FW
Clothing and textile wholesalers are reluctant to embrace the ‘Buy Zimbabwe’ concept meant to support the growth of local industries, as they prefer imported fabric to buying locally-produced ones. Zimbabwe Textile Manufacturers’ Association, secretary-general, Raymond Huni says wholesalers and retailers were reluctant to embrace the concept regardless of its nobleness.
Zimbabwe’s textiles and clothing industry is seriously weighed down by an influx of cheap imports from Asian countries and is operating under constrained capacity. Compounding the problem is the fact that despite the existence of legislation banning the importation of second-hand clothing, the practice has continued unabated because authorities have failed to enforce the ban.
At its peak, the clothing and textile industry in Zimbabwe used to employ as many as 35 000 people. The number has since whittled down to below 3 000. To promote local industry, government has been preaching the gospel of the Buy Zimbabwe concept.
Huni says that there are 52 companies in the textile industry, though only 15 employ more than 70 employees, while the smallest employs five or so employees. He also added that smaller companies are operating above 50 per cent, while at the same time big companies are operating below 40 per cent.
"The 24th Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) received more than 12,000 buyers from 71 countries and regions. During the four-days (July 10-13) buyers from Japan, the Philippines, the US, Malaysia, Singapore and Russia recorded considerable growth. Twenty fashion events, including fashion shows, trend forecasting seminars, buyer forums and a networking reception were held, which explored the latest topics of interest in the fashion industry while generating more business opportunities for industry professionals."
The 24th Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) received more than 12,000 buyers from 71 countries and regions. During the four-days (July 10-13) buyers from Japan, the Philippines, the US, Malaysia, Singapore and Russia recorded considerable growth. Twenty fashion events, including fashion shows, trend forecasting seminars, buyer forums and a networking reception were held, which explored the latest topics of interest in the fashion industry while generating more business opportunities for industry professionals.
“In addition to being a premier sourcing platform for the industry, Hong Kong Fashion Week is also an important marketing channel for exhibitors promoting new products and fashion projects; and provides an opportunity for industry professionals to gather the latest market intelligence,” said Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director, HKTDC. “Although the Internet and social media are gradually becoming mainstream promotion channels, fashion trade fairs are still a dominant platform for conducting face-to-face business negotiations, exchanging market intelligence and showcasing new collections. The HKTDC will continue to offer its unique 4-in-1 integrated marketplace, consisting of trade fairs, the HKTDC Online Marketplace (hktdc.com), product magazines, and mobile app, for promising fashion companies to reach global buyers anytime, anywhere.”
A promotional platform
With buyers coming from around the world, Hong Kong Fashion Week is a major platform for international corporations to promote fashion-related activities. During the fair, the Italian Trade Commission Hong Kong and Assocalzaturifici (Italian Footwear Manufacturers’ Association) jointly organised an exhibition titled ‘The seduction of footwear: Italian glamour,’ displaying 50 styles of classic Italian women’s shoes and leveraging Hong Kong Fashion Week to introduce visitors to the aesthetics of Italian footwear.
Annarita Pilotti, President, Assocalzaturifici, explained Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland together represent Italy’s fifth-largest export market in terms of value. Last year, Italian export volumes to the mainland rose 2.3 per cent; while the total value of exports to Hong Kong increased by 3.5 per cent. It was also found that the average export prices of the two markets were higher than other countries and still continues to rise. “It is because both Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland are such important markets for Italian-made goods that we are keen to stage our promotional road shows in Hong Kong, which allow us to bring the excellence and quality of Italian footwear to the attention of international buyers,” said Pilotti.
Spotlight on social causes
On the first day of the fair, international trend forecasting group Fashion Snoops presented ‘The Visionary Trends for Autumn/Winter 2018/19 for Women’s and Men’s Wear’. The group pointed out that fashion trends are often closely related to both society and everyday life issues, such as environment protection and immigration.
“The identity crisis brought on by the refugee crisis is a pressing global concern,” said Michael Leow, Asia/Pacific Sales & Marketing Head, Fashion Snoops. “Climate change and world trade have caused an influx of refugees. Although many may not want to approach this subject, we as fashion designers, should explore the issue, let our voices be heard, and galvanise people into action towards a brighter tomorrow.”
To embrace diversity, ‘Engineered Identity’ will be one of the major trends, Leow says. Each piece of clothing will integrate fashion elements from different countries, alongside sharply contrasting colours and conflicting elements, presenting a world of harmony and one without borders.
New launches
Apart from unveiling fashion trends, latest technologies were also discussed at various seminars. At the seminar ‘New Generation of Merino innovation–Wool Denim Wear & Wool Sneakers’, the Woolmark Company introduced its latest denim fabric and its related application techniques. Brenda Yang, Technical Manager-Dyeing and Finishing, the Woolmark Company, explained wool’s anti-perspiration, breathable, anti-odour and warmth-keeping qualities make the fabric ideal for use in sportswear. The high external wear-resistance of the wool also makes it suitable for sports shoes. “It is currently a trend to produce the vamp by weaving, thus many styles can be created,” said Yang. Some manufacturers have even incorporated far-infrared properties into the wool/nylon to relieve post-exercise muscle fatigue. She added that using wool as the principal material for shoes, such as adding it into the sole for warmth or stitching leather with it to create a thick wool-knitted leather or wool-blended fabric, are new trends in shoemaking.
The second edition of Centrestage, a platform for Asian fashion brands and designers specifically to promote their brands and launch their collections will be held from September 6 to 9.
VF Corp, the parent company of Wrangler and Lee, is encouraging employees worldwide to step out of the office and volunteer in local communities. The company launched initiatives that showcase its commitment to social responsibility, sustainability and environmental volunteerism.
In North Carolina, over 330 associates from VFs world headquarters and its jeans wear organisation gave over 830 volunteer hours working on 20 different projects, including improving facilities and grounds at the Glenwood Recreation Community Center and the Greensboro Science Center.
Wrangler and Lee partnered local organisations in Lumberton, North Carolina, to revitalize 200+ homes that were impacted in last year’s hurricane. Wrangler also donated a portion of its jean surplus to help the Girl Scouts of America to create 300+ dog beds for local animal shelters and associates also gathered animal food for donation to the shelters.
Thriving communities mean thriving associates, being an actively engaged local citizen is good for the community and business. The brand’s associates worldwide are making their communities stronger by living values of honesty, integrity and respect, and are giving back to the places where they live and work, said a spokesperson for the brand.
VF’s local volunteer projects complement many of the brand’s larger sustainable commitments, including its goal to use 100 per cent renewable energy at its owned and operated facilities by 2025 and its recent pilot program to increase the supply of sustainable cotton in the US.
Swim Week Colombo concluded its 3rd edition which heralded Green Conscious and Earth Sensitivity. This set the pace for future direction of the fashion industry in Sri Lanka and in the region. The fashion industry platform focused on swimwear, resort wear and active wear. All participants had a green impact story and they were offered eco-sensitive manufacturing through their partners Linea Aqua.
Trendswim — an expert forum where thought leaders discussed topics of importance which impacted the global fashion industry — provided three meaningful sessions covering ‘global trends’, ‘good and sustainable fashion’ and a ‘textile forum’. Art Connect celebrated the collaboration between art and fashion where six important artists expressed their interpretation of Green Conscious and Earth Sensitivity under the theme of the exhibition ‘Revive’.
Fashion Films has become an important part of the fashion week where six young directors worked with designers to bring to life their ideation through one-minute films shot on smart phones. New trends in swimwear was shown by top internationals brands such as Heidi Klein and HAH (Hot-As-Hell), along with 11 Sri Lankan brands which included Buddhi, Meraki, Peronie, Maus, Conscience, Arugam Bay, Rachel Raj and Koca. There were also Indian brands such as Aviva and Ajay Kumar. Olu tropical water was the title partner; Linea Aqua was the main partner; American Express Nations Trust Bank was the official fashion card.
Post NYFW, New York Men's Fashion is coming into its own with strong performance and it will be exciting to see the creative talent in American menswear industry with inspiring collections and trends that will be presented during the Men's Spring/Summer'18 Collections of ‘PROJECT and MRket’. The show will run from July 16 to 18, bringing a distinct approach to fashion trends where menswear designers, legendary brands bound to impress, and designer collections will be on display along with live model catwalk. This event that will be held at the Jacob Javits Center, will have a heightened focus on retailers.
‘PROJECT and MRket’ offers an introspective look into market trends allowing buyers to shop for what's next in menswear lifestyle category presenting new and emerging designers for men. Showcasing brands, including Jean Lorent, Stolen Riches, STANTT and Avenue 33.
PROJECT continues to support and foster emerging designers through its ongoing partnership with Parsons School of Design. The 'Next In Class' program is a unique opportunity for emerging designers as it provides a platform for recent Parsons BFA graduates, arming them with the educational experience and exposure to break into the marketplace.
Additional highlights of the show include: live presentations on July 17th on the floor that will feature Vilebrequin; Jack Victor, Vince, Blue@PROJECT and MOVE. The #BloggerProject presented by Marcus Troy is a curated content experience that bridges the gap between digital influencers and brands. Cadillac returns for the 5th season as the official partner of PROJECT New York providing VIP retailers and media with car service to and from the show.
Swedish global clothing maker H&M is looking at entering the growing manufacturing sector in Ethiopia, as Sweden is looking at enhancing its economic ties with Ethiopia. Many Swedish companies were interested in coming to Ethiopia and among them H&M has shown a keen interest in entering the Ethiopian textile industry. The fact that the late athletics legend Abebe Bekila was trained by Swedish experts demonstrates the strong historical ties of the two countries, the Ambassador noted.
This hopefully will be important in terms of raising hard currency, catalysing the industrial development of Ethiopia and in creating massive jobs. Ethiopia and Sweden have many global issues to hold-on actively, including climate change, migration and global peace and security. As Ethiopia and Sweden are currently non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), they felt that is was the right time to act jointly to promote climate smart economy, peace and stability, globally.
Currently, the bilateral relationship is linked to investment and common global concerns. The Swedish government has approved a development cooperation to Ethiopia valued at a billion Krone during the 2016 to 2020 period.
The itnflux of global retailers into Australia will continue over the coming years, while international brands that have already set up shop here are expected to expand into more cities, as per a new report from CBRE.
The boom in online shopping and Amazon’s entrance into the marketplace have made brick and mortar retailers a worried lot and this is forcing them to brighten up their stores and offer extensive range with competitive pricing. But according to CBRE, the real estate company, local retailers have been struggling to compete just on price and are being forced out of best locations and spaces.
Australia is an attractive place for international retailers due to healthy population and economic growth. Sales productivity of new entrants has proven that Australians are eager for new retailers, besides Australia ranks among the top performance countries for some of these global retailers who have already launched here. The Australian stores of international brands such as Zara and H&M Australia, have gained among the highest store sales performance in their global portfolio over the past three years, contends a senior research manager from CBRE.
Since 2012, most international brands that have entered the Australian market have come from Europe and most are fashion oriented. In the last five years, 44 global retailers have launched in Melbourne, 44 in Sydney and 19 in Brisbane and this will increase over the next three to five years, as per the research data.
H&M recently announced it would open regional stores in Townsville and Rockhampton as well as an online store that will back its physical presence in Australia. Uniqlo, which already has an established online presence in Australia is also expected to expand its stores in the country. Last month the popular Japanese clothing brand indicated interest in opening an outlet in New Zealand.
Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE), a private initiative to promote Bangladesh apparel industry is going to organise a workshop on how to develop an apparel brand. The day-long workshop “How to build your own apparel brand and directly address European and US Consumers” will be held on July 29 in Dhaka.
The objective of the workshop is to disseminate knowledge on how to develop the next growth strategy of Bangladesh’s apparel sector by putting up new designs to locally owned products and making them stand out as an international brand, which will facilitate a direct sale to Western consumers. Participants can gain insight on how global renowned brands are conceptualised and designed. It will also help create own brand and offer e-commerce opportunities.
Founder and chief executive officer of BAE Mostafiz Uddin says Bangladesh is the second largest exporter of clothing for global retailers such as Zara, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Gap and more. BAE has taken the initiative to share experience and advice for building a brand from purpose to product for entrepreneurs, fashion aspirants and everyone with a dream to build their own brad, said Mostafiz.
By creating brands, Bangladesh can increase profit margin by utilising the strength and intelligence of local business, which would impact Bangladesh’s economy largely. The workshop will help kick off next growth strategy by providing insight into designing own brand and selling it directly to western wholesalers and end consumers.
The overall export earnings was $34.83 billion, which is 1.68 per cent higher than $34.25 billion a year ago. Bangladesh should focus on high-end products to come out of the sluggish export growth, says Mostafiz the managing director of Denim Expert.
"Textiles and Accessories Trade Show, held from July 11 – 13, recorded over 6,000 exhibitors showcasing high-end collections for the Fall/Winter 2018/2019 season. International exhibitors mainly came from: Netherlands (+46 per cent), Portugal (42 per cent), Germany (+32 per cent), Russian Federation (+32 per cent), Spain (+28 per cent), USA (+26 per cent), UK (+20 per cent), France (+15 per cent) and Turkey (+11 per cent). Conversely, the number of Italian businesses and mills from the Far East countries and, especially, China, slightly decreased."
Textiles and Accessories Trade Show, held from July 11 – 13, recorded over 6,000 exhibitors showcasing high-end collections for the Fall/Winter 2018/2019 season. International exhibitors mainly came from: Netherlands (+46 per cent), Portugal (42 per cent), Germany (+32 per cent), Russian Federation (+32 per cent), Spain (+28 per cent), USA (+26 per cent), UK (+20 per cent), France (+15 per cent) and Turkey (+11 per cent). Conversely, the number of Italian businesses and mills from the Far East countries and, especially, China, slightly decreased. However, these countries will have another opportunity at the October edition in Shanghai.
The XXV edition of Milano Unica, was organized with the support of Italian Ministry for Economic Development and ICE Agency, its operating arm, included 456 exhibitors which his 20 per cent over September 2016 edition . Nearly 145 businesses participated in the Japan and Korea Observatories and in Origin Passion and Beliefs, totaling 601 exhibitors.
The opening ceremony
The opening ceremony, introduced by Ercole Botto Poala, President of Milano Unica, was attended by the Ivan Scalfarotto, Deputy Secretary for Economic Development; Giuseppe Sala, the Mayor of Milan; Michele Scannavini, President of ICE Agency and Claudio Marenzi, President of SMI. “We took a chance and were rewarded by the market. The day before the opening I would have considered a 10 per cent decline in attendance successful, but instead, results are in line with the September 2016 edition, thanks, especially, to the good performance in terms of the participation of international buyers. The doubling of their visiting time is the true confirmation of the strategic importance of the anticipated dates. A winning move that was well received by our exhibitors and we are grateful to have the chance to make this available to the entire Made-in-Italy supply chain,” said Poala.
He said next year the show will take place from July 10-12. Poala reiterated the need for taking necessary risks as entrepreneurs, to face the emerging and rapid changes in the market. He said errors can occur when one tries new things, but it is much worse to hold one’s ground and refuse to implement new innovative solutions..
Concluding remarks
The general satisfaction recorded among exhibitors and visitors regarding the quality of the offering and services provided was good. “We know we can count on a proven team that does not fear innovation. Also, we can count on the collaboration and flexibility of our suppliers and, in particular, of Fiera Milano. And, last but not least, we can always count on the support of ICE Agency, which, on the occasion, also ensured the participation of an important delegation of buyers coming from China, Japan, Korea, USA and Russia,” said Massimo Mosiello, General Director of Milano Unica, Head of Operations of the textiles and accessories trade show since the first edition. The 12th edition of Milano Unica China will be held from October 11-13, 2017 in Shanghai and the 26th edition of Milano Unica will be held February 6-8, 2018 at Fieramilano Rho.
"Small Orders is a buyer-oriented online sourcing platform creating new business opportunities and flexibility for direct sourcing of quality products in small quantities. With 50 years experience in connecting global buyers and suppliers, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) understands the importance of trust in online sourcing. With suppliers’ information being authenticated and their certificates being verified, buyers can relax knowing well they are dealing with trustworthy companies when they source quality products, or services thus creating new business opportunities and flexibility in direct sourcing of quality products from the Small-Order Zone."
Small Orders is a buyer-oriented online sourcing platform creating new business opportunities and flexibility for direct sourcing of quality products in small quantities. With 50 years experience in connecting global buyers and suppliers, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) understands the importance of trust in online sourcing. With suppliers’ information being authenticated and their certificates being verified, buyers can relax knowing well they are dealing with trustworthy companies when they source quality products, or services thus creating new business opportunities and flexibility in direct sourcing of quality products from the Small-Order Zone.
Focus on Small Order Zone’s
Highlights of this zone are: High quality products from trustworthy and reliable suppliers; Unit price and MOQ readily available; Instant payment and shipping arrangement available for selected products; Direct dealing with verified suppliers; ‘Buy Now’ services are available for selected products for instant orders and payment and; online payment is processed and protected by PayPal.
HKTDC has recognised the need and the enigmatic power of this emerging trend. Therefore, it also goes without saying that ‘Small Order Zone’ is the most timely initiative of this global event and continues to be the focus area for the organisers for the last couple of show. It surely has caught the fancy of buyers with features like quick turnaround time to reduce inventory and save operational costs. HKTDC has taken the initiative to serve as a convenient platform for buyers to source in smaller quantities ranging between 5 to 1000 pieces per order.
Feedback records, ‘Small Orders zone is excellent. All markets are not as big when compared to the US or Western Europe, so having products available in small quantities allows buyers to source a greater variety of items at an affordable price.’ So for niche buyers, small boutiques and fashionistas among others, it is great news. As this differentiated approach helps them reduce business risk/inventory carrying cost and hedges them against long term uncertainty and this makes it a viable proposition and ensures sustainable business profits and for the end consumer it can create wow factor.
Case in point is wonderfully curated women lingerie where every single piece is uniquely different and is delectably exquisite. Such as Tung Shun Manufacturing that had been displayed in this exciting section.
