Messe Frankfurt and Kingpins Show have forged a partnership aimed at advancing sustainability in the denim industry. In this joint venture, Messe Frankfurt has become a shareholder in Kingpins, allowing the latter to maintain its independence within Messe Frankfurt's Texpertise textile network. This collaboration marks a significant expansion for Messe Frankfurt, which already hosts denim events like Beyond Denim and Denimworld. Kingpins, on the other hand, stands to benefit from Messe Frankfurt's abundant resources. 

The two brands share a commitment to prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility, striving to create a more sustainable future for the denim industry. Kingpins' expertise with Messe Frankfurt's extensive experience will create an ideal platform for business encounters in the denim sector. Having started in 2004, Kingpins has grown into a renowned entity with a flagship show in New York and an event in Amsterdam. 

Over the years, it has developed Kingpins Transformers, a series of summits promoting sustainability, equity, and responsibility in the denim business, later evolving into the independent Transformers Foundation. 

This collaboration represents a significant milestone for both entities, merging their strengths and opportunities for mutual growth and quality improvement.

A new market research report titled "Lingerie Market Report (2023-2028)" reveals that the global lingerie market is estimated to be worth USD 82.28 billion in 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.02% during the forecast period. 

The innerwear and lingerie industry has witnessed robust growth in recent years, driven by consumers' increasing focus on both style and comfort, influenced by media and advertising. Lingerie is now perceived as a fashion product that enhances body features rather than just a necessity. 

Brands are actively expanding their product portfolios through new brands, mergers, acquisitions, and innovations. The global lingerie market is highly competitive and fragmented, with key players operating across different regions and offering diverse product lines. 

These industry leaders are investing in new materials and design technology to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Some of the major players dominating the global lingerie market in 2023 include Hansbrands Inc., Jockey International Inc., Victoria's Secret & Co., Triumph International, MAS Holdings, Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Zivame, PVH Corp., Aimer Group, and Wacoal Holdings Corp. 

Aggressive marketing and influential endorsements have become essential for market players to adapt to the rapidly changing industry landscape. Consumers tend to connect more with brands when endorsed by their favorite celebrities, leading to potential market growth. The Asia-Pacific region holds the largest consumer base for lingerie, driven by factors like increasing e-commerce, rising disposable incomes, and changing consumer preferences. 

Manufacturers are introducing gender-fluid, body-inclusive, and vegan variants to cater to sustainability-conscious customers. Recent developments in the lingerie market include Victoria's Secret & Co.'s acquisition of Adore Me Inc., Triumph International's launch of a new brand, Triumph, and MAS Holdings' partnership with ByondXR to create virtual showrooms for an enhanced retail experience. 

The comprehensive Mordor Intelligence market research report serves as a valuable resource for start-ups, industry players, investors, researchers, consultants, and business strategists seeking to understand and navigate the dynamic lingerie industry.

The VDMA, representing over 3,600 German and European mechanical and plant engineering companies, warns that the European Union's plan to ban all PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) would pose significant risks to industrial processes. 

In particular, the textile manufacturing sector would be severely impacted, facing a double blow. Firstly, essential chemicals for technical textile production would be excluded, and secondly, crucial textile machinery components made of solid PFAS would become unavailable, disrupting the entire supply chain. 

The use of PFAS, such as PTFE and FKM, in textile machinery is vital, especially in extreme operating conditions. These materials, classified as "polymers of low concern" by the OECD, are not harmful to the environment and are properly managed during disposal or replacement. 

The VDMA argues that these specific PFAS, as used in textile machinery, should be exempted from the ban, following the UK's differentiated approach to PFAS substance groups. Textile dyeing machines, drying machines, damping machines, and other key equipment for sustainable textile production heavily rely on PFAS components. 

If the ban is imposed, many machines critical to sustainable textile manufacturing will be affected. VDMA Textile Machinery plans to participate in the ongoing EU public consultation, advocating for the preservation of key functionalities and safe conditions of use in the textile machinery sector. They stress that the ban's implementation could have severe consequences for companies and customers within the EU. VDMA represents a significant portion of the EU-27's workforce, with around 3 million employees, 1.2 million of whom are in Germany alone. 

The mechanical and plant engineering sector is the largest employer in the capital goods industries, representing a substantial turnover volume and dominating machinery sales within the EU.

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) highlighted a significant opportunity for the Indian apparel industry to expand its shipments to Japan. With a decline in Chinese garment exports to Japan, Indian exporters can fill the gap and cater to the growing demand in the island nation. 

AEPC Chairman, Naren Goenka, emphasized that India's robust garment industry, boasting unique offerings, provides a favorable landscape for Japanese trading companies to source their products from. 

The potential for growth is evident, given the positive trend in apparel imports into Japan over the last three years, with the nation now standing as the world's fourth-largest garment importer after the US, Germany, and France. However, out of Japan's total garment imports of USD 23 billion, India's share is currently just one percent. 

This scenario presents a significant business opportunity for India, as China, the dominant supplier of garments to Japan, experienced a decline in the past five years. Moreover, India enjoys a distinct advantage with duty-free access for its ready-made garments under the Indo-Japan free trade agreement, whereas China and Turkey face around 9 percent duties. 

Sudhir Sekhri, the vice-chairman of the council, further emphasized India's potential by highlighting its abundant raw material availability, including cotton, jute, silk, and wool, and being backed by the world's second-largest spinning and weaving capacity. 

With a remarkable 95 percent value addition, India can offer a complete value chain solution from farm to fashion to the global market. To bolster the growth and development of the textile industry, the Indian government has implemented various supportive measures like the production-linked incentive scheme and PM MITRA scheme. 

In conclusion, the Indian garment industry's distinctive offerings, coupled with the decline in Chinese exports, present a golden opportunity for Japanese traders to explore and strengthen their sourcing ties with India, leading to a mutually beneficial partnership.

A major fashion brand, Superdry, has faced the closure of eight of its UK stores as a franchisee decided to shut down their operations. 

The company recently confirmed that six store locations will be closing, while the fate of the other two remains uncertain. It's important to note that this decision is not connected to Superdry's cost-cutting plan of £35 million, which was announced last year. 

The responsibility for the closures lies with the independent owner who operates these eight stores, and Superdry emphasized that it has no intention of closing any of its directly operated stores across the UK for now. Earlier this year, Superdry revealed measures to reduce costs, which included "estate optimization," hinting at possible store closures. 

Since then, five branches have already closed, and three more are likely to follow suit. Among the affected locations are Stoke On Trent, Luton, Telford, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Bury St Edmunds. The other two stores earmarked for closure have not yet been officially confirmed. 

Superdry's situation reflects a broader trend among big-name high street brands, as they grapple with the challenges posed by a difficult retail environment exacerbated by the aftermath of the Covid pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis. Boots, another renowned retailer, is also planning to shut down 300 of its stores in response to 

Vietnam's textile industry witnessed a diverse performance in June 2023, with notable fluctuations in key import and export categories. 

According to recent statistics, cotton imports surged by 26.2% year-on-year (YoY) to 117.9kt but declined by 19.1% month-on-month (MoM). 

Yarn imports, on the other hand, exhibited an upward trend, rising by 3.7% YoY and 5.9% MoM. In terms of exports, Vietnam experienced a YoY increase of 17.4% in yarn exports, amounting to 154,000 tons. 

However, these exports decreased by 3.9% compared to the previous month. Despite this, net yarn exports showed positive growth, soaring by 48.8% YoY. In contrast, imports of grey fabrics and woven fabrics showed a decline both YoY and MoM, falling by 16.6% and 9.3%, respectively. 

Textile and apparel exports also faced challenges, decreasing by 14.7% YoY, although they rebounded by 4.9% compared to the previous month. Overall, while some segments experienced growth, others encountered setbacks, shaping a mixed performance for Vietnam's textile industry in June. 

However, considering the data for the second quarter, the industry showed signs of improvement compared to the first quarter. Nevertheless, certain areas, such as yarn imports and textile and apparel exports, lagged behind previous-year levels, indicating the need for close monitoring and strategic adjustments.

Lyst's latest Index for Q2 saw a significant moment as Loewe, the LVMH-owned brand, emerged as the most in-demand label globally, dethroning established names like Gucci, Prada, and Balenciaga. The brand's Spring-Summer 2023 collection, creatively directed by Jonathan Anderson, experienced a 19% surge in searches during the quarter.

Lyst attributes this success to Loewe's commitment to craftsmanship and creativity, captivating diverse customer groups and driving substantial brand heat, leading to surging demand and online sales for its hero products. Interestingly, Jonathan Anderson's eponymous JW Anderson label also secured a spot in the top 20, retaining its position from the previous quarter.

The rest of the top 10 included Versace climbing to third place, while Prada slipped one spot. Other notable brands in the top 10 were MiuMiu, Botttega Veneta, Valentino, Saint Laurent, Moncler, Gucci, and Dior. Outside the top 10, the list featured an array of brands with varying price points, ranging from Louis Vuitton to Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Burberry, Jacquemus, SKIMS, Nike, Fendi, and JW Anderson.

Versace, which has been thriving in recent quarters, experienced significant growth, driven by strategic collaborations with celebrities like Anne Hathaway and DuaLipa, elevating the brand's star power and widening its audience reach. Lyst also highlighted the "Breakout Brands" of the quarter, which included Goyard, Posse, and LoroPiana. Goyard, celebrating its 170th anniversary, witnessed a 95% increase in searches.

Posse, an Australian brand focused on "quiet luxury," gained popularity, with its Alice linen mini dress becoming a trending product, donned by celebrities like Sofia Richie, Selena Gomez, and Lily Aldridge. LoroPiana, benefiting from the "Succession effect," experienced a 35% surge in searches, with their Babouche suede mules being a trending product worn by Gigi Hadid and Gwyneth Paltrow.

The hottest products of the quarter aligned with the top brands, with Loewe's Anagram tank top taking the lead, followed by Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 sneakers and Versace's Maxi Medusa Biggie sunglasses.

Other notable products included Loewe's raffia tote bag and the enduring demand for luxury sunglasses. The Q2 Lyst Index reflects the ever-changing dynamics in the fashion industry, showcasing the rise of Loewe as a global powerhouse and Versace's continued success through strategic collaborations.

The denim market is projected to grow at a rate of 6.7% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2029, driven by the increasing consumer disposable income levels, according to a report by Data Bridge. Denim, initially designed for work clothes, has evolved into a vital and fashionable item in modern wardrobes. 

The market's growth is further boosted by urbanization, the rising popularity of denim shirts, and the use of synthetic materials blended with cotton to create stretchable denim jeans. Government initiatives to enhance product manufacturing are also contributing to market growth. 

Despite the positive outlook, the denim market faces challenges from the growing demand for cheap woollen wear. However, with the right strategies, businesses can make a mark in the market as new emergents. 

Première Vision Paris, the leading international show for fashion fabrics and textile sourcing marked its 50th anniversary earlier this month with its event at Paris-Nord Villepinte Parc des Expositions. The trade fair is the benchmark gathering for the fashion industry and the trends that drive the style of the future. Although France was experiencing heightened social unrest and violence had spilled on the streets, many countries including the UK had issued travel advisories. However, the event was a success as it witnessed a 7 per cent increase in visitors compared to July 2022. Meanwhile, rival exhibition, Texworld Evolution Paris which celebrated its 25th year held its July edition at a new venue - Porte de Versailles. The management revealed its future editions will also take place at the south of Paris exhibition center.

Diverse visitor profiles

Première Vision hosted 25,117 visitors, 70 per cent of whom were from outside France and 1,315 exhibitors, up 10 per cent versus the previous July exhibition. Speaking with a reputable fashion business title, Gilles Lasbordes, director of Première Vision said the July 2023 edition confirmed the progressive return of professionals from Asia, particularly China. 

The three-day exhibition Texworld Evolution Paris July 2023 edition welcomed 6,800 visitors, a large number being from China, no surprises there as China represents 32 per cent of the European Union’s clothing imports. While exhibitors put a quiet third day at Texworld down to the unrest across France, UK buying teams seemed unaware there had been UK government travel advice on monitoring the media for disruption in the country. 

Australian Paul Burden, Head of Design, Politix said he was shopping at Texworld for menswear fabrics for Country Road group, one of the largest specialty Australian retailers. As per him, drapery and tailoring fabrics at Chinese supplier Langyitex were among his favorites. Similarly, UK-buyer for Wealth Industrial, Julia Hesketh was pleased she was able to attend this edition of Texworld and had found everything she was looking for. She lauded the collection of fabrics that Korean suppliers had displayed. 

Interesting paradoxes revealed

During the time the two mega exhibitions were being hosted in Paris, Vincent Gregoire, Director Consumer Trends and Insights at Nelly Rodi, a consulting agency, made some interesting observations on the way consumers were realigning their attitudes. Clearly a paradox, as these exhibitions promote the growth of fashion sector through newer items to attract consumption. Gregoire identified a social trend, particularly in France which he termed as de-growth and cited the civil unrest as an example where rich spenders were no longer the aspiration but the subject of hate. The other paradox he pointed out was in a world that is constantly getting standardized with the likes of Zara, IKEA and AirBnB, there is chatter in France about local self-dependence that is authentic, locally produced and productive for its population like the “15 minute city concept.”

Sustainability takes centre stage

As sustainability is the number one point of focus for manufacturing sectors across the spectrum, the textile and apparel sector is not different. Première Vision introduced the Better Way programme at this edition by analyzing the sustainability initiatives of 290 of its participating exhibitors and put up easy-to-comprehend pictograms at their exhibits for visitors to navigate and find the sustainable products they were looking for. US-based Repreve, which claims to have transformed 35 billion plastic bottles into recycled polyester fabrics, noted the brand is rolling out its textile take-back schemes and keeping a close eye on European legislation for textiles. This dead-stock rollover was a first at Première Vision. 

As these trade shows demonstrate, it is heartening to see manufacturers and buyers are aligning themselves to deliver what today’s conscious consumers want in terms of affordability, longevity and sustainability. 

World Textile Information Network (WTiN) plans to co-locate Innovate: Zero Carbon with COP28 in Dubai, UAE. 

This innovation-driven conference addresses the urgent need for the textile & apparel sector to combat climate change, striving for 'net zero' by reducing carbon emissions. It aims to facilitate knowledge sharing on cutting-edge technology, materials, and operational strategies across the textile & apparel value chain.

 Topics covered include international decarbonization legislation, 'materials transition' for net zero, reinventing dyeing & finishing, digitalization's impact on decarbonization, circularity's role in a net zero supply chain, and empowering teams to drive zero carbon actions. 

Dubai's strategic importance as a post-Covid-19 hub for the global textile & apparel industry, co-located with COP28 and the World Climate Summit, facilitating actionable discussions on the path to net zero while ensuring business growth. 

Innovate: Zero Carbon's co-location with COP28 spotlights sustainable initiatives, fostering collaboration and progress in the fight against climate change.