Vietnam textile and garment sector devises new growth strategies
Vietnam's garment and textile sector is actively implementing certain strategies to boost production and business operations amidst formidable challenges including dwindling demand, mounting inventory, and geopolitical unrest across various regions.
Enterprises within the sector have reported an influx of export orders, albeit with no corresponding improvement in prices. The value of several contracts has decreased by 30-50 per cent. Additionally, speculation and logistical hurdles are expected to boost cotton prices across the sector. Vietnamese firms are also grappling with fierce competition in the Chinese market, where domestic production is bolstered by tax incentives and support policies.
Cao Huu Hieu, General Director, Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (Vinatex), says, it is important to seize these opportunities, make informed forecasts, and stay abreast of the evolving situation to take timely action. He advocates for a thorough restructuring of organisations, adoption of advanced management techniques, and prioritisation of projects aimed at enhancing productivity.
Echoeing this sentiment, Le Tien Truong, Chairman, Vinatex, highlights, these obstacles present ample opportunities for firms with robust business strategies, diversified product offerings, active engagement in the supply chain, and a strategic approach towards the digital and green economies. The association pledges to closely monitor market trends and member operations, devising flexible and innovative measures to develop products and explore new markets to ensure sustained business efficiency.
Nguyen Xuan Duong, Chairman, Hung Yen Garment Corporation Joint Stock Company, underscores the challenges faced by firms due to high input costs and workforce transitions to other markets such as South Korea and Japan. Moreover, the sector contends with a global demand downturn of 5-10 per cent, compounded by the risk of major fashion brands facing bankruptcy, resulting in substantial losses for Vietnamese firms.
Duong urges relevant ministries and sectors to enact policies facilitating access to capital for enterprises to strengthen investment and bolster production. He also emphasises the need for assistance programs to improve workers' livelihoods.
Despite these challenges during January to March, Vietnam’s garment and textile exports expanded by 10 per cent Y-o-Y to reach approximately $10 billion. This growth serves as a beacon of hope for enterprises striving to achieve the set target of $44 billion for the entire year.
Tomra Textiles teams up with Circle-8 Textile Ecosystems for a textile sorting facility
Norway based-Tomra Textiles and London-located Circle-8 Textile Ecosystems have teamed up to advance the first automated textiles sorting and pre-processing facility for non-reusable waste textiles in the UK.
The companies will conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to design a scalable automated textile sorting and pre-processing facility. Leveraging Tomra's expertise and experience, Circle-8 aims to develop solution designs tailored to the UK's needs for an automated sorting and pre-processing facility for non-reusable textiles.
A key member of ACT UK, Circle-8 is actively engaged with stakeholders across the textile value chain to foster a circular textiles ecosystem. Tomra brings invaluable insights from its involvement as the main technology provider for SIPtex, the world's first fully scaled automated textile sorting facility, located in Malmö, Sweden. Drawing from lessons learned in this project, Tomra is committed to optimizing and reconfiguring its technology for industrial-scale sorting of post-consumer garments. The feasibility study seeks to devise an automated solution capable of sorting textiles by fiber composition and color, as well as removing disruptors such as buttons, zippers, and trims, while preparing materials for textile-to-textile recycling processes.
Cyndi Rhoades, Co-founder and CEO, Circle-8 Textile Ecosystems, emphasises the critical role of automated sorting and pre-processing in creating a truly circular textiles value chain. She asserts the collaboration with Tomra will highlight the potential for positive progress in this endeavor.
Vibeke Krohn, Head, Tomra Textiles, stresses the importance of collaboration across the value chain, citing Tomra's extensive experience in developing technologies for the transition to circularity. Together with Circle-8 and its network of retailers and brands in the UK, Tomra aims to drive meaningful progress towards designing a solution for the sorting and pre-processing of non-reusable textiles.
Looming Iran-Israel conflict threatens to unravel global apparel trade
The already fragile global garment industry faces fresh challenges as tensions escalate between Iran and Israel. This adds another layer of disruption to a supply chain already strained by the Red Sea crisis and the war in Ukraine. The apparel industry being a complex web, and the Iran-Israel conflict presents a significant threat to its stability. Rising costs, declining demand, and shifting sourcing strategies could have long-term consequences for both producers and consumers. Analyzed below is the likely impact and the potential consequences of the conflict that’s threatening to loom larger.
Rising production costs, disruption in raw material supply
A full-blown war could send global oil prices soaring. This translates to higher shipping costs and production expenses for apparel manufacturers, especially in countries like Bangladesh that rely heavily on imports for raw materials and finished goods transportation. And the conflict could disrupt the flow of key raw materials like cotton and synthetic fibers. Iran is a significant producer of petrochemicals, essential for synthetic fiber production. Any disruption in supplies could lead to shortages and price hikes.
Consumer behavior and declining demand
The rising production costs will likely be passed on to consumers through higher garment prices. This could lead to decreased demand, especially in a period of economic uncertainty. Consumers, increasingly aware of ethical sourcing and global events, might become more cautious about purchasing apparel produced in regions with heightened geopolitical tensions.
Impact on sourcing strategies for fashion brands, retailers; near shoring to accelerate
Fashion brands and retailers are likely to diversify their sourcing strategies to mitigate risks. This could lead to a decline in orders for countries like Bangladesh, further impacting their garment industry. The trend of near-shoring, where companies source from geographically closer countries, might accelerate. This could benefit countries like Turkey and Vietnam, located closer to major European markets. Further, brands might increase their inventory levels to buffer against potential supply chain disruptions caused by the conflict.
The broader impact
Loss of Momentum for countries like Bangladesh, where apparel exports is a major foreign currency earner, it was just beginning to recover from the pandemic and the Ukraine war. This new conflict could derail their progress. The ongoing tensions could also hamper efforts to expand the garment sector's reach into emerging Middle Eastern markets like Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Ilegal garments worth $2.9 million imported into Indonesia every year: API
The value of illegal garments imported in to Indonesia is projected to have increased to $2.9 billion per year with around 3 million pieces imported every day, says Ian Syarif, Chairman-West Java branch, Association of Indonesian Textiles (API).
According to Syarif, this rise of illegal clothing imports is impacting domestic apparel sales in Indonesia. Apparel exporters in the country are currently being compelled to pay an import duty of Rp-20,000-70,000 per piece to sell their garments, notes Redma Gita Wirawata, Chairman, Indonesian Filament Fiber Association (APSyFI).
Against this, imported clothing is being sold on ecommerce websites at Rp 40,000-50,000. This is possible only if they have not paid import duties, adds Wirawata.
Archroma & DMIx collaborate for fashion's colorful, sustainable workflow
In a strategic alliance set to redefine color management in the textile industry, Archroma, a leading provider of sustainable specialty chemicals, and ColorDigital GmbH, the innovator behind DMIx textile supply chain digitalization, have joined forces. This collaboration will seamlessly integrate Archroma's Color Atlas, boasting 5,760 engineered color standards, into ColorDigital's DMIx platform.
By incorporating Archroma's Color Atlas into DMIx, fashion brands and suppliers gain access to an extensive library of color references, fostering unparalleled creativity while ensuring precision. Leveraging digital twin technology, DMIx streamlines color alignment across the design, sourcing, and production phases, slashing sampling costs and development time while enhancing color accuracy and product quality.
Central to this partnership is a shared commitment to sustainability. Archroma's Color Atlas hues comply with leading eco-standards, aligning with DMIx's ImpAct approach, which provides crucial environmental data on raw materials. This synergy empowers brands to select inputs that meet their sustainability objectives without compromising on color integrity.
Chris Hipps, Global Head of Archroma Color Management, emphasized the shared ethos, stating that Archroma takes a 'Planet Conscious' approach to color and aims to empower designers to make sustainable choices. Similarly, Gerd Willschütz, COO and Co-Founder of ColorDigital, highlighted the transformative potential of strategic color management in driving commercial success.
A highlight of the collaboration is the introduction of DMIx eXcite, an innovative hub for material and color trends. Through interactive mood boards, designers gain insight into upcoming trends, directly utilizing colors from Archroma's Color Atlas for enhanced creativity and efficiency.
This partnership not only streamlines color development and production processes but also underscores a shared commitment to environmental responsibility. Archroma's Color Management+ solution, featuring the Color Atlas, paves the way for a more sustainable future in textiles and fashion.
Kraig Labs launches successful spider silk trials in SE Asia
Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc.strides forward in its quest for cutting-edge biomaterials as it commences spring production trials for its latest breakthrough, the BAM-1 hybrid. The trials, crucial to the Company's trajectory, are proceeding according to plan, marking a significant milestone in its production roadmap.
CEO Kim Thompson's direct oversight in Asia underscores the strategic importance of the BAM-1 parental strains' performance evaluation. Notably, meticulous health screenings reveal an unprecedented vigor and vitality among the silkworm colonies, attributed to the enhanced genetics and resilience of the BAM-1 strains.
The absence of disease signals a triumph for Kraig Labs, a testament to its commitment to excellence. Nirmal Kumar's contributions in knowledge transfer and rearing technology bolster this success, amplifying prospects for a record-breaking year in spider silk production.
Thompson's optimism resonates as he underscores the pivotal role of these trials in shaping the Company's future. With Kumar's on-ground support, Kraig Labs is poised for a breakthrough, aligning with its vision for commercial-scale spider silk production. As the industry eagerly awaits further developments, Kraig Biocraft Laboratories stands at the forefront of innovation, poised to redefine biomaterials as we know them.
YKK shifts to low-carbon aluminum for eco-friendly zippers
YKK Corporation is embarking on a significant shift towards eco-friendly practices by introducing low-carbon aluminum into its production of zippers. This move marks a strategic step towards fulfilling its Sustainability Vision 2050, aimed at achieving climate neutrality.
Collaborating with Sumitomo Electric Industries and Sumitomo Electric Toyama, YKK has committed to purchasing alloy wires utilizing low-carbon aluminum, gradually transitioning from conventional materials.
Aligned with its ambitious sustainability goals, YKK aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain. By adopting low-carbon aluminum for zipper production, the company endeavors to slash Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by significant margins by 2030. This initiative underscores YKK's dedication to mitigating climate change and fostering a more sustainable society.
Terry Tsukumo, Vice President of the Product Strategy Division at YKK Corporation, emphasizes the company's ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. Tsukumo highlights YKK's multi-faceted approach, which includes integrating recycled and plant-based materials alongside the introduction of low-carbon aluminum.
This concerted effort reflects YKK's determination to minimize its environmental footprint while collaborating with partners to drive sustainability throughout the supply chain.
Nitin Spinners wins Texprocil awards for export & employment
Nitin Spinners Ltd has clinched prestigious awards at the Cotton-Textiles Export Promotion Council (Texprocil) for its exemplary performance in export and employment generation. The company secured the following accolades for the years 2021-22 and 2022-23:
In 2021-22, Nitin Spinners received the Silver Trophy for achieving the second-highest exports of Cotton Yarn of Counts 50s and below in Category III.
In 2022-23, the company marked a significant achievement by bagging the Gold Trophy for the highest exports of Cotton Yarn of Counts 50s and below in Category III. Additionally, they received a Gold Plaque for leading in exports of Cotton Yarn of Counts 51s and above in Category I, and another Gold Trophy for top-notch performance in employment generation.
This recognition underscores Nitin Spinners' commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in bolstering India's textile export sector. The news buoyed investor sentiment, reflecting positively on the company's stock performance. Nitin Spinners Limited's shares closed marginally lower at Rs 351.80 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) following the announcement, after trading 11770 shares across 672 transactions during the day.
Fabric Stock Services: A rising trend but not a replacement
The fashion industry is notorious for waste. Unsold garments and excess fabric often end up in landfills. Fabric stock services are emerging as a potential solution, offering a platform for manufacturers and designers to buy and sell leftover materials. But is this a new trend poised to dominate, or a niche market with limitations?
Growth and potential
Data suggests a growing market for fabric stock services. A report by Textile Exchange suggests the global market for recycled textiles is expected to reach $21.8 billion by 2025. Fabric stock services offer a way to tap into this trend by giving pre-existing fabrics a second life.
Studies show, a growing interest in fabric stock services. Indeed, concrete sales figures are difficult to obtain due to the industry's fragmented nature, anecdotal evidence and the increasing presence of online platforms dedicated to fabric stock point towards a positive trend. Companies like Fabric Stock Exchange report a constant influx of new fabrics, indicating a growing pool of excess inventory.
A change driver
Direct comparisons between stock service sales and traditional manufacturing are challenging due to different business models. However, the rise of sustainability concerns and the ever-changing fashion landscape make stock services an attractive option.
Stock services offer a sustainable solution by giving these materials a second life. "We are diverting tons of fabric from landfills," says Michael Goldberg, CEO of Fabcycle, a prominent fabric stock service company. Veja, a sustainable sneaker brand, is a prime example of how stock services can work. Veja utilizes fabric stock services to source deadstock materials for their footwear. This allows them to create unique designs while minimizing environmental impact
As Sarah Jones, a fashion sustainability consultant points out, "Fabric stock services offer a win-win situation. Manufacturers can recoup costs from leftover materials, while designers gain access to unique fabrics at potentially lower prices, all while promoting sustainability." The push for sustainable practices and rising consumer demand for eco-conscious clothing are key drivers of this trend.
So what’s pushing this change? Sustainability is top reason as it reduces textile waste by giving leftover materials a second life. Cost-effectiveness is another driver as manufacturers can access high-quality fabrics at discounted prices. Reduced lead times is another lure, as stock services offer readily available fabrics, allowing for faster production cycles.
Currently, stock services primarily cater to small and mid-sized businesses, who benefit from access to premium materials without minimum order quantities. Also, sustainable designers source eco-friendly materials for their collections. The variety of fabrics available through stock services is vast. From natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool to synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon and blends.
The future of fabric stock services
The future of fabric stock services holds a lot of promise. As sustainability concerns escalate and the fashion industry seeks more agile solutions, these services are likely to see continued growth. Additionally, advancements in online platforms and data analysis could further streamline the process, making it even more accessible.
However, challenges remain. Standardization and quality control across different platforms need improvement. Also, educating both manufacturers and consumers about the benefits of stock services is crucial for wider adoption. What’s more selection is limited. Stock services typically offer a broader range of colors and patterns for basic fabrics like cotton or linen. Finding specialty or high-end materials like silk or intricate lace might be challenging. Since stock relies on leftover materials, designers may have difficulty planning large-scale productions around specific fabrics
Overall, fabric stock services offer a compelling solution for a more sustainable and efficient textile industry. The traditional ‘manufacture and sell’ model will likely persist for large, mainstream fashion brands requiring consistent fabric availability. However, fabric stock services offer a complementary approach, promoting sustainability and fostering creativity within the fashion industry. As the industry evolves, these services are likely to play an increasingly important role.
Dolce & Gabbana to expand Middle East presence with a store in Saudi Arabia
Having established a firm presence in the Middle East, Dolce & Gabbana now aims to swiftly expand in the region by focusing on Saudi Arabia which has relatively lesser luxury retail spaces.
Dolce & Gabbana has significant opportunities to expand in Saudi Arabia as the luxury market there is projected to double by 2030. The brand currently operates four shops in Saudi Arabia. One of its latest ventures includes a sizable shop in Riyadh to offer a wide range of collection, including homeware and beauty products.
One of the brand's most ambitious projects includes a flagship store in the Bujairi Terrace Complex in Diriyah, Riyadh. The store will offer a comprehensive brand experience besides having an Italian-design inspired Café. It will feature an exclusive section of abayas, showcasing the brand's commitment to cultural diversity.
More...
CMAI’s FAB Show 2024 inaugurated with industry giants
The 4th edition of the Fabrics Accessories & Beyond Show 2024 (FAB Show), hosted by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), commenced with grandeur on April 15, 2024. Esteemed sourcing heads from renowned brands and retail majors, including Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail, Bestseller, Reliance Brands, Mufti, Pepe Jeans, Shoppers Stop, Soch, graced the event with their presence. The inauguration also saw the felicitation of regional trade associations such as The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Bangalore Apparel Manufacturers Association, among others.
A premier convergence hub
Set against the backdrop of the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO) in Mumbai, the FAB Show 2024, spanning from April 15 to 17, promises to be a pivotal event for the garments manufacturing supply chain. Over 200 fabric suppliers, leading accessories manufacturers, machinery suppliers, and service providers from across India converge to showcase the latest trends and innovations.
Catalyzing industry evolution
Mr Rajesh Masand, President of CMAI, expressed delight at the FAB Show's rapid ascent as the premier convergence hub for the industry. He emphasized its role in not just showcasing technological advancements but also in driving awareness about sustainability and understanding evolving consumer preferences. With over 4000 primary members of CMAI expected to attend, the event holds immense significance for shaping the future of the industry.
Driving sustainability initiatives
Amidst India's evolving textile landscape, a significant shift towards sustainability and eco-conscious practices is evident. The Sustainability Zone at the FAB Show serves as a beacon for promoting circularity and waste management innovations. Exhibitors showcase fabrics crafted from waste materials, highlighting CMAI's commitment to fostering sustainability within the garment industry.
Unparalleled networking opportunities
Naveen Sainani, Chairman of the FAB sub-committee, underscored the unmatched opportunities the FAB Show 2024 offers for industry vendors to connect with reputed buyers from India and abroad. Exhibitors present the newest fabric trends, providing brands with prime opportunities to cater to evolving consumer demands. The event also champions sustainability, reflecting CMAI's vision for a greener, more resilient world.
Showcasing regional excellence
A standout feature of the FAB Show 2024 is the Surat Pavilion, organized by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SGCCI). This pavilion brings together over 40 prominent fabric manufacturers from the region, including Grasim, Arvind, and Siyaram’s. Its presence reinforces the event's stature as a premier platform for the fashion and apparel industry.
Global participation
With expectations soaring high, the FAB Show 2024 anticipates a substantial turnout of more than 10,000 buyers and manufacturers from over 400 cities, along with international buyers from various countries including the USA, Bangladesh, and the UAE. This global participation underscores the event's significance on the international stage.
Dignitaries gracing the inauguration
CMAI dignitaries, including Rajesh Masand, President; Jayesh Shah, Vice-President; and Naveen Sainani, Chairman of FAB Show, among others, graced the inauguration ceremony. Their presence highlighted the collective commitment of industry leaders towards driving innovation and sustainability within the garment sector.
The FAB Show 2024 stands as not merely an exhibition but a testament to the industry's resilience, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. With a focus on fostering collaboration, driving awareness, and showcasing cutting-edge technologies, the event paves the way for a more vibrant and sustainable future for the garment industry.
Santoni to unveil new circular knitting machine at ITM 2024
Santoni plans to unveil its latest innovation – the SM8-TOP2ST at the upcoming ITM 2024 in Istanbul. This groundbreaking single jersey electronic circular knitting machine boasts 8 feeds and 2 points of selection needle-by-needle per feed, available in diameters ranging from 13 to 20 inches and in gauges 24, 26, and 28.
The pioneering mechatronic device of the machine transforms the Santoni SM8-TOP2V into the first-ever seamless knitting machine capable of producing garments with needle-by-needle/sinker-by-sinker selective terry, with full electronic selection of the sinkers. While retaining the core specifications and fabric possibilities of the TOP2V, this advancement empowers the machine to craft sculptured terry patterns with precision.
The resulting knitted tubular garments offer versatility in wear, with the option to don them conventionally with the terry on the inside, or to flaunt the terry on the outside by simply reversing them. The terry, whether nestled within or showcased outwardly, delivers both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Internally, the terry lends a cushioning effect, elevating softness, comfort, and breathability. Externally, it enhances the garment's visual appeal, adding an extra dimension to its aesthetics.
The selective terry capability opens doors to heightened value, particularly for technical garments, a glimpse of which will be showcased at ITM 2024. The accompanying images illustrate the intricate patterns achieved through precise needle positioning, underscoring the machine's prowess in creating tailored, high-performance apparel.
Tips-Implementing robust QC measures and automated inspection during fabric production
Maintaining consistent quality during fabric manufacturing not only ensures customer satisfaction, but also minimises waste and keeps production running smoothly. Given below are few tips to implement robust quality control (QC) measures and leverage technology for automated inspection during fabric production.
Implement Traditional QC Practices
Before diving into automation, a solid foundation of traditional QC practices is essential. Here are key elements:
• Define quality standards: Establish clear and measurable quality parameters for the fabrics including weight, thread count, color consistency, weave structure, and absence of defects like holes, tears, or uneven dyeing.
• Implement standardised testing: Implement standardised testing procedures throughout the production process. Conduct regular checks for yarn quality, tension control during the weaving process and analyse fabric post-production.
• Utilise Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques: Utilise SPC techniques to monitor key parameters and identify any trends or deviations from set standards. This enables early detection of potential quality issues.
• Training and documentation: Train your workforce on proper inspection techniques and ensure clear documentation of all QC procedures. This fosters consistency and reduces human error.
Leverage the Power of Automation
Fabric manufactures can leverage the following technologies to enhance their QC processes:
• Machine Vision Systems: Installed with high-resolution cameras and powerful software, these systems help identify defects like weaving errors, color variations, and stains. They also analyse fabrics in real-time, enabling manufacturers to take immediate corrective action.
• Automated Measurement Systems: These automated systems can be used to measure fabric weight, thickness, and dimensions with high accuracy. This helps eliminate human error besides ensuring consistent fabric properties.
• Sensor Integration: Manufacturers can integrate sensors into their weaving/knitting machines to monitor critical parameters like yarn tension and loom speed. They can prevent defects in the machine by making adjustments using real-time data.
• Data Analytics and AI: Manufacturers can utilise data analytics platforms to analyse QC data from various stages. This helps identify recurring issues, predict potential problems, and optimise production processes for better quality control.
• Integrate QC Systems with Production Management Systems: Fabric manufacturers can integrate their automated QC systems with production management software for seamless data flow, real-time quality monitoring, and informed decision-making.
Integrate Automation with Success
Here are some additional tips for successful automation of the fabric manufacturing process
• Take baby steps: Manufacturers should begin by automating specific QC tasks first. They can gradually integrate more automation into their process as the team gains more experience.
• Evaluate cost-benefit ratio: Manufacturers should evaluate the ratio between the cost of automation and it’s the potential benefits including improved efficiency, reduced waste, and higher quality.
• Invest in training: Train workforce to operate and maintain automated QC systems. This fosters the ownership culture of ownership and reduces dependence on external support.
• Data security: Protect sensitive QC data from being breached by implementing regularity security checks.
• Use insights for QC upgradation: Manufacturers need to embrace new technologies and use data insights to regularly update their QC procedures.
Fabric manufacturers can achieve exception quality and consistency by implementing a robust QC program that incorporates well-trained manual inspections and cutting-edge automation. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also optimises production efficiency, minimises waste, and strengthens brand reputation. Embracing automation is the future key for fabric manufacturers to maintain a competitive edge and deliver the flawless fabrics.
NBA launches maiden storefront for Bero
The NBA team is launching its inaugural brick-and-mortar storefront for Berō, its fashion label introduced in December.
Crafted by the Brooklyn Home Company, the storefront is located inside a converted 200-sq-ft concession stand within Barclays Center, echoing both the brand’s essence and the basketball team's Brooklyn heritage.
Stacey Walters, Director-Architecture, Brooklyn Home Company, elucidates, the store will evoke the ambiance of a heritage clothing brand, aligning seamlessly with the borough's ethos of quality.
Renowned for capturing Brooklyn's vibrant essence in its designs, the Brooklyn Home Company sought inspiration from the borough's iconic townhouses for the store. It boasts of wood paneling, marble counters, black limestone floors, and brass accents. Ambient lighting further adds an element of coziness to the store.
The new storefront will showcase Bero’s current line-up of apparel and accessories, featuring staples like pullover hoodies, quarter-zips, cardigans, coats, soccer jerseys, and more. It will also release a collection designed by Brooklyn Nets player Nic Claxton.
Looking ahead, the store plans to unveil an exciting collaboration between Berō, the Nets, and KidSuper in the fall. Additionally, it will launch a new apparel collection during the WNBA New York Liberty’s summer season.
