainability, coupled with increasing global demand for recycled textiles, presents a promising future. The implementation of policies like the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan and India's EPR framework will further drive the adoption of sustainable practices.
Thus Panipat's journey exemplifies the potential of circular economy principles in transforming waste into valuable resources. As the industry continues to innovate and adapt, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable textile future.
Bangladesh is rapidly strengthening its position as a major player in the global apparel export market, capitalizing on a shift in dynamics within the EU and the US, the world's two largest economic blocs. Recent data reveals an increase in Bangladesh's apparel exports to these major markets, largely due to its ability to fill the vacuum left by a retreating China. This upward movement underscores Bangladesh's growing competitiveness, its strategic advantages and evolving global trade patterns.
Europe embraces Bangladesh
The latest Eurostat figures, cited by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) highlights the country’s growing influence in the European apparel market. In the first two months of 2025 (January-February), Bangladesh witnessed 36.99 per cent increase in apparel exports to the EU, reaching $3.69 billion, a significant leap from the $2.69 billion recorded during the same period last year.
This impressive growth far outpaces the EU's overall apparel import growth of 17.81 per cent in value and 28.66 per cent in volume, unequivocally showcasing Bangladesh's prowess in capturing market share. Industry experts suggest that China's declining market share in the EU has created a significant opening, which Bangladesh has adeptly exploited.
Table: EU apparel imports - Bangladesh vs. competitors (Jan-Feb 2025)
|
Country |
Export value ($ bn) |
Growth rate (%) |
|
Bangladesh |
3.69 |
36.99 |
|
China |
4.54 |
25 |
|
Turkey |
- |
-3.64 |
|
India |
- |
21-22 |
|
Pakistan |
- |
21-22 |
|
Cambodia |
- |
21-22 |
|
EU Overall |
- |
17.81 (Value), 28.66 (Volume) |
The data clearly indicates that while other exporting nations are also experiencing growth, Bangladesh's performance is significantly more robust. Notably, Turkey's exports have even declined, further highlighting Bangladesh's competitive edge. While China remains the largest exporter to the EU, the narrowing growth gap signals a potential long-term shift.
US market, resilience amidst uncertainty
Simultaneously, Bangladesh's apparel exports to the US have also shown resilience, growing at 17.23 per cent during the July-March period of the 2024-25 fiscal year, reaching $5.74 billion. This growth is particularly noteworthy considering the looming concerns surrounding new US tariff policies and a backdrop of global economic headwinds and protectionist measures.
The US currently stands as Bangladesh's single largest export destination for apparel, accounting for 18.97 per cent of its total apparel exports. This shows the sustained competitiveness of Bangladesh's garment sector in a demanding market.
Success beyond just prices
Analysts and industry leaders attribute Bangladesh's success to a multifaceted approach. A growing focus on producing garments that meet international quality standards has increase buyer confidence. Moreover, the rise of ‘green factories’ aligns with increasing global demand for sustainable and ethically produced apparel. Social and worker safety advancements too has added to its attraction. There have been significant improvements in factory safety and worker welfare have addressed past concerns and boosted the country's reputation. Bangladesh's ability to ensure timely delivery of orders is a crucial advantage in the fast-paced fashion industry.
Then there are the preferential trade agreements like the GSP with the EU that provide significant cost advantage. While the average unit price in the EU saw a slight decrease of 1.46 per cent, the substantial 39.02 per cent increase in volume indicates Bangladesh's ability to offer attractive prices without compromising on quantity.
As Mohiuddin Rubel, former BGMEA director says, factories in Bangladesh are now of world-class standard. Buyers find reliability here. He further emphasizes the role of value-added garment production, the economic recovery in Europe, and the combined efforts of workers and entrepreneurs in this success story.
Adapting to shifting global dynamics
Now, the evolving trade relationship between the US and China presents a good opportunity for Bangladesh. In 2018, China's apparel exports to the US were five times greater than Bangladesh's. However, by 2024, this gap has narrowed significantly, with Bangladesh's exports reaching $7.34 billion compared to China's $16.50 billion.
The new tariffs on Chinese and Vietnamese goods by the US, is further incentivizing American retailers to explore alternative sourcing destinations like Bangladesh.
Impact of new tariffs
In a significant development that adds a layer of complexity to Bangladesh's promising export outlook to the US are the new tariffs announced by President Trump. This policy imposes tariffs on imports from countries that are deemed to have higher tariffs on US goods. While the initial announcement caused considerable concern, a subsequent 90-day suspension offered a temporary reprieve. However, the potential long-term impact of these tariffs remains a critical factor for Bangladesh's apparel exports to the US.
Under the new policy, Bangladesh faces a 37 per ent reciprocal tariff on its exports to the US. This substantial increase from the previous average tariff rate could significantly impact the competitiveness of Bangladeshi apparel in the American market.
Table: Impact of US reciprocal tariffs on apparel exports
|
Country |
Reciprocal tariff rate (%) |
Impact on exports to US |
|
Bangladesh |
37 |
Significant price increase, potential loss of market share if US buyers shift to countries with lower tariffs. Could impact future order volumes for Christmas and beyond. |
|
China |
54 (including existing tariffs) |
Even higher tariffs could accelerate the shift of sourcing away from China, potentially benefiting Bangladesh in the long run, despite its own tariff increase. |
|
Vietnam |
46 |
Substantial tariff increase, likely to face similar challenges as Bangladesh in terms of price competitiveness in the US market. |
|
India |
26 |
Lower tariff compared to Bangladesh and Vietnam could give India a relative advantage in the US market. |
|
Pakistan |
29 |
Also faces a significant tariff, potentially making its apparel exports less attractive to US buyers compared to pre-tariff levels. |
|
Cambodia |
49 |
One of the highest tariff rates, likely to severely impact its apparel exports to the US. |
The new tariffs could lead to several consequences. For example, it could lead to increased prices for American retailers and consumers, potentially dampening demand for apparel imports. US buyers might actively seek alternative sourcing destinations with lower or no tariffs, potentially eroding the market share of countries like Bangladesh, China, and Vietnam. Reduced demand and increased costs could lead to a fall in volume of apparel exports from Bangladesh to the US, affecting factory production and employment.
Despite the concerns, some analysts suggest that Bangladesh's relative position in the US market might hold, as major competitors like China and Vietnam face even steeper tariff rates. However, the overall drop in US demand due to higher prices could negatively impact all exporting nations.
The 90-day suspension offers a window for diplomatic efforts and potential trade negotiations. The long-term impact of the US reciprocal tariff policy on Bangladesh's apparel exports will depend on the final outcome of these discussions and the strategic responses adopted by Bangladeshi manufacturers and policymakers. The industry must focus on maintaining its strengths in quality, sustainability, and ethical practices to mitigate the negative effects of potential tariffs and explore market diversification strategies to reduce reliance on the US market.
Leading trade show for functional fabrics and textile sustainability, Performance Days has teamed up with the International Wool Textile Organization (IWTO) to highlight wool’s potential as a high-performance, natural fiber. This collaboration promotes wool as a responsible, durable material and support the exchange of knowledge across the textile industry through joint initiatives and event appearances.
Representing the entire wool supply chain, the Brussels-headquartered IWTO advocates for sustainable, transparent, and ethical practices. The partnership will make its first public appearance at the IWTO Congress in Lille, France, from May 20–22, 2025. On May 21,
Performance Days will present on the main stage and host a dedicated tabletop booth to engage with industry professionals on functional wool innovations.
This partnership between IWTO and Performance Days marks a significant step in strengthening wool’s role in the world of performance textiles, says Dalena White, Secretary General, IWTO.
Together, the two organizations aim to create platforms to showcase wool’s natural performance attributes and foster innovation at the intersection of natural fibers and high-tech.
A key focus at Performance Days for years, wool first featured as a central theme in 2015. Since then, the event has consistently highlighted wool-based innovations - including Merino, recycled, organic, and traceable fibers in trend forums and educational formats. Since October 2024, the fair has featured a dedicated Wool Forum and a central showcase area for wool manufacturers.
Claus Habbicht, Co-founder and Head –Sales, Performance Days, says, partnering with IWTO is a logical next step to help brands more effectively integrate wool into their responsible collections.
The collaboration extends beyond a single event. At Performance Days Munich in October 2025, IWTO will exhibit within the Wool Forum and contribute to expert talks. The event will also be highlighted during Wool Month by the Campaign for Wool. In March 2026, at Functional Fabric Fair Shanghai, IWTO will provide content and promotional support for wool-focused programming.
With events in Munich, New York, Portland, and Shanghai, Performance Days connects material innovators, designers, and brands across the global textile supply chain. Together with IWTO, it is poised to advance the role of natural fibers in performance apparel’s sustainable future.
