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North Carolina-based Unifi has launched a new abrasion-resistant yarn designed for ultimate durability in tactical applications.
Called ‘Fortisyn,’ this yarn gives fabrics enhanced tear and tensile strength, providing a tough solution for military and first responder uniforms and tactical gear. Made in the US, Fortisyn meets the needs of Berry Amendment compliance.
Fabrics made with Fortisyn can handle exposure to harsh conditions and rough use while aksi retaining their shape, function, and look over time. The yarn is available in nylon 6.6 and Repreve nylon, a recycled type 6 circular nylon made from post-industrial yarn waste.
Solution-dyed for better color retention and made with Repreve nylon, Fortisyn is fully traceable with FiberPrint technology and certified by U-Trust, along with Oeko-Tex, GRS, and SCS certifications for its recycled content.
Working with mills and strategic partners, Fortisyn has undergone tough fabric testing to prove its outstanding performance, says Eddie Ingle, CEO, Unifi. Its launch expands the use of recycled, circular technology yarns into the most demanding applications, he adds.
A specialist in mechanical recycling for cotton and cotton-polyester blends, Recover has entered into a joint venture with local manufacturer Intradeco to boost production of recycled cotton fibers in Central America by setting up a production facility in El Salvador.
Located close to Central American textile waste and production streams, the 75,400-sq-ft facility will house production lines, a warehouse, research labs, and offices for support functions, and will open in H2, FY25. Some of initial production of this facility will be managed in the company’s home country of Spain. Its production capacity will increase to 12,500 metric tons by 2026-end.
Besides allowing fast turnaround times for textile producers in the Americas, the facility will also benefit companies looking to shrink their carbon footprint in transport, those nearshoring their operations, and those seeking flexibility in an increasingly risky trade environment.
Sourcing feedstock from Central America will also help US textile and apparel manufacturers ensure compliance with the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) and will support secured traceability for companies to back up their supply chain claims.
Central America has become increasingly vital due to its nearness to major markets, especially the US. This joint venture between Recover and Intradeco, along with its vertical supply chains, allows companies to supply recycled cotton products directly from the region, enabling quick and flexible supply chains, thus cutting lead times, costs, and environmental impact, says Anders Sjoblom, CEO, Recover.
Major non-American-based brands either have, or are setting up, sourcing operations in Central America to serve nearby countries, which really validates this move for us. The region has become increasingly important over the past few years due to the global disruptions we’ve witnessed, he adds.
This joint venture is another step in Recover’s journey to enable large-scale sustainable change in fashion through business value and inspiration. Alongwith Intradeco, the brand aims to change global trend patterns and drive innovation and sustainability in the textile industry, states Sjöblom.
Jaime Miguel, CEO, Intradeco, affirms, in partnership with Recover, Intradeco aims to enhance its production capabilities and deliver high-quality recycled products at scale to customers. This partnership represents a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to sustainability, he adds.
This will be the fifth facility for Recover, following its factories in Spain, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, as well as Pakistan, which operates through a partner. Sjöblom said he has not yet seen immediate effects.
Compared to a net loss of Rs 1.65 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year, Minaxi Textiles reported a standalone net profit of Rs 0.71 crore in Q4, FY25. However, the company's revenue declined by 29.74 per cent to Rs 6.19 crore during the quarter from Rs 8.81 crore in the prior quarter of the last fiscal year.
For the full year ending in March 2025, Minaxi Textiles’ net loss narrowed to Rs 0.53 crore from the Rs 3.11 crore in the previous fiscal year. However, the company’s annual sales declined by 15.78 per cent to Rs 28.88 crore from Rs. 34.29 crore in FY24.
This performance suggests a recovery in profitability despite lower sales. Looking ahead, the company aims to focus on cost optimization and new market opportunities to support future revenue streams.
An India-based textile company, Minaxi Textiles is primarily involved in manufacturing cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. The company also weaves synthetic grey fabric for suiting and shirting. It supplies uniforms to semi-government and government organizations through contract bids. The company’s product range includes cotton quilts, Lycra suiting fabric, satin fabric, and broken twill fabric.
India's trade in apparel and home textiles with the United Kingdom is set to double in volume within the next five to six years, projects a new report by the credit rating agency ICRA.
This significant growth is expected due to the recently finalized Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries, which is anticipated to become operational in calendar year 2026, pending legal review.
The UK and India concluded their Free Trade Agreement on May 6 after roughly three years of negotiations. According to the agreement's terms, India will reduce tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods, with 85 per cent becoming completely duty-free over a ten-year period.
In return, Britain has agreed to eliminate duties on 99 per cent of India's exports to the UK. Currently, the trade between the two nations accounts for only about 2 per cent of India's total trade, indicating considerable untapped potential given the economic size and capabilities of both countries.
At present, India ranks as the UK's 12th largest trading partner overall and holds the fifth position specifically for apparel and home textile imports.
In calendar year 2024, the UK imported $1.4 billion worth of apparel and home textiles from India, representing a 6.6 percent share of the UK's total textile imports.
The United States and the European Union remain the primary export destinations for Indian apparel and home textiles, collectively accounting for 61 per cent of exports in CY2024.
The UK's share has remained relatively stable at 7-8 percent over the past five years with flat growth. However, this figure is projected to increase substantially to 11-12 per cent by CY2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 11 per cent between 2024 and 2027.
Currently, the UK imposes an 8-12 per cent duty on apparel and home textiles imported from India. With the elimination of tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian goods, including textiles, manufacturers are expected to significantly increase production capacity over the next 4-5 years to fulfill anticipated orders.
China currently dominates as the largest apparel and home textile exporter to the UK with a 25 per cent market share in 2024, followed by Bangladesh (22 per cent), Turkey (8 per cent), and Pakistan (6.8 per cent).
Once the FTA is implemented, India will gain zero-duty access for its apparel and home textile exports, creating a level playing field with countries that already enjoy duty-free status, such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Pakistan.
Textile entrepreneurs are voicing concerns over Bangladesh Government’s decision to eliminate the reduced 15 per cent tax rate arguing that the industry is already grappling with ongoing gas and electricity shortages, and a higher tax rate would only worsen their struggles.
Bangladesh Government plans to eliminate the reduced 15 per cent tax rate for textile businesses in the upcoming fiscal year, moving away from tax exemptions, according to officials at the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Under the new budget, the textile sector will face the standard corporate tax rate of 27.5 per cent. However, companies listed on the stock market will benefit from a slightly lower rate of 22.5 per cent, as per NBR officials. Additionally, a 2 per cent advance income tax (AIT) may be levied on imported raw materials like cotton and man-made fibers.
Rising costs over the past two years have significantly impacted profitability in the sector, says Saleudh Zaman Khan, Vice President, Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA). In such a situation, if taxes are increased, many businesses will find it difficult to survive, he adds.
A senior NBR official, involved in budget formulation and speaking anonymously, confirms, there are no plans to extend the reduced tax rate benefit for the textile sector that is set to expire on June 30 of this year. Hence, companies in this sector will have to pay the regular tax rate going forward. This move is part of the government's effort to phase out tax exemptions and boost revenue collection, he notes.
However, the existing reduced tax rate for RMG exporters, currently capped at 12 per cent, may be retained for another two years. These companies are entitled to benefits under the sunset clause until 2028, limiting the scope for early withdrawal.
Dr Syed Md Aminul Karim, former NBR member, states, for years, the government has allowed the textile and garment sectors to pay taxes at reduced rates. But now, it's time to gradually shift them to regular tax rates.
The BTMA represents 1,854 textile mills, with 58 of them listed on the stock market. Approximately $22 billion has been invested in this sector.
At the recent World Retail Congress 2025 in London, Helena Helmersson, Chairperson, Circulose and former CEO, H&M Group, urged all brands to refocus on sustainability. Helmersson acknowledged, focus on sustainability has diminished due to various reasons like the pandemic, inflation, wars, artificial intelligence (AI), etc. All these factors have diverted attention from sustainability, as it was no longer perceived as the biggest challenge facing companies.
However, there was no need to despair, Helemersson emphasized. She cited the example of the framework and graphical representation, Gartner Hype Cycle to illustrate the specific path followed by trends: from initial hype to unmet expectations, disillusionment, before stabilizing and achieving long-term implementation. The industry is currently in the ‘valley of disillusionment’ regarding sustainability, Helmersson noted. Their progress is slow with skepticism amongst consumers increasing due to rising broken promises from companies.
To break this cycle, the industry needs to bridge the gap between sustainability and profitability, Helmersson opined. For example, it needs to remove pressure on profitability during the purchasing process, she added.
Companies need to also focus on meeting practical needs to win over the disillusioned consumers, Helmersson asserted. She cited the example of the second-hand platform Sellpy which helps consumers declutter their wardrobes and is also pocket-friendly.
Companies must allow room internally for achieving goals, and form long-term partnerships, Helmersson noted. There must be coordination and investment with a long-term perspective, she added.
Kering and Balenciaga have announced the appointment of Pierpaolo Piccioli as the new Creative Director of Balenciaga, effective July 10, 2025. A celebrated designer known for his mastery of Haute Couture, Piccioli will succeed Demna, who led the fashion house for the past decade. His debut collection is scheduled for October 2025.
Piccioli, former Creative Director at Valentino, brings a distinctive creative vision and deep respect for craftsmanship to the Parisian brand. In a statement, Francesca Bellettini, Kering’s Deputy CEO for Brand Development, praised Piccioli’s creative voice and passion for savoir-faire, calling him ‘the ideal choice’ to take the house into its next chapter. She also thanked Demna for his transformative leadership, which shaped Balenciaga’s modern identity.
Gianfranco Gianangeli, CEO of Balenciaga, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating that Piccioli’s interpretation of the house’s rich heritage and bold spirit will usher in a dynamic new era.
Piccioli acknowledged the legacy he inherits, crediting Demna for his impactful vision. “Balenciaga is a brand full of possibilities. I’m honoured to carry forward its evolving aesthetic,” he said. “This is a passing of the torch I deeply respect, and I’m eager to shape a new chapter of the Maison.”
With creative alignment from the start, the partnership is poised to blend Balenciaga’s storied past with Piccioli’s refined couture sensibility. Industry watchers now await the unveiling of his first collection, expected to mark a stylistic shift while honouring Cristóbal Balenciaga’s legacy.
Across Europe, pre-owned garments are shedding their ‘used’ label and stepping into the spotlight as a mainstream force. A new study by the Circular Fashion Federation in collaboration with KPMG highlights the secondhand market is ready for significant growth. The report projects the resale apparel sector across the continent will grow from €15.9 billion in 2024 to €26 billion by 2030, at an average annual growth rate of 8.5 per cent. This growth is being due to in part, by proactive policy initiatives at both the European Union and national levels, revealing a systemic shift towards a more circular economy.
France leads the charge, Spain set for fastest growth
Currently at the forefront of secondhand’s rise in the continent is France, which generated 26 per cent of Europe's total secondhand fashion revenue in 2024, which was almost €4.1 billion. While France's market share is projected to slightly adjust to 24 per cent by 2030, its revenue is still expected to climb to €6.3 billion, at an annual growth rate of 7.4 per cent.
However, the study highlights Spain as the market to watch, forecasting the most rapid expansion in the secondhand sector with an average annual growth rate of 8.1 per cent over the decade from 2024 to 2034. This high growth is largely attributed to the enthusiastic adoption of resale by younger generations within the country. Italy is also showing strong momentum, with a projected annual growth rate of 7.4 per cent, pushed up by its well-established e-commerce infrastructure.
Germany, on the other hand, is anticipated to experience a more moderate growth rate of 5.4 per cent annually. Interestingly, the UK, despite having a mature and established resale market, is projected to see a 4 per cent annual decline in secondhand fashion sales in coming years, suggesting a potential shift in consumer behavior or market dynamics.
Table: Europe's secondhand fashion market in 2024
|
Country |
Revenue (€ bn) 2024 |
Projected revenue in 2030 (€ bn) |
Market share (%) 2024 |
Projected market share (%) 2030 |
Average annual growth rate (2024-2030/34) |
|
France |
4.1 |
6.3 |
26 |
24 |
7.40% |
|
Spain |
- |
- |
- |
- |
8.1% (2024-2034) |
|
Italy |
- |
- |
- |
- |
7.40% |
|
Germany |
- |
- |
- |
- |
5.40% |
|
United Kingdom |
- |
- |
- |
- |
-4% |
|
Europe Total |
15.9 |
26 |
100 |
100 |
8.50% |
Employment growth and physical retail
The secondhand market is not just about economic growth; it's also a significant job creator. The study reveals approximately 119,000 people are currently employed within Europe's secondhand fashion sector. Projections reveal additional 75,000 jobs will generated by 2030, showcasing the sector's economic importance.
Interestingly, despite the rise of online platforms, physical retail such as thrift stores and branded resale stores continue to dominate secondhand purchases. Almost 81 per cent of all secondhand sale currently occur in brick-and-mortar stores, only 19 per cent is online via dedicated secondhand platforms or brands' own resale initiatives. This highlights the continued importance of physical spaces for secondhand sale.
The environmental imperative
The study sheds light on the key drivers behind consumers' attraction of secondhand fashion. While price is a significant factor, environmental consciousness is playing an increasingly crucial role. The report emphasizes the environmental benefits of choosing pre-owned clothing, stating, "Reuse is a key lever for reducing environmental impact: buying a secondhand garment extends its lifespan by an average of 2.2 years, which can reduce its carbon, water, and waste footprint by up to 73 per cent." This underscores the potential of the secondhand market to contribute to a sustainable fashion.
The rise of rental and repair
Beyond resale, the study also examines the growing, albeit smaller, segments of clothing rental and repair. Currently only 0.3 per cent of the global apparel market, is rental but its expected to grow, particularly in the children's wear sector. However, the report notes shifts in consumer behavior are necessary to overcome existing barriers and boost rental services. In contrast, the apparel and footwear repair market is already seeing good growth, particularly in France, where a national incentive program launched in late 2023 has given a boost to this segment. Across Europe, the repair market has grown from €2.2 billion in 2020 to €2.7 billion in 2024, at an annual growth rate of 5.5 per cent. Within this segment, sneaker and shoe repairs are predicted to be the fastest-growing category. The study highlights "repairing an item instead of replacing it can reduce CO₂ emissions by 30 per cent and extend its lifespan by 70 per cent."
France leads the repair revolution
The French apparel repair market is projected to grow at 7.4 per cent annually. Across Europe, this segment is expected to reach €3.7 billion by 2030, at 5. 5 per cent average growth. France's contribution to this growth is substantial, anticipated to rise from €1 billion in 2024 to €1.6 billion within the next five years that is almost 40 per cent of the total European repair market. This growth is also expected to generate around 10,000 new jobs across the region, 3,000 in France alone.
Textile recycling, a steady path
Textile recycling (excluding footwear) is projected to see modest growth. The study suggests without additional public incentives, expansion in this sector will remain limited. The European market for textile recycling is expected to grow from €1.4 billion in 2024 to €1.6 billion by 2030, with France's share at around €249 million within this time. Despite existing technical and infrastructure-related challenges, the sector still holds the potential to generate over 3,500 new jobs.
Circular fashion's growing footprint
When considering all aspects of circular fashion – including resale, repair, rental, and recycling – the sector was a €20 billion market in Europe in 2024. By 2030, this figure is projected to reach €31.3 billion, reflecting at an average annual growth rate of 7.7 per cent. France, currently valued at €5.4 billion across all circular fashion segments, is expected to reach €8.2 billion by the end of the forecast period.
The Circular Fashion Federation emphasizes these circular business models are no longer niche alternatives but rather "concrete tools to meet consumer expectations, enhance environmental performance, anticipate regulatory requirements, and unlock new avenues of growth" for brands. However, the federation stresses that achieving meaningful transformation requires a concerted and collaborative effort involving brands, retailers, policymakers, and consumers alike. The projected growth of Europe's secondhand fashion market and the broader circular economy signals a fundamental shift in how fashion is consumed and valued, paving the way for a more sustainable and economically vibrant future for the industry.
MarediModa Miami, taking place from May 31 to June 2 at the Cabana Show during Miami Swim Week, will spotlight top-tier European fabric makers from Italy and Spain. As the US ramps up tariffs on Asian imports, European textile companies see a chance to position themselves as premium, ethical alternatives.
"Despite widespread global uncertainty, we’re reaffirming our presence in Miami," said Claudio Taiana, President of MarediModa. "Our fabrics are gaining appreciation as brands reevaluate their supply chains. The US is a vital, long-standing partner for us, and it’s important to invest in this relationship now more than ever."
The showcase arrives at a time of mounting tension in the global apparel industry. Chinese companies have launched viral campaigns on social media, accusing major global brands of unethical sourcing. While many of these claims remain unverified, they have stirred intense scrutiny around the true origins of luxury products.
This backlash has fueled growing consumer demand for transparency and ethics in fashion something MarediModa’s participants hope to address by promoting Made in Europe products as both sustainable and traceable. With shifting trade policies and growing ethical awareness, MarediModa sees an opportunity to help reconfigure the global supply chain.
As US brands search for alternatives to Asian manufacturing, the European fabric sector is ready to offer creative excellence, supply reliability, and a strong ethical foundation all on display at MarediModa Miami.
Registration is now open for Autumn Fair 2025, the UK’s largest seasonal trade show for the Home, Gift and Fashion sectors. Set to take place from 7-10 September at the NEC Birmingham, the show will cater to retailers gearing up for the critical golden quarter of retail. This year’s edition arrives with a new look, a record-breaking exhibitor line-up, and a host of product launches.
Over 70 per cent of attendees are independent retailers, highlighting Autumn Fair’s role as a key sourcing hub. Buyers from more than 12,000 stores, including boutiques, department stores and high-street names, will attend to discover new products and restock for the peak season.
This year features a strong line-up of new-to-show and exclusive brands, including Bedeck, Cosz Enterprise, Excalibur Sports, Panya Global, Killstar, Serena Atelier, and Arya Jewellery among many others. A major new addition is the debut of the Taste at Autumn Fair Pavilion, focused on food gifting and artisan consumables, featuring sampling stations and curated experiences.
The show will be divided into ten distinct zones including Home, Gift, Beauty, Kids, Fashion, Jewellery, and more. Co-located with Source Home & Gift, the fair offers a full sourcing journey from artisan creators to global suppliers.
Special highlights include five New Business Pavilions and the Greeting Card Association’s Debut Zone for emerging publishers. Educational sessions, networking opportunities, and a dedicated Buyers Lounge round out the visitor experience, reinforcing Autumn Fair as an essential event for UK retail success.
