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US apparel imports increased by 12.9 per cent increase in quantity and a 2.9 per cent increase in value in Feb 2024 compared to the same month previous year.
Seasonally adjusted US apparel imports also increased by 10 per cent in February 2024 compared January 2024, according to a report by the World Trade Organisation.
The import surge was particularly surprising given that the value of US clothing sales in February 2024 was only 1.3 per cent higher than a year ago and even 0.5 per cent lower than in January 2024.
The correlation between US apparel retail sales (NAICS code 4481) and apparel imports remains strong, with over 98 per cent of clothing sold in the US being imported. In 2023, the US clothing sales to clothing import ratio increased to 4.0-4.5, possibly with the rise of e-commerce sales, accounting for about 40 per cent of the US apparel retail sales in 2023.
The increase in imports in February 2024, bringing the sales to import ratio back to 3.8, may indicate a shift in import procedures, with more imports likely entering through standard channels rather than de minimis, due to US customs tightening controls.
Some suggest that the lower US apparel import volume in 2023 was due to retailers managing inventory levels. While there was a slight decrease in the stock-to-sales ratio compared to pre-pandemic levels, it wasn't significant enough to dampen import demand, especially considering apparel's seasonal nature and the importance of stocking new items during critical selling seasons like the fourth quarter.
To cater to the everyday needs of modern-day wearers seeking comfort and versatility, denim brands are delving into the realm of performance fabrics.
Prominent Los Angeles-based denim brand AG recently unveiled its activewear capsule collection for men. Incorporating premium stay-dry performance jersey and lightweight polyester fabrics, the collection ensures wearers stay cool and comfortable while on the move.
AG's focus on a commuter fit underscores the collection's versatility, seamlessly transitioning from work to weekend wear. The bottoms in this collection, including the Mckenzie Active Performance Short, the Spring Active Performance Jogger, and the Tellis Active Performance pant, are designed with an elastic interior waistband and crafted from quick-drying, water-resistant bi-stretch ‘lightweight endurance woven fabric,; effectively combating wrinkling.
The collection also features a sage green swim trunk and a black bomber jacket, both constructed from the same performance fabric. In terms of tops, AG offers the Ace Active Performance Polo and the Marathon Active Performance Crew, utilising a cotton-blend fabric with moisture-transport construction for enhanced comfort and dryness. Notably, AG ensures that the moisture-wicking properties remain effective throughout the lifespan of the crew T-shirt.
Meanwhile, Levi's, a prominent denim giant, has launched its own performance product, the 511 Slim Tech men's pant, as part of its newly established Levi's Tech program. This pant, based on one of Levi's popular denim fits, boasts tech stretch warp knit fabric crafted from recycled polyester, offering a four-way stretch, moisture-wicking capabilities, and UPF 50+ sun protection. Additionally, it features a secure zip back pocket for convenient storage of essentials.
Levi's sister brand, Dockers is also joining the tech pant trend with its Dockers Go Collection that focuses on providing flexible, moisture-wicking features for high-movement days. Utilising Coolmax Ecomade technology, made from recycled materials, Dockers Go products ensure wearers stay cool and dry throughout their daily activities.
Prestigious Italian menswear brand hailing from the Marche region, Lardini has inaugurated its second flagship store in Aoyama, Tokyo with a limited edition workwear-inspired men’s capsule collection.
Strategically positioned in one of Aoyama's premier shopping and entertainment areas, the new 160-sq-m boutique embodies the essence of Lardini's aesthetic vision. Crafted by architect Simona Marchetti, the space exudes a minimalist charm, seamlessly blending contemporary design with the brand's timeless elegance.
The store’s interiors are adorned with burnished iron racks and shades of gray and black. They reflect the understated sophistication synonymous with Lardini's collections. Each meticulously curated look is showcased against iconic furniture pieces, enhancing the allure of the brand's offerings.
The Tokyo opening signifies a pivotal moment in Lardini's retail expansion strategy, building upon its presence in the Japanese market since 2021. Alongside its flagship store in Marunouchi, Lardini has established a presence in prestigious department stores across Japan, including Hankyu Mans, Iwatawa, Matsuzakaya, Mitsukoshi, Daimaru, and Takashimaya.
Coinciding with the event, Lardini also introduced a limited edition workwear-inspired men's capsule collection. Consisting of a jacket, pants, and cap crafted from navy blue cotton drill, each piece bears the distinctive Lardini x XL Extralight logo. Characterised by clean lines and meticulous attention to detail, the capsule epitomises the brand's dedication to sartorial excellence.
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, along with Iris Knobloch, President of the Festival de Cannes, and Thierry Frémaux, Director of the Festival de Cannes, will bestow the esteemed 2024 Women In Motion Award upon Dame Donna Langley, Chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group and Chief Content Officer. The official presentation will take place during the Women In Motion dinner in Cannes on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
The award honors Langley's exceptional career marked by unwavering leadership and a commitment to fostering inclusivity within the film industry, both on and off-screen. Langley's influence extends globally, earning recognition for her role in shaping culturally significant films that amplify diverse voices. Over nearly two decades, she has championed storytelling that reflects the multifaceted world we live in, challenging Hollywood's norms and advocating for inclusive casting and hiring practices.
Langley's impact transcends her executive role, as she actively supports initiatives promoting women's empowerment and inclusion. Her strategic leadership has not only revolutionized distribution models but also paved the way for increased visibility of underrepresented narratives worldwide.
A trailblazer in her own right, Langley is the first British female to helm a major Hollywood studio, earning her the prestigious Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the Queen’s 2020 New Year’s Honour List. This accolade recognizes her contributions to popular culture and her dedication to expanding opportunities for women and people of color in the entertainment industry.
Since its inception in 2015, the Women In Motion initiative has celebrated the creative achievements of women in culture and the arts, reshaping societal perspectives. Langley joins an illustrious list of past recipients, including Jane Fonda, Geena Davis, and Viola Davis, among others.
In acknowledgment of Langley's significant contributions, Pinault, Knobloch, and Frémaux commend her tireless efforts to dismantle gender barriers and promote diversity, affirming the collective commitment to a more equitable and inclusive film industry. Langley's leadership exemplifies the spirit of Women In Motion, driving positive change and inspiring future generations.
The textile industry in India, particularly in regions like Rajapalayam, is facing a severe crisis due to a combination of policy failures and increased competition from cheap imported garments. Communist Party of India (Marxist) functionary B. Mariappan highlighted the detrimental effects of these issues on the domestic textile sector.
According to Mariappan, the failure of the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) to stabilize cotton prices has dealt a heavy blow to the industry. The CCI's intended role was to maintain price stability and supply cotton to spinning mills, but its actions, such as selling cotton to corporates leading to hoarding, have exacerbated price volatility.
The imposition of GST on cotton, the only agricultural produce attracting such a tax, has further worsened the situation for spinning mills. The high volatility in cotton prices coupled with GST implications has eroded the competitiveness of domestic mills.
Moreover, the government's decision to allow the import of cheaper garments from countries like China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh has intensified the challenges faced by the domestic textile industry. Mariappan criticized the lack of anti-dumping duties on these imports and highlighted the burden of higher import taxes on cotton, which works against domestic producers.
The crisis has led to the closure of several spinning mills, rendering hundreds of workers jobless. Those still operational often operate at reduced capacity due to lower demand, leading to financial struggles and reliance on loans. Mariappan emphasized the need for policy interventions, such as zero input tax on cotton and lower interest rates on bank loans, to support the industry.
The repercussions of the textile industry's crisis extend beyond economic concerns, with many workers turning to alternative sectors for livelihoods, further exacerbating social challenges. Particularly vulnerable are those who borrowed from self-help groups, facing difficulties in repaying loans due to unemployment.
In summary, the textile industry's woes in Rajapalayam underscore the urgent need for government action to address policy failures, mitigate imported competition, and provide support to struggling domestic producers to prevent further job losses and economic decline.
The recent Calvin Klein campaign featuring Jeremy Allen White in his skivvies has set the fashion world abuzz. But can a billboard, no matter how eye-catching, truly move the needle on Wall Street? While the risqué Calvin Klein ads undeniably generated massive social media buzz (reportedly five times that of Bottega Veneta's viral campaign), stock analysts are more likely to credit the brand's recent upswing to factors like efficient inventory management. This highlights a key point: Wall Street tends to prioritize tangible business metrics over fleeting marketing moments.
On the surface, a splashy campaign seems like a magic bullet. Calvin Klein's billboard featuring White generated a buzz that dwarfed Bottega Veneta's viral success in 2023. Launchmetrics, a social media analytics firm reports Calvin Klein's engagement was five times higher. However, as Calvin Klein CMO Jonathan Bottomley himself pointed out at The Business of Fashion's technology summit, investors likely prioritize a brand's ability to efficiently manage inventory and reduce costs.
It’s business over hype
So, can Wall Street be swayed by a well-executed ad campaign? The answer is nuanced.
Bottomley champions an ‘entertainment mentality’ in marketing, where campaigns become consumable content, not just intrusive ads. This strategy aligns with the idea that positive brand perception translates to sales. However, the jury's still out on the immediate financial impact. Calvin Klein's parent company, PVH upcoming earnings report will be a real-world test to see if the Calvin Klein campaign's clicks translate into revenue and a more upscale brand image. This will provide a clearer picture whether the buzz translated to higher revenue, particularly beyond the core ‘boxer brief’ demographic.
Levi's, facing similar challenges of brand revitalization, recently launched its own campaign featuring dancing denim enthusiasts and a tagline ‘the floor is yours’, aiming to refresh their image. Unlike Calvin Klein, Levi's campaign hasn't garnered the same level of social media traction so far. This suggests that the timing and execution of a campaign are crucial. Levi's ad might be more of an opening salvo, whereas the Calvin Klein campaign seemed to capstone a longer-term effort.
The long game vs. the short burst
The question remains: Can a single ad campaign truly move the stock market? The answer seems to be a nuanced ‘maybe’. Ultimately, building brand value is a marathon, not a sprint. While a well-executed campaign can provide a temporary boost, sustained success requires a holistic approach that addresses core business fundamentals alongside marketing efforts. Indeed the right celebrity can undoubtedly generate buzz, their impact on long-term sales is debatable. Beyoncé's recent endorsement of Levi's might provide a case study, but its effectiveness remains to be seen. Calvin Klein's White campaign might be the culmination of a long-term revitalization effort, not a standalone tactic.
The quest for consistent ‘spikes’ in a saturated market, Bottomley says, remains a challenge for most brands. While marketing can play a crucial role, a focus on operational efficiency and a well-defined brand strategy are likely to be more reliable indicators of long-term financial health on Wall Street. What’s more consumers are increasingly savvy and can see through inauthentic marketing tactics. A campaign that resonates with the brand's core values and target audience is more likely to be successful.
The bottomline is, the relationship between marketing and the stock market is complex. While a well-executed campaign can certainly generate excitement, sustainable brand building through a combination of strategic marketing and strong business fundamentals is likely the key to long-term financial success.
For the marketing year MY 2024/25, India's cotton production is predicted to decrease by 2 per cent as farmers shift acreage to other crops offering better returns. Conversely, mill consumption is forecasted to rise by 2 per cent, driven by improved demand for yarn and textiles in major international markets.
China's cotton imports for MY 2024/25 are expected to increase to 2.4 million metric tons (MMT) due to heightened domestic and international demand for textile and apparel products. Similarly, while production is projected to remain steady in Xinjiang, it's expected to decline in other regions.
Cotton candy prices edged up by 0.1 per cent to reach 59920, mainly fueled by short covering following a previous dip in prices due to expectations of improved crop conditions, particularly in countries like Australia. The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) anticipated growth across various metrics for the upcoming 2024-25 season, including expansion in cotton-producing areas, production, consumption, and trade. Despite these positive outlooks, ICE (NYSE: ICE) prices dropped due to expected higher supply and decreased demand from mills. In India, both the Cotton Association of India (CAI) and the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) revised their cotton production estimates upward for the current season, signaling robust growth in production.
The cotton candy market experienced short covering, with a decrease in open interest by -0.95 per cent, indicating a temporary alleviation of bearish sentiment.
Despite a modest price increase of Rs 60, support levels are identified at 59760, with potential testing of 59610 levels if breached. Conversely, resistance is anticipated at 60100, with a move above potentially leading to testing the 60290 levels.
The global nonwoven fabric market is projected to grow at 6.1 per cent CAGR from 2023-2033 to hit $86.2 billion by 2033. This growth is fuelled by a confluence of factors including technological strides, heightened demand across various sectors, and a notable shift toward sustainable alternatives.
In recent years, technological innovations have revolutionised the production of nonwoven fabrics. New technologies like Spunbond and meltblown have enabled the production of fabrics with enhanced strength, uniformity, and filtration properties. Moreover, composite technologies are combining multiple fiber layers to deliver tailored characteristics like breathability and absorbency.
The rise in demand for non-woven spans across diverse sectors. In hygiene and personal care, nonwoven fabrics excel in products like diapers and feminine hygiene items due to their softness and absorbency, buoyed by a growing global population and heightened hygiene awareness. Similarly, in healthcare, the demand for nonwoven medical textiles, including masks and surgical gowns, has skyrocketed, driven by infection control imperatives and pandemic-induced needs.
The automotive industry leverages nonwoven fabrics for lightweight interiors and noise reduction, aligning with the sector's pursuit of enhanced comfort and performance. In construction, nonwoven geotextiles offer robust solutions for infrastructure projects, owing to their strength and filtration properties. Furthermore, nonwovens find extensive use in packaging and filtration applications, capitalising on their lightweight and barrier properties.
Digitalisation and Industry 4.0 technologies are reshaping the manufacturing processes for nonwovens, optimising their efficiency and customisation capabilities. As market players consolidate through mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, the sector thrives on innovation, propelled by shared expertise and resources.
China recorded a 14.3 per cent Y-o-Y rise in textile and apparel exports to $45.10 billion in the initial two months of the year, as per data from the General Administration of Customs. Surpassing the same period in 2023 by 32.8 percentage points, this growth reflects a promising start for the industry. Textile exports rose by 15.5 per cent Y-o-Y to $21.71 billion, while apparel exports expedited by 13.1 per cent to reach $23.38 billion.
Comparatively, this year's textile and apparel exports for the initial two months stand out favorably when considering historical data. Despite the challenges posed by the Spring Festival holiday in February, total exports maintained a robust level, hitting $45.1 billion. The slight increase in raw material prices compared to the previous year contributed to the uptick in export value. Moreover, reports from various enterprises indicate an uptrend in market orders since the year's commencement.
However, the overall performance for the first quarter remains unpredictable due to seasonal and holiday influences. The textile industry's foreign trade still faces considerable pressure, primarily stemming from the shortage of export orders. To navigate these challenges, industry players are urged to leverage the country's efforts in stabilising foreign trade policies. Emphasising the enhancement of export product structures and market diversification, along with a focus on cultivating new avenues for growth, is crucial for promoting high-quality development in the industry.
Gildan Activewear Inc. announced today the unveiling of key strategic priorities by its President and CEO, Vince Tyra. The company concurrently reconfirmed its full-year 2024 guidance and provided preliminary Q1 revenue figures. Furthermore, Gildan intends to host an Investor Day in the Fall of 2024 to present a comprehensive strategic plan.
Reflecting on his initial 90 days in office, Vince Tyra expressed enthusiasm about leading Gildan during this crucial period. He emphasized the importance of sharing his strategic priorities, which aim to leverage the company's strengths and enhance value creation for all stakeholders. These priorities, informed by shareholder feedback, focus on sustainably growing Gildan and capitalizing on its strong fundamentals to unlock further potential.
Underpinning Gildan's future is the Gildan Sustainable Growth (GSG) strategy, built on three pillars: Growth, Innovation, and ESG. Tyra outlined five key strategic priorities:
• Execute supply chain initiatives to maintain availability, cost leadership, and industry-leading margins.
• Leverage Gildan's brands and develop commercial capabilities to accelerate growth and solidify market position.
• Strengthen relationships with retail partners to enhance Gildan's position as the supplier of choice.
• Expand focus on select international markets to complement North American strength and drive growth.
• Foster world-class talent and leadership to ensure long-term resilience.
Medium-term targets set by Gildan indicate confidence in achieving market share gains, opportunities in targeted markets, and key financial metrics over the 2025-2028 period. These targets include mid-single digits net sales growth, annual adjusted operating margin between 18 per cent and 21 per cent, and high-single to low double-digit adjusted diluted EPS growth.
In terms of the 2024 outlook, Gildan reaffirmed its guidance, including flat to low-single digits revenue growth, adjusted operating margin slightly above the high end of the target range, and adjusted diluted EPS between $2.92 and $3.07. Preliminary Q1 2024 revenue is expected to be approximately $695 million, down about 1 per cent year over year.
These projections are contingent on market conditions and geopolitical environments, with Gildan acknowledging significant risks and uncertainties. However, the company remains committed to its strategic objectives and aims to deliver strong shareholder returns through prudent capital allocation and value-accretive initiatives.
