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The Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics event of August 2023 provided a comprehensive snapshot of the textile industry's current state, with a particular focus on China. The event demonstrated that while challenges exist, opportunities for growth, sustainability, and innovation continue to shape the industry's future. As the textile landscape evolves, adapting to changing consumer demands and embracing technological advancements will be key for businesses to thrive in this dynamic environment. The world of fashion and textiles is undergoing a dynamic transformation, with the global backdrop of economic uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, attendees were keen to analyze market conditions, particularly in China, which has traditionally played a pivotal role in the textile industry. Here are the key takeaways from the event:
Mixed fortunes in the textile industry
While the textile industry in China and some neighboring countries has witnessed significant changes, it is essential to recognize that the fortunes of textile businesses vary. Yuko Watanabe, Director of International Communication at Japan Fashion Week Organisation, pointed out that participation in the Japanese pavilion was lower compared to pre-COVID times, indicating a challenging environment for Japanese fashion in China.
Kim Bu-Heung, General Director of Korea Textile Center, noted that China had been a significant investment destination for Korean enterprises. However, the current low demand in China has translated into reduced exports and investment returns. This underscores the shift in China's textile landscape and its impact on neighboring countries.
On a more optimistic note, Jane Fang, from the Market Development Department at Taiwan Textile Federation, expressed satisfaction with the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics event. Taiwan is recognized for its pioneering work in performance and functional textiles.
Gulshan Arora, VP of Material Development for Lululemon based in Taiwan, attested to the remarkable growth of the Chinese market, emphasizing their billion-dollar business and a robust presence with over 100 stores in China.
Premium market exhibitors thrive in China
Alessandro Barber’s Canonico, President of Milano Unica and head of the Vitale Barberis Canonico fabric brand, and Director of Asia Marketing, Holland & Sherry echoed positive sentiments about the Chinese market. They reported continued growth and indicated that domestic demand for their premium products remained strong, despite challenges posed by the pandemic.
However, a notable exception was the Japanese market, which remains saturated for Holland & Sherry, with little room for growth. Additionally, the Hong Kong market faced difficulties, with disruptions in custom tailoring businesses.
Exhibitors highlight quality and diversity of buyers
One consistent theme among exhibitors was their appreciation for the quality and diversity of buyers at Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics. Rinoa Zong, Marketing Manager at Testex (Shanghai) Textile Testing Co Ltd, praised the organizers for gathering professional, high-quality buyers. She emphasized the increasing demand for transparency and sustainability in textiles, reflecting a broader industry trend.
Sustainability takes centerstage
Sustainability emerged as a dominant theme at the event. Luka Yuan, Brand Sales & Marketing Director at Unifi Textiles (Suzhou) Co Ltd, showcased the company's recycled brand REPREVE and other sustainable innovations.
Buyers like Gulshan Kumar from Taiwan, Lululemon, expressed their focus on sustainable products, including those derived from ocean plastic and recycled textile waste.
Global participation and innovation
The event's global appeal was evident, with exhibitors from Italy, Korea, Japan, and other countries showcasing their innovative products. Buyers from various regions, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, explored the offerings, reflecting the event's international influence.
AI and Design Trends
In addition to sustainability, AI and design trends were on full display. Cai Jiawei, Senior Consultant at POP Fashion, highlighted the role of AI in fashion design. He emphasized the importance of combining technology with human expertise to drive the fashion industry forward.
Fringe participants driving innovation
Fringe participants, such as AiDLab and Peclers Paris, showcased how they are contributing to industry innovation. AiDLab attracted attention with AI applications for fashion design and fabric inspection, while Peclers Paris presented a sustainable approach to design inspired by nature.
The Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition 2023 transcended expectations with its record international attendance, robust business results, and a spotlight on the transformative trends reshaping the textile industry. With digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion at the forefront, this event solidified its status as a global textile powerhouse, setting the stage for future innovations and market advancements.
In a resounding success for the global textile industry, the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition concluded in the end of August 2024, boasting remarkable business results and a notable 17% surge in international visitors compared to the spring edition. This annual event, renowned for its influence on the textile market, showcased nearly 4,000 exhibitors from 27 countries and regions, who were joined by an impressive contingent of 95,000 buyers from 117 countries and regions. This international convergence reinforced the fair's status as a pivotal meeting point for global industry players.
Digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion take center stage
The fairgrounds buzzed with energy as attendees explored cutting-edge trends that are redefining the textile industry. Three core themes emerged as dominant forces at the event: digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion. These pillars are reshaping the industry landscape, giving rise to innovative concepts and solutions. Among the standout innovations was the introduction of biodegradable raw materials and the unveiling of the groundbreaking artificial intelligence system, marking a pivotal moment in textile technology.
A comprehensive sourcing experience
For buyers, Intertextile Shanghai offered a comprehensive sourcing experience, underpinned by an array of options and resources. Over 40 seminars and forums provided valuable insights, enriching attendees with industry knowledge. Concurrently, Yarn Expo Autumn complemented the main event, further diversifying the sourcing opportunities available.
A reflection of optimism in the China market
Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, shared her optimistic perspective on the fair's outcome, emphasizing its significance as a catalyst for business growth in the Chinese market. She highlighted that participants universally expressed renewed hope and enthusiasm regarding their prospects in China. Shea described the fair as not merely an event but a cornerstone of the global textile market, where business and innovation converge. She noted the influx of discerning, quality-oriented buyers from around the world, affirming that exhibitors were not only meeting market demand but actively shaping it.
AI-Driven innovation takes the spotlight
The event served as a showcase for innovative breakthroughs, including the AI-based Interactive Design Assistant for Fashion (AiDA). AiDA, developed by AiDLab, revolutionized the Intertextile Directions Trend Forum by generating virtual outfits based on on-trend fabrics. This cutting-edge technology propelled the event into the future of fashion design.
Global diversity and sustainability
Intertextile Apparel consistently attracts a diverse array of international and domestic exhibitors and buyers, representing countries such as Belgium, France, Hong Kong China, Italy, India, Japan, Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan China, and the UK, among others. Notable industry leaders, including Ecocert, Hyosung, Korean Textile Center, Lenzing, Lycra, Oeko-Tex and Sorona, led group pavilions, further enriching the event's international diversity. Buyer feedback highlighted the remarkable product variety and sustainable options, underlining the fair's pivotal role in driving industry progress.
Unveiling innovative products
Several companies seized the opportunity to launch new products at the fair. Lenzing, for instance, expanded its ReFibra technology to its Ecovero branded viscose, enhancing the post-consumer fiber content of its products. Other notable debuts included Lycra introducing three new branded fibers, Unifi's unveiling of its Textile Takeback initiative, Guangdong DC Button's plant-based degradable button series, and Yantai Jihe Import & Export's Türkiye flocked denim fabrics, marking their introduction to the Chinese market.
Sustainability marks center of attention
The newly launched concept of 'Econogy,' representing the fusion of economy and ecology, highlighted the enduring impact of sustainability within Messe Frankfurt's Texpertise Network. Intertextile Apparel showcased the merits of sustainability, evident in the All About Sustainability zone and various eco-focused fringe events. Across all categories, exhibitors, visitors, and speakers left the fairground with a sense of accomplishment, having engaged in productive in-person business interactions.
IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection marked its fourth edition with resounding success. The event, held from August 9 to 11 in Istanbul, showcased the city's growing prominence in the global fashion business. The numbers tell the story: a remarkable 30% increase in both exhibitors and visitors, including a staggering 140% surge in international attendees. The exhibition area also expanded significantly, boasting a 120% increase from the previous year's event.
Rapid international recognition
IFCO has swiftly carved its niche in international buyer groups as Europe's largest fashion and apparel fair. Mustafa Pasahan, Vice President IHKIB, proudly stated that on the first day alone, more than 2,500 international buyers from various countries, including Germany, Israel, Canada, Latin American nations, Malaysia, South Africa, the UK, the US, and the UAE, flocked to the event. It highlights IFCO's role in establishing Istanbul as a global fashion hub.
Turkey's competitive advantage
Turkey, as the EU's third-largest apparel supplier, excels in short delivery times, high production quality, and a well-trained workforce. It offers the advantage of small minimum order quantities and a vertically integrated textile and apparel industry. Turkey's strong focus on sustainable production and a circular garment economy reinforces its competitive position.
Nurturing design and talent
Turkey's prominence in design and trends is evident through investments in human resources, including vocational schools like KOZA Young Fashion Designers competition. Istanbul Moda Akademisi (IMA) serves as a vital design hub, producing graduates who make their mark on the international fashion stage. IMA's strategic partnership with the University of the Arts London/London College of Fashion strengthens its commitment to shaping the future of the industry.
Diverse exhibitors and exclusive Areas
The fair featured over 400 brands across six segmented halls, showcasing everything from womenswear to sportswear. The Core Istanbul and The Exclusive Area presented exclusive designs, while FashionIst showcased leading brands and the latest evening fashion trends.
Global visitor surge
IFCO recorded over 20,000 visitors from 125+ countries, with a visitor increase of over 30% compared to the previous year. International visitors more than doubled, emphasizing its global appeal.
Successful B2B networking
The B2B Match Making at IFCO facilitated efficient networking between exhibitors and global buyers, resulting in numerous orders and collaboration opportunities.
Supporting program highlights
The gala event and IFCO Seminars and Shows provided insights into industry trends, sustainability, and technology. The IFCO Trend Area showcased the "New Gen" collections of İMA graduates, offering a glimpse into future fashion trends.
Next stop: IFCO February 2024
IFCO's next edition in February 2024 expects participation from more than 600 companies, aiming to expand its international reach as the ideal gateway into European and Asian markets. Istanbul, as a global trade and cultural hub, continues to shine as the ultimate destination for fashion and innovation. Don't miss the next Istanbul Fashion Connection on 7th-10th February 2024.
Better Cotton, the world's largest cotton sustainability initiative, has released its 2023 India Impact Report. It highlights substantial progress in reducing pesticide and water usage, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and promoting equality.
The report covers Indian cotton farmers in the Better Cotton Programme from 2014/15 to 2021/22. It explores the benefits of sustainable cotton production for people and the environment. It delves into various aspects of Better Cotton production, from resource utilization to farming community dynamics.
Since its launch in 2011, the Better Cotton Programme in India has grown from tens of thousands to nearly one million farmers. The report shows a 53% reduction in pesticide use due to Integrated Pest Management training and awareness campaigns. Highly hazardous pesticides use decreased from 64% to 10%, and Monocrotophos usage dropped from 41% to 2%.
Water usage for irrigation decreased by 29%, and nitrogen application decreased by 6%.Farmers' total costs per hectare decreased by 15.6%, with an average cotton lint yield 200kg per hectare higher than the national average. The number of women in Better Cotton Field Staff increased from 10% to over 25% in recent years.
The report celebrates progress, identifies development gaps, and focuses on improving communities growing cotton in India. Better Cotton now monitors year-on-year progress, emphasizing continuous improvement. Alan McClay, CEO of Better Cotton, reaffirmed their commitment to furthering farm-level improvements in India.
The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT), the British Fashion Council (BFC), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) have launched the Circular Fashion Innovation Network (CFIN) to champion circularity within the UK fashion and textile industry.
The network will bring together industry stakeholders, innovators, investors, academia, and a wider spectrum of interested parties to fast-track the UK's fashion economy into a leading position in the realm of circular fashion.
The CFIN will focus on six key areas:
• Circular business models: Reducing waste and overproduction through the incorporation of circular business practices and consideration of regulatory changes.
• Recycling infrastructure: Optimizing closed-loop recycling processes, forming partnerships, and laying the foundations for extended producer responsibility (EPR).
• Sustainable manufacturing: Achieving lower environmental impact by enhancing supply chain resilience, forging deeper connections between brands and manufacturers, and scaling digital traceability tools.
• Novel technology: Expanding and integrating innovative technologies that support circular fashion.
• Diverse and future-proof workforce: Upskilling the workforce and building a diverse and future-proof talent pipeline to address skills gaps.
• Green growth: Creating economically viable Circular Fashion Products, services, and intellectual property, while promoting responsible design, retail, and manufacturing.
The CFIN will be funded by a £1.8 million allocation from the BFC and UKFT. It will be overseen by an advisory board with representatives from a diverse range of businesses, academia, and NGOs.
The launch of the CFIN is a significant step forward in the UK's journey towards a more circular fashion industry. The network will provide a platform for collaboration and innovation, and it is hoped that it will help to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.
Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) exports to the United States in July 2023 saw a significant growth of 7.80%, reaching $748.03 million compared to $693.92 million in the same month of 2022.
This growth came after five consecutive months of decline in Bangladesh's RMG exports to the US. The decline was attributed to the economic slowdown and high inflation in the Western market, primarily driven by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Despite the challenges, Bangladesh outperformed its competitors, such as China and Vietnam, on the global market. In the first seven months of 2023, Bangladesh retained its position as the third-largest apparel exporter to the US market, holding a 9.91% share.
Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, stated that work orders have started to increase in recent months, indicating a potential rebound in apparel exports in the Western market in the coming months.
The data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) also revealed that India's RMG exports to the US market from January to July 2023 decreased by 21.12% to $2.91 billion compared to $3.69 billion in the same period the previous year.
Furthermore, US RMG imports from Indonesia in the first seven months of 2023 declined by 27.25% to $2.47 billion, while imports from Cambodia fell by 32.10% to $1.79 billion during the same period.
Overall, the data suggests that the US apparel market is still facing challenges, but Bangladesh is well-positioned to capitalize on any rebound in demand.
Indo Count Industries is revolutionizing its Reloop collection by introducing a range of bedding crafted from regenerative cotton, marking a groundbreaking shift in cotton sustainability practices.
Regenerative cotton production focuses on holistic farming techniques that boost soil fertility, capture and retain atmospheric CO2, diversify agricultural landscapes, and enhance water and energy management. This remarkable fiber also represents a significant step toward unlocking a myriad of economic, environmental, and social advantages.
By seamlessly integrating regenerative cotton with plant waste-based fibers, each product plays a dual role: revitalizing fragile cropland while simultaneously recovering waste from ecosystems, embodying a comprehensive circular approach.
Gautam Sareen, the President of Marketing at Indo Count, expressed the company's unwavering commitment to pioneering sustainability initiatives aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of cotton agriculture. He stated, "Our Reloop Regenerative Cotton embodies these efforts, aligning seamlessly with nature while bolstering economic viability."
The new bedding collection is available now at Indo Count's New York showroom, located at 390 Fifth Ave, Suite 405.
Here are some additional details about the new bedding collection:
• The bedding is made from 100% certified regenerative cotton, which is grown using farming practices that improve soil health, conserve water, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• The cotton is blended with plant waste-based fibers, such as Tencel and Lyocell, which are made from sustainably sourced wood pulp.
• The bedding is finished with a water-based dye that is free of harmful chemicals.
• The bedding is GOTS certified, which means it meets the highest standards for organic and sustainable textiles.
Indo Count Industries is committed to providing consumers with sustainable bedding options that are both luxurious and environmentally friendly. The new Reloop Regenerative Cotton Bedding Collection is a testament to the company's commitment to sustainability and its dedication to meeting the needs of its customers.
A new report by WGSN explores the integration of multidimensional technologies in the fashion industry and how they are rapidly evolving and cross-pollinating, progressing toward a multi-layered future. The report discusses the role of AI in fashion, including generative AI fashion, digital reality fashion, and robotic attire.
Generative AI (GenAI) has the potential to aid fashion designers in the creative process by offering a myriad of innovative design suggestions. However, GenAI's role in fashion is not to supplant human creativity but to amplify it. Designers still retain a pivotal role in interpreting and refining AI-generated designs.
Extended reality technologies, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, are also transforming the fashion industry. These technologies create an immersive experience that transcends the mere physical attributes of fashion items. They enable users to interact with fashion products on a deeper, more meaningful, and personalized level.
The report also introduces the concept of robotic wear, where the boundary between human biology and technological apparatus becomes blurred. Robotic clothing is pushing the boundaries of fashion, engineering, and human potential. It is bringing us closer to a reality akin to Iron Man, where apparel can enhance our abilities and elevate us to a superhuman level.
The report concludes by suggesting that robots could be the ultimate fashion trendsetters in the future. As AI and extended reality technologies become more sophisticated, robots will be able to design, create, and market fashion in ways that are beyond the capabilities of humans.
In short, the future of fashion is multidimensional and robots are poised to play a major role.
Pure London x JATC, the UK’s largest fashion festival, has unveiled its theme for the February 2024 combined show: 'Cabinet of Curiosity.' In collaboration with trend agency Vesuvius, this groundbreaking event promises an expanded array of inspiring fashion designers and brands, inviting buyers into a world of wonder, experimentation, and joy. Trend Forecaster Malaika Ewande, Vesuvius Founder, shared that the theme was inspired by the convergence of fashion markets, sparking curiosity and mystery. 'Cabinet of Curiosity' bridges the gap between newer fashion values like conscious consumption, holistic craftsmanship, and a penchant for unique, enduring products, expressed through contemporary art-inspired designs.
The color palette, featuring earthy tones like peat, buckskin, brown rice, and deep red, contrasts with serene, calming shades of mist and faded denim. These juxtaposed elements will permeate the season's campaign and come to life on the catwalk and throughout the show's features.
Event Director Gloria Sandrucci is thrilled about the theme's creative potential and industry resonance, anticipating a transformed show at Olympia London in February 2024.
Creative Director Juls Dawson believes 'Cabinet of Curiosity' mirrors the excitement surrounding the combined Pure London X JATC event, symbolizing the wealth of discoveries and connections attendees will make.
The show, taking place from February 11th to 13th, 2024, will present over 300 curated brands at Olympia London. Visitors can explore the season's trends on the catwalk, guided by Malaika Ewande, and exhibitors can attend an exclusive trend breakfast on February 12th, 2024. Scoop International will also run concurrently at Olympia West from February 11th to 13th, 2024.
Concludes with Robust Business Results and a 17% Increase in International Visitors
The highly anticipated Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition concluded last week on a high note, boasting robust business results and a remarkable 17% increase in international visitors compared to the spring edition.
The event featured nearly 4,000 exhibitors from 27 countries and regions, warmly welcoming 95,000 buyers from 117 countries and regions. This diverse attendance underscored the fair's continued global appeal. The event also showcased significant trends shaping the industry, including digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion.
Buyers enjoyed a comprehensive sourcing experience, accompanied by a wealth of knowledge from over 40 seminars and forums, along with the concurrent Yarn Expo Autumn.
In an industry increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, Intertextile Apparel continues to inspire attendees with forward-thinking trends. Exhibitors, such as AiDLab, used the platform to showcase innovations, including AI applications for fashion design and fabric inspection. The fair's impressive foot traffic and positive feedback affirmed its role as a significant industry event.
In summary, the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition delivered exceptional results, demonstrating its continued importance as a global hub for the textile and fashion industry. The event not only facilitated business exchanges but also highlighted emerging trends and innovations that are shaping the future of the industry.
