India’s textiles sector is expected to grow to $350 billion by 2030 and over Rs 90,000 crore of investment is expected to flow through PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Park and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in the next 3-5 years, textiles ministry said Thursday. “India’s textiles sector is set for significant expansion, with an 11% year-onyear growth in readymade garments of all textiles exports…signaling a bright future,” the said, referring to the export numbers of August. Seven PM Mitra parks are sanctioned across the country and each park is expected to attract an investment of Rs 10,000 crore. They are expected to generate nearly 1 lakh direct employment and 2 lakh indirect employment. “PLI Scheme, with a total projected investment of over Rs. 28,000 crore, projected turnover of over Rs 2 lakh crore,” the ministry said, adding that the proposed employment generation of nearly 2.5 lakh is intended to promote production of manmade fibre (MMF) apparel and fabrics and technical textiles products in the country to enable textile industry to achieve size and scale. As per the ministry, the encouraging reports of a number of investment decisions in the pipeline are “healthy portents for the industry”.
“PLI Scheme, with a total projected investment of over Rs. 28,000 crore, projected turnover of over Rs 2 lakh crore,” the ministry said, adding that the proposed employment generation of nearly 2.5 lakh is intended to promote production of manmade fibre (MMF) apparel and fabrics and technical textiles products in the country to enable textile industry to achieve size and scale. As per the ministry, the encouraging reports of a number of investment decisions in the pipeline are “healthy portents for the industry”.
Source: Economic Times
India’s textiles sector is set for significant expansion, with an 11% year-on-year growth in Ready-Made Garments (RMG) of all Textiles exports, as per India’s trade data of August 2024, signaling a bright future. The Textiles sector in the country is expected to grow to USD 350 billion by 2030, driven by India’s inherent strengths and a strong policy framework that encourages investment and exports. With end-to-end value chain capability, a strong raw material base, a large export footprint and a vibrant and rapidly expanding domestic market, India is a traditional leader in the textiles sector. The encouraging reports of a number of investment decisions in the pipeline are healthy portents for the industry.
A number of schemes and policy initiatives as part of the government’s roadmap aim to leverage and catalyse these inherent strengths to help the textile sector achieve the USD 350 billion goal by 2030. While over Rs. 90,000 Crore of investment is expected to flow through PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Park and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme in the next 3-5 years, schemes like the National Technical Textiles Mission are expected to help India acquire leadership position in emerging sectors such as technical textiles.
Last month, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the PM MITRA Park at Amaravati in Maharashtra. This is one of the 7 Parks sanctioned across the country under the flagship PM MITRA Park scheme. With world class infrastructure including plug and play facilities, PM MITRA Parks shall be a major step in realizing the vision of making India a global hub for textile manufacturing investment and exports. Each PM MITRA Park when complete is expected to attract an investment of Rs 10,000 crores and generate nearly 1 lakh direct employment & 2 lakh indirect employment.
PLI Scheme, with a total projected investment of over Rs. 28,000 crore, projected turnover of over Rs. 2,00,000 crore and proposed employment generation of nearly 2.5 lakhs is intended to promote production of MMF Apparel & Fabrics and Technical Textiles products in the country to enable textile industry to achieve size and scale.
The National Technical Textiles Mission is specialized mission with a focus on developing usage of technical textiles in various flagship missions and programmes of the country including strategic sectors. The Mission promotes startups and research projects covering specialty fibres and composites, geotextiles, agro textiles, protective textiles, medical textiles, defence textiles, sports textiles, and environment friendly textiles.
The supportive policy framework at the central level is supplemented by the policy initiatives of a number of states with a high growth potential in textiles.
Source: PIB
India’s textiles sector is set for significant expansion, with an 11% year-on-year growth in Ready-Made Garments (RMG) of all textiles exports, as per India’s trade data of August 2024.
The textiles sector in the country is expected to grow to $350 billion by 2030, driven by India’s inherent strengths and a strong policy framework that encourages investment and exports. With end-to-end value chain capability, a strong raw material base, a large export footprint and a vibrant and rapidly expanding domestic market, India is a traditional leader in the textiles sector. The encouraging reports of a number of investment decisions in the pipeline are healthy portents for the industry.
A number of schemes and policy initiatives as part of the government’s roadmap aim to leverage and catalyse these inherent strengths to help the textile sector achieve the USD 350 billion goal by 2030.
While an investment of over Rs 90,000 crores is expected to flow through PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Park and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme in the next 3-5 years, schemes like the National Technical Textiles Mission are expected to help India acquire leadership position in emerging sectors such as technical textiles.
Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the PM MITRA Park at Amravati in Maharashtra. This is one of the seven parks sanctioned across the country under the flagship PM MITRA Park scheme.
With world class infrastructure including plug and play facilities, PM MITRA parks shall be a major step in realising the vision of making India a global hub for textile manufacturing investment and exports.
Each PM MITRA Park, when complete, is expected to attract an investment of Rs 10,000 crores and generate nearly 1 lakh direct employment and 2 lakh indirect employment.
The PLI Scheme, with a total projected investment of over Rs 28,000 crore, projected turnover of over Rs 2,00,000 crore and proposed employment generation of nearly 2.5 lakhs is intended to promote production of MMF apparel and fabrics and technical textiles products in the country to enable textile industry to achieve size and scale.
Source: MSN
With little progress in establishing a protection and indemnity (P&I) entity to insure cargo vessels, the Centre is considering deploying its own funds as preliminary investment. This approach would involve private insurers and shippers contributing at a secondary stage, according to multiple officials familiar with the development.
More than a year after Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s unexpected announcement calling for a P&I entity, the lack of regulatory clarity and the nascency of the Indian shipping sector have slowed progress on this key initiative. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways initially requested insurers and shipping companies in February to provide the first layer of insurance for shippers and shipbuilders, with reinsurance expected to be managed by larger global players in a second layer. “We’ve held several rounds of discussions, but the quantum of funds the industry is willing to commit won’t be much. We’re exploring options, including the possibility of an initial ‘seed’ fund once legislative provisions are in place,” a senior official from the shipping ministry revealed. “This could be done directly or through the Maritime Development Fund, but we will need firm structure and clarity from the Department of Financial Services (DFS) before finalising anything.” An inter-ministerial consultation process has been ongoing this year to create the marine insurance entity, with industry representatives participating. Officials say the finance ministry is likely to propose an amendment to the Insurance Act, allowing mutual insurance associations — a critical provision that has impeded the formation of a P&I club. For now, the government is considering starting with a fixed premium framework.
Source: Business Standard
India's manufacturing output would increase by 9 per cent if more women joined the workforce, the World Bank said in its South Asia Development Update on Thursday. The global financier also maintained its gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection for India at 7 per cent in FY25 and 6.7 per cent in FY26. It forecast growth in South Asia at 6.4 per cent in 2024 on the back of India's strong domestic demand and quicker recoveries in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
The Washington-based lender said that larger-than-expected agricultural output, and policies designed to raise employment growth were expected to contribute to strong private consumption growth, while growth in public consumption was projected to "moderate in line with budgeted fiscal consolidation”. Citing its findings on female labour force participation in the region, the report noted that on average in four South Asian countries including India, the share of women employed after marriage was 12 percentage points lower than before marriage. The other three countries are Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
World Bank Vice-President for South Asia Martin Raiser said key policy reforms to integrate more women into the workforce and remove barriers to global investment and trade could accelerate growth. "Our research shows that raising female labour force participation rates in the region to those of men would increase regional GDP by up to 51 per cent,” Raiser added. India's labour force participation rate (LFPR) for women, which represents the share of women working or seeking work, increased to 41.7 per cent in FY24 from 23.3 per cent in FY18, according to the latest July-June 2023-24 Periodic Labour Force Survey. The World Bank report said that in all South Asian countries, output gains from closing the gender gap in labour force participation would be driven by the manufacturing sector, followed by the services sector.
The World Bank said that female labour force participation in South Asia was among the lowest in the world. Only 32 per cent of working-age women were in the labour force in 2023, compared to 77 per cent of working-age men in the region. “For all South Asian countries except Bhutan, female labour force participation rates in 2023 were 5 to 25 percentage points lower than in countries at similar levels of development.”
The report said that many barriers constrain women in the region, including unsafe transport, lack of childcare, and limited freedom of movement. These factors hinder women’s social and economic mobility and confine many to informal-sector roles with poor remuneration.
Helped by strong domestic demand, the report said that growth was on track to be higher than expected six months ago. “Global investors are seeking locations with low geopolitical risks and strong economic fundamentals, and the region, especially India, is well-placed to benefit,” the report said. “South Asia’s female labor force participation rate of 32 per cent is well below the 54 per cent average in emerging market and developing economies,” said World Bank Chief Economist for South Asia Franziska Ohnsorge.
She said that increasing women’s employment required action from all stakeholders. “Our report recommends a multi-pronged effort where governments, the private sector, communities, and households all have a role to play.”
Source: Business Standard
The Tata family has made substantial contributions to India's economic landscape by seamlessly integrating business with socio-economic development. The group is one of India's largest and oldest conglomerates, boasting a diverse portfolio of companies across various sectors. Key subsidiaries include Tata Steel, a leading manufacturer in the steel industry; Tata Motors, renowned for its automotive innovations; Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services and consulting; Tata Power, which focuses on energy and sustainability; and Tata Chemicals, specialising in chemicals and crop solutions. Other notable enterprises include Tata Airlines (now Air India), Tata Communications, and Titan, celebrated for its watches and jewellery. Ratan Tata made one of his most significant contributions to the Indian fashion industry through Trent Limited, the retail arm of the Tata Group. Under his visionary leadership, Trent emerged as a powerhouse in India's fashion retail sector. In 1998, he introduced Westside, a brand that revolutionised the country’s fashion landscape. Today, Westside is a household name, known for offering affordable, contemporary fashion for men, women, and children across India. Under Tata’s guidance, Westside set a new standard for quality and design in Indian retail, expanding not only in major city malls but also into large shopping centres in smaller towns. By doing so, it made stylish, high-quality fashion accessible to millions of Indians. This approach—elevating shopping to an experience that is easy, beautiful, and accessible—transformed the way Indians engage with fashion. Westside brought global design trends, infused with Indian sensibilities, to a growing middle class, allowing them, for the first time, to express their identity through clothing choices. Westside: Trent’s premier lifestyle brand Westside, Trent’s flagship lifestyle brand, offers a curated selection of fashion apparel, footwear, and accessories, along with an extensive range of home furnishings and decor. With a strong presence across the entire value chain—from design and production to supply chain, retail stores, and customer engagement—Westside delivers a seamless shopping experience. Known for its exclusive in-house brands, Westside stays ahead of the latest fashion trends, catering to a broad spectrum of style-conscious consumers across various segments. With stores in cities across India and a growing online presence through Westside.com and Tata Neu, Westside ensures accessibility to its unique offerings both instore and digitally. Trent’s sales growth trajectory Sales data for Trent Ltd from 2018 to 2024 reveal a dynamic growth trajectory marked by significant fluctuations. Starting at ₹2,157.46 crore (~$257 million), sales increased to ₹3,485.98 crore (~$416.81 million). However, in 2021, the company faced notable challenges, leading to a decline to ₹2,592.96 crore (~$308.58 million). Following this dip, Trent Ltd rebounded strongly, experiencing a remarkable surge in sales to ₹4,498.02 crore (~$536.4 million) in FY22, then to ₹8,242 crore (~$982.29 million) in FY23, and finally reaching ₹12,375.11 crore (~$1,474.98 million) in FY24. This impressive growth, particularly in recent years, indicates the effectiveness of the company’s strategies and strong market demand, positioning Trent Ltd for a promising future despite earlier setbacks.
Trent’s value fashion brand, Zudio, is centred around accessibility, offering a blend of style and functionality at unbeatable prices for women, men, and children. With exclusive inhouse collections, Zudio provides fashion-forward options at highly competitive price points. As a rapidly expanding brand, Zudio is dedicated to accessibility in every aspect—whether through affordable fashion, broad reach, or versatile lifestyle offerings. Strategically located in prominent retail spaces, Zudio stores deliver an exciting and engaging shopping experience, making trendy fashion accessible to all. Misbu Misbu stores offer a carefully curated selection of beauty products, personal care items, fashion accessories, and decor, specifically designed for Gen Z and millennials. These compact stores create a fun and engaging shopping environment, featuring on-trend products at attractive price points. Misbu aims to provide a delightful shopping experience, making it easy for young consumers to discover and enjoy the latest styles and essentials.
Utsa Utsa is a contemporary lifestyle destination for the modern Indian woman, offering a diverse range of apparel, footwear, innerwear, beauty products, and accessories. Serving as a portal of discovery, Utsa curates the finest selections from Westside, appealing to creative, discerning, and aspirational women. With its thoughtfully chosen offerings, Utsa empowers women to express their individuality and embrace their unique style. Samoh Samoh is an elevated occasion wear brand that offers a unique and sophisticated selection, focusing on elegant, expressive, and modern silhouettes that emphasise versatility. Featuring premium fabrics, intricate designs, and meticulous attention to detail, Samoh aims to be the go-to choice for customers seeking stylish and timeless attire for special occasions. The brand delivers a touch of luxury and sophistication, ensuring customers feel exceptional while shopping for their memorable moments. Catering to those who appreciate a modern interpretation of cherished designs and motifs from the Indian hinterland, SAMOH's collection draws inspiration from traditional roots and seamlessly blends them with contemporary aesthetics. Zara in the Indian market
During the later years of his chairmanship, Ratan Tata was instrumental in introducing Zara to the Indian market. The Tata-Inditex collaboration disrupted the landscape, competing with established luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci by offering premium collections accessible to middle-class consumers seeking trendy, international designs. Champion of Indian craftsmanship and ethical fashion Beyond his contributions to retail and global luxury, Ratan Tata has been a steadfast advocate for preserving India’s rich textile heritage and craftsmanship. Through the Tata Trusts and other philanthropic initiatives, he supported programmes aimed at promoting traditional Indian crafts, including handlooms and artisanal fabrics. These efforts not only helped preserve livelihoods but also rekindled appreciation for Indian craftsmanship, inspiring modern designers and retail brands to draw creative influence from within the country. Tata’s support for sustainable and responsible fashion further reinforced ethical practices in the industry. His initiatives laid the groundwork for India’s eco-friendly fashion movement, emphasising the use of eco-conscious materials and responsible production methods long before the industry's environmental impact became a widespread concern. The Tata Group’s quiet yet impactful shift towards sustainability has since guided the industry in a more eco-conscious direction.
Timeless elegance and distinctive style Though not known for setting sartorial trends, Ratan Tata’s style embodied understated elegance and timeless sophistication. His dignified appearance, often seen in well-tailored suits, stood in stark contrast to the flashy fashion trends that dominate the mass-market apparel industry. As seen in many photographs, Tata’s elegance stemmed from simplicity, quality, and meticulous attention to detail—values that transcend fleeting fashion fads. Despite his stern and classical demeanour, Tata’s ability to project both authority and warmth made him a figure admired by many. His calm presence and refined elegance became a model for countless professionals and business leaders across India. His sartorial choices reflected his broader vision of a modern, confident, and ethical India, further cementing his legacy as a leader of timeless style and unwavering integrity. Designing and delivering responsible fashion & lifestyle brands They are committed to demonstrating responsibility towards both the planet and its people by embedding sustainability into every aspect of their business. Their strategy is built upon six key pillars: resource efficiency, product stewardship, sustainable logistics, social wellbeing, strategic CSR, and robust governance. By focusing on these pillars, they have been driving sustainability across the entire value chain, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and India's national target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Through these efforts, they aim to create a positive, lasting impact on both the environment and society. The circularity initiative Trent is committed to aligning its sustainability goals with India's climate action initiatives, shaping a responsible future for the next generations through sustainable practices across all operations. 1. Over 190 stores have implemented waste circularity measures. 2. More than 100 employees have been trained in circular economy y principles. 3. Over 200 trees have been planted to contribute to reforestation efforts. These initiatives reflect their ongoing commitment to building a more sustainable tomorrow. Tata’s partnership with Bhansali Trust Tata’s partnership with the Bhansali Trust began five years ago with the establishment of an institute in Radhanpur village, Gujarat. Here, Trent employees and experts trained women from Radhanpur and 150 neighbouring villages in the art of stitching. After passing their training exams, these women were employed to create bags for Westside, Zudio, and Star Bazar, giving rise to the ‘Bag of Love’. This institute proudly employs women from lower-income households, serving as a vital support system. The women collaborate on various challenges, such as children’s education, medical treatments, and healthcare needs. By providing a platform for selfempowerment, they foster a community where they can share problems and find solutions together. Today, this support network has empowered 650 families in the region. With 1.5 million bags produced and 1.1 million metres of cloth diverted from landfills, they are making a meaningful difference to the environment. Building a better tomorrow: The role of corporate social responsibility The Tata Group has long championed philanthropy as an integral part of its business ethos, significantly impacting the Indian textile industry in both urban and rural settings. Trent Ltd has actively engaged in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, with some of its most substantial contributions made during the COVID-19 crisis. The company allocated approximately ₹3.20 crore (~$3.8 million) to CSR efforts, including an investment of ₹1.0 crore (~$0.119 million) in PPE kits. This investment served as a major growth driver for several domestic Indian textile manufacturers, helping to meet urgent demands during the pandemic. In addition to its immediate response to the pandemic, Trent Ltd has played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian textile landscape by encouraging entrepreneurship through ongoing investments. An enduring legacy Ratan Tata's legacy extends far beyond making fashionable clothing accessible or shaping modern retail. His influence spans Indian craftsmanship, luxury, and ethical fashion, reshaping the fashion experience for millions of Indians. Under his leadership, the industry became more inclusive, innovative, and responsible, setting new standards that continue to impact the retail landscape. Tata will be remembered not only for his visionary leadership at the Tata Group but also for introducing world-class approaches to Indian retail. He believed that fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression and cultural pride, a philosophy that will continue to inspire future generations. His legacy lives on through his family, colleagues, and the millions of Indians whose lives were touched by his vision of a more stylish and sustainable future. Built on ethical business practices, a deep love for Indian heritage, and an unwavering commitment to quality, Ratan Tata's contributions continue to reverberate across the fashion industry and beyond
Source : Fibre2fashion
In 2023, overseas purchases of curtains and interior blinds decreased by -0.6% to 46M square meters, falling for the second year in a row after seven years of growth. Overall, imports, however, continue to indicate a temperate expansion. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in 2021 with an increase of 46%. As a result, imports attained the peak of 60M square meters. From 2022 to 2023, the growth of imports failed to regain momentum. In value terms, curtains imports shrank to $233M (IndexBox estimates) in 2023. In general, imports, however, showed a resilient expansion. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in 2017 with an increase of 23%. Imports peaked at $245M in 2022, and then fell.
Imports by Country In 2023, China (22M square meters) constituted the largest curtains supplier to the Netherlands, accounting for a 49% share of total imports. Moreover, curtains imports from China exceeded the figures recorded by the second-largest supplier, Germany (8M square meters), threefold. Belgium (3.6M square meters) ranked third in terms of total imports with a 7.8% share. From 2013 to 2023, the average annual growth rate of volume from China totaled +3.0%. The remaining supplying countries recorded the following average annual rates of imports growth: Germany (+6.7% per year) and Belgium (+19.5% per year). In value terms, China ($59M), Germany ($40M) and the Czech Republic ($31M) constituted the largest curtains suppliers to the Netherlands, together comprising 55% of total imports. the Czech Republic, with a CAGR of +26.2%, saw the highest rates of growth with regard to the value of imports, among the main suppliers over the period under review, while purchases for the other leaders experienced more modest paces of growth. Imports by Type In 2023, curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted (30M square meters) constituted the largest type of curtains and interior blinds supplied to the Netherlands, accounting for a 66% share of total imports. Moreover, curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted exceeded the figures recorded for the second-largest type, curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds; curtain or bed valances, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres (8.1M square meters), fourfold. Curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of textile materials other than cotton or synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted (4.3M square meters) ranked third in terms of total imports with a 9.3% share. From 2013 to 2023, the average annual growth rate of the volume of curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted imports stood at +3.1%. With regard to the other supplied products, the following average annual rates of growth were recorded: curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds; curtain or bed valances, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres (+14.0% per year) and curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of textile materials other than cotton or synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted (+23.9% per year). In value terms, curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted ($136M) constituted the largest type of curtains and interior blinds supplied to the Netherlands, comprising 58% of total imports. The second position in the ranking was taken by curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds, curtain or bed valances; of textile materials other than cotton or synthetic fibres, not knitted or crocheted ($48M), with a 20% share of total imports. It was followed by curtains (including drapes) and interior blinds; curtain or bed valances, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres, with a 13% share. Import Prices by Country In 2023, the curtains price amounted to $5.1 per square meter (CIF, Netherlands), with a decrease of -4.1% against the previous year. Over the last decade, it increased at an average annual rate of +4.6%. The growth pace was the most rapid in 2014 when the average import price increased by 63% against the previous year. Over the period under review, average import prices hit record highs at $6 per square meter in 2019; however, from 2020 to 2023, import prices stood at a somewhat lower figure. There were significant differences in the average prices amongst the major supplying countries. In 2023, amid the top importers, the country with the highest price was Taiwan (Chinese) ($18 per square meter), while the price for China ($2.6 per square meter) was amongst the lowest. From 2013 to 2023, the most notable rate of growth in terms of prices was attained by Taiwan (Chinese) (+18.5%), while the prices for the other major suppliers experienced more modest paces of growth.
Source: indexbox.io
The technical textiles sector offers lucrative opportunities for specialised manufacturers, but also for conventional textile companies that want to diversify. The Karl Mayer Group will be demonstrating how this promising potential can be exploited with its presence at the upcoming ITMA ASIA + CITME in Shanghai.
Carbon fibre fabrics for lucrative applications
Karl Mayer’s exhibition in Shanghai clearly focuses on developments in the carbon fibre market. In hall 4, at stand C27 of the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center, tailor-made reinforcement textiles will be presented, which can be used in a wide range of lightweight construction applications.
“The demand for carbon composites has increased significantly in recent years, particularly in Asia. We are looking forward to talking to traditional warp knitting customers who want to expand their offering, as well as new customers who want to gather information on applications with these high-performance composite materials,” says Jan Stahr, Sales Manager for China at Karl Mayer's Technical Textiles business unit. At Karl Mayer, visitors will not only find the right multiaxial warp knitting machine to produce high-performance reinforcement fabrics for composite materials but will also receive useful know-how gained from years of experience. “The working width is 245“, and the speed is 1,800 rpm, making the Weft Grid Eco up to 12% faster and 20% cheaper than our all-purpose machine Wefttronic II G,” explains Jan Stahr.
The Sales Manager is looking forward to the first participation in a major international trade fair in Asia since the coronavirus pandemic. In addition to Chinese customers, he is expecting a large international audience.
Source: knittingindustry.
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany — October 9, 2024 — Resilient into to the new business year: From 14 to 17 January, already 2,900 exhibitors from 60 countries will present current trends, the latest collections, innovative materials and textile solutions at Heimtextil. High-calibre highlights await visitors: For the first time, the Milan-based design platform Alcova will curate the Heimtextil Trends 25/26. In addition, the worldwide renowned designer and architect Patricia Urquiola brings textile design to life in the exclusive installation ‘among-us’. The DecoTeam and the adjacent Design Lounge provide attractive offers and top brands for interior design. Carpets & Rugs, the home of the international carpet industry, grows by further hall levels. With its strong range and new formats, Heimtextil is once again proving itself to be a constant and reliable partner for the global textile industry.
Connected by textiles: under this motto, Heimtextil will unite the global textile industry at the exhibition grounds in Frankfurt from 14 to 17 January. The world’s largest and most international trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design provides a bundled market overview on 16 hall levels: from fibres and yarns, to unassembled materials, to the finished end product. ‘Despite the challenging market situation, Heimtextil is a strong and reliable platform for the global sector and offers retailers, industry and the contract business solutions for sustainable business success. For 2025, we expand our product range for specific target groups, create important synergies and look forward to welcoming numerous new exhibitors and returnees. We also launch two partnerships: for the first time, the Milan-based design platform Alcova will curate the Heimtextil Trends 25/26, and star designer and architect Patricia Urquiola will create a unique installation. Heimtextil 2025 makes textile interior design more visible than ever before’, says Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles & Textile Technologies.
Back to the future: the Heimtextil Trends 25/26
They are the most important source of inspiration and the must-see of the trade fair: The Heimtextil Trends 25/26. At the upcoming event, the design platform Alcova from Milan will curate the Trend Arena in Hall 3.0 for the first time. Under the motto ‘Future Continuous’, they put textiles in a different light and combine past trends with forward-looking influences – unusual, original, innovative. The platform for independent design rethinks the past and uses this as inspiration for the future. The Heimtextil Trends 25/26 provide an overview of sustainable, visionary and progressive developments. This makes them a decisive signpost for the industry and retail to keep their finger on the pulse of the times and strengthen their business success.
Design hotspot with Patricia Urquiola
Textile design redefined: Patricia Urquiola, the renowned designer and architect from Milan, creates a sustainable, textile design experience for Heimtextil 2025. The installation ‘among-us’ will combine interior design with hospitality, placing people and the immersive experience at the centre of attention. ‘among-us’ is embedded in the high-quality presentations of Bed, Bath & Living in Hall 12.0. Here as well as in Hall 12.1, well-known brands and private label suppliers will showcase exclusive bed linen and bathroom textiles, decorative cushions and bedspreads as well as home accessories. Exhibitors such as Beddinghouse (Netherlands), Lameirinho (Portugal), Marzotto Lab (Italy), Veritas (Turkey), Hellatex Textil (Austria) and Klaus Herding (Germany) as well as returnees such as Hermann Biederlack (Germany) and Formesse (Germany) will be there. Hall 12 thus is the hotspot for top international buyers and textile design.
Source: Textile Journal
Second-hand clothing is stimulating billions of dollars in trade and supporting hundreds of thousands of green jobs across Europe and Africa, according to a report from a leading economic forecaster. It is calling for policies to support and strengthen the circular industry.
Oxford Economics, part of the prestigious University of Oxford in the UK, calculates that the sector stimulated an estimated EUR 7 billion contribution to the EU and UK’s GDP in 2023, of which the sector generated EUR 3 billion itself. In Germany and the UK alone, the industry contributed EUR 670 million and EUR 420 million respectively.
According to the research, which was commissioned by Humana People to People and Sympany+, the sector supported an estimated 150 000 jobs in the EU27+ in 2023. Of these 110 000 were green jobs directly in the industry, with opportunities particularly for people with little formal education. Eight out of 10 of the workforce were women.
In Ghana, meanwhile, second-hand clothing from Europe contributed an estimated EUR 69 million to the country’s GDP, supporting 65 000 formal and informal jobs in 2023. EUR 15 million was contributed to Kenya’s GDP and EUR 9.8 million to Mozambique’s. There were 6 300 people in Kenya’s formal workforce and at least 68 000 working informally. In Mozambique, 5 700 formal jobs and at least 15 000 informal jobs were supported.
Comprehensive analysis
The report, ‘The Socio-Economic Impact of Second-Hand Clothes in Africa and the EU27+’ will be valued by those who defended the global trade in textiles at a recent special BIR conference in Brussels.
Oxford Economics says it work is the first comprehensive analysis of the sector’s entire value chain and an attempt to quantify the sector’s socio-economic impacts across two continents.
Up to 47% of imported second-hand clothing to Ghana in 2023 was from Europe. This compares to Mozambique’s direct imports accounting for 18% and Kenya’s 13%. Only in Ghana are imports from Europe growing. In Kenya and Mozambique, while overall second hand clothing imports continue to grow, the EU share is falling.
Overlooked sector
Johanna Neuhoff from Oxford Economics says: ‘Second-hand clothing is often overlooked in the broader debate on sustainable development, yet this report clearly shows its economic power. Our findings underscore the need for policies that support and strengthen this circular industry – ensuring it continues to serve as a bridge between environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth.’
Discussions at EU level to finalise changes to the Waste Framework Directive, which affects the second-hand clothes trade, are due to start this month. This report urges decision makers to support textile reuse operators.
With mandatory separate textile collection coming into force across the EU in January 2025, the researchers say it is it imperative for these discussions to reach a deal swiftly, providing certainty to the sector.
Source: Recycling International
Fazal Group, a renowned leader in Pakistan's textile industry, showcases its deep expertise in manufacturing high-quality terry towels through Ahmed Fine Textile Mills. With decades of experience, the company is at the forefront of producing complex, high-end towel designs, catering to premium markets worldwide.
Excellence in Intricate and Premium Terry Products
Ahmed Fine Textile Mills has perfected the production of a diverse range of terry towels, leveraging its fully integrated vertical operations. From yarn creation to the final product, the company delivers an extensive selection of intricate, luxury towels, including bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, robes, ponchos, and more, proving its capability in producing towels that meet the most demanding global standards.
Sustainability and Circularity at the Core
At the heart of Ahmed Fine Textile Mills operations is a commitment to Sustainability and Circularity. The company has invested in innovative technology, including an Advanced Shredding System that converts pre- and post-consumer textile waste into high-quality fibers. These fibers are spun into yarn and used to create Recycled towels, ensuring that the production process minimizes waste and promotes circular practices.
Ahmed Fine Textile Mills also leads in the use of sustainable materials like Hemp, Bamboo, Tencel, Refibra, Recycled Cotton, and Recycled Polyester. Its Effluent Water Treatment Plant further reinforces the company’s environmental responsibility, allowing for water reuse in production while benefiting local agriculture. Powered by Solar Panels and Biomass Steam Boilers, the group’s operations are designed to minimize their environmental impact.
Technology-Driven Premium Production
Equipped with cutting-edge Dobby & Jacquard weaving looms and advanced dyeing and stitching technologies, Ahmed Fine Textile Mills is able to produce a wide variety of high-end terry towel products. Whether solids, yarn-dyed, velour, or non-velour, the company’s offerings meet the highest standards of quality while remaining competitively priced.
Commitment to Quality and Social Responsibility
Ahmed Fine Textile Mills has earned numerous international certifications, including OEKO-TEX, BSCI, SEDEX, ICS INDITEX, ISO 9001 & 14001, and the prestigious LEED Gold Certification—making it the only towel manufacturer in the world with this distinction. The company also has certifications such as GRS, GOTS, OCS, and Step (Made in Green), demonstrating its dedication to ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible production.
Global Reach and Market Leadership
With a strong foothold in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and the Far East, Ahmed Fine Textile Mills continues to supply high-quality, eco-friendly towels to premium markets, solidifying its position as a global leader in the textile industry.
Source: Fibre2fashion
Celanese Corporation, a global specialty materials and chemical company, unveiled its expanded Asia Technology Center (ATC) in Pudong New Area in Shanghai, China. Equipped with world class technical capabilities and talent, the enhanced center demonstrates the company’s commitment to accelerating innovation and services while contributing to the long-term success of its customers and the community both in Asia and globally.
The Celanese ATC brings together industry-leading lab capabilities and expertise in product development, material design, computer aided engineering, color matching, processing, advanced analytics and part testing to support both its Acetyl Chain and Engineered Materials businesses, especially in fast-growing markets such as electric vehicles, 5G, clean energy, building and construction, adhesives, carpet, paints and coatings, and more. “Asia is a growing market for our Engineered Materials business and the expanded ATC will bring innovative solutions to support the fast paced development of the Asia and global markets,” said Stefan Kutta, vice president of global automotive for Celanese. “We can now offer our partners and customers expanded solutions to accelerate innovation for automotive, clean energy and emerging markets.”
“The center will be the latest example of our collective Celanese commitment to innovation,” said Pedro Van Hoecke, vice president of global technology and innovation for Celanese. “Our technical expertise and advanced capabilities enable us to develop materials solutions with our customers in the early stage of product design while focusing on how to best achieve long-term success.”
The enhanced ATC contains industry-leading laboratories, such as the unique Noise, Vibration and Harshness laboratory, the certified UL DAP (Data Acceptance Program) laboratory and the comprehensive elastomer processing laboratory, which can fasten the new product development, validation and the delivery speed for customers.
In addition, the ATC houses an innovation center showcasing the company’s latest solutions to customers, which helps drive further innovation and collaboration across various industries.
Source: Fibre2fashion
Primark, the international clothing retailer that offers amazing quality fashion at incredible value prices, has announced it has signed a lease for its first storefront in the fashion and culture capital of the US, Manhattan. The store will be located in Herald Square in the revitalized PENN DISTRICT at 150 W 34th Street, and as such, will serve as a flagship location for Primark.
Located directly across the street from Penn Station, the most highly trafficked train station in the country, the new store will be situated in a prime location to attract commuter foot traffic, enabling Primark to reach more shoppers in the region than ever before. The Herald Square store will boast over 54,000 square feet of retail selling space, offering the retailer's unique combination of the latest fashion trends and essentials for the whole family, as well as homewares and beauty across four floors. This will be the brand's 11th store in the state of New York, once its new store in Queens, New York at Queens Center opens later this year.
With over 450 stores across 17 countries, Primark has been strategically expanding across the US for almost a decade. Signing this lease in Manhattan, the center of American fashion and culture, is an important step in Primark's growth ambitions. Primark US currently operates 27 stores in 11 states, soon to be 12. In addition to Queens Center, Primark will open a new store in McAllen, TX this year, its first in the state of Texas.
"Opening a location in the epicenter of US fashion is going to be an exciting milestone for Primark US," said Kevin Tulip, Primark US President. "When the opportunity arose to bring Primark to Herald Square in Manhattan, a store with exceptionally high foot traffic, national influence, and perfectly located to attract customers who already know us from other Primark stores in the boroughs and surrounding areas, we knew it was the perfect fit. We're thrilled to bring more affordable quality fashion directly to Manhattanites, commuters, and people across the world who are visiting the great city of New York." "The PENN DISTRICT is transforming into a dynamic new District offering the best in class of retail, restaurants and lifestyle offerings. We are excited for Primark to open its first Manhattan location in this vibrant neighborhood," said Ed Hogan, EVP Retail Leasing at Vornado. "As THE PENN DISTRICT is quickly becoming New York's top destination for exceptional shopping, dining, and entertainment, we look forward to working with the Primark team as they welcome their first Manhattan customers to experience all that the new store – and neighborhood – has to offer."
Source: Fibre2fashion
