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Although Adidas reaffirmed its financial outlook for 2025, the German sportswear company said, it anticipates production costs of all its products sold in the American markets to rise on account of the planned higher tariffs on imports into the United States.
Bjorn Gulden, CEO, says, although the brand has reduced its imports from China to a minimum, it remains exposed to the current high tariffs to a certain extent..
Unexpectedly high US import taxes on Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam and Indonesia, which are currently paused until July, have caught sportswear manufacturers off guard. These companies had depended on supplies from those countries to lessen the impact of US tariffs on goods from China.
Having released stronger-than-anticipated quarterly sales and profit figures in an unscheduled announcement last week, Adidas said, the increased costs would eventually lead to price increases. However, the company added, it is currently impossible to quantify these increases or to assess their impact on consumer demand for its products.
Gulden noted, Adidas would have raised its forecast for the full year, both for revenue and operating profit, following a solid quarter and a strong order book, if it weren't for the uncertainty surrounding the tariffs.
Adidas posted a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025, with revenues growing 13 per cent year-on-year to €6,153 million and operating profit soaring 82 per cent to €610 million. The company’s operating margin rose to 9.9 per cent, driven by strong brand momentum across all categories and regions, even without any contribution from Yeezy products.
The German sportswear giant saw currency-neutral revenues for the adidas brand increase 17 per cent, led by a 17 per cent rise in footwear, 8 per cent in apparel, and 10 per cent in accessories. Footwear growth was supported by robust demand for Originals, Sportswear, Running, Training, and Performance Basketball. The reintroduction of classic models like the Superstar and successful collaborations with celebrities and artists also helped drive sales.
Performance categories such as Running and Training recorded strong gains, with launches like the Adios Pro 4 and Evo SL enhancing adidas position in the performance segment. Meanwhile, Football, Outdoor, and Motorsport collections contributed to further category expansion.
Revenue grew at double-digit rates in all markets except North America, where growth was 3 per cent due to the phase-out of Yeezy. Excluding Yeezy sales, North America also posted double-digit growth. Latin America led regional performance with a 26 per cent revenue increase, followed by Emerging Markets at 23 per cent, and Europe, China, and Japan/South Korea each at 13 per cent or higher.
Gross margin improved by 0.9 percentage points to 52.1 per cent, driven by lower costs and reduced discounting. Marketing and point-of-sale expenses rose 14 per cent to €746 million, reflecting continued brand-building campaigns and major event sponsorships. Net income from continuing operations more than doubled to €436 million.
Despite the strong quarter, adidas is maintaining its full-year guidance due to uncertainty over potential new US tariffs. While the company has minimized exports from China to the US, it remains exposed to broader increases in US import duties. CEO Bjørn Gulden stated the company remains flexible and will focus on delivering strong performance in other regions to offset US market volatility.
For 2025, adidas expects high single-digit growth in currency-neutral sales and operating profit between €1.7 billion and €1.8 billion, excluding any contribution from Yeezy products. Inventories and working capital levels remain healthy to support ongoing growth.
At a time where individuality and self-expression reign supreme, the denim and jeanswear industry is witnessing an unprecedented shift toward customization, do-it-yourself (DIY) fashion, and on-demand production. Consumers are no longer satisfied with off-the-rack designs; they want to infuse their personality into their wardrobes, and denim—known for its versatility and timeless appeal—has become the ultimate canvas for creativity, tailored to their exact specifications.
The rise of customization, DIY, and on-demand in denim
Denim has long been a staple in wardrobes worldwide, but the demand for personalized, bespoke, and instantly produced jeanswear has skyrocketed in recent years. From embroidered patches to hand-painted designs, distressed treatments, and custom fits, denim enthusiasts are embracing DIY techniques and on-demand services to create one-of-a-kind pieces. This trend got a boost from social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, where influencers and designers showcase their customized creations, inspiring millions to experiment with their jeans. Moreover, online tutorials on platforms like YouTube and Instagram provide a vast library of inspiration for everyday consumers. The rise of e-commerce has been pivotal in facilitating this trend, providing accessible platforms for both consumers and independent creators.
The power of on-demand
The “on-demand” aspect is a game-changer. It allows for production only when an order is placed, eliminating excess inventory and significantly reducing waste. This approach aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable fashion. It also allows for extremely high levels of personalization, allowing for custom measurements, and designs.
Brands adapting to customization wave
Recognizing the growing demand for personalization and on-demand production, major denim brands are integrating customization services into their offerings. Levi’s, for instance, has grown its ‘Tailor Shop’ concept globally, allowing customers to personalize their jeans with patches, monograms, and unique embroidery. They are also moving towards more on-demand models. This initiative not only increases customer engagement but also promotes sustainability, as consumers are encouraged to repair and upcycle their denim instead of discarding it. Levi's is also exploring and implementing on-demand production to reduce waste and cater to specific customer needs quickly. Similarly, Diesel and Wrangler have introduced customization studios where consumers can distress, paint, and add embellishments to their denim, ensuring a truly unique product.
Smaller, independent denim brands are also capitalizing on this trend. Companies like Unspun, which uses 3D technology to create custom-fit, on-demand jeans, and Blank NYC, which offers hand-painted denim jackets, are revolutionizing the industry by prioritizing individuality and immediate production over mass production. Unspun, the San Francisco-based startup, has taken denim customization to the next level by leveraging AI and 3D scanning technology to create jeans that are made-to-order for each customer. This process eliminates excess inventory, reducing waste while ensuring a perfect fit. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, personalization, and on-demand production has attracted eco-conscious consumers looking for both style and ethical fashion choices.
The DIY culture and e-commerce in denim’s evolution
Beyond brand-driven customization, DIY denim culture is thriving among fashion enthusiasts who prefer to take matters into their own hands. Thrift flipping—where vintage denim is upcycled into trendy new designs—has gained immense popularity, particularly among Gen Z consumers who value sustainability and individuality. Online marketplaces like Depop and Etsy have become hubs for one-of-a-kind, hand-altered denim pieces, boosting the trend. E-commerce platforms have democratized access to materials and tools, making DIY customization more accessible than ever.
Workshops and community events are also playing a crucial role in fostering DIY denim culture. Local designers and artists host denim customization workshops, teaching participants techniques such as bleaching, hand-painting, and distressing. These events not only encourage creativity but also promote sustainable fashion practices by extending the lifecycle of denim garments.
Sustainability and the future of customization
Customization and on-demand production are not just about aesthetics—they are also reshaping the denim industry’s approach to sustainability. Mass production contributes significantly to environmental degradation, with denim manufacturing being one of the most resource-intensive processes in the fashion industry. By enabling consumers to create personalized pieces and producing only what is needed, brands are fostering a culture of conscious consumption, where individuals are more likely to cherish and retain their customized jeans for years.
Moreover, the growing popularity of upcycling and repair services aligns with the global push for sustainability. Companies like Nudie Jeans have pioneered free repair programs, encouraging customers to extend the lifespan of their denim rather than discarding it. As more brands adopt similar initiatives, customization and on-demand production will play a pivotal role in reducing fashion waste and promoting a more circular economy.
Thus the shift towards DIY, customization, and on-demand production in the denim and jeanswear segment is more than just a passing trend—it is a movement that reflects broader consumer values of self-expression, sustainability, and uniqueness. As technology continues to evolve, and as consumers seek greater control over their fashion choices, the industry will likely see further innovations in customization and on-demand services. Whether through high-tech personalization services, hands-on DIY approaches, or instant production, one thing is clear: the future of denim is personal, sustainable, and produced on demand. E-commerce has been, and will continue to be, a key driver in this evolution.
The global apparel market is witnessing a fascinating competition between Bangladesh and Vietnam, each vying for dominance after China. Data collated from sources like Eurostat and the USDA, reveals Vietnam has historically been a larger apparel exporter to the US compared to Bangladesh. This could be due to factors like Vietnam's diversified product range, including higher-value items, and potentially different tariff structures or trade relationships over time. However, Bangladesh's exports to the US have also shown significant growth in recent years, indicating its increasing competitiveness in this crucial market.
Bangladesh strengths from EU & US perspective
The primary strength remains its low labor costs, making it attractive for price-sensitive fast fashion and basic apparel categories. What’s more its large production capacity also works in its favor. Bangladesh boasts of a massive workforce and a large number of factories, capable of handling large orders.
The significant number of LEED-certified factories is a growing advantage, aligning with the increasing sustainability demands of European and American consumers and brands. This positions Bangladesh as a leader in environmentally conscious manufacturing within its price bracket.
And years of being a major sourcing hub have fostered strong relationships and understanding between Bangladeshi manufacturers and international buyers. The "factory ecosystem" has led to a well-established support system and expertise in garment production. And the EBA agreement with EU provides a significant price advantage for exports to the European Union, making Bangladeshi apparel more competitive in this market.
Table: EU imports of apparel (in bn Euros)
|
Year |
Bangladesh |
Vietnam |
China |
Other Countries |
|
2018 |
17.5 |
10.5 |
35 |
20 |
|
2019 |
18 |
11.2 |
34.5 |
20.5 |
|
2020 |
15.5 |
10 |
30 |
18 |
|
2021 |
19.5 |
12.5 |
36 |
22 |
|
2022 |
22 |
14 |
38 |
24 |
|
2023 |
21 |
13.5 |
37 |
25.5 |
Bangladesh has consistently been a significant apparel exporter to the EU, benefiting considerably from the EBA initiative. Vietnam's exports to the EU have also grown steadily, indicating its increasing importance as a sourcing destination. While China remains the largest supplier, both Bangladesh and Vietnam have carved out substantial market shares. The slight dip in 2023 for both could be attributed to various global economic factors.
Table: US imports of apparel in billion dollar
|
Year |
Bangladesh |
Vietnam |
China |
Other Countries |
|
2018 |
5.5 |
13.5 |
27 |
20 |
|
2019 |
6 |
14.5 |
26 |
21.5 |
|
2020 |
5 |
12.5 |
22 |
19 |
|
2021 |
7 |
16 |
25 |
23 |
|
2022 |
8.5 |
18 |
26.5 |
25 |
|
2023 |
8 |
17.5 |
25 |
26.5 |
Vietnam has historically been a larger apparel exporter to the US compared to Bangladesh. This could be due to factors like Vietnam's diversified product range, including higher-value items, and potentially different tariff structures or trade relationships over time. However, Bangladesh's exports to the US have also shown significant growth in recent years, indicating its increasing competitiveness in this crucial market.
However despite the positives, Bangladesh labor standards and safety has historically been concerns. While significant improvements have been made post-Rana Plaza, ongoing vigilance and adherence to international standards remain crucial for maintaining buyer confidence. Energy crises and slow logistics can be a concern, potentially leading to delays and increased costs for buyers.
Political unrest can also disrupt production and supply chains, posing a risk for international buyers who need reliable delivery schedules. While improving, Bangladesh is still perceived to be more focused on basic apparel categories compared to Vietnam's more diversified offerings.
Vietnam’s strengths from EU & US perspective
Vietnam's higher adoption of technology and automation leads to greater efficiency, faster turnaround times, and potentially better quality control. This is particularly attractive for brands with shorter lead times and demand for consistent quality. The ability to produce a wider array of apparel, including sportswear, technical garments, and higher-end fashion, makes Vietnam a more versatile sourcing destination for brands with diverse product portfolios.
The FTAs with various countries, including the EU, provide tariff reductions and broader market access, making Vietnam an attractive partner for long-term sourcing strategies. The stable political environment and better infrastructure, including port connectivity, offer greater reliability and ease of doing business for international buyers. And the ability of some Vietnamese manufacturers to handle the entire production process from textiles to finished garments can streamline supply chains and reduce lead times.
However, as Vietnam's economy develops, labor costs are increasing, which could erode its cost competitiveness over time compared to Bangladesh. Perhaps that is why brands like Primark or Shein, prioritizing low costs for fast fashion, might lean towards Bangladesh for their basic apparel needs, leveraging the cost advantage and large production capacity. On the other hand, brands like Nike or Adidas, requiring technical fabrics and faster turnaround for their sportswear lines, might prefer Vietnam's efficiency and diversified production capabilities.
Its dependence for raw materials especially from China can create vulnerabilities in the supply chain due to geopolitical tensions or disruptions in the flow of goods. While generally perceived to be at a good level, continuous improvement in ESG standards is still a demand from global buyers.
Table: Comparison Bangladesh vs Vietnam
|
Feature |
Bangladesh |
Vietnam |
|
Labor costs |
Lower |
Rising |
|
Automation & Technology |
Lower adoption rate |
Higher adoption rate |
|
Product Diversification |
More focused on basic apparel |
Wider range, including high-end and technical garments |
|
Trade Agreements |
Primarily relies on EU EBA; fewer other major FTAs |
Multiple FTAs with key markets |
|
Political Stability |
More prone to unrest |
Generally more stable |
|
Infrastructure & Logistics |
Can be challenging |
Better logistics and port connectivity |
|
Raw Material Integration |
High dependence on imports; limited backward integration |
More developed domestic textile industry; higher backward integration |
|
Green Factories (LEED) |
Global leader in number |
Growing focus, but fewer certified factories than Bangladesh |
|
EU Import Value (2023) |
Approx. €21 Billion |
Approx. €13.5 Billion |
|
US Import Value (2023) |
Approx. $8 Billion |
Approx. $17.5 Billion |
Overall, Vietnam scores higher than Bangladesh in the integration with the global supply chain for raw materials due to its greater backward integration and a more developed domestic textile industry. This provides Vietnam with a more resilient and efficient supply chain, which is a significant advantage in meeting the demands of global buyers for faster delivery and diverse product offerings.
Due to Bangladesh's recent closure of its land ports to yarn exports from India, Indian textile mills are seeking alternative transportation methods for the same.
Approximately 30 per cent of India's yarn exports to Bangladesh, primarily dyed and specialty yarns, were previously transported via these land ports.
At a recent meeting, yarn exporters discussed options such as container shipping and inland waterways. They also met with buyers in Bangladesh.
Siddhartha Rajagopal, Executive Director, Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council, notes, while 70 per cent of Indian yarn already goes to Bangladesh by sea, the increased lead time for those who previously used land ports is a concern. Exploring smaller ships from Kolkata can be a potential solution for this, he suggests. .
K. Selvaraju, Secretary General, Southern India Mills’ Association, states, nearly 45 per cent of India's yarn exports go to Bangladesh. Overall Indian yarn exports have decreased from over 100 million kg a month to approximately 90 million kg, with China and Bangladesh being the primary markets. This reduction in Chinese imports has already impacted the industry, and further disruption of exports to Bangladesh could lead to increased domestic supply and decreased prices, affecting the entire textile value chain.
Currently, textile mills in northern India are most affected by the port closures. However, if the situation persists, the entire textile spinning sector could face repercussions.
London’s renowned boutique trade show, Scoop, returns for its Spring/Summer 2026 edition from 13 to 15 July 2025 at Olympia National Kensington. Curated by founder and managing director Karen Radley, the event promises an intimate yet dynamic platform for buyers to explore over 200 premium designer labels across womenswear, footwear, accessories, jewellery, beauty, and lifestyle.
Radley emphasised her passion for introducing emerging creatives, saying, “We’re creating a wonderful showcase celebrating originality and forward-thinking design, with each collection offering something uniquely captivating for the market.” The show’s move to Olympia National Kensington marks a new chapter, offering increased opportunities for surprise and engagement.
Among the spotlighted brands is Ivory Paris, offering accessible luxury with Italian-crafted separates in cashmere, silk, and merino wool. Korean label Norinine brings its relaxed, seasonless aesthetic and celebrity-favoured wardrobe staples to UK shores. From France, Requins presents heritage footwear in quality leathers, while Maison Boinet, founded in 1858, showcases elegant belts and accessories symbolising discreet luxury.
In jewellery, Paris-based Zag Bijoux will unveil its premium line, Zag Studio, set to debut at Scoop and expected to become a cult favourite. Already stocked at Harvey Nichols and Fenwick, the brand’s latest venture signals Scoop’s commitment to presenting innovation within heritage.
Recognised as one of Europe’s most exciting lifestyle events, Scoop’s 2025 edition continues to spotlight global craftsmanship and fresh vision in a curated space designed to inspire top-tier retail buyers from the UK and beyond.
Los Angeles-based premium denim brand, Paige launched a new campaign for its American consumers on the Earth Day.
Launched in partnership with a UK-originated program, Cotton Lives On (CLO), this campaign encourages the brand’s consumers in America to recycle their used jeans.
Similar to Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green program, established in the US in 2022 through a collaboration between Cotton Council International and Cotton Incorporated, the program helps prevent unwanted cotton textiles from being dumped into landfills.
Continuing throughout 2025, the Paige x CLO initiative invites consumers to drop off their unwanted jeans in specially marked Paige x CLO bins located at the brand’s stores in London and Oxfordshire. In return, participants receive a 20 per cent discount on a new denim purchase.
The collected denims are being recycled into cotton insulation used in mattresses for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Lindsey Owens, Director -Omnichannel Marketing, Paige, states, leftover fabric scraps from Paige’s denim production are repurposed as art projects for schools, while other scraps are recycled into insulation and carpet padding. The brand’s partnership with CLO provides an ideal platform to emphasize its dedication to cotton sustainability, she adds.
Andrea Samber, Director - Consumer Marketing Brand Partnerships, Cotton Incorporated avers, this initiative encouraging Paige customers to keep old cotton out of landfills by turning their well-worn clothes into comfortable mattresses for those in need.
To date, CLO has collected nearly 17,600 pounds (approximately 8,000 kg) of cotton in the UK and has donated over 100 roll mats. Each new roll mat contains about 14 pounds (6.4 kg) of unusable cotton, equivalent to 45 t-shirts. These mattresses are provided to people across the UK at risk of homelessness and living in challenging conditions as part of their initial essential items package when moving into a hostel or as part of their new home kit once they have found more permanent housing.
Other brands and retailers already participating in the program include Charles Tyrwhitt, Hush, Whistles, Hobbs, Phase Eight, L’Estrange, Anthropologie, Bianca Saunders, Nexvision, and ME+EM.
Los Angeles-based premium denim brand, Paige launched a new campaign for its American consumers on the Earth Day.
Launched in partnership with a UK-originated program, Cotton Lives On (CLO), this campaign encourages the brand’s consumers in America to recycle their used jeans.
Similar to Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green program, established in the US in 2022 through a collaboration between Cotton Council International and Cotton Incorporated, the program helps prevent unwanted cotton textiles from being dumped into landfills.
Continuing throughout 2025, the Paige x CLO initiative invites consumers to drop off their unwanted jeans in specially marked Paige x CLO bins located at the brand’s stores in London and Oxfordshire. In return, participants receive a 20 per cent discount on a new denim purchase.
The collected denims are being recycled into cotton insulation used in mattresses for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Lindsey Owens, Director -Omnichannel Marketing, Paige, states, leftover fabric scraps from Paige’s denim production are repurposed as art projects for schools, while other scraps are recycled into insulation and carpet padding. The brand’s partnership with CLO provides an ideal platform to emphasize its dedication to cotton sustainability, she adds.
Andrea Samber, Director - Consumer Marketing Brand Partnerships, Cotton Incorporated avers, this initiative encouraging Paige customers to keep old cotton out of landfills by turning their well-worn clothes into comfortable mattresses for those in need.
To date, CLO has collected nearly 17,600 pounds (approximately 8,000 kg) of cotton in the UK and has donated over 100 roll mats. Each new roll mat contains about 14 pounds (6.4 kg) of unusable cotton, equivalent to 45 t-shirts. These mattresses are provided to people across the UK at risk of homelessness and living in challenging conditions as part of their initial essential items package when moving into a hostel or as part of their new home kit once they have found more permanent housing.
Other brands and retailers already participating in the program include Charles Tyrwhitt, Hush, Whistles, Hobbs, Phase Eight, L’Estrange, Anthropologie, Bianca Saunders, Nexvision, and ME+EM.
Sudhakar Singh, Member of Parliament, representing Buxar from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) party, has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to implement the Prime Minister Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Park (PM-MITRA) scheme in Bihar.
Recently announced by the Central Government, the PM-MITRA scheme allocates textile parks for seven excluding Bihar, Singh points out.
An industrially underdeveloped state, Bihar has significant potential for the textile industry, he adds.The state has identified 1,719 acre for this project and submitted the preliminary project report to the Ministry of Textiles before the March 15, 2022, deadline, Singh notes.
While states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka already possess well-established textile industries, Bihar lacks any modern textile clusters, Singh highlights. Scarcity of job opportunities forces workers from the state to migrate. Establishing a PM-MITRA park would not only create local employment but also significantly reduce large-scale migration, he adds
German textile machinery leader Monforts will participate in the Morocco Stitch & Tex 2025 exhibition from May 13-15 at Casablanca’s International Fairground (OFEC), as North Africa looks to strengthen its position in textile manufacturing and finishing.
Morocco and neighbouring countries are rapidly expanding their textile processing capacity to complement strong garment exports, leveraging their strategic proximity to Europe, lower costs, and favourable trade agreements, including Morocco’s 2006 free trade pact with the USA. The region could also benefit from potential new US tariffs on Asian imports, boosting its global competitiveness.
At the event, Monforts will present its proven technologies for energy-efficient and high-throughput fabric finishing. These include the Montex stenter, a benchmark in the denim and home textiles sectors, along with Thermex dyeing ranges, Monfortex compressive shrinking systems, MontexCoat and coaTTex coating units, and relaxation dryers. The company celebrated 140 years of innovation in 2024 and continues to serve clients from its headquarters in Monchengladbach, Germany, and production facility in Austria.
Monforts emphasizes not just new machinery but also the value of retrofitting legacy lines. With around 2,000 machines in use globally some over 30 years old upgrades with advanced automation and control systems are enabling significant performance improvements.
“We’ve seen double-digit growth in European machinery imports to Morocco,” says Area Sales Manager Achim Gesser. “Exciting projects, including a planned $2 billion textile city with 568 factories, are underway.” He adds that Turkish manufacturers are expanding into North Africa, with Monforts already operating over 600 lines in Turkiye.
Gesser and Unionmatex, Monforts regional partner, will be at stand D4 to support the region’s ambitious Vision 2025 programme targeting $10 billion in annual garment exports.
