23/5/2025
UK consumer sentiment recovered slightly in May as economic growth gained momentum, according to British Retail Consortium (BRC) data. This marked an improvement from the previous month’s -48 but still indicated a negative outlook compared to March’s -35. The BRC-Opinium consumer sentiment monitor indicated retail spending was flat with the index reaching 0 in May, a slight decrease from +3 in April....
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23/5/2025
UK clothing and other non-food retail establishments saw a decline in retail sales volumes in April, which was in contrast to the increase enjoyed by most other sectors. UK retail sales volumes overall saw a 1.2% increase in April, according to the latest figures from the ONS Retail Sales Index. Sales volumes in non-food retail stores, which includes department stores, clothing outlets, household goods retailers, and other non-food establishments, decreased by 0.7% during the month. This decline was attributed to reductions in sales at clothing stores and other non-food retailers, including those specialising in sports equipment, games, and secondhand goods....
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23/5/2025
The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) describes the Closing the De Minimis Loophole Act, which aims to stop packages under $800 from being imported into the US without tariffs or inspection, as the "strongest and most comprehensive legislative solution". The “de minimis” entry process has allowed goods under $800 to bypass tariffs and undergo a simplified entry procedure. However, the increase in such shipments has overwhelmed Customs and Border Protection’s ability to screen out packages containing illegal substances like fentanyl precursors, counterfeit items, forced labour products, and other contraband. “This legislation closes a loophole in order to protect Americans from fentanyl and other illicit drugs that are flowing into our country. It also safeguards South Carolina manufacturers, ensuring they can remain competitive in the global market. I’m glad to work with my colleagues on this important effort,” Senator Lindsey Graham stated....
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23/5/2025
Sourcing clothing made with preferred fibres provides US fashion companies with new opportunities to diversify their existing sourcing base and explore emerging sourcing destinations outside of Asia. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of apparel production and consumption, a growing number of US fashion companies have announced the intention to use “preferred sustainable fibres” (or “preferred fibres”) in their apparel products....
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20/5/2025
In April 2025, the US consumer sentiment recorded a shift as confidence levels dipped, indicating potential headwinds for the economy. The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index revealed a sharp 7.9-point drop to 86.0 (1985=100), reflecting growing concerns about the future. This decline, largely due to deteriorating expectations, offers critical insights into evolving consumer behavior and its implications for the market....
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20/5/2025
The rental and resale fashion market continues to chip away at traditional sales so what will the fashion supply chain of the future look like and are brands ready for it? France, which is a leader in the world of fashion, has seen a shake-up in the way its consumers shop in recent years. In fact, a survey conducted by the French Fashion Institute (IFM) crowned secondhand fashion marketplace Vinted the country’s top clothing seller in the first quarter of 2025. University of Delaware professor of fashion and apparel studies, Dr Sheng Lu, explains the clothing rental and resale market has enjoyed notable growth in recent years and could continue to expand due to several factors....
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19/5/2025
Many fashion industry leaders are finding sustainability has taken a back seat as brands and retailers navigate staying profitable in a turbulent trading environment. I attended the incredible Leicester Made event last week where a plethora of local fashion manufacturers came to showcase their wares and capabilities, ultimately with one aim – to drive up UK fashion sourcing as bringing in goods from overseas continues to become more challenging....
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19/5/2025
The National Retail Federation says new data from the US Census Bureau shows shoppers continued to spend in April 2025 despite ongoing concerns over tariffs on imported goods.The Census Bureau said retail sales, including clothing, for April experienced a marginal seasonally adjusted increase of 0.1% from the previous month, while showing a significant unadjusted rise of 5.2% compared to the same period last year. This performance is in line with March’s figures, which also saw retail sales climb by 1.7% month over month and 5.2% year over year....
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16/5/2025
What developments can we expect to see in the apparel resale space to 2028 as tariffs hit and more retailers jump on the secondhand bandwagon? While global apparel sector growth is set to slow in the short term as a result of macroeconomic challenges, the resale market remains strong and between 2023 and 2028, is forecast to rise at a CAGR of 11.4% to reach $298.6m. Though a softer CAGR than the 16.3% achieved between 2018 and 2023 as the market is now more established, it is still set to outperform the apparel retail market which is only forecast to grow at a CAGR of 2.4%, according to GlobalData....
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16/5/2025
The US National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) has expressed support to the US proposal to end de minimis for commercial shipments from all countries by 2027.The US House Ways & Means Committee, the chief tax-writing committee in the House of Representatives, included a provision in the budget reconciliation bill that would eliminate de minimis entry privilege for commercial shipments permanently. According to Section 321 of the Tariff Act of 1930, shipments destined for businesses and consumers in the US with a value below $800 are permitted entry into the country without being subjected to duties and taxes....
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15/5/2025
The US consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) increased by 0.2 per cent on a seasonally-adjusted basis in April this year after falling by 0.1 per cent in March, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS). Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased by 2.3 per cent before seasonal adjustment after rising by 2.4 per cent over the 12 months ending March. The April change was the smallest 12-month increase in the all items index since February 2021....
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14/5/2025
Far too many fashion businesses still lack the operational agility to cope with trade uncertainty. The industry needs a reset — and that starts with digitisation, writes Coats Digital's managing director Kunal Kapur. The global fashion industry is now entrenched in a relentless cycle of trade uncertainty — and this time, no one can claim they didn’t see it coming. With the US importing more than 80% of its clothing and footwear, the shockwaves from new tariffs are already being felt across sourcing hubs. From Hanoi to Dhaka, and Shenzhen to Guatemala City, manufacturers are scrambling to riueroute orders, reduce overheads, and make sense of what’s quickly becoming a logistical minefield....
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13/5/2025
The National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates predict a downturn in import cargo volumes at major US container ports for the first time in more than 18 months due to the escalating impact of tariffs imposed on the supply chain. In March, US ports covered by Global Port Tracker processed 2.15m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU), an increase of 5.5% from February and an 11.3% increase from the previous year. However, projections for upcoming months indicate a reversal of this growth trend....
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13/5/2025
UK fashion sales experienced an uptick in April 2025 as shoppers updated their attire for the warmer weather following a period of lacklustre growth. The latest BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor data shows UK non-food sales, which includes clothing saw a 6.1% year-over-year increase in April. This figure was an improvement from the 6% decline in the same month of the previous year and surpassed both the three-month average increase of 2.1% and the 12-month average growth of 0.1%....
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12/5/2025
The US' reduction on tariffs against China is great news for the global fashion sector, but last week's UK-US trade deal that kept 10% tariffs across the board will be of grave concern for many other fashion sourcing countries. There was some positive news for fashion brands and retailers sourcing from China over the weekend as the US agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% for 90 days. But, the news was not so rosy for anyone sourcing from countries other than China....
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10/5/2025
In March 2025, textile and apparel (T&A) imports by the US declined by 4.8 per cent from February 2025 to 7.80 billion square meter equivalents (SME). However, from March 2024, T&A imports increased by 2.2 per cent. Latest data from OTEXA shows, textile imports by the US declined by 5.6 per cent to 6.22 billion SME in March 2025 but increased by 0.4 per cent Y-o-Y. Apparel imports declined by 2.4 per cent from February 2025 to 2.02 billion SME but rose by 7.8 per cent compared to the same period last year....
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9/5/2025
National Retail Federation chief economist Jack Kleinhenz has observed that concerns about the economic outlook are on the rise across the US, despite the absence of a recession following the implementation of tariffs by President Donald Trump. This sentiment persists even in light of ongoing advancements in employment and income levels. Kleinhenz says: “The possibility of a US recession in the near future has increased due to rising trade tensions and other economic factors, but it hasn’t happened yet.”...
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9/5/2025
US clothing and accessories sales witnessed a 1.14% increase in sales in April 2025, after adjusting for seasonal variations, as consumers made purchases ahead of anticipated tariff-driven price hikes. The US clothing and accessories category also saw a significant 5.14% rise in April compared to the same period last year without adjustments....
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9/5/2025
A UK-US trade agreement will have “limited” impact on the apparel and textile sectors of both nations industry onlookers say but could bring some stability into the trading environment. The US announced the trade agreement with the UK yesterday (8 May). Broadly, the agreement will not eliminate the 10% “reciprocal” tariff the US is imposing on imports from the UK, though British officials indicated that “work will continue” on that issue....
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8/5/2025
Fashion brands have an opportunity to not only reduce harm within the supply chain but to lead a market where consumers demand better, writes Scott Kelly, SVP Model Development at Risilience.
Fashion has a carbon problem. The industry is responsible for approximately 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing the combined emissions from all international flights and shipping freight. With complex, opaque supply chains and a fast-paced production model, prioritising volume over value, fashion contributes significantly to environmental degradation. It is also increasingly vulnerable to climate-related disruptions....
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7/5/2025
The allure of ultra-cheap clothing often masks the intricate economic and social factors that enable low prices. While online platforms tempt consumers with dresses priced as low as $5, a growing discourse examines the true cost, particularly when considering domestic production with fair labor practices and quality materials. Expert analyses reveal that ‘Made in USA’ tags could translate to significantly higher retail prices, exposing the hidden costs embedded within the current fast-fashion model....
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7/5/2025
The assertion that Americans in 2023 spent less than 3 per cent of their annual income on clothing, a significant drop from the 14 per cent seen in the first half of the 20th century, highlights a fundamental shift in consumer expenditure and behavior.
Why the dip in apparel expenditure
There are several reasons for falling household spending on clothing.
The falling cost of apparel: The most significant driver is the decrease in the relative cost of clothing. Tech advancements in textile production, globalization of supply chains, and the rise of mass manufacturing, particularly fast fashion, have made apparel significantly more affordable....
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6/5/2025
Egypt’s readymade garment exports rose by 24 per cent year on year (YoY) in the first quarter (Q1) this year to $812 million, according to data from the Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE). The council reported a particularly strong performance in February, with exports jumping by 35 per cent YoY to $276 million. January also saw steady growth, with exports rising by 11 per cent YoY to $274 million, up from $246 million in the previous year....
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3/5/2025
Egypt’s readymade garments (RMG) exports rose by 27 per cent year on year (YoY) to $262 million in March this year, according to the Apparel Export Council of Egypt, which aims at doubling exports by 2031 to $12 billion by expanding to African and Asian markets, leveraging Egypt’s trade agreements, enhancing value-added production and modernising manufacturing lines....
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2/5/2025
The US National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) has commended the Trump Administration's move to end the de minimis exemption for low-value shipments from China and Hong Kong, but urges him to extend this to all countries in the near future. The de minimis loophole has been linked to the shuttering of 28 textile mills over the last 22 months, according to NCTO president and CEO Kim Glas. She said: “We are grateful to President Trump and his administration for closing the destructive de minimis loophole that has allowed unsafe and illegal Chinese goods— including goods made with forced labour —to flood the US market duty-free and largely unchecked for years.”...
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2/5/2025
Digital wholesale platform Joor has found global fashion brands and retailers expect to raise prices by an average of 20% in response to new US trade tariffs. The Tariff Survey, conducted between 10-20 April, gathered insights from more than fashion 400 brands and retailers regarding the potential impact of the tariffs on the industry....
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2/5/2025
The US officially ended its de minimis exemption that allowed packages under $800 to come into the country duty-free on 2 May but what will this mean in practice for fashion brands, retailers and the wider supply chain? During a recent webinar, customs expert and Grunfeld, Desiderio, Lebowitz, Silverman & Klestadt LLP partner David Murphy explains that as of 2 May 2025 goods identified as having a China or Hong Kong origin can no longer clear on the manifest or by the de minimis exception for type 86 entries....
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2/5/2025
The mood among fashion consumers is sombre, according to new research from GlobalData, which reveals over half in a recent survey said they were concerned about the cost of living on long term finances and the pressure on disposable income. The survey of over 22,000 consumers in 44 countries found 30% cut back on apparel spend in the first quarter with a notable shift to brands and channels offering more value. “The data shows apparel can easily be deprioritised when budgets are tight,” asserted head of apparel at GlobalData, Chloe Collins....
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1/5/2025
In the third part of a mini-series US-based fashion students tell Just Style sustainability matters more than ever following Trump's tariffs and some shoppers may abstain from buying clothes altogether. Dr Sheng Lu, professor of apparel studies at the University of Delaware recently quizzed his Gen Z students on the impact of US president Donald Trump’s tariffs against leading fashion sourcing countries....
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30/4/2025
In the second part of a mini-series US-based fashion students tell Just Style how clothing price increases could lead to a rise in the rental and secondhand market. Dr Sheng Lu, professor of apparel studies at the University of Delaware recently quizzed his Gen Z students on the impact of US president Donald Trump’s tariffs against leading fashion sourcing countries....
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30/4/2025
Tariffs and environmental policy rarely overlap neatly, especially when talking about Trump’s brand of transactional populism, writes Robert P. Antoshak, VP of strategic global sourcing and development at Grey Matter Concepts. With all the attention focused on Trump’s tariffs these days and the implications for corporate bottom lines, sustainability and environmentalism have been kicked to the curb. For sure, sky-high tariffs can suck the oxygen out of corporate boardrooms, leaving sustainability on the sidelines gasping for air. Yet, harm to the planet continues at an alarming rate....
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29/4/2025
In the first part of a mini-series US-based fashion students tell Just Style they have already noticed a rise in clothing prices as well as fewer size and colour options following Trump's tariffs. Dr Sheng Lu, professor of apparel studies at the University of Delaware recently quizzed his Gen Z students on the impact of US president Donald Trump’s tariffs against leading fashion sourcing countries....
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25/4/2025
UK clothing stores experienced the strongest growth in March 2025 thanks to favourable weather conditions with sales volumes climbing by 3.7%, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). Non-store retailing, which includes online retail also reported an upswing during the month with the positive performance in clothing and DIY goods sales attributed to good weather. Specifically, online retailers specialising in clothing and footwear enjoyed a 4.7% surge in sales....
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25/4/2025
The recent tariff escalation caught many apparel companies off guard despite previous efforts to broaden the supplier base, writes TradeBeyond's senior vice president Eric Linxwiler. The Trump administration has revived tariffs as a core instrument of US trade policy, imposing sweeping new duties on imports from its trading partners. These actions and the threat of even greater tariffs to come have triggered a rapid escalation in trade tensions....
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25/4/2025
The US' steep tariffs on China "could open the door" for some least-developed countries (LDCs) to increase fashion exports to the US market, according to a new report. The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) ‘Global Trade Outlook and Statistics’ report explains the disruption in US-China trade is expected to trigger significant trade diversion, raising concerns among third markets about increased competition from China. For example, Chinese merchandise exports are projected to rise by 4% to 9% across all regions outside North America as trade is redirected....
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24/4/2025
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has expressed its concerns over the Office of the US Trade Representative's (USTR) decision to introduce substantial new charges on vessels arriving at US ports from China. The move is a response to findings from a year-long Section 301 investigation into China’s conduct within the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries....
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24/4/2025
UK consumer sentiment declined to -48 in April 2025, largely due to apprehensions about a possible trade war, according to British Retail Consortium (BRC) data. The decline in UK consumer confidence aligns with the timing of the survey, which was conducted after US President Donald Trump announced his “Liberation Day” tariffs....
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23/4/2025
Industry experts believe the pressures facing global fashion brands could be "significantly eased" if US president Donald Trump follows through on his recent suggestion that high tariffs on goods from China could "come down substantially". Trump made it clear the US tariffs against China, which currently sit at 145% for fashion, will not go down to zero, but it does mark the first time he has indicated a reduction could be on the horizon....
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22/4/2025
Trump's 90-day pause on the much higher tariff rates for fashion's leading sourcing majors bar China should be used to re-evaluate sourcing strategies and priorities for 2025. Let’s be frank – US President Donald Trump has turned fashion sourcing in 2025 on its head. The whole world knew tariffs were coming, but 145% tariffs on China? Potentially 49% tariffs on the likes of Cambodia? These jaw-droppingly high rates surely weren’t on anyone’s crystal ball. Things have calmed down slightly as Trump’s 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs have taken effect. But let’s not forget even during this short window of reduced daily headlines, all of the major fashion exporters are still faced with Trump’s minimum 10% rate....
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18/4/2025
The European Union's appetite for T-shirts remains robust, with consumption expected to grow steadily over the next decade, albeit at a moderate pace. However, the market is witnessing a significant shift, with imports playing an increasingly dominant role as domestic production falters. A recent market analysis reveals, the EU's T-shirt consumption is projected to reach 3 billion units by 2035, growing at a CAGR of over 0.6 per cent from 2024. While this signals continued demand, the growth rate indicates a deceleration compared to the past....
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17/4/2025
Just Style offers a deep dive into how technology has transformed the fashion supply chain and will continue to do so with the influence of AI and robotics in the near future. The constant evolution of technology has dramatically changed the way the fashion supply chain operates. Moving from manual processes to semi-automated ones and fully automated ones has driven efficiencies and improved sustainability....
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17/4/2025
US retail sales, including clothing, experienced a surge in March 2025, despite ongoing consumer apprehension over the potential impact of escalating tariffs, according to the latest data from the Census Bureau. The Census Bureau reported that retail sales in March climbed by 1.4% seasonally adjusted from the previous month and saw a 4.6% unadjusted increase compared to the same period last year....
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16/4/2025
A significant proportion of UK residents anticipate reducing their expenditure on fashion-related items such as apparel and footwear in 2025 as a measure to manage expenses, according to a cost-of-living survey conducted by consumer research firm Maru. The findings of the study that has been ongoing for three years and involves more than 40,000 UK adults, indicate that 77% of participants believe they will likely have to decrease their spending on fashion and footwear as a way to economise....
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16/4/2025
UK non-food retail sales, including clothing saw a small increase of 0.6% year-on-year in March 2025 despite a dip in consumer confidence due to rising household costs and geopolitical uncertainty. Total UK retail sales increased 1.1% year-on-year in March, but this was lower than the 3.5% increase seen in the same month the previous year, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC)-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor. It explained the higher increase in March 2024 was due to an early spring and Mother’s Day celebrations...
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15/4/2025
US clothing and accessories stores saw sales rise 0.76% month over month seasonally adjusted in March 2025 due to households stocking up ahead of price increases from tariffs. Despite this growth, the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor suggests consumers maintained a cautious approach to spending, largely due to apprehensions about escalating tariffs. The report explains the spending patterns observed in March occurred after US President Donald Trump’s declaration of tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico in February....
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15/4/2025
The fashion industry's solution to Trump's tariffs should not be about reacting faster — it should be about responding more intelligently and strategically, writes Gurhan Kok, founder and CEO of invent.ai. Fashion retailers are facing a new wave of tariff pressure that’s shaking up inventory strategy at every level. As global trade policies continue to shift, so does the cost behind purchasing decisions, sourcing relationships and supply chain timelines. For many, the immediate concern is rising inventory costs. However, the reality is that it’s all about how retailers plan and navigate uncertainty, particularly as tariffs create immediate and long-term impacts on margins, stock levels and purchasing decisions....
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15/4/2025
A new report has revealed the impact of Trump's tariffs on the US fashion retail sector will range from price increases to a reduction in retail volumes. GlobalData’s report titled ‘The impact of tariffs on US retail’ explains the steep tariffs on China, as well as the flat rate of 10% on many other countries come “as a blow upon a bruise for a retail sector that is already under growing pressure from slowing spend and growing consumer uncertainty”. The report adds: “Planned strategies to switch manufacturing locations have been severely blunted by the global nature of the tariff regime.”...
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15/4/2025
Concerns over a potential US recession this year are growing as investors assess the impact of Trump's tariff policies. The risks of both US and global recessions are growing as a result of uncertainty created by the trade tariffs being variously proposed, introduced and rolled back by US President Donald Trump, according to a new briefing. GlobalData’s Tariffs and Trade Wars Executive Briefing (First Edition) states that concerns over a potential US recession, in particular, this year are growing as investors reassess the economic impact of the country’s new tariff policies....
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15/4/2025
The global garment industry is a complex web of production, distribution, and consumption, with shifting trends and regional disparities shaping its landscape. A focal point in understanding this dynamic is the comparison between the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) in terms of garment imports. Data compiled by David Birnbaum, a strategic planner for the global garment export industry, reveals a significant and growing divergence between the two regions....
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14/4/2025
Only 6% of large fashion brands are investing in research and development for circularity with the majority quietly rolling back their commitments and delaying their ESG target deadlines. The fashion industry is far behind where it needs to be to protect the environment and our future, according to Good on You’s co-founder Sandra Capponi.
The Fashion Planet Benchmark Report, which is based on data analysis conducted by Good on You’s sustainable fashion and beauty ratings team, suggests there are “alarming gaps” between the fashion industry’s environmental commitments and its actions....
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10/4/2025
The US fashion sector supports a temporary pause in tariffs, however it seeks a more definitive and extensive strategy to reinstate stability and cost-effectiveness across the global fashion supply chain. US President Donald Trump declared a full 90-day suspension of the “reciprocal” tariffs, which came into effect at midnight, however he offered no tariff respite for China....
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10/4/2025
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has voiced strong concern following President Trump's announcement today of a 90-day pause on ‘reciprocal’ tariffs and the introduction of additional tariffs on US imports from China. Steve Lamar, president and CEO of AAFA, criticised the ongoing unpredictability in trade policy, stating: “The on-again, off-again tariff policy is forcing companies to careen between chaos and costs....
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10/4/2025
The National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates forecasted a 20% drop in US import cargo volumes in the second half of 2025 (H2 2025) just before President Donald Trump administration announced a 90-day pause on "reciprocal" tariffs with exception of China. The latest Global Port Tracker report indicates a significant decrease in import cargo at major US container ports starting from next month due to the rising tariffs on all US trading partners....
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9/4/2025
The Trump administration says tariffs are needed to protect US industry, reduce trade deficits and create a fairer global trading system. As of April 2025, tariffs remain a defining feature of Donald Trump’s second term in the White House. His trade policy, carried over from his first term, continues to rely on tariffs as a central tool to protect American industries and reduce the trade deficit....
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9/4/2025
US fashion manufacturing equipment suppliers can see opportunities for reshoring apparel and fabric production to the US but there are also concerns about the major tariff barriers being erected by President Donald Trump. US-based fashion manufacturers explored the viability of re-establishing manufacturing in the US in Austin, Texas at the same time as US President Donald Trump announced so-called ‘reciprocal’ tariffs linked to trade deficits with global trading partners....
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9/4/2025
Global apparel supply chains are about to see significant upheaval – again – as US President Trump’s tariffs go live. China, the largest fashion supplier to the US, and the world, has been hit with an eye-watering 104% duty on almost all imports as a result of the Trump tariffs.
Trump introduced the additional 50% duty on US imports from China after Beijing refused to withdraw the 34% tariff it imposed on US products last week....
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9/4/2025
Garment industry NGO Clean Clothes Campaign and an industry expert explain why the fashion sector must not make garment workers pay for Trump's tariffs amid reports leading brands have asked Bangladesh factories for discounts. The Clean Clothes Campaign has asked US and global fashion companies to ensure the costs of Trump’s new tariff policies are not offloaded onto garment workers that can least afford it. Instead, the NGO is urging fashion brands to absorb the costs themselves rather than pushing them down the supply chain....
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8/4/2025
US president Trump has made tariffs a weapon which risks disrupting global supply chains, reigniting inflation, alienating allies, and punishing American consumers, writes Robert P Antoshak, VP of Global Strategic Sourcing at Grey Matter Concepts. Tariffs have long been part of the American economic playbook — deployed as tools of economic statecraft, often under the banner of protecting domestic industries or addressing trade imbalances. But US President Trump has rebranded them as a political tool. With last week’s announcement of sweeping “reciprocal tariffs,” Trump doubled down on his signature style of economic populism: retaliatory, transactional, and theatrical....
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8/4/2025
February apparel and textile imports rapidly slowed as worries around US tariffs and a trade war started to sink in for fashion brands and retailers. According to the latest import data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) apparel imports moderately went up 3.2% in value and 1.5% in quantity during February, much lower than the 18-19% increase seen in late 2024 and January 2025. Of the top 10 apparel importers to the US, only four saw an increase in shipment volumes during February: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and China....
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8/4/2025
Are the reciprocal tariffs in the textiles and apparel sector a fleeting political maneuver, or a harbinger of a protracted trade war? The question hangs heavy, devoid of easy answers. While the announcements suggest permanency, the inherent volatility of international relations leaves room for speculation. However, assuming these tariffs are indeed ‘for real’ their ramifications will reshape the global textile and apparel landscape....
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7/4/2025
Fashion is a slim margin business that relies on a global supply chain to make a profit but Trump's steep US tariffs on the fashion sourcing majors risk unravelling the sector quite literally at its seams. Just Style regularly reports on the leading fashion sourcing destinations as well as new ones to watch.
The usual suspects include China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Thailand and India. In one fell swoop US president Trump has made it more expensive for fashion sourcing executives to source from these go-to destinations....
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7/4/2025
The latest statistics from inventory management software provider Unleashed suggests a ‘shaky start’ to the year for UK fashion suppliers with a decline in sales and procurement activities as well as growing lead times. The results of Unleashed’s Manufacturing Health Index report for Q4 2024 has come in against a backdrop of market volatility and changes to international tariffs that have led to uncertainty among those responsible for making strategic decisions....
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4/4/2025
New US import tariffs will harm the global apparel market, as they put pressure on brand margins and consumer sentiment, warns GlobalData. US President Donald Trump’s ‘liberation day’ tariffs were unveiled on 2 April sending shockwaves through the international apparel community and resulting in a Wall St crash yesterday
Economists say levies of between 10% and 50% have dramatically added to the risk of a worldwide downturn....
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3/4/2025
Tariffs, compliance expectations and digitising supply chains are among the issues keeping leaders of fashion brands and their supply partners up at night, new research reveals. In its State of the Supply Chain 2025 report, Inspectorio, a global supply chain solution provider for sourcing, sustainability, compliance and quality, noted that while tariff uncertainties are top of mind for retailers and brands, there are a number of other key issues facing the fashion industry....
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3/4/2025
Around 65% of fashion garments produced each year end up in landfills within 12 months and beaches in places like Ghana are being polluted with the world’s cast-offs, writes GlobalData sustainability analyst Holly Anness-Bradshaw. Fast fashion is one of the world’s most labour-intensive and polluting industries with its complex supply chain contributing around 10% of the world’s global greenhouse gas emissions....
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3/4/2025
Goods coming from anywhere in the world into the US will be subject to a 10% tariff as of 5 April, with further reciprocal tariffs added to dozens of others that include some key fashion trading partners. In an address at the White House Rose Garden, US President Donald Trump said: “For decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike … our country and its taxpayers have been ripped off for more than 50 years, but it is not going to happen any more....
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3/4/2025
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has decided to cease advocating for regulations mandating corporate disclosure of carbon emissions following a series of legal objections to the mandate. This retreat comes amid considerable pushback from various stakeholders, including congressional leaders, trade associations, state attorneys general, and business groups....
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2/4/2025
The cost of US President Trump's tariff war could reach $1.4tn globally, according to a new analysis with significant disruptions to trade, widespread price hikes and welfare losses in the worst-case scenario. A new report published by the UK’s Aston Business School estimates the global economic fallout from US tariffs will have a significant impact on trade flows, prices, production and welfare....
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2/4/2025
The UK clothing and footwear sector experienced double-digit deflation in March due to subdued consumer demand, however retailers refrained from increasing prices despite ongoing cost pressures. The latest data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) – NielsenIQ shop price index shows inflation for non-food items rose slightly to -1.9% on an annual basis in March, compared to a larger decrease of -2.1% in February. This rate aligns with the three-month average inflation rate of -1.9%....
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28/3/2025
UK retail sales increased 1% in February with non-food store sales including clothing experiencing a surge according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). ONS says retail sales volumes rose by 0.3% in the three months to February 2025, compared with the three months to November 2024 and by 2.0% when compared with the three months to February 2024. During February non-food stores rose strongly on the month, while food stores fell. Clothing was up 2.3% year over year. Online sales grew by 0.7%...
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28/3/2025
The US textile industry, a significant contributor to the national economy, faces a complex mix of challenges. The industry employs 471,000 workers and generates $64 billion in annual output. It is a key supplier to the US military, providing over 8,000 products, and is a source of high-tech innovation for sectors ranging from healthcare to aerospace. However, the industry has been facing numerous challenges, including economic downturns, unfair trade practices like forced labor, ill-conceived trade policies, inadequate customs enforcement, post-pandemic inventory issues, and freight and logistics challenges. These factors have hindered growth and investment, leading to a downturn in business over the past three years....
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26/3/2025
The online apparel market will continue to grow between 2023 and 2028 but it will be at a slower rate, according to GlobalData forecasts. The online fashion market has surged in popularity in recent years, mostly thanks to its convenience and ability to compare prices. More recently, the introduction of tech features like AI and AR that allow consumers to visualise what an item will look like before they receive it has contributed to its meteoric rise....
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26/3/2025
Sportswear will continue to grow through 2028 with footwear remaining a favourite but will shoppers choose fashion brands over sportswear specialists?
In the years between 2023-2028, sportswear will continue to dominate the apparel market, though growth will be more muted and High Street brands more frequently shopped for sportswear....
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25/3/2025
Sportswear will continue to grow through to 2028 but its growth will be more muted, according to the latest research from GlobalData.
Sportswear experienced its boom moment around the time of the pandemic where more people were at home and looking for comfortable clothing but also took more of an interest in their health and wellbeing. Over the next few years it will continue to outperform fashion. However, its growth will be more muted out to 2028 as it reaches maturation in Western markets....
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25/3/2025
Hosiery, full-length stockings, and socks are essential items in the US apparel market, combining both functional and aesthetic qualities. With demand driven by seasonal fashion trends and year-round utility, these products have established a steady presence in the US market. Leading exporters include China, El Salvador, Vietnam, Pakistan, and India, each of which plays a significant role in fulfilling US consumer demand. However, as trade dynamics evolve—particularly with the imposition of tariffs on China—the competitive landscape for hosiery, full-length stockings, and socks could undergo significant changes. Understanding these trends is vital for anticipating future shifts in market opportunities....
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24/3/2025
The US market for women's synthetic trousers is characterised by intense competition, with Asian countries playing a dominant role in exports. This analysis delves into the market performance of leading exporters, assessing key indicators such as export values, revealed comparative advantage (RCA), unit value realisation (UVR), and the effect of tariff rates. By analysing export values, RCA, UVR, and tariff rates, we can better understand the competitive landscape of women’s synthetic trousers in the US market. Countries with strong RCA and favourable tariffs have a strategic advantage, while those with higher UVR may be targeting premium segments. As trade policies evolve, exporters must adapt their strategies to maintain and expand their market share in this dynamic sector....
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23/3/2025
The global sporting goods industry faced a difficult environment last year, with softer growth prospects, persistent inflation and cautious consumer spending testing companies’ resilience, according to McKinsey & Company. Despite these hurdles, the industry managed to sustain a growth rate of 7 per cent a year from 2021 to 2024. The growth outlook for 2024 to 2029 is projected at a slightly more modest 6 per cent a year, driven by a slowdown in the Asia-Pacific, Western Europe and Latin America, McKinsey noted....
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21/3/2025
New research suggests UK consumers have a significant preference for shopping fashion retail brands in physical stores as opposed to online. The study conducted by Voyado, the Swedish retail technology platform, which surveyed 2,000 UK consumers, underscores the enduring attraction of physical stores, despite the rapid growth of ecommerce....
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21/3/2025
A new report from UKFT, which is centered on ethical compliance in UK supply chains, says the relationship dynamic between buyers and sellers must change for the true potential of “Made in the UK” to be realised. The Responsible UK Fashion and Supply Chain report notes the UK garment manufacturing sector has hit global headlines in the past for all the wrong reasons, assuring that while there are isolated cases of ethical violations in UK factories, like anywhere else in the world, the problem is not rife....
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21/3/2025
Poised for significant growth, the global sports apparel market is projected to reach $383.89 billion by 2030, as per a report by Apparel Resources. Fueled by a growing awareness of health and a boom in outdoor recreational activities, the market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7 per cent from 2024-30. Currently, the largest share in the global sports apparel market is held by North America with the United States alone valued at $76.13 billion in 2023. Adapting to the changing consumer demands, retailers are enhancing in-store experiences with recreational features and forming strategic partnerships with well-known athletes and celebrities....
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20/3/2025
The global secondhand apparel market is projected to grow at a 10 per cent CAGR and reach a value of $367 billion by 2029, as per the annual ‘Resale Report’ by ThredUp. Produced in collaboration with GlobalData, the report highlights, the secondhand apparel market grew five times faster than the broader retail clothing sector in 2024. In the US, the secondhand apparel market grew by 14 per cent in 2024, its most robust annual increase since 2021....
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20/3/2025
From fashion brand types to the emerging markets to watch, Just Style reveals what could propel the global womenswear market forward in 2025. As the global womenswear market prepares for 3.6% growth in 2025 thanks to increased consumer spending power, GlobalData’s ‘Global Womenswear Market to 2028’ report outlines the four key trends that will help global fashion brands flourish in 2025 and beyond....
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20/3/2025
A coalition of seven organisations has urged European Union (EU) legislators to maintain the integrity of its sustainability due diligence and reporting framework in alignment with globally recognised benchmarks, specifically the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines....
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19/3/2025
A mixture of well-established and disruptor fashion brands targeted at the womenswear market are expected to thrive this year, so what are they doing differently to stand out from the crowd? A new report published by GlobalData on the global womenswear market suggests women’s fashion brands offering value for money or strong fashion credentials will continue to win share in 2025....
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19/3/2025
A recent study by delivery management platform Scurri revealed that over eight in ten (86%) British retail brands now perceive social commerce as a tool ‘democratising’ the retail landscape, allowing mid-sized businesses to compete with larger corporations for market share. Savanta conducted the research on behalf of Scurri on 123 UK retailers, encompassing both enterprise and mid-market firms....
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18/3/2025
By combining bio-based with recycled synthetics, the industry can accelerate the phase-out of virgin fossil-based fibres, write Emerald Technology Ventures' Michela Puddu and Grey Matter Concepts' Robert Antoshak. As a significant global polluter and resource user, the textile industry faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. Dominated by synthetics derived from fossil fuels like polyester, the sector’s reliance on these materials has profound environmental consequences, from greenhouse gas emissions to resource depletion....
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17/3/2025
The global womenswear market is eyeing growth in 2025 with three themes set to accelerate its success. A GlobalData report titled ‘Global Womenswear Market to 2028’ explains the category experienced a slowdown in growth to 0.4% in 2024. This is compared to its growth of 4.2% to $758.3bn in 2023. In 2025 it is is expected to grow by 3.6% as consumer spending power improves with a forecast CAGR of 2.5% from 2023 to 2028. However, its growth is expected to be tempered by the expanding resale market, which diverts spending from traditional retail as consumers seek lower prices and more sustainable options....
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14/3/2025
US apparel imports from all sources rose in January 2025 by 18.5% to 2.35bn SME as signs of overstocking to curb US import tariffs appeared to take effect. The data from the US Office of Apparel and Textiles (OTEXA) evidences the fourth consecutive month US apparel imports experienced double-digit growth in January 2025, as companies sought to build their stock in anticipation of new Trump tariffs....
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14/3/2025
Just Style considers the impact expiration, renewal and creation of key trade agreements in 2025 will have on the global fashion sector. For the global fashion sector, trade agreements are essential to maintaining stable supply chains with predictable costs. Disruptions to that – the sudden imposing of tariffs as one example – can throw the whole process into turmoil....
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14/3/2025
The EU has started a consultation on counter tariffs to the US, which include textiles, following the US' 25% duty on steel and aluminium imports, however the European fashion industry warns a trade war could create "uncertainty and instability in the market". On 12 March the European Commission explained it is planning a series of countermeasures, which includes textiles, to protect European businesses, workers and consumers from the impact of US imposed tariffs....
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13/3/2025
UK fashion sales fell in February due to unfavourable weather conditions, while total retail sales saw modest year-on-year growth. The figures were released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG retail sales monitor and while the overall retail figure falls short of the three-month average growth rate of 2.4%, it exceeds the average annual growth rate of 0.8%.
With the arrival of sunnier days in early March, retailers are optimistic about a rebound in consumer spending on clothing for the upcoming spring and summer seasons....
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13/3/2025
Government investments to revitalise Egypt’s upstream textile industry are making the country increasingly attractive as a sourcing destination for textiles and fashion. Industry experts explain low costs, an integrated value-chain, proximity to major consumer markets and trade agreements are all boosting Egypt’s appeal to fashion sourcing executives.
Following decades of neglect and under performance at state-run textile factories, in 2019, Cairo launched initiatives at 65 facilities to modernise production and provide energy, a ‘National Project for the Development of the Spinning, Weaving, and Textile Industries’....
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13/3/2025
US clothing retailers saw sales dip 0.78% month-on-month in February as consumer confidence weakens amid tariff concerns according to the latest data from the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor. Though US clothing store sales were lower against January figures, there was a 3.75% uptick in year-over-year growth which reflected a robust economic backdrop.
Overall retail spending (excluding car dealerships and gas stores) fell 0.22% in February month-over-month but saw a 3.38% rise on an unadjusted basis year-over-year....
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12/3/2025
The familiar sight of bustling clothing stores, once cornerstones of shopping malls and high streets, is fading. A chilling wind is sweeping through the apparel retail sector, leaving behind a trail of shuttered storefronts and bankruptcies. The so-called ‘retail apocalypse’, a term that has haunted the industry for years, is intensifying, particularly in the realm of clothing....
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11/3/2025
The Consumer Price Index (CPI), a critical barometer of economic health, reflects the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for a basket of consumer goods and services. While food and energy prices often dominate headlines, the subtle fluctuations within the apparel sector also weave a significant thread into the overall inflationary tapestry. Understanding the interplay between apparel prices and the CPI requires a nuanced analysis of the factors driving these costs and their subsequent impact on the index....
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11/3/2025
A new study is urging fashion brands, textile manufacturers and policymakers to accelerate decarbonisation to ensure a more resilient and cost-effective fashion supply chain. The report titled ‘Low-Carbon Thermal Energy Roadmap for the Textile Industry’ provides a roadmap on the transition to low carbon thermal energy in five key fashion sourcing regions – China, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Indonesia....
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11/3/2025
A new report from McKinsey & Co is warning the sporting goods industry growth outlook is about to soften by 6% a year between 2024 and 2029. According to the latest McKinsey report on the Sporting Goods Industry persistent inflation, softer growth prospects and a cautious consumer did not bode well for the sportswear sector in 2024 but despite this, it managed to sustain a growth rate of 7% a year from 2021 to 2024....
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10/3/2025
Uncertainty, the unknown, unpredictability — whatever you want to call it, Trump's constant twists and turns on tariffs, the war on Ukraine and all other forms of policymaking are wreaking havoc on the global fashion supply chain. Last week, Trump implemented his 25% tariffs against fashion and textiles from Canada and Mexico amongst other products before delaying them again for another month....
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7/3/2025
There are four main challenges the fashion resale market will need to overcome in 2025, however there are also new opportunities for the sector to explore. A tense macroeconomic climate and environmental concerns will continue to drive growth in the global fashion resale market in 2025, according to a GlobalData report titled ‘Global Apparel Resale Market to 2028’, however there are some challenges that will need to be tackled to ensure it reaches its full potential....
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6/3/2025
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has submitted a formal request to the US Federal Trade Commission to introduce the option of having digital labels to convey necessary apparel care instructions. The proposed amendment concerns the existing Care Labelling of Textile Wearing Apparel & Certain Piece Goods Rule (commonly referred to as the Care Labelling Rule or Care Rule) and the petition aims to bring it into the internet era....
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5/3/2025
European fashion and textile sector trade bodies have welcomed the European Commission’s plans to delay sustainability reporting, noting it allows companies sufficient time to understand and implement guidance effectively.
The EU Commission has pushed back reporting on sustainability under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive to 2028 while the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive will now take effect from July 2028 — a year later than planned....
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3/3/2025
Sustainability appears to be falling down the list of priorities with the EU Omnibus proposal being unveiled last week and earlier the US pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement, but fashion brands would do well to stay on the green course. Being head of business in a fashion firm is proving more testing by the day. There are the pressures of meeting ethical and sustainability compliance (which often differ on a country by country basis) while trying to drive sales and remain profitable in a world where costs continue to increase sharply....
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28/2/2025
As the fashion resale market continues to grow, Just Style reveals the three key trends to watch out for in 2025. A GlobalData report titled ‘Global Apparel Resale Market to 2028’ suggests that as the resale market becomes more established and a growing number of players enter the field there will be three key trends defining fashion resale over the next three years....
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28/2/2025
There are concerns the EU Omnibus will reduce the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD')s impact, but it remains critical that fashion brands understand the impact of high-risk textiles in the supply chain, writes Katrina Duck, enterprise account executive at Inspectorio. The EU’s recently enacted Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive will require fashion brands to identify, mitigate and report on environmental and social impacts across their supply chains....
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28/2/2025
A study by global environmental action NGO WRAP, in collaboration with prominent resale and repair enterprises, reveals the significant influence various circular economy models are exerting in reducing the demand for new clothing. The findings, presented in the publication “Displacement Rates Untangled,” are particularly pertinent for the UK, which ranked as the fourth largest consumer of apparel globally in 2024, trailing only behind the US, China, and India....
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27/2/2025
AI can help fashion brands navigate the US's new de minimis rules, writes Amy Morgan, vice president of trade compliance at Altana. Artificial intelligence (AI) is already helping fashion brands manage the upheaval of President Donald Trump’s push to narrow the de minimis exemption — and gain competitive advantage.
Fashion brands and apparel companies rely on de minimis shipments to enable direct-to-consumer sales, optimise e-commerce fulfilment, and avoid costly tariffs....
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27/2/2025
The EU Commission announced what it called “simplified rules” around sustainability as part of its Omnibus package, but it has sparked huge criticism from the global apparel and textile sector and worker rights organisations. The European Commission said the Omnibus package aims to simplify EU rules, boost competitiveness, and unlock additional investment capacity. “This is a major step forward in creating a more favourable business environment to help EU companies grow, innovate, and create quality jobs,” it said....
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25/2/2025
An analysis of the National Cotton Council’s (NCC) Annual Planting Intentions survey projects 9.6m acres of US cotton in 2025. which is a 14.5% reduction from 2024. Dr Jody Campiche, NCC vice president of Economics & Policy Analysis, said the survey reflects the challenging economic conditions faced by US cotton growers, who are entering their third consecutive year of unfavourable market returns and insufficient agricultural support mechanisms....
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25/2/2025
It’s not all doom and gloom in fashion, executives just need to switch tactics, experts say. A panel of experts from McKinsey acknowledged the fashion industry is facing unprecedented challenges in 2025, but one argued the industry has proven incredible resilience so far and survival may just mean thinking outside the box....
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24/2/2025
Mandatory due diligence across the fashion and footwear supply chain is incoming, however there are concerns that as the world shifts to the right politically there will be more voices claiming sustainability and competitiveness cannot work together. During the first session of this year’s OECD Garment and Footwear Due Diligence Forum in Paris, the head of the OECD’s Centre for Responsible Business Conduct, Allan Jorgensen describes mandatory due diligence as a “moving target”....
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22/2/2025
Experiencing significant growth, Egypt’s clothing exports to the United Kingdom rose to $101 million in 2024. Representing a remarkable 53 per cent increase over the past five years, this growth signals a rising global demand for Egyptian-made garments. This achievement also positions Egypt as the seventh-largest supplier of apparel to the UK, according to data released by the Ready-Made Garments Export Council. As per figures from the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics, Egypt’s total clothing exports increased to approximately $2.526 billion in the first eleven months of 2024 from the $2.174 billion recorded during the same period in 2023....
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21/2/2025
UK clothing store sales sank in January as consumer confidence continued to plummet, according to the latest sales figures from the Office of National Statistics. Non-food stores including UK clothing retailers experienced a decline but this was offset by food sales in January resulting in overall retail sales volume growth of 1.7%. Concerns are growing, however, as news of inflation rising once again, hit headlines this week....
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21/2/2025
There are three ways fashion retailers can rethink their approach to fashion returns, writes Georgia Leybourne, chief marketing officer at Linnworks. It’s no secret that the return process is an inevitable part of ecommerce, and sometimes it is perceived as a drain on resources and a source of operational strain, especially after peak season. But what if returns didn’t have to be a negative force for fashion retailers? With the right strategies, they can be turned into an opportunity that boosts revenue and strengthens customer loyalty too....
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20/2/2025
Fashion companies must collaborate with carefully chosen suppliers and leverage digital tools for better collaboration and transparency to succeed in future, writes Helene Behrenfeldt, senior industry strategy director for fashion at Infor. Driven by new legislation, rising sustainability demands, and evolving consumer expectations, the fashion industry is reworking how its supply chain operates....
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17/2/2025
AI is transforming the end-to-end fashion supply chain from speed of production to sustainability with experts telling Just Style its importance can no longer be ignored. Technology has always played a role in the fashion supply chain albeit a much more dominant one as the years have gone on. But as the fashion industry gets familiar with the intricacies of AI, one thing is clear: it is going to be game changing....
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17/2/2025
US retail sales slowed down in January after a strong holiday season surge, however an industry expert notes fashion retailers kept the holiday spending spree going with promotions and discounts. The latest data released by the US Census Bureau shows overall retail sales in January decreased by 0.9% to $723.9bn on a seasonally adjusted basis from the previous month but saw a 4.2% rise on an unadjusted basis compared to last year....
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14/2/2025
2024 was anything but easy for US fashion sourcing executives and their global suppliers with annual trade data revealing a complicated sourcing environment that could continue in 2025. How did US fashion imports perform in 2024 against the backdrop of ongoing uncertainties in the US economy and escalating geopolitical tensions?...
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14/2/2025
Retail and fashion industry trade bodies and experts warn supply chains are set to be thrust into chaos as US President Donald Trump announces a fresh set of rules around tariffs. Trump announced his policy around Reciprocal Trade and Tariffs yesterday (13 February) which see his trade advisers directed to come up with new tariffs on a country-by-country basis in retaliation to levies, regulations and subsidies he sees as “unfair”....
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13/2/2025
Fashion brands and retailers are ramping up their efforts to lower their carbon emissions as pressure from global stakeholders increases and regulatory measures come into play. But which brands are the leaders and which are the laggards?
According to a new report from GlobalData, Nike has achieved the largest emissions reductions among fashion companies over the past two years....
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12/2/2025
The UK retail sector rung in 2025 with a total sales increase in January of 2.6%, marking the most substantial growth experienced in nearly two years, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG retail sales monitor. This performance from the UK retail sector eclipses the 1.2% growth observed in the same month of the previous year and outstrips both the three-month average growth rate of 1.1% and the 12-month average of 0.8%....
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12/2/2025
Just Style explores the breakthrough technologies in the space of 3D, recycling and AI that are featuring on the wishlist of fashion brands and retailers. Through 2024 and 2025, the fashion industry is and will be more actively embracing technologies like AI, AR and blockchain across the supply chain as it looks to maximise efficiency and productivity, boost speed to market and cut waste and costs in a world that is increasingly demanding more sustainable and ethical methods of fashion production....
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12/2/2025
The textiles and apparel industry a global behemoth employing millions and touching every life, stands at a critical juncture. While it provides essential clothing and fuels economies, its traditional practices have left a significant environmental and social footprint. Enter ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), a framework that’s rapidly transforming how the industry operates, moving beyond conventional sustainability and green chemistry to encompass a holistic approach to responsible business....
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12/2/2025
The global e-commerce apparel market is projected to reach $1.39 trillion by 2033, says a recent report. Its growing at 8.7 per cent CAGR from 2023's $602.3 billion, highlighting a fundamental shift in how consumers engage with fashion. This growth is due to factors like, ubiquitous smartphone use to the rise of influencer culture that is reshaping the fashion market and presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses. “The e-commerce apparel market is poised for continued growth in the coming years. The ongoing shift toward digital-first shopping experiences is supported by factors such as increasing internet penetration, improved logistics infrastructure, and the growing popularity of smartphones, particularly in emerging markets," says the report....
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12/2/2025
Despite policy-related uncertainty, the US economy entered 2025 with strong labor markets, consumer spending, and GDP growth. The IMF revised its global GDP forecast to 3.3 per cent for both 2025 and 2026, slightly higher than its October estimate. The US outlook improved, with growth projections raised to 2.7 per cent for 2025 and 2.1 per cent for 2026. The BEA’s first estimate for 2024 GDP came in at 2.8 per cent, near 2023’s 2.9 per cent....
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11/2/2025
US retail sales have declined in January 2025 from holiday highs, yet year-over-year growth signals resilient consumer confidence, according to the latest data from the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor. Sales in clothing and accessories stores have declined 2.96% month over month on a seasonally adjusted basis in January.
Despite the decline on monthly basis, sales in clothing and accessories stores saw a 7.67% increase year-over-year on an unadjusted basis....
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10/2/2025
Major US container ports are preparing for an ongoing surge in cargo as retailers maintain high levels of imports amid escalating trade tensions and the threat of increased tariffs. According to the latest Global Port Tracker report, a collaborative effort between the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, revealed that in December 2024, US ports processed approximately 2.14m twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), exhibiting a robust 14.4% year-over-year growth....
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7/2/2025
Trump sees tariffs as a tool to protect the US economy and in some cases to negotiate a deal but the impact on the wider fashion supply chain and who will win or lose from them is far more complex. US president Donald Trump has a history of using tariffs to try and boost domestic manufacturing and the wider American economy with his first term in office seeing between 7.5% and 25% tariffs placed on Chinese imported goods....
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6/2/2025
Fashion brands, retailers and manufacturers must learn how to turn sustainability and ESG policy into profit in order to fulfil fashion consumption's projected 63% growth by 2030. A new report suggests the fashion, textile and apparel industry’s biggest challenge over the next few years is accelerating progress on a closed loop and regenerative system – but it also dubs it the sector’s “biggest commercial opportunity”....
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6/2/2025
The French Government is reportedly poised to propose a comprehensive deregulation strategy, which includes an indefinite suspension of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive's (CSDDD) enforcement and challenges significant portions of the directive. This development was cited in a report disclosed by Politico and Mediapart that suggests France’s indefinite deferral proposal for the EU’s CSDDD would be represented by Economy Minister Eric Lombard in Brussels....
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6/2/2025
Tradebyte and Retail Economics explore the impact of Brexit to the UK-EU fashion supply chain, five years on. It has been five years since the UK left the European Union as part of the Brexit deal and at the time concerns were high about the anticipated impact to the fashion sector.
According to new data from Retail Economics and Tradebyte, retail has been hit hard with sales dropping £5.9bn ($7.33bn) since Brexit....
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5/2/2025
Investing in fit technology and ensuring consistent sizing across ranges will help clothing brands enhance customer loyalty, writes GlobalData apparel analyst Pippa Stephens. With consumers becoming increasingly discerning about their fashion purchases, brands and retailers must understand shoppers’ priorities to remain ahead of the competition.
Fit is the most important factor for UK clothing shoppers with consumers seeking items that complement their body shape and are also comfortable. Fashion players should therefore focus on making it easier for consumers to select the correct size through fit guides and technology, and pay greater attention to fit in their design processes with these actions helping to enhance shopper trust and loyalty....
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5/2/2025
Sustainability initiative Better Cotton has completed its evolution into a certification scheme with the aim of upholding stringent sustainability and transparency protocols across the cotton sector. The organisation has delegated all decisions related to farm-level certification to external independent entities to enhance the integrity and objectivity of its established framework....
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4/2/2025
President Donald Trump has indicated the US will suspend planned tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada for a period of one month. This decision, announced on social media, came just before the tariffs were scheduled to be implemented.
The postponement followed assurances from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding enhanced border security measures with the US, some of which had been previously promised....
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4/2/2025
A new denim industry analysis has revealed a disconnect between brands' desires for fair garment worker practices and how brands treat suppliers. Non-profit Ethical Denim Council (EDC), which aims to address unethical behaviour within the denim industry has said key challenges remain within the denim supply chain based on the results of its 2024 State of the Denim Industry report....
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4/2/2025
US President Donald Trump's tariffs, both threatened and real, could lead to trade rerouting as exporters seek resilient supply chains. A weekend of threats and negotiations later, US President Donald Trump’s tariff targets have mostly evaded the worst-case scenarios that made investors panic over the weekend and markets dive on Monday....
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3/2/2025
On 1 February US President Donald Trump announced a swathe of tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada and China that will have an impact on the fashion sector. Under the new terms, all goods coming in from Canada and Mexico will have a 25% tariff applied and a 10% additional tariff is being applied to all imports from China....
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3/2/2025
Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) and PDS Ventures are searching for sustainable solutions that span the entire fashion supply chain. The Trailblazer Programme, presented by the Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) and PDS Ventures, is designed to discover and empower early-stage companies within the fashion industry and assist them in their efforts to expand.
A panel of judges will evaluate the applications, choosing eight exceptional innovations to participate in the Trailblazer Programme 2025....
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3/2/2025
Trump has officially confirmed his tariff war against China, Mexico and Canada, so is the fashion sector right to expect the worst for 2025 or can it be turned around The UK fashion retail sector is already having a particularly tough time thanks to a lack of consumer confidence with the term “geopolitical uncertainty” already being thrown around for some of the retail profit warnings announced in late 2024 and early 2025.
UK fashion retailer Primark announced disappointing results for Q1 while UK fashion retailer Quiz kickstarted the year with an exit from the London Stock Exchange due to ongoing trading challenges....
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31/1/2025
Fashion brands understand the importance of circularity and many are making the effort to shift toward this model, but barriers remain with many struggling to implement and scale circular strategies. According to new research from the Circular Fashion Innovation Network together with strategic delivery consultancy, Newton, four in five brands (responding to their survey) said circularity is a part of their five-year strategy (and 82% of these have already implemented at least one circular initiative), just under two-thirds (63%) of their customer-facing Circular Business Models (CBMs) are in a low maturity pilot phase. But many are struggling with implementation and scaling....
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30/1/2025
From ongoing regional conflicts to Trump's latest tariff threats, Just Style speaks to global and regional fashion industry experts to uncover how geopolitics will impact the sector in 2025 and how the wider supply chain can create opportunities out of the challenges that lie ahead. 2025 marks five years since the global pandemic sent shockwaves through the fashion supply chain and turned it on its head....
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30/1/2025
Industry experts predict the UK's fashion and footwear sector will see the lowest growth across all retail categories this year. GlobalData’s associate retail research director Sophie Wilmot told attendees of a recent webinar on UK retail Christmas trading: “Sadly, we think fashion and footwear will once again be the worst performing sector” in the UK....
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29/1/2025
Europe’s fashion market witnessed a slowdown due to economic uncertainty in recent years, however a new report suggests growth will pick up again in 2025 and names three key areas of untapped potential that could aid its recovery over the next three years. GlobalData’s report titled ‘The Apparel Market in Europe to 2028' says ongoing geopolitical issues like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict have taken a toll on consumer confidence, which in turn has had a negative impact on the region’s fashion sector....
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29/1/2025
The global resale apparel market marked its fourth year of robust expansion, with growth rates in the double digits in 2024, fuelled by ongoing demand for preloved fashion, according to a recent report by GlobalData, a data and analytics firm. The sector saw an increase of 17.6%, reaching a valuation of $204.7bn, surpassing the performance of the mainstream clothing industry, which saw a negligible growth of 0.1%....
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28/1/2025
January 2025's widespread sales featured substantial savings for consumers particularly in the fashion category as UK shop price deflation slowed and costs rose. According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC)-Nielseniq Shop Price Index, deflation was recorded at 0.7%, a slight improvement from the 1.0% deflation observed in December 2024.
The figure for January surpasses the three-month average deflation rate of -0.8%....
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28/1/2025
A primary driver of the apparel and footwear sales, the global sportswear market is projected to grow by 14.9 per cent from 2024-29. As per a report by Euromonitor International, this growth will be fuelled by an increasing focus on health and wellness globally. Sportswear is fast becoming a staple in wardrobes worldwide as consumers increasingly focus on comfort and functionality....
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28/1/2025
Europe's fashion market will need to overcome three key obstacles to guarantee its ongoing success in 2025 and beyond, according to a new report. After a strong performance in 2022, Europe’s fashion market saw its growth slow to just 2.2% in 2023, with the market reaching €483.0bn ($506.80bn), explains GlobalData’s ‘The Apparel Market in Europe to 2028' report. It points out this deceleration was due to consumers becoming more cautious of spending on non-essentials due to rising inflation, with volumes falling 0.9%....
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28/1/2025
Retailers within the UK's FTSE index have reported 20 instances of profit warnings in 2024, showing a modest decrease from the 24 figure recorded in the preceding year, as per the latest profit warnings report by EY Parthenon. In the final quarter of the year, there was a notable uptick in profit warnings among FTSE retailers, with seven issued compared to just one in the third quarter....
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27/1/2025
When it comes to UK fashion and textile production, there is evidence of a gradual rise in adoption of robotics, particularly among companies hoping to modernise their production capabilities. But despite this, barriers to adopting automation remain. In a new report based on research from the Manchester Metropolitan University’s Robotics Living Lab (RoLL) to understand the current use of automation and robotics in the UK fashion and textiles Industry, the UKFT explores whether the UK apparel and textile sector is on its way to a robotics revolution and details how embracing robotics and automation, can benefit the industry....
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27/1/2025
A study by global fulfilment provider fulfilmentcrowd suggests 30% of fashion items purchased online in the UK are returned each year with 'poor fit' being the main reason cited by consumers.
The investigation focused on the trend of “bracketing,” a practice where customers order multiple sizes or colours of the same item with the intention of keeping only what suits them best and returning the remainder.
A survey of 1,002 UK shoppers found that 62% of respondents admitted to engaging in bracketing when purchasing fashion items online. The findings showed little disparity between genders, with 62.7% of women and 62.1% of men participating in this behaviour....
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27/1/2025
Well, unsurprisingly there was one fellow dominating headlines in the apparel sector last week.
The apparel, textile and footwear sectors, globally in fact, continue to tread on eggshells waiting for a hard and fast order to be passed by new US President Donald Trump on tariffs, which he has promised are coming, but where and to what degree remains a mystery.
While the industry appreciates the enhanced crackdown on China which it says will – in the long term – serve to benefit US textile producers, there is a significant degree of concern on the 25% tariff hikes on goods from USMCA partners China and Mexico, which many say will hamper efforts from US brands and retailers to nearshore production....
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24/1/2025
Poised for a robust, the global hosiery market is set to expand at CAGR of 2.9 per cent from 2025-30 to reach a projected value of $51.14 billion by 2030. According to a new market analysis report, the sector's expansion is being fuelled by increasing consumer preference for apparel combining functionality and fashion, alongside the growing demand for hosiery in health, fitness, and professional applications....
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23/1/2025
UK retail faces a sombre mood in January as consumer economic sentiment dips to unprecedented levels of -34, with worry most evident within the senior demographic. Insights from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Opinium data indicate a marked decline in consumer sentiment regarding personal retail expenditure over the next three months, with the index plummeting to -9 in January from -3 in December....
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23/1/2025
A study conducted by analysis and insight firm GlobalData and visual merchandising software provider One Door has revealed a $125bn loss in US retail sales over the past year due to poor visual merchandising. The research sheds light on the critical role that effective visual merchandising plays in retaining customers and maximising sales for brick-and-mortar retailers....
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22/1/2025
A new report by McKinsey & Company highlights the global consumption patterns, forecasting significant transformations in how and what the world consumes by 2050. The report, titled ‘Global Consumption Outlook to 2050’, utilizes extensive data analysis and modelling to reveal a world grappling with shifting demographics, technological advancements, and climate change....
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22/1/2025
In a landmark presidential address, President Trump unveiled a sweeping set of policy initiatives aimed at revitalizing the American fashion, apparel, and textile industries. The announcements sent shockwaves through the sector, promising significant changes to manufacturing, sustainability, and labor practices. "For too long, the American fashion industry has been outsourced and undervalued," the President declared. "Today, we begin a new chapter, one where American creativity and craftsmanship lead the world once again."...
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22/1/2025
The European Commission is planning to suggest a prohibition on the usage of PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," in consumer goods with some exceptions that are still to be confirmed, according to reports.
The PFAS ban, which EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall told Reuters in a recent interview, could come with certain allowances for critical industry applications....
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21/1/2025
The UKFT has identified seven key priority areas for textile and apparel manufacturers to achieve circularity. A report on circularity from the UKFT says circular approaches to apparel and textile manufacturing are on the rise but not nearly at the pace they need to be to achieve the industry’s climate goals....
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21/1/2025
New US president Donald Trump's inauguration speech and executive order for an America First Trade Policy suggests tariffs are en route for the global apparel sector, while US trade preference programmes remain uncertain. Trump told the world during his inauguration speech on 20 January: “The Golden Age of America begins right now.” He added: “During every single day of the Trump Administration I will very simply put America first. Our sovereignty will be reclaimed and our safety will be restored.”...
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20/1/2025
As Donald Trump readies himself to be officially inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States of America, the nation’s apparel and textile sectors brace for impact, certain there will be a swathe of changes to the usual way of conducting business. Trump is set to sign “close to 100 executive orders” on his first day in office which he confirmed during a speech on Sunday (19 January) and apparel and textiles are likely to be impacted....
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20/1/2025
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has released its inaugural ‘Trade Strategy to Combat Forced Labor’, a detailed plan for deploying trade mechanisms to fight forced labour practices. USTR ambassador Katherine Tai unveiled the strategy, which outlines current and potential actions by the US to tackle the forced labour issue....
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20/1/2025
The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) has welcomed the United States Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that seeks to revise regulations concerning the exemption for shipments of minimal value (de minimis). This exemption currently allows for goods valued at no more than $800 to be imported into the US without being subjected to duties or certain taxes....
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20/1/2025
The US 2024 retail holiday season results topped expectations with core retail sales escalating to an unprecedented $994.1bn, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. This surge in US 2024 retail holiday sales, denotes a 4% increment compared to the preceding year and has surpassed the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) anticipations, underscoring the sector’s robustness amid challenging fiscal conditions....
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17/1/2025
From mergers and acquisitions to investing in digital technologies, Just Style reveals the ten trends the fashion industry should embrace in 2025 to stay on top in a volatile global market. Financial concerns are still driving many consumers to cut back on fashion spend in 2025, according to GlobalData’s ‘Top Trends in the Apparel Market for 2025’ report. Its global consumer survey, which was conducted in Q3 2024 reveals over half of shoppers (54.5%) are concerned about their personal financial situation....
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17/1/2025
UK clothing sales bucked an overall retail sales slowdown in December with industry onlookers urging retailers to start adapting to changing market conditions. According to the Office of National Statistics’ latest figures, retail sales volumes (quantity bought) are estimated to have fallen by 0.3% in December 2024, following a small rise of 0.1% in November 2024. Falls in supermarkets were partly offset by a rise in non-food stores, such as clothing retailers, which rebounded from falls in recent months....
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16/1/2025
Mass and prestige fashion brands have an opportunity to grow their consumer base with middle-income luxury shoppers trading down in 2025. McKinsey & Co’s ‘The State of Luxury Fashion’ report suggests macroeconomic headwinds, shifting customer preferences and a deteriorating value proposition will all weigh on the global luxury sector in 2025. The market experienced a period of “exceptional value creation” between 2019 and 2023, but as we step into 2025, it is expected to face a “significant slowdown that the report suggests has “hit even top brands hard”....
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16/1/2025
Online returns may be convenient for the consumer, but at what cost to fashion retailers and the environment? The issue of overconsumption is well-reported, with the British Fashion Council stating that there are enough clothes on the planet for the next six generations. The surge in online shopping has exacerbated this problem, but the convenience of doorstep deliveries is offset by the inability of consumers to try items before buying. Retailers must therefore offer generous return policies, but online returns can have a detrimental impact on businesses and the environment....
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16/1/2025
The European jeanswear market is a fiercely competitive space, with numerous established manufacturers, brands and emerging contenders vying for the top spot. 2024 has seen some interesting shifts in market share, driven by evolving consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and innovative marketing strategies....
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15/1/2025
In the ongoing debate over international trade, tariffs are often a contentious topic. Some argue that tariffs protect domestic industries and create jobs, while others contend that they harm consumers and stifle economic growth. The reality, as is often the case, is more nuanced. To understand how tariffs can impact an industry, here is a closer look at the apparel industry as an example....
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15/1/2025
US retail sales saw a rise in December, with clothing and accessories stores experiencing a 4.07% increase from the previous month and a 14.47% rise compared to the same period last year, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor. US retail sales saw a rise in December, with clothing and accessories stores experiencing a 4.07% increase from the previous month and a 14.47% rise compared to the same period last year, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor....
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15/1/2025
A survey by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) encompassing 52 UK retail sector chief financial officers (CFOs) has found two-thirds of respondents (67%) plan to increase prices due to higher National Insurance costs from April. There is widespread apprehension regarding the UK’s economic climate in 2025 with the general mood among retail financial leaders being downbeat, according to the BRC’s sentiment index. The majority (70%) expressed a lack of confidence in future trading conditions, whereas only 13% held an optimistic view. The remaining 17% remained neutral....
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14/1/2025
UK garment manufacturers are experiencing a significant surge in business optimism heading into 2025, following a report that highlighted impressive growth in both sales and procurement activities in Q3 2024. During the third quarter of 2024, small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the garment manufacturing sector reported an average increase in sales of 128%, coupled with a substantial 123% rise in the volume of purchase orders from suppliers, according to the Manufacturing Health Index....
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13/1/2025
There are warning signs that President-elect Donald Trump's second term could be more disruptive to the fashion supply chain than his first. We all know the countdown is on for Trump’s return to office (20 January if you’ve managed to miss it), and he’s already taking more than his fair share of global headlines. In just one week the news was awash with his threat to grab Greenland from Denmark by financial or even military means for “national security” reasons and the “unconditional discharge” verdict from his hush money court trial....
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13/1/2025
The once-booming European textile recycling industry is facing an unprecedented crisis, with far-reaching implications for the global fashion landscape and the environment. For years, Europe led the way in textile recycling, diverting millions of tons of used clothing from landfills and incinerators. However, recent global disruptions have severely impacted the sector, pushing it to the brink of collapse....
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9/1/2025
UK retailers are preparing to grapple with a projected £7bn ($8.59bn) surge in costs in 2025 due to the budget's impact, contributing to an expectation of rising retail prices. This caution about upcoming challenges comes from British Retail Consortium (BRC) chief executive Helen Dickinson, who noted: “As retailers battle the £7bn of increased costs in 2025 from the budget, including higher employer National Insurance, National Living Wage, and new packaging levies, there is little hope of prices going anywhere but up. Modelling by the BRC and retail CFOs suggest food prices will rise by an average of 4.2% in the latter half of the year, while non-food will return firmly to inflation....
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9/1/2025
Egypt is investing $1.1 billion in revitalizing its textile industry, with a focus on modernizing the spinning and weaving hub of al-Mahala al-Kobra. The country aims to overhaul its century-old textile, spinning, and weaving factories by them into large industrial complexes capable of producing tens of thousands of tons of fabric daily. The government's modernization initiative is aimed at revitalizing an industry that once accounted for 40 per cent of Egypt’s export revenues but now contributes only 2.5 per cent to 3 per cent....
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8/1/2025
While the desire for exclusivity and craftsmanship remains strong among luxury buyers, there is a clear bifurcation between high-end and affordable luxury. This shift is due to evolving consumer demographics, economic pressures, and changing perceptions of value....
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8/1/2025
Just Style examines the threat facing fashion’s shipping routes and supply chains in 2025 after US president-elect Donald Trump criticises the Panama Canal's high fees and refuses to rule out using military force to retake its control when he re-enters the White House. Ahead of his second term as US president, Trump has demanded the Panama Canal reduce its “exorbitant prices” or he claims it’s at risk of being placed under US control.
Writing on his Truth Social social media platform Trump claimed: “Our navy and commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the US.”...
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7/1/2025
UK total retail sales in 2024 saw a marginal increase of 0.7% compared to 2023 with the surge in spend for Christmas failing to offset sluggish growth for retailers amid ongoing economic woes, according to the BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor.
For the quarter concluding in December, known as the Golden Quarter, there was a slight growth of 0.4% from the previous year.
In December alone, there was a significant rise of 3.2% in overall retail sales compared to the same month in 2023, which had recorded an increase of 1.9%. This figure surpassed both the three-month and 12-month average growth rates of 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively....
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7/1/2025
The US apparel industry should prepare for uncertainty as reports claim US President-elect Trump's advisors are considering a new tariff approach that might not include apparel.
US President-elect Donald Trump’s aides are said to be considering this new approach to tariffs, according to a report by The Washington Post, which cites three individuals familiar with the ongoing discussions.
Shortly after the publication of The Washington Post’s report Trump took to his Truth Social platform to denounce its coverage as erroneous and labelled it another instance of “Fake News.”...
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6/1/2025
Fast fashion might be dubbed dirty and bad for the environment but there are some simple steps that can be implemented this year that will make the sector more sustainable by 2030.
Welcome to 2025 and the official five-year countdown for when many fashion brands and retailers need to have hit their self-proclaimed 2030 sustainable goals.
Given the clock is ticking, it is essential the apparel industry keeps sustainability front of mind, and remains open minded about how its environmental goals can be achieved....
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6/1/2025
The global fashion industry is changing constantly, pushed forward by evolving consumer demands, technological advancements, and socio-economic pressures. To stay ahead of the curve, brands and retailers are adopting innovative strategies to redefine how they design, manufacture, distribute, and market their products. Here are five of the most significant shifts…...
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3/1/2025
The global denim fabric sector was marked by both challenges and opportunities in 2024. While the industry grappled with economic slowdown changing customer choices, it also saw a lot of innovation and a renewed focus on sustainability. Here is a look at the key trends, challenges, and triumphs of the denim fabric sector in 2024, and outlook for 2025....
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3/1/2025
Nearshoring and domestic production offers a chance to rethink apparel sourcing strategies, and balance cost efficiencies with sustainability and equity, however the path forward isn’t clear-cut, writes Gherzi Textil Organisation partner Robert P. Antoshak. Over the holidays, I caught up on my reading and gathered my thoughts about apparel trade in the new year. Pondering the future — gosh, there’s lots to consider....
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3/1/2025
December's drop in consumer presence across UK retail venues made 2024 the second year retail foot traffic declined overall. During the five-week period from 24 November to 28 December 2024, British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Sensormatic data reveals that across the UK in 2024, there was a 2.2% reduction in overall foot traffic compared to the previous year....
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3/1/2025
UK retailers face the prospect of lower consumer spending in early 2025 as sentiment about the economic outlook worsens, with consumer confidence dropping by eight points to -27, according to British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Opinium data. Insights from BRC-Opinium indicate that over the first quarter of 2025 intentions for UK retail spend saw a downturn to -3 in December, falling from the positive stance of +3 in November....
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2/1/2025
Just Style shares its predictions for which fashion brands look tipped for success and which ones might have their work cut out for them in 2025. In 2025, industry onlookers say a successful fashion brand will be determined by its ability to respond quickly to evolving consumer demand, staying ahead of the game when it comes to sustainability despite waning interest, and having an agile supply chain able to withstand unexpected challenges....
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2/1/2025
The Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act has been extended beyond its original 2025 expiration date, thanks to US President Biden's signing of year-end legislation on 22 December 2024. This act, which was first enacted on 17 June 2020 and applauded by the Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP), will now remain in force for at least a decade....
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2/1/2025
The US apparel and footwear sector is among several industries that have urged US President-elect Donald Trump to crack down on the illicit trafficking of counterfeit goods. The group, which includes the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), outlines immediate considerations related to counterfeit goods for the first 100 days of US president-elect Trump’s Administration. Trade in counterfeit products is considered a high-risk area that threatens the US’s innovation economy, the competitiveness of businesses, and the livelihoods of US workers....
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2/1/2025
The US apparel sector has recorded a 3.6% uptick in sales during the festive period spanning 1 November to 24 December 2024, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. This growth was particularly evident in the online retail domain where apparel purchases surged by 6.7%, while brick-and-mortar stores saw a modest increase of 0.2%....
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2/1/2025
Valued at $425.5 billion in 2022, the global activeewar market to grow at a 6.2 per cent CAGR to reach $771.8 billion by 2032.
Growing awareness of physical activity's benefits, such as enhanced focus and problem-solving skills, drives increased spending on activewear among youth. Educational systems worldwide have incorporated fitness programs into curricula, fostering interest in physical activities....
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1/1/2025
The global apparel trade is undergoing a significant transformation, says a recent report by Wazir Advisors. Titled ‘Apparel Trade Scenario in Key Global Markets and India’, the report offers a comprehensive analysis of the changing dynamics in the industry, highlighting key trends in imports, exports, and retail sales....
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31/12/2024
Year 2024 proved to be a dynamic one for the global apparel sector, marked by a complex interplay of economic, social, and technological forces. This report looks at the key trends, challenges, and triumphs that shaped the industry, examining its performance against projections, highlighting winners and losers in global trade, and offering an outlook for 2025....
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30/12/2024
Year 2024 has seen dynamic shifts and surprising resilience in the global textile sector. Despite facing numerous challenges, the industry demonstrated an impressive ability to adapt and innovate. Here is a look at the key trends, challenges, and triumphs in the textile sector and outlook for 2025....
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24/12/2024
The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) has released its latest International Textile Industry Statistics (ITIS) for 2023, featuring updates on global spinning mill capacity and raw material consumption. The data reflects a comprehensive review with a new calculation method applied to historical series....
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24/12/2024
A new analysis of EU garment import data from the International Trade Commission reveals a shift in sourcing patterns. While overall imports have stabilized, with a minor 2 per cent dip year-to-date (YTD) September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, a notable trend is the reversal of consolidation. In 2019, top garment exporting countries held a commanding 98.1 per cent share of the EU market. However, this dominance has weakened, with the figure dropping to 93.9 per cent YTD September 2024....
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24/12/2024
As 2024 concludes, the wool industry stands at a crossroads, balancing significant challenges with meaningful advancements. Australian wool prices reached a four-year low, straining growers with rising costs and declining volumes. Yet, the unwavering dedication of the supply chain highlights wool’s enduring value and potential....
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24/12/2024
From $2.5 billion in 2024, the global e-textile market is poised to grow to $6.8 billion by 2030, according to the latest report from HTF MI. From its original value of $1.1 billion in 2019, the market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 19 per cent from 2019-2030, as per the report. As per the report, this growth will be driven by a rising demand for e-textiles from industries such as healthcare, sportswear, and consumer electronics. These smart textiles offer innovative solutions ranging from health monitoring to interactive wearable devices, fueling demand and driving market expansion....
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23/12/2024
The US textile and apparel industry is a complex web of domestic manufacturing, imports, and exports, interwoven with trade agreements and policies that shape its competitive landscape. The US's textile and apparel trade relationship with the CAFTA-DR region has had a significant impact on the industry....
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23/12/2024
The global apparel market is on a growth path and projected to reach a $2.97 trillion by 2033, says a report by Straits Research. The sector is moving ahead at CAGR of 8.02 per cent, with several factors like rising affluence in developing economies, expanding influence of e-commerce, and a growing demand for sustainable and ethical fashion catalyzing growth....
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21/12/2024
Textile and apparel imports experienced notable growth from August to October, rising 9.8 per cent to 10.7 billion square meter equivalents (SME) in October, according to the Department of Commerce’s Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA). This represents a 33.1 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Textile imports totaled 8.22 billion SME in October, up 14 per cent from August and 37.2 per cent year-on-year, while apparel imports stood at 2.51 billion SME, down 2.4 per cent from August but up 21 per cent from last year....
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20/12/2024
According to the latest data from the Office of National Statistics, UK clothing store sales volumes sank in November with experts blaming the fall on unseasonable weather and warning greater pressures could see price rises or cost cuts. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data for November shows UK non-food retail stores sales volumes – the total of department, clothing, household and other non-food stores – rose 0.2% over the month with a strong positive contribution from other retail sales. This sub-sector rose by 7.9% in November, rebounding from a 7.1% fall in October 2024. Household goods stores rose by 1.1%, with furniture stores having the largest upward contribution to growth....
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20/12/2024
The latest data from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicates that as of September 2024, the retail sector employed 2.81 million individuals as employers turn to outsourcing, automation amid rising costs and industry transformation. This period typically marks the annual low in employment figures, which generally rebound in anticipation of the holiday season. Comparing year-over-year data, there has been a reduction of 40,000 jobs, and a more pronounced decline of 225,000 jobs when looking back five years....
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19/12/2024
Men’s shirt imports by the US grew notably in the month of October 2024, as per the latest OTEXA data. Analysed by team Apparel Resources, the data shows, men’s shirt imports by the US grew by 3.80 per cent Y-o-Y to $251.78 million during the month. In terms of volumes, imports of men’s shirts by the US increased by 9 per cent Y-o-Y to 2.78 million dozen. Bangladesh and India remained the top two exporters of men’s shirts among leading Asian manufacturing hubs....
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19/12/2024
The UK consumer price index (CPI) rose by 2.6 per cent in the 12 months to November this year, up from 2.3 per cent in the 12 months to October, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.1 per cent in November compared with a fall of 0.2 per cent in the same month last year. The largest upward contribution to the monthly change in CPI annual rates came from transport....
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19/12/2024
Fashion industry experts share their insights on the top garment manufacturing countries to watch in 2025. It is widely accepted there will be an acceleration in fashion brands sourcing from countries where they have more political alignment as costs continue to surge, trade policies become less favourable and expectations to comply with social and environmental sustainability rise....
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18/12/2024
The latest survey from the National Retail Federation (NRF) in partnership with Prosper Insights & Analytics reveals an increase in consumer shopping activity anticipated for the final Saturday before Christmas. The projection of 157.2 million shoppers on Super Saturday marks a rise from the previous year’s 141.9 million and is second only to the record set in 2022 with 158.5 million....
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18/12/2024
Supply chain executives are most concerned by a need for data accuracy to bolster supply chain integrity and the use of AI, new research from Impinj, RAIN RFID provider and Internet of Things pioneer has shown. Impinj’s research is based on a survey of 1,000 US supply chain managers, and the report reveals a data accuracy gap that leaves many struggling to find the level of insights, visibility, and accuracy required to drive confidence in their supply chain and respond quickly to market changes....
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18/12/2024
Just Style investigates whether the global fashion industry can fulfil its 2030 sustainability ambitions over the next five years. Global fashion retailers have publicly committed themselves to achieving ambitious sustainability goals, ranging from reduced emissions to greater circularity of materials through more effective recycling. Some of these goals have been adopted from external sources, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), which target 2030 deadlines, the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles and national net zero emission policies, while some brands have set their own internal targets....
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18/12/2024
Source Fashion, Europe’s leading responsible sourcing event, will feature an exclusive Egyptian Pavilion at its next show from 18th-20th February 2025 at Olympia London. With over 20 Egyptian manufacturers participating, this pavilion highlights the country’s exceptional craftsmanship, sustainability, and competitive advantages for UK and European buyers....
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17/12/2024
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), managed by the non-profit organisation Global Standard, has been officially recognised in the Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA’s Recommendations have been established to assist federal buyers in identifying and acquiring products and services that are environmentally preferable. These guidelines incorporate over 60 private sector standards and ecolabels across more than 40 categories of procurement....
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17/12/2024
Extreme weather events, trade disputes, geopolitical tensions, increasing regulation and more complex shipments are expected to impact the global cotton supply chain in 2025, but traceability and innovation could reinvent the sector. According to the US department of agriculture 2024/25 global cotton consumption is forecast at 115.2m bales, which is more than 9m bales below the record level witnessed four years ago, thanks to more production and consumption of man-made fibres....
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17/12/2024
Experts concede 2025 is looking challenging for the fashion industry but there are wins to be had for those exploring AI, sustainability and focusing on supply chain resilience. During 2025, experts agree the outlook in general looks bleak and fashion brands and retailers will need to drain the small pool of opportunities that can result in big wins if leveraged correctly. Among the most popular suggestions from the industry experts quizzed by Just Style were greater investment in AI, digitalisation, more focused approaches toward sustainability, and building agility in the apparel supply chain....
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16/12/2024
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) has hit out at measures aimed at bolstering government procurement of US-made defence goods, a conversation it says cannot take place until forced labour in US prisons is eliminated. The House of Representatives has passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which helps preserve the Berry Amendment supply chain and authorises the Department of Defense (DOD) to take steps to build up the defence textile stockpile and directs DOD to be more transparent and disclose all waivers submitted for the procurement of defence textiles not made in the United States....
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16/12/2024
Challenges in the apparel sector in 2025 will come from stiffer competition with the rise of cheap Chinese online retailers, tougher incoming legislation on environmental and social responsibility, and ever-evolving trade policy. Just Style has tapped into its pool of apparel industry experts who all agree on one thing: 2025 is going to be anything but plain sailing as competition heats up and the industry battles rising costs and tougher rules on environmental and social responsibility....
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16/12/2024
2024 will be best known as the year artificial intelligence became mainstream and it's starting to impact the apparel supply chain but other hot industry topics from sustainability to social responsibility went round in circles so will 2025 be any different? ChatGPT and Generative AI became mainstream in 2024 and arguably the public’s acceptance of artificial intelligence was one of the year’s biggest themes with fashion supply chains starting to take note too....
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13/12/2024
A recent report by Source Fashion, Source Home & Gift, and Insider Trends highlights the potential impact of proposed US tariffs on global sourcing strategies. The report, titled ‘The State of Sourcing Report’, suggests tariffs on goods imported into the US, particularly from China, could make near-shore sourcing more attractive for US retailers. The report is based on a survey of UK retailers conducted in 2024. The survey found the majority of UK retailers (74 per cent) source internationally, with China being the most popular sourcing region (49 per cent)....
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13/12/2024
McKinsey & Co has outlined three essentials that can make or break apparel supply chains in 2025. McKinsey & Co says over 2025, apparel brands that are deemed successful will be ones that remain in tune with their sourcing footprint and tweaking their supply chains as needed. Brands and suppliers that have a “partnership” model in place as opposed to a transactional relationship will also succeed as well as ones whose vision around sustainability aligns with that of their stakeholders....
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13/12/2024
A study conducted by Source, Europe's premier forum for ethical sourcing within the fashion, home, gift, and garden sectors, sheds light on the shifting paradigms of UK retailers' and brands' sourcing strategies. The report, titled “The State of Sourcing Report – Sourcing and Sustainability in 2025,” was produced in collaboration with retail trend experts Insider Trends, a retail trend analysis firm....
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11/12/2024
US retail activity in November 2024 showed a slight increase on a month-by-month comparison despite key shopping days falling into December, says NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay. Clothing and accessory stores saw a slight sales decline of 0.18% month-over-month on a seasonally adjusted basis but enjoyed a 4.21% annual uplift on an unadjusted basis....
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11/12/2024
A new report from Source Fashion has revealed sustainability is moving lower down the list of priorities for companies and as the effects of the Covid pandemic wear off, businesses appear less willing to shift their apparel supply chains out of China and wider Asia. The State of Sourcing Report by Source Fashion aims to explore what is happening in terms of apparel sourcing and sustainability trends over the next 12-18 months....
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10/12/2024
Import volumes at major US container ports are expected to see a sustained increase well into the following spring as potential strike threat looms and tariffs increase under President-elect Donald Trump. Last month, Trump said he plans to sign an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on all goods coming from China, Mexico and Canada....
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10/12/2024
US apparel shipments increased for the top 10 biggest suppliers in October due to sourcing executives trying to get ahead of Trump tariffs, however Mexico fell out of the top 10 after seeing its shipments slide 10% with Trump's latest threats suggesting it could also be hit with duties. US apparel imports increased 21% in October to 2.45bn SME with shipments from all ten of the biggest suppliers showing an increase according to the latest data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (Otexa)....
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9/12/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF)'s chief economist Jack Kleinhenz has stated expectations for a strong holiday sales period are intact following a robust third quarter and positive economic indicators. Kleinhenz said the momentum for US holiday shopping has been building well in his economic outlook for the latest issue of the NRF’s Monthly Economic Review....
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9/12/2024
Latest figures would indicate the fashion industry is not doing enough to shift the needle on sustainability. Shocking figures on the environmental footprint of the apparel and textile sectors were released last week and among them was the realisation the amount of materials coming from recycled sources is negligible at best, begging the question has the fashion industry spun too far out of control?...
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9/12/2024
The European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex) director general tells Just Style the EU-Mercosur agreement will pave the way for "considerable growth in bilateral trade" for the European textile and apparel sector. The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and her counterparts from four Mercosur countries, namely Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, have finalised negotiations for the EU-Mercosur partnership agreement....
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6/12/2024
A survey conducted by Oxfam, British-founded non-governmental organisation, indicates that 27% of adults attending holiday events are considering purchasing previously owned garments.
Oxfam is advocating for a reduction in single-use holiday fashion, noting that nearly one-third of adults confess to wearing new party attire only once, but it says a significant portion of the population is gearing up for the holiday season by opting for second-hand clothing in the UK....
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6/12/2024
A new report from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has explored the role of the fashion industry in driving environmental change, particularly in relation to land. The aim of the UNCCD report is to encourage the industry to consider how its fibre choices are impacting the industry’s land footprint and to promote more sustainable production and consumption patterns....
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5/12/2024
The global textile and apparel industry in 2025 will be defined by its ability to navigate a world of rising protectionism, shifting geopolitical alliances, and increasing demands for sustainability, writes Gherzi Textil Organisation partner Robert Antoshak.
Whew, what a trip! For me, that sums up 2024. As so many commentators have noted, we live in a time of significant change. To see evidence of that, look no further than the election of Donald Trump as president of the United States. Who could have predicted that?...
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5/12/2024
US president-elect Donald Trump has suggested the BRICS countries which include fashion majors China and India, could be at risk of 100% tariffs if they try to replace the dollar. Trump posted on his social media platform Truth: “We require a commitment from these countries that they will neither create a new BRICS currency nor back any other currency to replace the mighty US dollar or they will face 100% tariffs and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US economy.”...
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4/12/2024
The latest annual survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics indicates that approximately 197 million shoppers participated in the five-day shopping period from Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday . This number ranks as the second highest recorded in the survey’s history, following last year’s peak of 200.4 million. It also exceeds NRF’s initial projection of a record-breaking 183.4 million shoppers, both in-store and online....
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4/12/2024
The annual production of forest-derived fabrics rose in 2024 so the Man-Made Cellulosic Fibre (MMCF) sector is being urged to make Next Gen solutions a priority in 2025. The latest Hot Button report published by non-profit environmental organisation Canopy has revealed nearly all MMCF producers engaged with the company are either actively using Next Gen products or are working on R&D....
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3/12/2024
UK overall retail sales for November 2024 saw a decline of 3.3% on a yearly basis, compared to an increase of 2.6% observed in the same month the previous year, according to BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor. This figure falls short of both the three-month average growth rate of -0.1% and the 12-month average growth rate of 0.5%....
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3/12/2024
The online apparel market is expected to make up 29.3% of total apparel sales by 2027, however a new report has warned fashion brands and retailers face four key challenges that could inhibit growth.
GlobalData’s Global Online Apparel Market to 2027 report projects that by 2027, the online channel will make up 29.3% of total apparel sales, which it adds is only 0.9ppts higher than the share it reached in 2020 and stands as a testament to the “enduring appeal and benefits of stores.”...
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2/12/2024
A UK study published by media company Clear Channel UK has revealed clothing only sits behind food as being the most popular sustainable purchase for UK consumers (34%). The study, which featured over 2,000 respondents suggests UK consumers are more aware of the perils of fast fashion, including the waste it causes and how it exploits workers, which is why they are increasingly seeking sustainable alternatives to purchase....
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29/11/2024
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) believes that with significant price pressures on the horizon, November’s figures may signal the end of falling inflation in the UK, however fashion remained in deflation.
Shop price deflation was 0.6% in November, up from deflation of 0.8% in the previous month, according to the BRC-Nielseniq Shop Price Index. This was slightly above the three-month average rate of -0.7% and shop price annual growth remained its lowest rate since September 2021....
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28/11/2024
In the run up to Christmas, spending is likely to remain muted as consumers remain concerned about the state of the economy, a new survey from the British Retail Consortium has found. The BRC-Opinium data reveals UK consumer confidence remains weak as Christmas approaches.
Fieldwork conducted by market agency Opinium for the BRC sampled data from 2,000 UK adults with results weighted and a net score assigned....
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26/11/2024
AI uptake across fashion businesses is likely to spike in 2025 as fashion executives look to lower consumers' ‘choice paralysis’. AI is proving an essential tool for fashion businesses as brands are facing a surge of abandoned carts due to customers being overwhelmed by too many options.
According to McKinsey’s State of Fashion 2025 report, 74% of shoppers report walking away from purchases due to volume of choice and 80% say they are annoyed by the online search function which poses a barrier to purchase....
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26/11/2024
A report from Vinted and RetailEconomics has revealed consumers in 2024 are embracing pre-loved with secondhand accounting for just over 10% of all gift spending. The Recommerce 2024 report shows shoppers are set to spend £20.5bn ($25.80bn) on gifts in total and overall 84% of secondhand shoppers are likely to spend a proportion of their budget on pre-loved Christmas gifts this year....
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22/11/2024
The Product Environment Footprint (PEF) methodology has a key role to play in the EU's apparel sustainability strategy, however industry experts argue it discriminates against natural fibres such as cotton, in favour of synthetics. Over the past five years the EU commission has focused on its Green Deal and implementing sustainability-based legislation.
Its main objective is to ensure apparel and textiles on the EU market are durable, recyclable, made of recycled fibres, free of hazardous substances and produced in a way that is respectful of both people and planet....
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22/11/2024
UK shoppers are relying on user-generated content more than ever to make informed buying decisions according to a report from Bazaarvoice which reveals half of shoppers surveyed say they are unlikely to buy a product without reviews or other customer content. Bazaarvoice’s Shopper Experience Index surveyed over 7,000 shoppers worldwide and highlights the continued importance of customer reviews and user-generated content (UGC) in shaping purchasing behaviour and building trust with brands....
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21/11/2024
The emergence of challenger brands could be a concern for sportswear brand executives in 2025, especially as in 2024 these brands are forecast to generate over half of the sportswear segment’s economic profit, up from 20% in 2020.
While sportswear grew faster than the broader fashion market in key regions in 2023, fast-growing challenger brands such as Deckers are now expected to make up 57% of the sportswear segment’s economic profit, nearly tripling since 2020....
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21/11/2024
A UK garment industry expert tells Just Style producing more garments in the UK will ensure better regulation and improved worker protections after more than 1,200 garment workers in Leicester are alleged to have been illegally underpaid over the past five years.
The data released by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and claimed to be obtained by UK news publication the BBC, covered the period from 2019-20 to 2023-24 and is said to highlight significant wage exploitation in the local garment industry....
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21/11/2024
The European Council (EC) has enacted a regulation that bans products manufactured using forced labour from being sold, exported or made available in the European Union (EU).
This adoption marks the final phase in the EU’s legislative process for banning forced labour goods. The council established its negotiating stance on 26 January 2024 and a provisional agreement was reached between both co-legislators (the Council and Parliament) on 5 March 2024....
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20/11/2024
Major retailers in the UK, including H&M, M&S, Next, and Amazon have expressed concerns that the recent budget from the Labour government could lead to an annual increase in retail industry costs of up to £7bn ($8.86bn). On Monday (18 November), over 80 UK retailers communicated their concerns in a letter, coordinated by the British Retail Consortium, to Chancellor Rachel Reeves over rising costs primarily resulting from the impact of changes to National Insurance, the National Living Wage, and the ongoing packaging levy....
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19/11/2024
The US Census Bureau data reveals a steady increase in retail sales over the past two months, reflecting consumers’ ability to spend and indicating ongoing economic stability, according to National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist Jack Kleinhenz. In October, overall US retail sales rose by 0.4% from the previous month, seasonally adjusted, and increased 2.8% year-over-year unadjusted....
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19/11/2024
Can the US become a potential sourcing base for clothing made from recycled cotton and what are the opportunities and challenges of using textile recycling to support apparel that is "Made in the USA".
With millions of tonnes of textile waste generated annually in the US and globally, consumers and fashion companies demonstrate a growing interest in using more recycled materials in clothing and building a more circular fashion industry....
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19/11/2024
The European Commission has proposed to delay the implementation of its deforestation regulation giving fashion companies longer to comply with rules that aim to ensure all products sold in the EU are not linked to deforestation.
This decision comes in response to concerns from EU member states, non-EU nations, traders, and operators about the feasibility of meeting the original compliance deadline of 30 December 2024....
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18/11/2024
A new survey suggests over half of UK shoppers plan to wait for sales to purchase clothing and accessories during the holiday season and almost half (45%) will buy secondhand gifts to save money.
The EY survey, which polled 1,000 UK consumers on their views and attitudes towards the upcoming holiday sales season suggests 53% of UK consumers are worried about how to afford the gifts, clothing, food and drink required for Christmas in 2024....
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18/11/2024
A new wave of research is exposing a stark reality: our wardrobes are overflowing with unworn clothes, a testament to the rise of fast fashion and a ‘buy now, wear once’ mentality. This global phenomenon is not only draining our wallets but also contributing significantly to environmental damage....
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15/11/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF) suggests a record 183.4m US consumers will shop in-store and online from Thanksgiving Day through to Cyber Monday in 2024. The NRF’s Thanksgiving weekend prediction is based on its annual survey which was published with Prosper Insights & Analytics and shows the figure is up from the previous record of 182m in 2023 and 18.1m people more than five years ago in 2019....
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14/11/2024
Challenges facing fashion brands and retailers in 2024 are set to persist over the next year with a predicted slowdown coming into play as consumers become increasingly price sensitive, McKinsey’s State of Fashion 2025 report suggests. The annual report, intended to guide fashion executives sourcing and business decisions over the coming year, indicates while there are still pockets of growth to be found in 2025, economic uncertainty, geographic disparities as well as shifting customer behaviour and preferences mean “seizing it will require navigating a maze of compounding challenges at every turn”....
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14/11/2024
S&P Global Ratings expects US holiday sales growth to slow to about 3% in 2024 from 4.7% last year and suggests boosting value will be key to US retailer success. US financial information firm S&P Global says its outlook is influenced by waning but persistent inflation that has pressured US household budgets.
Additionally, it suggests the late Thanksgiving holiday will result in five fewer shopping days than last year, which may weigh on sales....
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13/11/2024
A new report from the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights sheds light on the current failures in corporate accountability and calls for stronger regulatory frameworks and compliance assessments to ensure corporations respect human rights across global operations. The report explores current regulatory efforts in the field of business and human rights and outlines best practices for ensuring measurable success and respect for due diligence rights....
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13/11/2024
US retail sales during October 2024 increased thanks to a resilient economy and consumers moving past port strike concerns. The Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, retail sales, excluding automobiles and gasoline, rose by 0.74% month-over-month in October after adjusting for seasonal fluctuations. On a year-over-year (YoY) basis, sales increased 4.13%....
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12/11/2024
Brexit, a global pandemic and a shift in consumer buying habits have all changed the fashion landscape and a new report uncovers how fashion stakeholders can support the industry going forward.
A new report from the British Fashion Council and London Business School has detailed how fashion industry stakeholders including brands, designers, trade bodies and the UK government can support industry growth and revenue....
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11/11/2024
Move over athleisure, jeans are back! After a period of sales slump and stiff competition from comfort-focused clothing like athileisure, denim is experiencing resurgence. Market research reveals an industry shaking off the pandemic blues and embracing new trends to reclaim its position as a wardrobe staple. Recent reports from research groups like Circana and retail intelligence firms like Edited suggest denim is staging a comeback. This revival is due to factors like innovative styles, sustainable practices, and a renewed appreciation for classic fashion....
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11/11/2024
In October, the consumer price index (CPI) for garments in the US showed a notable increase of 1.1 per cent month-over-month. This marks a significant shift following a period of declining prices throughout the latter half of 2023. The upward trajectory aligns with the trend seen post-pandemic, where clothing prices have generally risen after an initial collapse during the onset of COVID-19, as per Cotton Incorporated....
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11/11/2024
New analysis from the British Retail Consortium and Provenance suggests that 74% of all products marketed online by British retailers feature some form of green claim. In fact, the research found an average of 2.9 green claims per product.
The research, which analyses 390k claims across nearly 132k SKUs, from seven major UK online supermarket retailers, suggests UK retailers are responding positively to a rise in consumer expectations around sustainability in recent years....
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11/11/2024
Import volumes at major US container ports may exceed previous forecasts for the remainder of the year due to concerns about a potential East Coast/Gulf Coast port strike and anticipated tariff hikes under President-elect Donald Trump.
In September, US ports handled 2.29m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU) in terms of import volumes, although final data from the Ports of New York/New Jersey and Miami are still pending. This represents a 12.8% increase compared to September last year and a slight 1.3% drop from August....
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9/11/2024
Will Trump presidency in 2024 be beneficial for the global textile and apparel industry? The answer is complex, as Trump's trade policies have historically been marked by protectionism and a focus on rebalancing trade relationships.
Protectionism and its effects on supply chains
Trump's trade approach includes higher tariffs, especially on Chinese imports, to boost domestic manufacturing—a tactic that could disrupt the global textile supply chain....
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9/11/2024
The U.S.-China trade tensions that escalated under the Trump administration profoundly impacted China’s textile and apparel industry. The policies implemented primarily through tariffs disrupted supply chains, forced companies to adapt sourcing strategies, and reshaped the global apparel trade landscape. Examining the long-term effects, adjustments within the industry, and the broader economic implications…an analysis below. c Impact of tariffs on trade volumes and prices...
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8/11/2024
Donald Trump may have won the presidential election, but he has a wardrobe problem. That’s not a fashion statement but an economic reality, writes Gherzi Textil Organization partner Robert P. Antoshak. The economic costs are daunting. If Trump enacts his proposed trade and fiscal policies, clothing will become more expensive in the United States. During the presidential campaign, he said he’d raise import tariffs, slash income taxes, and boost domestic manufacturing, a volatile formula for higher prices and increased inflation....
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8/11/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts ‘steady’ retail sales growth for the winter holiday season, despite mixed signals in recent economic data, according to NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz. This comes after the NRF projected that retail sales during the November-December holiday period would rise by 2.5% to 3.5% from 2023, reaching a total of $979.5bn to $989bn. The NRF continues to project steady growth and cited a resilient economy, maintaining its momentum despite ongoing challenges....
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7/11/2024
Trump's presidential win has been met with mixed feelings in the US apparel, footwear and retail sectors which welcome plans for a tax cut but are concerned by proposed tariff hikes. As the US and much of the world gears up for life under newly elected President Donald Trump, the US apparel, footwear and retail sectors consider what changes they can expect to see and what it will mean for the way they do business.
For US retail an anticipated tax cut will be welcomed, but there is significant concern around looming tariffs under Trump which could further pressure consumer spending in an already constrained environment....
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6/11/2024
A victorious Donald Trump with his protectionist policies has warned of higher import tariffs and while that might boost domestic production, the US economy can expect a $16bn to 18bn net loss from apparel and $4bn to 8bn from footwear as consumers grapple with higher prices. In his public address he promised to fight for the future of US citizens, adding it was “very nice” to win the popular vote. But for the US fashion and retail industries, Trump at the helm could prove problematic....
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6/11/2024
UK retail sales edged up by 0.6% in October, but fashion lagged behind as the mild weather delayed winter purchases. The UK retail sales rise in October 2024 showed a slower pace than the previous year’s 2.6% growth and was below the three-month average growth rate of 1.3%, according to the latest BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor. In contrast to fashion’s drop, beauty products performed strongly, buoyed by robust demand for seasonal items like beauty advent calendars....
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5/11/2024
A recent study by the National Retail Federation (NRF) revealed that if new tariffs on imports to the US are implemented, American consumers could lose between $46bn and $78bn in spending power each year. NRF’s study, ‘Estimated Impacts of Proposed Tariffs on Imports: Apparel, Toys, Furniture, Household Appliances, Footwear and Travel Goods’ outlines the potential impacts of former President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs....
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9/10/2024
Imports at major US container ports are expected to remain strong in October, despite a three-day strike last week that temporarily halted operations from Maine to Texas. The port strike by members of the International Longshoremen’s Association, which began on 1 October after contract negotiations stalled, ended after a tentative agreement was reached on a wage increase and a short-term contract extension until 15 January....
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9/10/2024
Compliance is essential given the onslaught of environmental and social legislation on the horizon, but could upcoming regulations finally reduce the countless audits apparel manufacturers are expected to carry out?
The apparel sector is dealing with a raft of new regulation, explains the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)’s senior vice president of policy, Nate Herman....
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9/10/2024
More needs to be done to ensure the long-term stability and sustainability of the US apparel, textile and retail sectors in the face of external headwinds like port strike action. US fashion retailers and brands breathed a sigh of relief over the weekend as a planned strike at the East Coast and Gulf Coast ports were averted following a tentative deal between dock workers and port operators....
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8/10/2024
Sustainability, social media, and fast access to cheap fashion remain the primary drivers for growth among apparel's consumer base, according to a new report. The Demographics in Retail report by GlobalData suggests apparel retailers must focus on sustainability credentials and attributes to capture growth, as well as capitalising on technology that allows the targeting of certain demographics. Ethical consumption, it says, is a trend retailers can’t afford to ignore, driven mainly by the demand for ethical and sustainable practices from Gen Z....
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8/10/2024
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) and accounting firm KPMG's retail sales monitor shows total UK retail sales rose by 2% in September, fuelled by demand for new season clothing, however industry experts warn of weak consumer confidence with retailers placing hope on the government's Autumn budget. BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson highlighted that UK retail sales experienced the strongest growth in six months, primarily driven by non-food categories as consumers seek wardrobe updates with the arrival of autumn, including coats, boots, and knitwear....
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3/10/2024
A recent report by GlobalData has revealed France's apparel market will remain sluggish as shoppers prioritise finances and reducing their environmental impact over following fashion trends. According to GlobalData’s ‘The Apparel Market in France to 2028’ report, clothing is set to be the weakest category among accessories, footwear, and clothing, with a projected CAGR of 1.9% from 2023 to 2028, and its market share falling by 0.6 percentage points to 68.8%....
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3/10/2024
The National Retail Federation and the American Apparel and Footwear Association are among more than 200 US organisations urging the Administration to end a labour strike at US East and Gulf Coast container ports. The port strike went into effect after the six-year master contract between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the US Maritime Alliance (USMX) expired on 30 September.
The two signed a letter to US president Joe Biden which says the matter has become one of economic and national security....
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2/10/2024
Non-food shop prices saw deeper deflation in September with significant reductions in categories like clothing and furniture driving overall shop prices down to their lowest rate since August 2021. Shop price deflation accelerated to 0.6% in September, down from 0.3% in August, according to the latest data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) – NielsenIQ Shop Price Index.
The rate of deflation during the period 1-7 September also fell below the three-month average of -0.3%, indicating a continuing trend of reduced shop prices.
The non-food category remained in deflation at -2.1% in September, compared to -1.5% in the previous month. This is also below the three-month average rate of -1.5% and marks the lowest inflation level since March 2021....
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1/10/2024
Imports of apparel by the United States, the largest single-country apparel importer in the world, totalled $79.3 billion in 2023, with the majority sourced from Asia, according to a report on the export competitiveness of certain apparel suppliers to the United States released yesterday by the US International Trade Commission (USITC)....
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10/9/2024
Major US container ports brace for a busy September amid fears of a labour strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, according to the Global Port Tracker report by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates. NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy Jonathan Gold believes this is a “critical time” as retailers prepare for the all-important holiday season, and every port in the country needs to be working at full capacity....
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10/9/2024
The latest Globaldata report says consumer spending in Germany has been hit by inflation and is expected to be slow in 2024, as consumers focus on sustainable fashion trends and opt for secondhand and capsule wardrobes.
According to ‘The Apparel Market in Germany to 2028‘ report, the German apparel market surpassed past pre-pandemic levels in 2023, growing 4.1% year-on-year to €77.6bn ($85.68bn).
However, persistently high inflation limited potential, as consumers cut back on non-essential spending. Growth was primarily price-driven, with volumes only growing 0.4%, remaining 3.5% below 2019 levels....
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6/9/2024
A new report from Coresight Research dives into how demographics influence where consumers are shopping for apparel and footwear. When it comes to apparel, footwear and accessories purchases there is a clear division between different pay brackets and ages on determining where consumers shop....
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6/9/2024
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, one trend is dominating the global landscape: the undeniable preference for casualwear. From the bustling streets of New York to the vibrant markets of Mumbai, people everywhere are embracing comfort and versatility in their everyday attire. This trend is not merely a passing fad but a fundamental change in how consumers express their style, with 'comfort' now a key consideration alongside aesthetics....
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6/9/2024
The Manufacturers' Health Index has revealed small and mid-sized clothing, footwear and accessories manufacturers saw a 2.7% increase in profitability this fiscal year up to Q2 2024 and a 7% rise in revenue. The Manufacturers’ Health Index shows the the UK apparel manufacturing sector performed well in Q2 2024 compared to other manufacturing sectors....
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5/9/2024
The US' National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) believes a more tailored and comprehensive customs modernisation legislation as opposed to limiting de minimis entirely will prevent unintended consequences for the US apparel sector and beyond. The US Congress is considering changes to the “de minimis” rule, which exempts low-value shipments from tariffs and duties. However, the NFTC believes proposals to limit de minimis could have significant unintended consequences for the apparel industry....
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4/9/2024
Egypt's clothing exports between January and July this year were worth $1.55 billion—a 20-per cent year-on-year (YoY) rise, Marie Louis, president of the Readymade Garment Export Council (RMGEC) recently said. In July alone, such exports surged by nearly 37 per cent YoY to $268 million from $195 million in July 2023. Such exports to European countries during the seven-month period rose by 29 per cent YoY to $363 million compared to $281 million in the year-ago period....
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3/9/2024
A new report from data and analytics company GlobalData reveals how demographic shifts will change fashion retail in the coming years, from the rise of secondhand to the impact of ultra-fast retailers such as Shein and Temu. The ‘Demographics in Retail and Apparel’ report says apparel will have to deal with changing consumer behaviours in the coming years as the Baby Boomer generation retires and consumers in the Millennial and Gen Z age groups become increasingly prominent....
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3/9/2024
UK total retail sales increased 1% year-on-year in August, however industry experts are concerned a challenging retail environment could dominate the rest of 2024 unless the upcoming October budget offers some decisive action on business rates. The British Retail Consortium (BRC)’s chief executive Helen Dickinson noted that sales growth picked up in August, particularly for food but also for summer clothing, health and beauty products as people came together to host barbecue and picnic gatherings for family and friends, prepared for trips away and summer social events....
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2/9/2024
The US economy has shown mixed signals in recent months, impacting consumer buying behavior and the apparel industry. Inflation, fluctuating import prices, and shifting consumer priorities have all contributed to a complex market environment. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for apparel rose by 3.6 per cent year-over-year in July, following a 3 per cent increase in June, according to Cotton Incorporated's analysis. This increase reflects a broader inflationary trend impacting the US economy, potentially affecting consumer buying behavior....
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2/9/2024
According to British Retail Consortium (BRC) chief executive Helen Dickinson, despite retail footfall being severely impacted by riots earlier in August, the numbers improved later in the month as warmer temperatures prompted shoppers outdoors to browse stores....
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2/9/2024
Supply chain agility is key for fashion brands and retailers as the recent Bangladesh floods and political upheaval suggest supply disruption could take place at the drop of a hat. “These are unprecedented times.” Remember hearing that at the turn of 2020 when the reality of the Covid pandemic had begun to sink in and the apparel sector globally suffered from factory closures, logistics complications, and a consumer pullback on store closures? The last few weeks might suggest that those “unprecedented times” were just the start of a new normal.
Once again, the apparel sector finds itself in a pressure cooker situation, where turbulence across the supply chain is filtering across to brands and retailers who are again being forced to find a new normal....
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31/8/2024
Textile and apparel (T&A) exports by the United States witnessed a 3.17 per cent declineto $11.5 billion during H1, FY2024. Beginning in the first quarter of the year, this decline persisted throughout the following months, reflecting a broader trend of decreasing exports that had already been notable in 2023. Meanwhile, imports by the country also contracted, largely due to ongoing inflationary pressures....
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30/8/2024
In an era where sustainability and ethical practices are gaining traction across various sectors, the fashion industry continues to be a significant concern. The recent report by Fashion Revolution, titled ‘What Fuels Fashion’, highlights the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry, revealing the hidden costs behind the clothing we wear. The report highlights startling data, case studies, and expert insights, urging both consumers and industry leaders to rethink their choices and practices....
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30/8/2024
Sustainable chemical management firm ZDHC Foundation has released its Air Emissions Guidelines V1.0 to establish performance criteria for air emissions within the textile, apparel, leather, and footwear manufacturing industries. ZDHC explained that the initial version of the guidelines is focused on sensitising the industry, enabling suppliers to establish their baselines and gain a comprehensive understanding of air emission requirements, rather than testing....
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29/8/2024
A new study highlights the urgent need for sustainable and circular practices in the fashion industry, offering actionable strategies for brands to minimise waste, extend product lifecycles and better align production with consumer demand. The study, ‘Towards circular fashion: management strategies promoting circular behaviour along the value chain’, explores the fashion industry’s need to transition towards sustainable and circular practices by examining how management strategies influence behaviours across the fashion value chain....
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29/8/2024
Expanding at a CAGR of 6.64 per cent, the global denim jeans market is projected to grow by $23.86 billion between 2024 and 2028. As per a report by Technavio, this growth is likely to be driven by the expanding retail space and a shift towards sustainable practices. Demand for denim jeans is particularly booming among baby boomers and women, who prefer loose-fitting, stylish jeans. Men's denim continues to be popular amongst laborers as manual attire, while women’s prefer low-rise, curve, and straight-leg skinny jeans....
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28/8/2024
Industry data reveals that one-third of all jobs advertised in the UK require at least one ‘green skill’ with recruitment software company Occupop recommending businesses to invest in upskilling their workforce to prepare for a sustainable future. Occupop believes that the growing demand for professionals with green skills in the UK spans multiple industries, including the apparel industry, revealing a significant talent shortage unable to meet this need....
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27/8/2024
A new report by GlobalData suggests apparel brands will encounter reduced demand, as Germany's society ages and birth rates decline. According to GlobalData’s ‘The Apparel Market in Germany to 2028‘ report, Germany’s population is expected to experience slight growth until 2026, before contracting in 2027 and 2028 due to falling birth rates. Its population is anticipated to reach 85.9m by 2028.
As a result, GlobalData says Germany’s population will continue to age, with the proportion of those aged 65 and over expected to increase by 1.9ppts to 24.4% between 2023 and 2028....
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27/8/2024
For the first time in almost three years, shop prices are in deflation, according to new data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) driven by slashed prices, particularly in the fashion sector, as retailers look to shift summer stock. Poor weather and a continued cost of living crunch across the nation prompted the driving down of retail prices. While, in the short term, this may help win over consumers, industry onlookers question the sustainability of this tactic and long-term deflation....
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24/8/2024
Valued at $288 billion in 2023, the global plus size clothing market is projected to expand at a CAGR of5.7 per cent to surpass $501.35 billion by 2033. As per a report by Future Markets Insight (FMI), this growth will be driven by the rise of body positivity movement, changing fashion norms, and increased consumer awareness. The body positivity movement has played a key role, encouraging inclusivity and celebrating diverse body shapes, which has fueled demand for attractive plus size clothing. As fashion norms evolve, designers and retailers are increasingly offering trendy, stylish options for plus size individuals....
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23/8/2024
Amid rising inflation and the ongoing impact of Brexit, UK suppliers tell Just Style how fashion manufacturing in the country is changing. At the recent Source Fashion trade show in London UK suppliers shared how they are using their sustainable credentials to increase the appeal of ‘made in the UK’.
Made and sourced in the UK
TS Knitwear, a family-run knitwear business based in Leicester is using wool sourced in the UK in its designs. The company also offers a high-tech knitting plant, and what it describes as the latest in seamless garment technology....
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22/8/2024
The once-booming fashion and apparel sector is experiencing a noticeable slowdown, with growth figures slipping and consumption patterns changing dramatically. While the industry seemed impervious to economic fluctuations, recent statistics highlight a sector grappling with a new reality....
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21/8/2024
The US bottomwear market, once dominated by denim and athleisure, is undergoing a change. With an estimated value of over $40 billion, this sector is witnessing a shift in consumer preferences, fashion trends, and overall market dynamics. Recent years have seen a distinct change in the US bottomwear market. American consumers are increasingly moving away from activewear, sweats, and denim, and leaning towards more polished, casual styles like chinos and dressy trousers. This shift has led to a decline in denim sales, the third-largest apparel category in the US, despite the overall apparel market showing signs of improvement....
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21/8/2024
Non-profit Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP) has published new guidance on how its actionable and reliable data can help with EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) compliance. The guidance illustrates which aspects of SLCP’s Converged Assessment Framework (CAF) can support EU CSRD compliance, and which are out of its scope.
International Trade Centre Head of Trade for Sustainable Development Joe Wozniak says: “Clear and transparent guidance that outlines SLCP’s role in supporting European Sustainability Reporting Standards implementation is essential particularly for smaller companies to effectively navigate the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)....
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21/8/2024
From rising corporate taxes to new climate regulations and trade policies, industry experts weigh in on how US Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris' economic agenda could affect the US apparel industry if she were to win the race in November. In vice president Kamala Harris’ first major policy speech since accepting her Democratic Party nomination, she proposed what GlobalData retail analyst Neil Saunders describes as a “populist” economic agenda....
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20/8/2024
The Slow Fashion Caucus has told US president Joe Biden not to overlook the fashion industry’s potential to address the climate crisis. The Slow Fashion Caucus’ founder and chair Chellie Pingree is urging president Biden to include representatives from the fashion and textile industries in the new White House Task Force on Climate and Trade. In a letter written to the president, Pingree and members of the Slow Fashion Caucus highlight the significant climate challenges facing the fashion industry and argue the sector is a “fundamental missing piece” in discussions on the climate crisis....
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19/8/2024
UK retail sales in July 2024 rose 2.2% year-on-year with clothing and footwear benefitting from the return of warm and sunny weather. The Office of National Statistics’ most recent data on UK retail in July reveals sales were up 0.5%, compared to a fall of 0.9% the previous month. However textile clothing and footwear stores specifically saw a decline of 0.1%.
Total UK sales volumes rose by 1.1% in the three months to July 2024, when compared with the three months to April 2024....
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15/8/2024
How can manufacturers prepare themselves for the incoming EU Textile Strategy? ITMA outlines three changes they can expect to see.
The EU Textile Strategy, being developed by the European Commission (EC), forms part of the broader Green Deal programme of environmental measures aimed at making the 27 countries within the union completely carbon neutral by 2050.
Under the new rules, textile manufacturers globally, will see a swathe of changes to the modus operandi....
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14/8/2024
Two industry experts weigh up the current challenges facing the fashion industry as the sector attempts to tackle both sustainability and tighter consumer budgets. Does the fashion industry need to choose between making a profit and becoming more sustainable? At responsible fashion sourcing trade show Source Fashion in London, UK, the question was a reoccurring one with experts taking to the stage to discuss the current trends and issues facing in the fashion industry....
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14/8/2024
New research finds 55% of UK consumers continue to engage with their preferred fashion brands, despite ongoing economic challenges and diminished purchasing power. Specialist e-commerce platform Centra conducted a survey of 1,000 UK consumers and found consumer loyalty includes engagement through viewing new products, consuming brand content and following brands on social media, with the aim of resuming purchases once their financial situation improves....
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12/8/2024
The US experienced retail sales growth in July thanks to back-to-school shopping and retailers' special promotional events. The latest CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that total retail sales rose by 0.74% on a seasonally adjusted month-over-month basis and 0.92% year-over-year. This growth outpaced June’s figures, which saw increases of 0.47% month-over-month and 3.42% year-over-year....
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9/8/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF) has called for a return to the negotiating table after contract discussions at US East and Gulf Coast ports stalled with the NRF adding "retailers and the economy cannot afford to see a prolonged strike." According to the latest Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, monthly inbound cargo volume at major US container ports is projected to reach “near-record” levels this month as retailers rush to import merchandise ahead of a potential strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports....
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9/8/2024
The latest set of trade data from the United States Office of Textile and Apparel (OTEXA) shows stagnating imports. Just Style examines what this “uncertain outlook” could mean for apparel for the rest of this year. According to OTEXA, in May 2024, US imports of apparel totalled 1.963m square metre equivalents (SME) – down 1.3% compared to May 2023.
Dr Sheng Lu, professor of apparel studies at the University of Delaware, told Just Style the figures show US apparel import volume is continuing to “stagnate”....
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8/8/2024
After a slow start to summer recent warm and sunny weather provided a welcome boost to UK clothing retailers with total sales increasing by 0.5% year-on-year in July 2024. According to the latest figures released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), the growth outpaced the three-month average of 0.3%. The British Retail Consortium (BRC)’s chief executive Helen Dickinson noted the late arrival of British sunshine boosted summer clothing sales as well as health and beauty as consumers prepared for social outings and holidays....
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8/8/2024
Industry experts tell Just Style the UK's recent extremist riots have disrupted apparel retailers across the country and in the short-term will "undoubtedly" have an impact on consumer spending in the areas where they have taken place. The UK apparel retail sector has faced a week of destruction and disruption after far-right extremists used social media to mobilise and start riots across the country. On 7 August many retailers made the decision to close after a warning from the police that far-right organisations had planned more than 100 rallies across the country. However, large groups of anti-racism counter-protesters gathered, outnumbering the far-right in many cases....
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7/8/2024
Just Style examines the latest OTEXA data for the month of June to see halfway through the year, who is the cheapest apparel supplier to the US and does it even matter as well as who is seeing the fastest growth? A lot of conversation around the US apparel sector particularly when it comes to sourcing, has been around diversifying away from China being the predominant supplier. Apparel brands and retailers have accepted it will never go away in its entirety and that their sourcing strategy needs to follow the format China plus many or Asia plus many. And six months into 2024, US apparel import figures reveal that is exactly what is happening....
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6/8/2024
US senator Sherrod Brown has joined a call to the Biden Administration to close the de minimis loophole, which is said to allow three million shipments a day to evade inspections and US trade rules. Brown joined manufacturers, retailers, law enforcement, and workers at MMI Textiles in Brooklyn, Ohio to push for the Biden administration to close the loophole he said allows foreign countries like China to exploit and avoid paying duties and fees they owe. Brown has introduced bipartisan legislation to address the problem, and says he has repeatedly called on President Biden to take executive action to close the loophole....
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6/8/2024
The fashion industry, like many others, grappled with significant price fluctuations due to COVID-19. Many key factors have impacted these shifts. From rising raw material costs to inflationary pressures and change in consumer demand the reasons are many.
Factors driving prices fluctuations
Several factors are responsible for price fluctuations. One major factor is supply chain snags. Pre-pandemic, globalization led to a steady decline in apparel prices....
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5/8/2024
The global wool yarn market is set to expand at a CAGR of 3.4 per cent from 2024-34 to reach a value of $8.05 billion by 2034. As per a report by FactMR, East Asia is forecasted to dominate the market, holding a 38.4 per cent share by 2034, with Japan accounting for 28.8 per cent of this share. The South Korea market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6 per cent during this forecast period. China is also projected to be a major player in the East Asian wool yarn market, commanding 57.3 per cent of the regional share by 2034....
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5/8/2024
A wave of cautious optimism has spread across American consumers, reveals Euromonitor International’ latest ‘Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyles Survey’ study. The report, which surveys consumer attitudes and behaviors across 40 countries, reveals a significant shift in sentiment compared to previous pandemic years. “Consumers are feeling more optimistic about the future and increasingly less worried about global affairs,” says Euromonitor in the report’s introduction. “This presents an opportunity for brands to connect with consumers on an emotional level and create positive experiences.”...
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5/8/2024
Big global fashion brands must urgently invest at least 2 per cent of their annual revenue into a just transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy, according to the latest report from Fashion Revolution, a not-for-profit global movement. The fashion industry remains one of the most polluting, with fossil fuels burned at every stage of production. Despite the escalating climate crisis, the report finds that big brands' reduction targets are insufficient to meet the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels....
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5/8/2024
Flexibility, adaptability and versatility are going to be essential sell points for fashion suppliers going forward as the market becomes more volatile due to spending cutbacks, unpredictable weather and growing concern over ethical and environmental practices in the supply chain. Globally, consumers are pulling back on clothing spend as evidenced this week in second-quarter results from brands including Hugo Boss, adidas, Kontoor Brands and Columbia Sportswear....
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5/8/2024
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification warns the partial suspension of testing, inspection and certification firm Intertek Testing Services could create issues within the supply chain. Intertek Testing Services’ partial suspension from GOTS is due to alleged “serious lapses,” however the certification body is keen to highlight its suspension could cause challenges within the value chain, especially to those who are certified by Intertek or for those who have value chain partners certified by Intertek....
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2/8/2024
A recent report titled What Fuels Fashion?, by Fashion Revolution indicates, major fashion brands including DKNY, Tom Ford and Reebok have failed to outline plans to reduce carbon emission emissions in their supply chain. The report ranks 250 of the world's largest fashion brands and retailers, each with a turnover of $400 million or more. It evaluates these brands based on 70 sustainability criteria, such as emissions targets, supply chain transparency, and the use of renewable energy in factories....
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1/8/2024
A new study by Public Desire ranks the United States with a 10.873 per cent share as the eighth largest sustainable fashion market in the world. Leading the rankings is the United Arab Emirates, followed by Estonia, Finland, Japan, France, Canada, Australia, the US, India, and Latvia. The study analyses over 20 countries to determine those most advanced in sustainable fashion....
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30/7/2024
The president of the National Council of Textile Organisations (NCTO), Kim Glas, has applauded a new law aimed at combatting international trade crimes and fraud. The “Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act,” is a bill that aims to combat trade fraud and hold those committing the crimes accountable.
The bill was introduced by chairman John Moolenaar (R-MI), alongside congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and ranking member Raja Krishnamoorth, and openly aims at the “harm” caused to US companies at the hands of companies based in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) which, it says, “frequently commit crimes violating US trade laws including fraud, duty evasion, and transhipment which benefit the PRC’s non-market economy and undermine US companies and workers.”...
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29/7/2024
As the US Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) publishes its 11th annual Benchmarking Study, Just Style explores the biggest issues weighing on apparel sourcing executives' minds, with the US economy, forced labour management in supply chains and geopolitics leading the way....
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29/7/2024
In a week that reshaped US politics, Biden's exit and Harris's ascension into the US presidential race have sent shockwaves through the nation. As the dust settles, questions loom large over policy shifts, economic impacts, and the future of the US apparel industry. Last week, the US presidential race took an unexpected turn when President Joe Biden announced he was no longer seeking re-election....
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26/7/2024
A new report from Avery Dennison has revealed the majority of US and UK retailers are in “theft crisis” mode with a third saying resources for theft detection and reduction are insufficient. Research commissioned by Avery Dennison has shown almost 42% of retailers believe theft is more of a concern today than it was 12 months ago....
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25/7/2024
Apparel is experiencing the highest level of mixed online and in-store shopping in the US, highlighting significant shifts in consumer behaviour, according to Walmart's State of Adaptive Retail Report. As customers embrace new retail channels at varying speeds across categories, the fundamental values of price, quality, and trust remain paramount. With increasing comfort in tech-powered choices, consumers are becoming more channel agnostic. Early tech adopters and Gen Z are already shopping relatively equally across all channels for general merchandise....
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24/7/2024
Europe, including the United Kingdom, accounts for more than a third of global used clothing exports, and this share may continue to grow as collection rates are expected to rise, according to a report recently published by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC)....
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24/7/2024
The US government is being urged to adopt progressive apparel trade policies that are both offensive and defensive to boost domestic manufacturing and US jobs while cracking down on duty-free loopholes. “The US has a complicated relationship with China,” says National Council of Textile Organization (NCTO) president and CEO Kim Glas, kicking-off a live discussion on the ‘Progressive prescription for US-China trade’.
She claims China’s “predatory trade practices” and its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) over the last year has crystallised even more with the economic headwinds the Chinese economy is facing....
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23/7/2024
New EU regulation is underway to ban the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear as part of wider plans to make products sold on the EU market more sustainable. The law will enable the setting of ecodesign requirements and information for almost all categories of physical goods that come onto the EU market. Source credit: EU Commission....
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23/7/2024
Just Style investigates what US President Joe Biden exiting the US election race and vice president Kamala Harris attracting the support of Democratic delegates as his replacement means for the apparel industry. With just a few months before voters head to the polls in November, President Biden’s announcement has turned the US election on its head and a repeat of 2020’s Biden/Trump presidential race is no longer on the cards.
Writing on X (formerly known as Twitter), Biden said he believed it was “in the best interests of [the] party and the country” for him to stand down and focus on fulfilling his duties as president for the remainder of his term....
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22/7/2024
As the climate crisis makes extreme weather more likely, and blurs the lines between summer and winter, is it time that fashion stepped away from traditional seasons?
Here in the UK, we’re immune to unpredictable weather.
As we head toward the end of July, it was only last week that many of us were finally packing away our boots and rain macs, swapping them out for shorts and t-shirts as the country was finally treated to a burst of sun and warmth after weeks of damp and wet weather....
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19/7/2024
The cotton shirt, a wardrobe staple for generations, is facing a new challenge: man-made fibers (MMF). This shift in the global shirt industry is driven by a confluence of factors – functionality, affordability, and ever-evolving fashion trends.
A balancing, cost vs performance
Cotton reigns supreme in breathability and comfort, but its price fluctuations and water-intensive cultivation cast a shadow....
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19/7/2024
A wet June and a Euros loss dampened consumer spending in the UK but industry onlookers are hopeful that easing inflation and a new government will inject some confidence in consumers and boost spend in the second half of 2024. According to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), UK retail sales fell In June for the fourth time in six months on the back of a colder-than-usual June and high costs for households....
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18/7/2024
Waste from the global apparel industry is leaking millions of tonnes of plastic into the environment each year – an overlooked pollution source which may be getting worse over time, as per the findings detailed in a recent study from North Carolina State University researchers, which found that global apparel consumption resulted in over 20 million tons of plastic waste in 2019. Around 40 per cent of that waste may have been improperly managed and become environmental pollution, a process known as ‘plastic leakage’....
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17/7/2024
US clothing sales dipped in June from a month earlier but were up year-over-year according to the latest data from the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor as consumers continued to de-prioritise non-essential purchases....
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17/7/2024
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is rolling out a “groundbreaking” additional standard it has confirmed.GOTS said the new standard will be an expansion to include other sustainable fibres and does not imply a departure from GOTS as the leading organic standard. “This extension will further enhance people’s lives and the environment, as stated in the organisation’s vision....
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17/7/2024
The UK consumer price index (CPI) rose by 2 per cent in the 12 months to June 2024, the same rate as in the 12 months to May, and well below its recent annual peak of 11.1 per cent in October 2022, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). The October 2022 peak was the highest rate in over 40 years. The annual rate in June this year has not been lower since April 2021, when it was 1.5 per cent, an ONS release said....
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16/7/2024
Sustainability at all levels of the fashion supply chain can only be realised with a standardised set of rules and practices, a group of industry experts has conceded. AI supply chain management platform, Inspectorio, interviewed several industry executives for its State of the Supply Chain report, authored by lead researcher Tomas Bayas Erazo, which aims to capture the dynamic and evolving landscape of the supply chain, addressing the significant influences of technological advancements, sustainability practices, regulatory changes, and consumer behaviours on how companies are managing their supply chains today....
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13/7/2024
Egypt's exports of readymade garments (RMG) increased by 19 per cent year on year (YoY) in the January-May period this year to hit $1.08 billion compared to about $912 million during the corresponding period last year, head of the Readymade Garment Export Council Marie-Louis recently said. RMG exports increased by 25 per cent YoY to European Union (EU) nations during the period to $254 million. The EU is the second largest market for Egyptian RMG....
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12/7/2024
There is an irony in the fact many apparel brands diversifying outside of China are going full circle, but it makes sense as the benefits far outweigh the cons, writes Gherzi Textile Organisation partner Robert P. Antoshak. Once upon a time US clothing brands owned their manufacturing. Today, that’s a rarity. In the 1970s, clothing companies saw manufacturing as a fixed cost, a cash drain, with limited upside. The value, so the thinking went, was in the brand itself. Making stuff took a backseat to designing stuff....
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11/7/2024
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says that as a result of its focus on enforcement in apparel and cotton products, importers have shifted supply chains from the People’s Republic of China to mitigate their risk....
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11/7/2024
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for garments experienced a modest decline of 0.3 per cent month-over-month in May in the US, following a significant increase of 1.5 per cent in April. On a year-over-year basis, average retail prices for apparel rose by 0.8 per cent. Current price levels are the highest since the early 2000s, with index values approximately two per cent higher than those recorded from 2012-18 and about nine per cent higher than those from 2004-11, according to Cotton Incorporated....
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10/7/2024
US container ports reported a 3% increase in import cargo volumes in May despite high shipping rates, unresolved port labour negotiations and ongoing Red Sea disruptions but an industry expert warns “risks to global trade growth continue to increase.” National Retail Federation (NRF) vice president for supply chain and customs policy Jonathan Gold noted: “We’re experiencing the strongest surge in volume we’ve seen in two years, and that’s a good sign for what retailers expect in sales.”...
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10/7/2024
As UK consumers’ discretionary incomes remain squeezed amid economic challenges, their apparel shopping habits have become increasingly polarised. While 66.4% of UK apparel shoppers in GlobalData’s June 2024 UK consumer survey stuck with the same brands and retailers over the past year, 22.0% traded down to more affordable players....
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10/7/2024
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has revealed June's total UK retail sales decreased 0.2% year on year with clothing and footwear particularly hard hit by the unseasonably cooler weather. The BRC’s chief executive Helen Dickinson explained UK retail sales of weather-sensitive categories such as clothing and footwear were hit particularly hard in June, especially compared to the surge in spend during last year’s heatwave....
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9/7/2024
GlobalData has revised its 2024 retail growth forecast down to 2.1% and the clothing and footwear sector now projects a 3.1% decline due to “disappointing” retail sales in the first half of the year, despite improving consumer sentiment. Global Data’s latest forecast for the UK retail market reveals that despite inflation falling to the government’s 2% target in May and wage growth outpacing inflation, retail spending remains subdued....
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8/7/2024
The Office of the US Trade Representative is backing a renewal of AGOA ahead of its September 2025 expiration, but calls for "tweaks" have faced pushback from experts that say it is more important to secure its timely and long-term renewal given its huge benefits for US apparel brands and retailers. A new report from the Office of US Trade Representative (USTR) has revealed US trade with African Growth and Opportunity Act beneficiary countries (AGOA) has increased over the past two years....
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6/7/2024
Valued at $288 billion in 2023, the global plus size market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7 per cent to reach $501.35 billion by 2033. This market expansion is likely to be driven by the body positivity movement, shifting fashion norms, and increased consumer awareness.
The body positivity movement has significantly boosted demand for plus size clothing, promoting inclusion and celebrating all body types. This shift encourages people to embrace their bodies and seek attractive clothing options. Additionally, fashion norms have evolved to prioritize diversity and openness, with designers and retailers offering trendy plus size clothing that meets the fashion-forward demands of plus size individuals....
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5/7/2024
Just Style speaks to industry experts to find out what the Labour Party's landslide victory and the UK having a new government will mean for the apparel sector and wider supply chain over the next four years. Keir Starmer has become the UK’s first Labour prime minister since Gordon Brown left Downing Street in 2010. “We did it! You campaigned for it; you fought for it; you voted for it; and now it has arrived, change begins now,” he said after his party’s victory in the UK general election....
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5/7/2024
Currently valued at $26.05 billion, the global maternity apparel market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.80 per cent to reach $50.51 billion by 2034. As per a report by Future Market Insights (FMI), growth in this market is being driven by a rising demand for comfortable and stylish clothing options by expectant mothers. The trend is expected to continue with increasing birth rates, sustaining a steady demand for maternity wear. Additionally, new mothers are contributing to this growth as they look for clothing to transition back to their pre-pregnancy body shape and size during the postpartum period....
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4/7/2024
A new consumer survey by GlobalData suggests inflationary pressure is causing increased polarisation in the UK apparel market. In the past year, 22% of consumers have traded down to cheaper apparel, while 66.4% are still shopping with their usual brands and retailers. Only 11.6% of UK consumers have traded up to more expensive apparel brands, although for consumers under 35 this rises to 22.1%. GlobalData surveyed 2,000 UK consumers in June 2024 who had purchased clothing, footwear and/or accessories in the past 12 months for the analysis....
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3/7/2024
The premium apparel industry is thriving, with a market size of $422 billion in 2023 and a projected CAGR of 3.8 per cent to reach $547 billion by 2030. This growth is fueled by several factors.
The rise of social media has been a game-changer. Luxury brands are leveraging these platforms to connect with consumers on a deeper level, fostering emotional connections through powerful branding. Additionally, globalization and rising disposable incomes worldwide are expanding the market's reach and potential....
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3/7/2024
The second-hand apparel market is expected to rise past $284 billion by 2030, fueled by a growing taste for sustainable and affordable clothing. This segment, valued at $71 billion in 2022, is projected to rise at over 14.8 per cent annually.
The trend is driven by several factors. The booming e-commerce market offers convenient platforms for buying and selling pre-loved clothes. Consumers are also becoming more environmentally conscious, seeking ways to reduce textile waste and embrace sustainable fashion....
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3/7/2024
UK shop price inflation eased to 0.2% in June, its lowest since October 2021, as retailers' investments in operations and supply chains began to yield results. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has reported a significant slowdown in UK shop price inflation, with annual rates dropping to 0.2% in June 2024, down from 0.6% in May and marking the lowest rate since October 2021....
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2/7/2024
UK fashion retailers trading and importing forced labour goods are exposed to legal risk after the Court of Appeal ruled the UK National Crime Agency's refusal to investigate Uyghur forced labour cotton imported from China was unlawful. The landmark case means if a UK fashion retailer knowingly, or with suspicion, imports goods that have been made in criminal circumstances, such as through forced Uyghur labour, they could be prosecuted under the Proceeds of Crime Act for trading criminal property....
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29/6/2024
The global apparel sector is set for a significant transformation with the creation of over 62.5 billion digital product passports (DPPs) by 2030, according to a report by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research. These DPPs, coupled with supporting software and IT revenues estimated at US$1.59 billion, are poised to accelerate traceability and drive positive change across the fashion industry....
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28/6/2024
The US second-hand clothes industry makes significant environmental and economic contributions, according to a new report from Garson and Shaw. The report emphasises that reusing unwanted clothing is the most effective strategy to reduce the environmental impact of textiles. The second-hand clothing (SHC) industry is projected to save around 20 trillion gallons of water over the next decade, equivalent to 30 million Olympic-sized swimming pools, by providing an alternative to the production of new clothes....
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28/6/2024
With less than a week until Britain goes to the polls to elect its next government, industry experts anticipate a potential "bounce back" in consumer spending post-election, with UK party manifestos offering varied strategies to boost the apparel sector's growth and address environmental concerns....
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28/6/2024
The term ‘Global South’ encompasses a diverse array of developing countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Traditionally viewed as reliant on raw material exports and basic manufacturing, the economic landscape of the Global South is undergoing a significant transformation....
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28/6/2024
Denim, that iconic fabric synonymous with casual cool, continues to be a global fashion staple. But the trade winds that carry jeans around the world are shifting. While the global market for denim jeans is projected to reach a $95.2 billion by 2030 at CAGR of 5 per cent from $64.5 billion in 2022, the trade landscape is changing....
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27/6/2024
Imports and exports of textiles and apparel in the US dipped in the first quarter of 2024, reveals Department of Commerce US Department of Commerce statistics. This follows a year of significant decline in clothing imports, which plunged by 22 per cent in 2023 to €77.8 billion. Notably, European luxury goods were the only category to escape this downward trend....
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27/6/2024
The global fashion market is expected to grow by almost 40% in the next three years to become a trillion-dollar industry according to new data from Stocklytics.com. Stocklytics.com points out the fashion industry has picked up its pace of growth following a lull over the past two years after inflation caused a cut in consumer spending....
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27/6/2024
Fashion companies are being forced to reimagine their entire value chain operations from design to end-of-life but circular models come with both challenges and opportunities. In an industry long defined by its linear take-make-waste model, circularity is a concept that’s rapidly gaining traction across the fashion world, promising to change how we approach production, consumption, and waste management....
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26/6/2024
Fast fashion's grip on the clothing industry may be loosening, as a growing movement – slow fashion – takes root. Fast fashion, with its emphasis on cheap, trendy clothes and frequent turnovers, has dominated for decades. However, a growing awareness of its environmental and social costs has led to the rise of slow fashion – a movement promoting ethical production, quality garments, and mindful consumption....
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26/6/2024
Robert Antoshak, a consultant for the global apparel industry presents a mixed outlook for the US apparel market, acknowledging recent improvements while highlighting ongoing concerns. In a United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) webinar featuring him, Antoshak highlights signs of recovery while acknowledging ongoing challenges....
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25/6/2024
Consumers in key European markets, including the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, have shown a clear demand for greater transparency and responsibility in fashion sourcing, according to a recent survey titled 'Fashion from Sustainable Forests'. Commissioned by forest certification organisation PEFC International and conducted by YouGov, the survey underscores consumers' commitment to making environmentally conscious choices in their fashion purchases....
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25/6/2024
A significant rise in health and wellness spending, particularly in emerging markets, is fuelling growth in the global sportswear sector with consumers continuing to prioritise their fitness and embracing more active lifestyles. A new report suggests the global wellness market is estimated at over $1.8tn and is growing 5% to 10% annually. The report by McKinsey & Co explains health and wellness products and services have seen “high demand” in advanced economies over recent years....
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24/6/2024
Despite its staggering £60.7bn contribution to the UK’s economy, the fashion industry is often overlooked and with the upcoming general election the sector desperately needs concrete policy commitments from potential leaders. With the UK election only 10 days away the apparel industry is keen on hearing positive measures to help boost the economy and be presented with unique opportunities to support the industry while simultaneously addressing pressing environmental concerns....
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24/6/2024
UK retail sales in May 2024 surged with clothing the beneficiary of an uplift thanks to better weather following a wet April. The Office of National Statistics most recent data into UK retail in May reveals sales volumes rose across most sectors, with clothing retailers and furniture stores rebounding following poor weather in April. Overall retail sales volumes (quantity bought) rose by 2.9% in May 2024, following a fall of 1.8% in April 2024 (revised from a fall of 2.3%)....
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21/6/2024
The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification International (PEFC), a forest certification organisation, revealed that nearly 74% of consumers surveyed believe it’s important that clothes made from forest-derived fibres are sourced from sustainably managed forests. A new consumer survey by PEFC, titled ‘Fashion from Sustainable Forests’, conducted in four key European markets (France, Italy, Spain and the UK), offers an in-depth exploration of consumer awareness, attitudes and expectations towards the use of forest fibres in fashion collections....
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19/6/2024
Brand loyalty is significantly under threat in the apparel sector as consumers are given a wider pool of offerings and are struggling with soaring prices. According to a new report from McKinsey & Co., weakened brand loyalty, affordability over sustainability, and heightened interest in wellness products and services reflect the preferences and priorities of consumers across ages and geographies....
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19/6/2024
Figures released by the US Census Bureau on estimates of US retail and food services for May 2024 show an increase in clothing and clothing accessories from April to May, with an industry insider suggesting much of the boost has come from sales and discounts. Advance estimates of US retail and food services sales for May 2024 were up 0.1% to $703.1bn from the previous month and up 2.3% above May 2023. These were adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes....
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13/6/2024
US textile executives told the US Trade Representative (USTR)'s newly appointed chief textiles and apparel negotiator, Katherine White they would like to see increased Section 301 China tariffs on finished textile and apparel imports and the closing of the de minimis loophole. USTR apparel negotiator White made her inaugural trip to a major hub of American textile production facilities and visited six plants in total in North Carolina, including American & Efird, Parkdale Mills/US Cotton, TSG Finishing, Shuford Yarns, Schneider Mills, and Unifi....
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13/6/2024
Apparel is the most counterfeited item according to a new report that found 54% of apparel items were suspected to be fake in the last 12 months followed by sneakers at 33%. For the first time ever, StockX, an online market for sneakers, apparel, accessories, electronics and collectables says its platform has reported apparel as the product category most susceptible to counterfeiting....
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13/6/2024
With much of fashion’s supply base located in and around Asia and Africa, one of the biggest concerns is the impact of extreme heat which is escalating as a result of the climate crisis and impacting factory worker wellbeing. Workers in the apparel and textiles industries are considered highly vulnerable to extreme heat....
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13/6/2024
An academic study compares US apparel imports from Africa and Asia to see whether the region is ready to serve as an alternative sourcing destination for US fashion companies. University of Delaware professor of fashion and apparel studies Dr Sheng Lu who conducted the study describes the prospect of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as an apparel-sourcing base for US fashion companies as a “growing heated debate”....
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12/6/2024
The plus size clothing market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards body positivity and inclusivity. With a market value of US$ 288 billion in 2023 and projected to exceed US$ 501.35 billion by 2033, the industry is on an upward trajectory, expanding at a steady 5.7 per cent CAGR. Key drivers behind this growth include the body positivity movement, evolving fashion norms, and increased consumer awareness....
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12/6/2024
Following a US hearing on renewing and revitalising trade preference programmes such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act, Just Style finds out why the apparel industry is eager for it to be renewed before its 2025 expiration date and ideally with a ten-year-plus extension period....
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12/6/2024
Although the global online childrenswear market experienced a pandemic boost, its penetration still lags behind menswear and womenswear, but GlobalData expects online sales to reach $62.5bn by 2028 driven by brand investments into advanced technologies. The global childrenswear market is witnessing a shift towards online channels, but the sector’s digital transformation still trails behind its counterparts in menswear and womenswear, according to a GlobalData report titled: “Global Childrenswear Market to 2028.”...
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11/6/2024
Monthly inbound cargo volume at major US container ports is forecast to reach its highest level since 2022 this summer, driven by robust consumer spending and retailers stocking up for peak season. In the latest Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, Jonathan Gold, NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy, attributed the anticipated spike in US cargo imports to sustained consumer spending and retailers replenishing inventories ahead of the peak shipping season....
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11/6/2024
The CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor revealed a jump in retail sales during May, with clothing and accessories stores seeing a 1.44% month-over-month increase and a 6.24% year-over-year uptick, which the National Retail Federation (NRF)’s president believes is down to consumers’ resilient ability to spend. The latest CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor data, released by the NRF, showcased a rebound in US consumer spending in May with clothing and accessories stores among the top-performing categories....
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11/6/2024
Prominent industry groups have jointly called for a "visionary, confident and proactive trade agenda" in a letter to the Financial Times editor, stressing the importance of US-allied cooperation in promoting democratic values and tackling global challenges. In a display of unity, a coalition of industry associations and trade groups have penned an open letter to the editor of the Financial Times, urging the US and its allies to adopt a bold and forward-looking trade agenda....
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11/6/2024
AGOA members see imports of apparel into the US fall by 23.7% in value in April 2024 compared to 2023, according to the latest figures from OTEXA, with Ethiopia particularly affected. US apparel imports from Ethiopia dropped sharply by almost 40% between April 2023 and April 2024, according to the latest set of trade data from the United States Office of Textile and Apparel (OTEXA)....
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10/6/2024
Growing at a CAGR of 7.36 per cent, the global yoga clothing market is estimated to grow by $18.88 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The growthwill be driven by an increasing number of yoga practitioners with a trend towards introduction of new technologies and features in yoga clothing. However, unpredictable raw material prices will continue to pose a challenge to this growth. Currently experiencing several new trends, the yoga clothing market is dominated by a growing demand for items like yoga pants and tops. Besides comfort and functionality, consumers are demanding yoga clothes that allow them to move freely and breathe easily. To cater to these demands, brands are offering yoga apparels in a variety of colors and prints....
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10/6/2024
The global textile and apparel industry, while a giant in economic terms, is also a notorious environmental polluter. However, wave of new regulations around the world is targeting the sector's environmental and ethical shortcomings, pushing brands towards a more sustainable future. For decades, fast fashion has thrived on a model of cheap clothes and high turnover, often at the cost of the environment and garment workers. But the tide is turning. Consumers are demanding more transparency and accountability, and governments are stepping in with regulations to enforce these demands....
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10/6/2024
SME clothing makers in the UK saw revenues fall by 40% in the first quarter of the year according to figures from the Unleashed Manufacturers’ Health Index.
The assessment of SME manufacturers in the UK is compiled quarterly by inventory management software brand Unleashed and based on data from every purchase, sale and stock movement made by over 1,790 manufacturers over the last six years. Of all manufacturing categories, clothing suffered the sharpest decline....
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10/6/2024
New analysis from GlobalData suggests UK supermarkets’ share of the country’s apparel market has fallen as consumers become more selective and continue to cut back on less essential items. Between 2021 and 2023, the UK’s ‘Big Four’ supermarkets’ share of the country’s apparel market fell 1.6ppts from 8.4% to 6.7%....
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8/6/2024
The global wedding wear market is experiencing a notable shift towards sustainability, reflecting broader fashion industry trends. A recent market research study on the "Global Wedding Wear Market" highlights the increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable wedding attire. This trend is driven by couples who are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their fashion choices and are seeking dresses and suits made from sustainable fabrics or those that can be reused or repurposed....
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8/6/2024
Textiles and clothing imports by the US declined by 4.7 per cent to $24.6 billion during Q1, FY24.Exports by the country also contracted by 4.46 per cent to $5.7 billion. According to reports by the Department of Commerce, China was the leading supplier of textiles and clothing to the US with imports from the country increasing by 3.6 per cent to $5.5 billion. Imports from Vietnam remained stable at $3.7 billion while thos from India fell by 4.37 per cent to $2.3 billion. The most notable decline of 17.3 per cent was reported by Bangladesh totaling 1.8 billion....
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7/6/2024
Ignoring pressure to shift away from plastics could cost businesses up to $100bn annually by 2040 according to a new report which identifies the measures that brands and retailers can put in place today to accelerate diversification from the material.
The Post Plastic Economy report from Plastic Free & Fashion Snoops says the shift to natural plastic alternatives and incorporating reuse and right-to-repair models is paramount and businesses must get on board before legislation is passed requiring them to do so....
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7/6/2024
Early summer sales figures for US apparel chains offer a glimpse into consumer spending habits. While reports from big-box retailers paint a mixed picture, mall-based apparel chains are showing signs of a comeback. Mall revival with focus on fashion freshness The story of US apparel retail is one of contrasting fortunes. Mall-based chains like Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F) and American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) are expected to see continued revenue growth, with on-trend styles like wide-leg pants. Gap Inc. also anticipates a modest increase in comparable sales, hoping its focus on in-season trends will drive full-price purchases....
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6/6/2024
Reports suggest companies are starting to ship products intended for the festive season earlier than usual, Just Style looks at what is causing the issue and what it means for fashion retailers. Recent reports suggest that European fashion retailers are placing orders intended for this year’s festive season even earlier than usual, due to rising shipping costs and route disruption....
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6/6/2024
Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia hold significant potential as sourcing bases for clothing made from recycled cotton for Western fashion companies, but there are a number of advancements that will need to be made to make it viable on a larger-scale. A new study has shed light on the potential of Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia as sourcing bases for clothing made from recycled cotton....
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5/6/2024
Brexit, as expected, has been detrimental for UK clothing exports to the EU, recent data suggests. But there are ways to mitigate the effect, experts say. UK clothing exports to the EU have fallen 60% since Brexit as suppliers struggle to wade through red tape. This sharp drop has put considerable pressure on brands and retailers lacking the necessary expertise, resources, or financial capacity to navigate the complexities of the new regulatory landscape....
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5/6/2024
As the UK's total retail sales in May increased by 0.7% year on year against a growth of 3.9% in May 2023, UK retailers are keen to hear positive measures from the next government to help boost the sector. The UK’s non-food retail sales, which includes clothing decreased 2.4% year on year over the three-months to May, which was against a growth of 0.7% in May 2023....
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3/6/2024
The European Union has cemented its decision by adopting the "right-to-repair" directive to make repair a more “attractive” economic activity for the EU, consumers and the environment. The EU has approved the right-to-repair directive to make it easier and more economical for consumers to repair defective products instead of replacing them and repair services will become more accessible, transparent and attractive....
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31/5/2024
As fashion's global supply chain continues to feel the strain of geopolitical tensions, brands are rethinking how they operate with more efficient sourcing models and doubled-down supplier relationships in key stable locations proving critical.
Fashion brands embracing the sector’s best ESG practices are in an ideal position to make some bold moves and turn their supplier base into a competitive advantage....
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30/5/2024
Plans to construct a readymade garment factory in Egypt, which GlobalData estimates already holds 2,500 garment factories, have been announced, as the region looks on track to become a “critical trade hub.”
Local Middle Eastern news site Amwal Al Ghad reports that the General Authority for the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) has signed a land usufruct agreement with Eroglu Egypt....
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30/5/2024
A new McKinsey report, based on a global survey of apparel Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs), suggests a significant shift in the way fashion brands approach their supply chains. The study, ‘Reimagining the apparel value chain amid volatility’, highlights a growing emphasis on efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. These factors are prompting a potential paradigm change in sourcing strategies, particularly for brands in the US and EU....
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29/5/2024
The EU Council has adopted the ecodesign regulation, which sets requirements for sustainable products from the design phase, however GlobalData company filings data suggests apparel ESG mentions have declined in the last 12 months. The EU’s new ecodesign regulation introduces new requirements for apparel products such as product durability, reusability, upgradability and reparability as well as a direct ban on the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear....
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28/5/2024
The signatory brands that are part of the Action, Collaboration, Transformation (ACT) initiative only achieved a “slight increase” from 2021 in scores across the ACT Purchasing Practices 2023 Survey, with specific areas requiring “special attention.” In its “Accountability and Monitoring Report 2023: Pivotal Progress in Responsible Purchasing Practices” ACT surveyed 19 of its signatory brands to evaluate the progress of garment, textile and footwear brands in meeting their due diligence responsibilities....
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28/5/2024
The latest figures shared by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that in April 2024, UK sales volumes fell across most sectors, with non-essential segments including clothing performing badly after "poor weather reduced footfall."
Retail sales volumes fell by 2.3% during April 2024 following a broadly flat February and March 2024....
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28/5/2024
A recent global survey by McKinsey & Company of apparel chief procurement officers (CPOs) highlights five key themes shaping the industry's approach to sourcing. The findings indicate a significant shift towards prioritizing efficiency, supply chain resilience, and sustainability, with a growing emphasis on collaboration with suppliers....
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28/5/2024
Valued at $194.1 billion in 2022, the global kidswear market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1 per cent from 2023-32 to reach $286.9 billion by 2032. The market encompasses a wide range of clothing, footwear, and accessories designed specifically for children aged 0 to 17.
According to a report by Allied Market Research, the apparel segment held the largest share in the global kidswear market in 2022, and is expected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This segment includes outerwear such as coats and jackets, special occasion dresses, tops like blouses and sweaters, and bottoms like trousers and skirts....
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27/5/2024
Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies can be harnessed for climate action and significantly advance environmental and market performance in the fast fashion industry, according to a new study by an international team of researchers. Research by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Business School's David Grant found AI-powered climate service innovation models can improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions and increase renewable energy sources....
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24/5/2024
Can the fashion industry finally overcome the disconnect between wanting to sell as much as possible while fulfilling new sustainability objectives, asks Gherzi Textil Organisation partner Robert P. Antoshak.
As a consultant, clients ask me two questions more than any other: How do we become more environmentally sustainable, and when will the apparel market turn around?
Not surprisingly, these are the central questions of our times. Still, they set up a seemingly interconnected relationship between sustainability initiatives and business objectives....
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24/5/2024
Fashion brands are being urged to get on board with collective financing to support the global apparel supply chain's goal of becoming more sustainable. With 90% of emissions caused by the fashion sector stemming from its supply chain, the industry will need to work collaboratively with manufacturers and suppliers to tackle the issue. And collective financing for sustainable innovations could play a key role....
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23/5/2024
Fashion for Good, in collaboration with various industry stakeholders, has unveiled the Sorting for Circularity USA report, marking a significant milestone in understanding and advancing circularity within the textile industry in the United States. This pioneering report provides insights into consumer disposal behavior, textile waste composition, and the potential for fiber-to-fiber recycling, guiding strategic decisions for further investments and infrastructure development....
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23/5/2024
A survey by Optimove Insights, the analytical and research arm of Optimove found most consumers want less marketing so brands are being advised to strike a balance between staying "top-of-mind and respecting boundaries."
Optimove surveyed 305 US citizens in January to explore consumer attitudes towards marketing fatigue. The findings revealed a growing concern among consumers regarding excessive marketing messages with 81% willing to unsubscribe from brands that inundate them with communications....
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22/5/2024
Apparel industry experts discuss what the global fashion sector can do today to prepare for upcoming ESG legislation. The Realistic Road Ahead for the Greening of the Apparel Industry conference highlighted the magnitude of the Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) legislation that is on the horizon for the global fashion industry....
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22/5/2024
New research by the UK national standards body, BSI, indicates that progress towards net zero could be jeopardised, as nine in ten UK businesses are calling for greater government support to help meet their decarbonisation targets, and half of them cite cost as a significant barrier. BSI published its fourth annual Net Zero barometer, based on a survey of over 1,000 senior decision-makers from UK businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, including apparel....
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21/5/2024
The EU Commission's 2030 Vision for Textiles means products not built with recyclability in mind should not be sold in the EU market in six years' time. The EU’s Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles sets out a plan – including concrete action points – to ensure that all textile products sold in the EU are long-lasting, recyclable, made as much as possible of recycled fibres, free of hazardous substances and produced in respect of social rights and the environment by 2030....
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20/5/2024
A report by Journo Research and fintech group Plus500 has revealed a significant increase in wages in the UK with textile, leather and clothing manufacturing roles coming out on top. The research analysed the latest data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics, featuring results from its Wages and Salaries Survey and compared the percentage increase in weekly earnings from December 2022 to December 2023....
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20/5/2024
Fashion brands and retailers will continue to be tripped up by laws targeting forced labour in supply chains until they advocate for the scaling of solutions that tackle the issue.
The complexity of importing cotton-made clothing into the US just stepped up a notch after the Department of Homeland Security added another 26 Chinese suppliers to its Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List....
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16/5/2024
The NRF has cited data from the US Census Bureau to show retail sales moderated in April as consumers remain willing to spend despite 'stubbornly high inflation'.
The Census Bureau said overall retail sales in April were unchanged seasonally adjusted from March and up 3% unadjusted year over year. That compared with increases of 0.6% month over month and 3.8% year over year in March. The year-over-year increase was due, in part, to recent downward revisions to data from last year....
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15/5/2024
? El Showroom de productores textiles de Egipto se realizó el 8 y 9 de mayo en la Casa Fuster de Barcelona.
? Las empresas de moda catalanas se inclinan hacia proveedores de mayor proximidad debido a los desafíos en el transporte desde Asia y las regulaciones ambientales recientes....
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14/5/2024
El showroom “made in Egypt”, organizado por el Clúster catalán de la moda (Modacc) junto al proyecto “Reforma y desarrollo del comercio en Egipto (Trade)” tuvo lugar los días 8 y 9 de mayo en Barcelona y reunió a una veintena de productores egipcios y a un centenar de marcas españolas del sector de la moda, con la meta de impulsar los contactos comerciales entre ambos países....
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14/5/2024
A new report by Cotton Inc. highlights, US garment prices witnessed their largest monthly rise since late 2021 in March 2024. This uptick comes despite a slight year-over-year increase of only 0.2 per cent. However, it's important to note that apparel import costs remain 4.8 per cent higher than pre-COVID levels. Cotton Inc's ‘Executive Cotton Update: U.S. Macroeconomic Indicators & the Cotton Supply Chain - May 2024’, also highlights a concerning trend of declining consumer confidence for the third consecutive month. This could potentially dampen spending habits and impact the retail apparel industry....
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13/5/2024
The 2024 Textiles Market Situation Report by WRAP paints a mixed picture of the UK's clothing industry. While there's good news in terms of declining clothing costs and a rebound in consumption, significant challenges remain regarding textile waste.
The WRAP report reveals average cost per item of clothing in the UK has dipped 2 per cent to £16.70 ($20.84) in 2023, a trend observed since 2015. At the same time, while COVID-19 initially caused a significant drop in textile consumption, with a decrease of 330,000 tons between 2019 and 2020, consumption figures rebounded swiftly, reaching 1.42 million new textile products in 2022, nearing pre-pandemic levels....
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13/5/2024
In Q1, FY’24, apparel imports by the US dropped by 7.14 per cent to 18.07 billion from 19.46 billion in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
As per data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), apparel imports by the US from Bangladesh declined by 17 per cent to $1.75 billion from $2.13 billion during Q1FY23, indicating a significant shift in sourcing preferences or market conditions....
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10/5/2024
Apparel brands and retailers are being warned to expect further hiccups across supply chains and increased costs as logistics provider Maersk says it will be avoiding the Red Sea route for the foreseeable future.
Maersk has updated its customers and warns the effects of the situation in the Red Sea are “widening and continuing to cause industry-wide disruptions”.
In its update, Maersk said it is rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope “for the foreseeable future.”...
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9/5/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF) said recent import levels show that supply chains have ‘adjusted’ to disruption and consumers are set to continue spending during the back-to-school and holiday seasons.
According to recent data released by NRF and Hackett Associates, inbound cargo at the US’ major ports will be “consistently above 2m on twenty-foot equivalent units” (TEU) this summer.
The data also suggests these levels will remain until autumn 2024....
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9/5/2024
Consumers are scaling back on clothing purchases for children and are opting for more affordable alternatives due to lingering high inflation, according to GlobalData’s recent report on the global childrenswear market.
The ‘Global Children’s Market to 2028‘ report reveals the global childrenswear market experienced a modest growth of 3.5% in 2023 with a 2.7% increase in global volumes and declines in Western Europe and North America...
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8/5/2024
The National Retail Federation has revealed the US economy's pace of growth declined in the first quarter (Q1) with an unexpected bout of inflation, however a solid job market kept consumers spending.
The May edition of the NRF’s Monthly Economic Review revealed the US economy’s gross domestic product grew only 1.6% in the first three months of this year (Q1), which is less than half the 3.4% seen in Q4 of 2023 and the lowest level since 2.1% in the second quarter of last year....
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7/5/2024
Clothing sales in the UK remain “subdued” on the back of poor weather, contributing to a 2.8% year-on-year fall in non-food sales over the three months to April.
According to the latest figures from the British Retail Consortium for the four weeks to 27 April, the 2.8% year-on-year fall in UK non-food sales, which includes clothing, was steeper than the 12-month average decline of 1.5%. For the month of April, non-food was in decline year-on-year....
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7/5/2024
Fashion's ESG revolution has finally arrived, which means the fashion supply chain must prepare now to meet the EU's new ESG standards that will ensure the good no longer has to compete against the bad or ugly.
It’s been a rollercoaster but the EU is finally getting its ducks in a row for issuing every kind of ESG legislation imaginable for all sectors, including fashion....
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7/5/2024
France has proposed legislation that could see a €5 ($5.38) fee added to each fast fashion purchase. Just Style investigates the impact for global apparel if it were to go ahead as well as its similarities to US tariffs on consumer goods. The proposed fast fashion law, which could be raised to €10 by 2030 and see a ban on advertisements for the most inexpensive fashion items, received unanimous support in France’s lower house in March and has been passed on to the Senate....
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3/5/2024
Clothing’s share of the UK apparel market is expected to fall by 0.4ppts to 72.1% by 2028, as consumers opt for capsule wardrobes, second-hand and become less interested in following the latest fashion trends, even as inflation stabilises.
The UK apparel market is expected to slow further in 2024, with growth dropping 0.3% to £60.9bn ($76bn) and will ”remain soft” till 2028 as shoppers continue to spend cautiously according to a GlobalData report titled: “The Apparel Market in the UK to 2028.”...
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3/5/2024
Fashion brands and retailers are being warned to double down on implementing responsible purchasing practices to ensure compliance with the EU's new Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
The power imbalance between suppliers and buyers in the fashion sector is widely documented. As too are its its dangers....
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3/5/2024
Despite the apparel sector's focus on sustainability, recycled polyester still only accounts for 15% of the total polyester textiles used today. What's the solution, asks Gherzi Textile Organization partner Robert P. Antoshak and Grey Matter Concepts SVP of production and sourcing Radhika Shrinivas.
We have more than 60 years of experience together in the textile and apparel industry. Over our careers, we have witnessed significant change in the industry, with globalisation most profoundly affecting it and the invention of polyester, another major innovation....
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3/5/2024
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) told a US Trade Representative (USTR) hearing on supply chain resilience that more free trade agreements are needed along with the removal of prison labour, while the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) focused on the impact of de minimis. AAFA’s senior vice president Nate Herman told the hearing 3.2m US jobs depend on the apparel industry and they also depend on access to foreign customers and global supply chains for their existence....
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1/5/2024
According to GlobalData's latest report, almost half (47%) of consumers are always or often influenced by how the world around them is changing. Just Style navigates the impact of geopolitics on the apparel sector. GlobalData’s Geopolitics: Executive Briefing report revealed the uncertainty created by geopolitics is influencing consumer perceptions of brands and their trustworthiness. As a result, consumer choices are being impacted by geopolitical tension....
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30/4/2024
New research from climate action NGO Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has revealed almost half (49%) of used textiles are going in the bin, as it urges stakeholders to step up efforts toward a circular fashion ecosystem. WRAP is advocating for support through grants, investments and legislation so the secondhand clothing market can fuel the transition towards a more circular fashion ecosystem....
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30/4/2024
Inflation is expected to ease to 2.9% in 2024, however US consumers are not “reassured” about the outlook of the US economy with 51.5% planning to cut back on retail spend. As the US economy grapples with the effects of inflation, 46.6% of US consumers believe it will worsen in the first half of 2024, according to GlobalData’s latest report “Apparel Consumer Insights: United States of America.”...
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30/4/2024
GlobalData shares a roadmap to help fashion businesses navigate the changing tides of the $2.1tn global apparel industry. The global apparel market’s growth forecast for the first half of 2024 is expected to be just 2.2%, before rebounding to a more robust 4.4% in 2025, explained GlobalData’s apparel analysts, Chloe Collins and Louise Deglise-Favre during a recent apparel market trends webinar....
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29/4/2024
Though the global luxury market is experiencing a slowdown following the post-pandemic surge in demand, it is poised to regain momentum in 2025 as inflation rates begin to stabilise and aspirational shoppers re-engage, with the market forecast to grow by 27.8% between 2024 and 2028 to reach $268.6bn. According to GlobalData’s latest report GlobalData’s Global Luxury Apparel Market to 2028, while capturing growth in 2024 will remain challenging due to low consumer confidence, luxury will still outperform the total apparel market....
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26/4/2024
A coalition of US apparel and retail organisations is urging the US Trade Commission to eliminate import tariffs on apparel sourced from key sourcing countries and to renew and expand the scope of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) to include certain apparel products.
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), the National Retail Federation (NRF), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), and the United States Fashion Industry Associated (USFIA) have submitted a post hearing statement to the chairman of the US International Trade Commission....
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19/4/2024
According to the latest figures shared by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) muted clothing sales in March contributed to a retail sales stagnation. Retail sales in March saw both sales values (amount spent) and volumes experience no change on the month (0.0%), suggesting that increased prices were affecting consumer spending habits....
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19/4/2024
Four major American trade bodies, including the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), the National Retail Federation (NRF), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), and the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA), have united to oppose the proposal for increased tariffs on apparel imports from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Pakistan....
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18/4/2024
American consumers are opening their wallets again, with retail sales experiencing a modest uptick in recent months. According to the US Census Bureau, sales rose 0.7 per cent in March 2024 compared to February, and are up 4.0 per ent year-over-year.
However, the picture within the fashion sector is less clear. While overall retail sales data lumps fashion in with other categories, anecdotal evidence suggests a mixed bag. Some retailers report strong demand, while others continue to grapple with excess inventory from pandemic shutdowns....
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17/4/2024
US apparel imports increased by 12.9 per cent increase in quantity and a 2.9 per cent increase in value in Feb 2024 compared to the same month previous year.
Seasonally adjusted US apparel imports also increased by 10 per cent in February 2024 compared January 2024, according to a report by the World Trade Organisation....
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16/4/2024
US retail sales grew throughout March, propelled by a combination of factors including an early Easter holiday, increased tax refunds, and a growing job market which the National Retail Federation (NRF)’s chief economist believes put more money in shoppers pockets. Jack Kleinhenz, chief economist of the National Retail Federation (NRF) confirmed that consumer spending from the latest data by the US Census Bureau remained steady despite “inflationary pressure.”...
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15/4/2024
A new report by data analytics company GlobalData suggests that relying solely on marketing and advertising is not enough to drive consumers purchases, instead retailers should prioritise delivering a consistently positive experience at every interaction point to effectively encourage buying behaviour. GlobalData’s report titled Connected Consumer in Retail and Apparel argues that consumers are increasingly informed about all aspects of products they buy and consume, through both active and passive use of technologies, such as conducting research, using review sites, viewing user generated content, seeing influencer campaigns and adverts and listening to podcasts....
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15/4/2024
Non-profit Textile Exchange has published a report outlining strategies for the fashion and textile industry to transition away from using virgin fossil fuels as a feedstock for materials if it is to meet the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission targets currently associated with synthetic fibres.
Textile Exchange’s recent The Future of Synthetics report suggests the domination of synthetic materials in global fibre production since mid-1990 has contributed to climate change....
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13/4/2024
Set to witness substantial growth, the global yoga clothing market projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8 per cent from 2021-30 and reach a value of $70,291.0 million by 2030. This growth can be attributed to several key factors driving the demand for yoga apparel.
According to the report by Allied Market Research, a significant driver of this growth is the increasing awareness of the mental and physical health benefits associated with practicing yoga. There has been a notable rise in the number of people joining yoga classes, consequently fueling the demand for yoga clothing....
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12/4/2024
US’ consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) rose by 0.4 per cent in March 2024 on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase mirrors the rise seen in February. The index for apparel saw a significant rise of 0.7 per cent over the month. When compared year-on-year with March 2023, the apparel index increased by 0.4 per cent, indicating a steady climb in clothing prices....
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12/4/2024
The US trade organisation National Council of Textile Organisations (NCTO)'s Chairman Norman Chapman believes "predatory trade behaviour" and "customs fraud" are some of the issues currently plaguing the domestic textile trade in the country.
During the 20th Annual Meeting on 11 April, NCTO chairman Chapman highlighted the severe economic challenges facing the US textile industry....
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11/4/2024
Just Style explores the ‘de minimis’ loophole in US import law and considers how it is affecting the apparel sector.
As e-commerce continues to increase its share of the global apparel market, and consumers increasingly look to cheaper online brands, a small piece of US customs legislation is becoming a hot topic. While the de minimis rule may seem like a simple, straightforward rule on import duty, recent years have seem the exemption for packages valued under $800 come under scrutiny....
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11/4/2024
The US apparel and footwear sector has said it is behind new legislation being weighed to investigate price discrepancies between everyday products for women and men. The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) backs the proposal of the Pink Tariffs Study Act, being introduced by Congresswomen Lizzie Fletcher and Brittany Pettersen from the New Democratic Coalition (NDC) Trade Task Force, voicing concerns over the alleged “century-long potential gender-bias and regressivity” within the US tariff system....
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10/4/2024
Baltimore's recent port closure adds to existing supply chain challenges, however the US's major container ports are still expected to top 2m units for the first time since last fall, according to the latest port figures by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates.
NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy Jonathan Gold suggested US imports will continue to increase despite another disruption impacting US ports....
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9/4/2024
UK retailers are banking on warmer weather to boost summer clothing sales following a series of lacklustre months, the BRC said on the publication of UK retail sales for March. Though total UK retail sales grew 3.5% year-on-year in March 2024, against a growth of 5.1% in March 2023, the increase had little to do with clothing performance....
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6/4/2024
A recent report by Planet Tracker urges brands to adopt comprehensive water management strategies, including setting targets, collecting data, and supporting suppliers to transition to more sustainable practices.
According to the report, the fashion industry requires over 700 gallons of water to produce a single T-shirt, while the production of cotton—a staple material in the fashion world—requires a staggering 2,100 gallons of water for every 2.2 pounds of cotton lint. Despite these figures, only a fraction of fashion companies are actively reporting their water impacts, with just 15 out of 29 companies studied disclosing their data to the Carbon Disclosure Project....
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5/4/2024
The global garment industry is facing a potential paradigm shift driven by stricter regulations on sourcing and production. Export markets like the European Union (EU) are increasingly favoring garments where countries source their own textiles internally, driven by compliance with stricter Rules of Origin (ROO) regulations. ROO stipulate the geographic origin of a product for preferential trade treatment. These regulations determine the nationality of a product for customs purposes and preferential trade agreements. Countries that comply with these ROOs gain easier access to the EU market with lower tariffs or duty-free imports....
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5/4/2024
The fashion industry, known for its slow-moving behemoths, has become a surprising breeding ground for innovative startups. Forget the notion that fashion startups struggle to make a significant impact. Today's innovative companies are redefining the industry, from sustainability to personalization, with a focus on agility and technology....
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4/4/2024
With fashion brands soon being legally required to account for sustainability failings in their supply chains, blockchain adoption is on the rise. But is it the silver bullet? It’s pretty obvious that very soon fashion brands are going to come under immense pressure about where the goods they sell were made, by whom and in what conditions. It’s also alarmingly obvious that many of the hundreds of thousands of fashion brands that operate within the US, Europe and UK are unable to answer those questions. Not for want of trying but simply because their globalised supply chains are so complex that while they believe they are working with one supplier there is a lack of awareness of the various other supply relationships that supplier has....
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3/4/2024
Two thirds of fashion brands are behind on their own decarbonisation targets, however research suggests these brands could reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60%, using less than 2% of their revenues. Two fifths (40%) of fashion brands have seen their emissions output increase since making their commitments to decarbonise, according to an analysis by research company McKinsey & Co....
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28/3/2024
A new report by Wazir Advisors reveals a significant decline in apparel imports across major global markets in January 2024 compared to the same period last year. The US, EU, UK, and Japan all witnessed double-digit drops, with the US leading the decline at 16.53 per cent to $6.04 billion.
This slump in imports coincides with a complex economic picture. While US consumer confidence dipped in February, apparel store sales surged 10 per cent compared to February 2023. This suggests a market clearing out existing inventory, potentially paving the way for a rebound in imports later in the year....
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28/3/2024
Apparel's secondhand market is set to grow three times faster than overall global fashion, according to a new report. The global secondhand apparel market will be worth $350bn by 2028 and will comprise 10% of the fashion market worldwide by 2025.
The Resale Report, written for online fashion thrift store Thredup by data research company GlobalData reveals the sector grew 15 times faster than the broader retail clothing sector in 2023. With 163 brands owning resale shops in 2023, retailers are already embracing the opportunities presented by resale....
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28/3/2024
Concerns about sustainability and ethics within the fashion sector remain but affordability has become a greater focus for apparel consumers. In GlobalData’s consumer survey conducted across Germany, France, Spain, Italy, China and the US in December 2023, apparel shoppers showed that they prioritise sustainability and ethics far less than factors like price, quality and value for money, exacerbated by the ongoing economic crisis....
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25/3/2024
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) ambassador Katherine Tai visited textile manufacturer Glen Raven as part of her wider goal of gaining public and industry input to help shape domestic textile and apparel sector supply chain resilience policy in future.
Tai’s visit to Glen Raven’s yarn-spinning manufacturing facility and the headquarters of its Sunbrella brand in Burlington, North Carolina coincided with the USTR’s call for public comments on promoting supply chain resilience....
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25/3/2024
Tremors ran through the apparel industry with the announcement of Renewcell's bankruptcy, but assigning blame is easy — it's finding solutions that will be hard, writes Robert P. Antoshak, partner at Gherzi Textile Organization.
The angst among environmental advocates was palpable after Renewcell shared its bankruptcy woes with the apparel sector....
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22/3/2024
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced its Freight Logistics Optimizations Works (FLOW) platform will publish data on inland freight hubs to give an enhanced view on future container import volumes and traffic.
FLOW’s platform, which will include rail terminal and warehouse end destination data, aims to inform capacity decisions, reduce supply chain disruptions and ultimately drive down costs for consumers....
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22/3/2024
Spring collections and promotions contributed to a UK clothing stores sales volume rise of 1.7% in February, according to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics after repeated declines in previous months. The ONS said non-food stores sales volumes (the total of department, clothing, household and other non-food stores) rose by 0.7% over the month to February 2024, but fell 0.5% over the year....
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21/3/2024
The sports inspired clothing market is witnessing a transformation as it merges the worlds of athletics and fashion. As per study by Persistence Market Research, the global sports inspired clothing market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3 per cent from $315.03 billion in 2023, to $452.2 billion by the end of 2030.
This dynamic segment within the fashion industry offers consumers a blend of performance features and fashion-forward designs, catering to the growing demand for comfortable and versatile attire suitable for both active pursuits and everyday wear....
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20/3/2024
Headline inflation has fallen to 3.4% in the UK according to the latest figures from the Consumer Price Index with the British Retail Consortium saying it was driven by falls in clothing and footwear. UK consumer prices are down to 3.4% in February from 4% in January following a fall in inflation and now sit at the lowest level in more than two years....
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19/3/2024
The children's apparel market is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 6.8 per cent from 2023-33 to reach $386.19 billion by 2033. As per a report by Future Market Insights, some of the factors driving this growth include an increasing demand for kids garments made from cotton fiber due to their easy washability, minimal shrinkage and resistance to color fade....
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18/3/2024
Every apparel business is being impacted by high interest rates and to make matters worse, since these higher rates have followed decades of low ones many fashion brands and companies are finding themselves without a playbook to navigate this ongoing challenge, writes apparel industry expert Roit Kathiala....
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18/3/2024
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has rolled out two new statistics dashboards focused on the Enforce and Protect Act and e-Allegations programme with insights on country of origin, volume and types of trade violation. CBP’s executive director of trade remedy law enforcement Eric Choy explained US Customs’ new tools “underscore our dedication to fair and effective trade enforcement by making key data accessible”....
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18/3/2024
China was one of only four of the top 10 apparel suppliers to the US to see market share increase in January, but across the board, apparel imports in 2023, sank on weakened consumer demand. The year 2023 was a rocky one for the US apparel market with political turmoil including global wars, disruption to shipping and logistics, surging energy costs causing a spike in inflation and in turn increased living costs, all contributing to a weakened confidence in a consumer unwilling to prioritise apparel spend....
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12/3/2024
The global sports apparel market is poised to reach $75.6 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.82 per cent between 2022-2027, as per a report by Technavio Research.
The market is expected to be dominated by industry giants like Adidas AG, Nike Inc., and Under Armour Inc with North America commanding 37 per cent of the global market share.
While offline avenues will thrive through specialty shops and department stores, e-commerce will emerge as a formidable force, reshaping buyer-supplier dynamics with its convenience and accessibility, as per the report...
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11/3/2024
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking input to inform the development of trade and investment policy initiatives that promote supply chain resilience.
A notice submitted by the USTR to the Federal Register explains resilient supply chains provide a range of sourcing options; adapt, rebound, and recover with agility following shocks; uphold labour rights and environmental protections; and strengthen the US manufacturing base and workforce....
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11/3/2024
The negative impact to US import cargo as a result of disruption on the Red Sea appears to be tapering off according to the latest port figures by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.
Supply-chain adjustments to ongoing attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea show inbound cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports remains on track to show year-over-year increases through the first half of 2024....
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11/3/2024
As US President Biden and former President Trump look almost certain to be fighting once again for the US presidency in November, domestic issues are taking precedent with US senators seizing the chance to drive apparel sourcing away from China. As all eyes turn to the upcoming US election and its presidential candidates, some US senators have suggested a new bill that would encourage the US apparel and textile industry to focus on sourcing locally from both the US and its ‘partner countries’ instead of the likes of apparel sourcing major, China....
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7/3/2024
A bipartisan coalition hopes to close the de minimis imports loophole that allows packages valued at $800 or less to reach US consumers without facing any taxes, fees or inspection.
The coalition of labour unions, business associations, and stakeholders, including the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), Alliance for American Manufacturing and American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) seeks to draw attention to the de minimis provision in Section 321 of the Tariff Act of 1930, which exempts shipments valued at less than $800 from import tariffs....
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6/3/2024
The British Retail Consortium, UK fashion retailer New Look, UK luxury sector body Walpole and shopping centre Westfield express "utter disappointment" after the UK government failed to address apparel retailer concerns on business rates, VAT and investment in its Spring Budget.
While the UK government claimed its latest budget delivers “lower taxes and more investment”, a number of apparel retailers and representative bodies say the latest financial statement will not help the fashion retail sector....
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6/3/2024
UK retail sales slumped in February 2024 as consumers took a noticeable swerve away from clothing and into homeware, dining, health and beauty as the BRC urges the government to find ways to stimulate the economy. The British Retail Consortium, commenting on the sales figures from the Office of National Statistics and the February SPI, said wet weather impacted consumer demand....
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5/3/2024
The European apparel industry's environmental challenges are becoming increasingly pronounced, with the sector's critical issues such as waste management, carbon emissions, circularity, and physical climate risks, according to the Sustainability Insights report by S&P Global. This comes at a time when the industry, known for its high-volume and low-cost model, faces potential disruptions from new environmental taxes, regulations, or supply chain complications....
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5/3/2024
Currently valued at $425.5 billion in 2022, the global activewear market is expected to reach $771.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.2 per cent from 2023 to 2032.
As per a report by Allied Market Research, an increase in awareness regarding the benefits of engaging in sports activities has led to the rise in popularity of fitness and sports apparel and footwear, particularly among young people....
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4/3/2024
The fashion industry waxes lyrical about the mission to become greener but do the CSDDD legislation failure and textile-to-textile recycler Renewcell's collapse last week point to it being more talk and less action?
Collaboration. It’s a word that has been floating around in the apparel industry for some time now. In fact, it formed the basis of a chat with the former Sustainable Apparel Coalition’s (SAC) executive vice president Andrew Martin last week amid the organisation’s rebranding to CASCALE, whose entire ethos is centred around collaboration....
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4/3/2024
Having surged to a staggering $863 billion in 2023, the global women's apparel market is projected to rise to $1,280 billion by 2033-end, growing at a 4 per cent CAGR over the coming decade.
As per a report by FactMR, encompassing clothing, footwear, and accessories, the women’s apparel market has witnessed remarkable evolution over the years. The market's dynamism is propelled by changing fashion inclinations, cultural shifts, economic fluctuations, and technological advancements....
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2/3/2024
US Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro along with 40 lawmakers recently wrote to homeland security secretary Alexander Mayorkas urging him to provide an enforcement plan to address illegal customs practices that undercut US competitiveness and violate international trade and labour laws.
The letter requested a crackdown on the de minimis trade loopholes allowing cheap fast-fashion products to flow into the country....
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1/3/2024
US Homeland Security Secretary Alexander Mayorkas is being urged to create a detailed action plan with immediate effect to crack down on customs practices that are said to be undercutting US competitiveness and threatening US textile and apparel manufacturers.
US congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and 40 bipartisan lawmakers sent a letter to Mayorkas asking him to come up with a “concrete action plan” to address illegal custom practices that undercut US competitiveness and violate international trade and labour laws....
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29/2/2024
An increasing number of apparel brands are setting up their own fashion resale platforms or offering a rental service for their garments. What is behind this trend and what does it mean for both the fashion sector and consumers?
Resale and rental have become an increasingly large part of the fashion sector. While eBay, Vinted and Thredup have been offering consumers a chance to buy and sell apparel second-hand for many years, more recently we’ve seen apparel brands launching their own fashion resale platforms and rental sites....
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29/2/2024
The latest Economic Experts Survey paints a concerning picture for the global economy, with a significant risk of recession looming by the end of 2024. While experts remain cautiously optimistic overall, the potential impact on the textile and apparel industry is particularly worrisome. The World Trade Organization (WTO) predicts a 2-3 per cent decline in global trade in 2024, impacting textile and apparel exports. In fact, a recent study by McKinsey & Company found that 70 per cent of apparel companies expect a decline in sales in the next recession....
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29/2/2024
The UK sportswear market is expected to experience another testing year despite consumers’ intending to be more active in 2024. 2024 looks to be another challenging year for the UK sportswear market, as despite 71.7% of consumers stating they intend to do more exercise in 2024, significantly less expect to buy sports clothing and footwear than last year, according to GlobalData’s UK monthly survey in January 2024....
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29/2/2024
The European Union has failed to approve the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence directive (CSDDD) with an industry expert warning that without the directive, fashion brands and factories will face an "ever-growing patchwork of local rules and regulations".
In the wake of the CSDDD being blocked by European Union countries, Fair Wear Foundation’s executive director, Alexander Kohnstamm, told Just Style exclusively all involved in making global supply chains work for consumers, workers and businesses “want this legislation”....
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28/2/2024
Just Style investigates how fashion brands will need to pay closer attention to any green product claims when new European Union (EU) laws come into force.
The EU Council of Ministers approved on 20 February a new EU ‘empowering consumers for the green transition directive’, which will enter into force in March; while progress is being made on talks between the Council and European Parliament on the final text of a ‘substantiation and communication of explicit environmental claims’ directive. The Council’s current Belgian presidency wants to reach a ‘general approach’ on this marketing legislation by June, ahead of the European Parliament elections that month....
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28/2/2024
The landscape of apparel exports to Europe is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by changing consumer demands, sustainability concerns, and geopolitical shifts. The European Union (EU) represents a vast and lucrative apparel market, one that is undergoing a significant shift in its import dynamics. While traditional giants like China continue to hold sway, a new wave of players is rising, driven by factors ranging from economic diversification to ethical concerns....
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27/2/2024
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has revealed the Red Sea crisis has led to increased costs and delays for 53% of UK manufacturers and retailers.
The BCC report, which surveyed 1,087 businesses found some firms saw a 300% hike in prices for container hire, and others experienced logistical delays that added up to three to four weeks to delivery times.
Knock-on effects of these impacts included cashflow difficulties and component shortages on production lines....
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27/2/2024
Industry onlookers have warned Fast Retailing must focus on "getting the marketing right" as it reportedly weighs the option of expanding its value GU brand in the US and EU markets.
Takeshi Okazaki, chief financial officer of Fast Retailing, which also owns the Uniqlo brand, believes GU has just as much potential as Uniqlo. He told Bloomberg of plans to bring the Japanese fashion label to the US and Europe....
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27/2/2024
Europe, the world's leading apparel importer, is experiencing a dynamic shift in its consumption patterns and sourcing strategies. This transformation is driven by numerous factors, including changing consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and evolving supply chains....
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26/2/2024
The US economy defied recessionary whispers, growing robustly in Q3 and Q4 2023. This presents both opportunities and challenges for the apparel industry, navigating a "swirl" of economic influences. While interest rates remain a headwind, tailwinds like a strong labor market and rising consumer confidence fuel optimism for the apparel industry. However, key questions linger....
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26/2/2024
US senators Sherrod Brown and Rick Scott are calling on the Biden administration to use executive action under the Tariff Act of 1930 to close a key loophole known as the ‘de minimis’ rule, which they believe foreign competitors exploit to evade duties and fees, giving them "unfair" advantage over American businesses.
Senators Brown and Scott explained that based on “de minimis” rule, packages under $800 in valuation are exempted from US duties, taxes and fees and allowed to enter the country with little to no inspections....
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24/2/2024
The global yoga clothing market is poised to reach $70,291.0 million by 2030, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 7.8 per cent from 2021 to 2030, as per a recent report by Allied Market Research.
The market growth is propelled by various factors. Firstly, the escalating incidence of obesity and lifestyle-related disorders has prompted individuals to adopt fitness practices like yoga, driving the demand for associated accessories such as yoga clothing. Additionally, governments and fitness clubs globally have actively promoted yoga, following initiatives like the proposal of International Yoga Day by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Such efforts have increased awareness and participation in yoga, thereby driving the market....
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22/2/2024
Valued at $480,991.8 million in 2019, the global plus size clothing market is projected to reach $696,712.1 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.9 per cent from 2021 to 2027, according to a recent report by Allied Market Research titled ‘Plus Size Clothing Market by Type, Gender, Age Group, and Price Point: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2027.’
The surge in demand for plus-size clothing is attributed to the increasing obese population, heightened consumer confidence, and a greater number of brands offering plus-size garment ranges. However, challenges such as high pricing for retailers and manufacturing complexities somewhat restrain market growth. Nevertheless, the rise in availability through omnichannel retail and expanding brand presence present lucrative opportunities for market players....
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22/2/2024
The European Council has made several proposals to tighten up guidance banning products made with forced labour for sale on the EU market. But what does it mean for fashion brands and retailers? And how should they prepare?
The European Council announced proposals for improvements to the text that prohibits products made with forced labour from the EU market....
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21/2/2024
Projected growth rates for US cotton over the next two years are set to be well below the recent historical average on the back of weak demand, according to the National Cotton Council of America.
In its 2024 cotton industry economic outlook, the NCC said weak demand has translated to pressures throughout the supply chain....
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21/2/2024
The growing sway of celebrities and influencers on brands' success means social media strategies are increasingly important.
Social media’s influence over what is seen as cool is contributing to the growing trend of globalised retail, perhaps more so than sustainability concerns, GlobalData analysts suggest.
The comments follow recent survey results from market researcher YPulse which found that 69% of 13 to 39-year-olds are more likely to purchase brands that are considered cool than those that are not....
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21/2/2024
The disruption to shipping through the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi militants is having a mixed impact on Egypt's apparel exporting industry. Egypt, which is a key European nearsourcing hub, has seen shipping rates increase since the Red Sea crisis, and the import of raw materials from east Asia impacted. However, it has also experienced an uptick in orders from European clients to take advantage of Egypt’s proximity to Europe, without running the gantlet of Houthi attacks....
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16/2/2024
Just Style's round-up of this week’s news in numbers explores why the US footwear market is struggling, The Children's Place battling falling revenues and the impact of the Red Sea crisis on apparel imports.
This week’s top apparel-related datasets come from The Children’s Place, the National Retail Federation, the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (Otexa) and Shoe Carnival....
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15/2/2024
Companies will now be required to seek approval for any environmental marketing claims before use or face severe penalties after new rules were adopted by The EU Internal Market and Environment committees yesterday (Wednesday 14 February).
Under the directive accredited verifiers will evaluate any environmental marketing or green claims within 30 days, as per the adopted text. Violations of these regulations could result in severe penalties, including exclusion from procurements, revenue confiscation, and fines of a minimum of 4% of the offender’s annual turnover....
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15/2/2024
New rules proposed by the European Commission aim to prevent and reduce textile waste across the EU.
MEPs in the EU’s environment committee have voted in favour of adopting a proposed revision of the Waste Framework Directive.
The new rules will set up extended producer responsibility schemes for textiles sold on the EU market....
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15/2/2024
According to the latest figures shared by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the UK's gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to have fallen by 0.3% in the fourth quarter of 2023 (October to December) indicating a recession as consumers tighten budgets.
ONS explains that this follows an unrevised estimated fall of 0.1% in the previous quarter (July to September 2023)....
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15/2/2024
The Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have led to shipping delays and additional costs for fashion brands and retailers. Just Style takes a deep dive into the crisis to reveal the short and long-term implications for the global fashion sector.
The armed rebel group from Yemen, which calls itself Houthis started targeting ships in the Red Sea in mid November 2023 as a response to the Israel war in the Gaza strip.
In early December global freight companies including MSC, Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM Group reported attacks on their vessels....
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14/2/2024
US-based non-profit Accelerating Circularity has released the next phase of the Building Circular Systems (BCS) initiative which aims to amplify the development of circular textile-to-textile systems, mitigating the industry's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and curbing the disposal of textiles into landfills and incinerators.
Accelerating Circularity’s BCS initiative aims to significantly ramp up material volumes, develop new tools and expand educational outreach based on insights from its previous work....
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14/2/2024
UK consumer price index (CPI) rose by 4 per cent in the 12 months to January this year. The rate was the same as the December 2023 figure.
On a monthly basis, CPI fell by 0.6 per cent in January 2024—the same rate as in January 2023.
Core CPI—excluding energy, food, alcohol and tobacco—rose by 5.1 per cent in the 12 months to January, the same rate as in December 2023....
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14/2/2024
Analysis of December data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) suggests US brands and retailers are gradually increasing their sourcing from suppliers based in CAFTA-DR regions. US apparel imports in December enjoyed a 4.5% uplift on the previous month after several months of straight decline, but were down on a year-on-year basis after six of the 10 top supplier countries reported lower shipments....
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13/2/2024
Fashion retailers will find pockets of growth, despite ongoing economic pressures, writes Lectra’s Americas president Leonard Marano. Each new year signifies a time of transformation for the fashion industry with 2024 being no different. While the fashion industry has seen many changes over the past few years due to new technologies, economic strains, and supply chain disruptions, it remains resilient. This year, retailers will work to identify pockets of growth and how they can maximise benefits, despite any uncertainties that may be looming from an economic standpoint....
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13/2/2024
The latest Global Port Tracker suggests that despite ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea due to attacks on ships, US inbound cargo volume is expected to have a “year-over-year increase” in the first half of 2024.
The National Retail Federation (NRF)’s vice president for supply chain and customs policy Jonathan Gold pointed out that only 12% of US-bound cargo passes through the Suez Canal, but added “the situation is bringing volatility and uncertainty that are being felt around the globe”....
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13/2/2024
US’ consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) saw a 0.3 per cent increase in December on a seasonally adjusted basis, marking a rise from the 0.1 per cent increase witnessed in November, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for apparel noted a slight uptick of 0.1 per cent during the same period.
The energy sector experienced a 0.4 per cent increase over the month, driven by notable rises in both the electricity and gasoline indexes, which helped counterbalance a decrease in the natural gas index. Similarly, the index for all items excluding food and energy maintained a consistent growth, matching November's 0.3 per cent increase....
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9/2/2024
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and the International Apparel Federation (IAF) have issued a joint letter with over 100 signatories calling for greater government support in ensuring the safety and accessibility of shipping routes. The signatories which represent a range of industries including retail, clothing and footwear, are urging governments to join, support, or align with the mission to support safe and secure maritime commerce in the Red Sea and across the globe....
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8/2/2024
The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) comes into force on 24 February 2024. But what is it? And what does it mean for the apparel supply chain?
The IPEF is described as a “first of its kind” agreement, bringing coordination between the US and 14 partner nations in four key areas....
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7/2/2024
International organisation Human Rights Watch criticises Germany’s Free Democratic Party (FDP)’s refusal to support the new Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The FDP’s decision not to support the new laws could now cause the German government to abstain from voting in favour of its introduction, which Human Rights Watch says could cause other countries to reconsider or withdraw their support....
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7/2/2024
According to Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), continued higher cost of living accompanied with weak consumer demand dampened sales, while milder temperatures hit clothing sales, particularly winter and footwear.
BRC reported that UK total retail sales, increased by 1.2% year-on-year in January, against a growth of 4.2% in January 2023. This was below the three-month average growth of 1.9% and below the 12-month average growth of 3.4%....
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4/2/2024
National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist Jack Kleinhenz has reported that while inflation is down from its peak, it has slowed less than expected and is still an important problem that remains to be solved. Kleinhenz underscored the role of consumer behaviour in driving the strength of the US economy, particularly in light of the Federal Reserve’s attempts to mitigate inflationary pressures....
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2/2/2024
Supply chain disruptions in the Red Sea are driving up apparel sector shipping costs, causing alternative routes to be used and could result in longer-term shifts in sourcing as well as logistics, if the crisis continues.
Since October 2023, Yemen’s Houthis, a Zaidi Shia Islamist militant group that controls much of northern and western Yemen, have attacked dozens of cargo ships in the Red Sea in response to the Israeli invasion of and bombing of Gaza, following Hamas’ October terrorist attacks. This has caused insurance companies to stop insuring vessels on that route and forced major shipping lines to divert cargo around the Cape of Good Hope, adding some two to three weeks in transport times....
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2/2/2024
Reports have surfaced suggesting apprehension in the German government on voting in favour of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which may delay its introduction.
The EU vote on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) takes place next week (9 January) but a Reuters report cites a letter sent by Finance Minister Christian Lindner and Justice Minister Marco Buschmann, which reveals the German government plans to “abstain”, though Just Style was unable to verify this at time of press....
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1/2/2024
Denim, the iconic fabric of rebellion and self-expression, faces a crossroads in 2024. While still a wardrobe staple, evolving trends and consumer preferences is leading to a dynamic shift in casual wear. Denim now faces competition from the revival of khakis. But is this a complete dethroning, or simply a wardrobe diversification?...
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1/2/2024
The National Council of Textile Organisations (NCTO) has welcomed a plan from the US Administration to crackdown on "unfair trade practices" which it says are responsible for the closure of eight production plants in the last three months. Secretary of US Homeland Security Alejandro N Majorkas has committed to a 30-day immediate textile enforcement action plan to tackle unfair trade practices and ensure the country’s domestic sector “is here long into the future”....
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31/1/2024
The demand for climate-adaptive clothing isn’t entirely new. What has changed is the type of clothing likely to be in demand due to climate change, writes Hologenix senior business developer Lucas Tyson.
Climate change is heating up the fashion industry with consumers beginning to seek out apparel that’s ready to adapt using tech given average global temperatures are steadily rising and the hottest years on record happened in the last decade....
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31/1/2024
A new study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and LightCastle has sparked a debate in the Bangladeshi garment industry: Can e-commerce platforms directly connect manufacturers with Western consumers, cutting out middlemen and boosting profits? The research suggests immense potential, with an estimated $489 million in additional revenue by 2027 across the US, EU, and Africa....
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30/1/2024
Millennial and Gen Z shoppers lack awareness of the environmental and social harm of fast fashion, according to research by Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), which suggests education is needed to change consumer behaviour.
Dr Yunzhijun Yu, a psychology instructor at KPU, conducted a trio of studies that shed light on the clothing consumption of young consumers and their understanding of fast fashion — a quick and inexpensive approach to making fashion trends available to consumers....
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30/1/2024
Apparel sector urged to create a solid fibre-to-fibre recycled PET polyester industry, given polyester is predicted to account for more than half of total fibre production by 2030.
Polyester will remain by far the most widely used type of fibre in textile and garment production for the foreseeable future, despite strong growth in other fibres, such as cellulosic, natural and those derived from bioplastics, according to a new report titled ‘Fibre innovations aid the creation of circular textile and apparel supply chains’....
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29/1/2024
The EU's new durability and anti-greenwashing law means the fashion industry can no longer hide behind sweeping statements of “environmentally friendly”, “natural”, “biodegradable” or “climate neutral” without solid proof, so what's next?
The European Union (EU) has officially adopted a law that will see a ban on greenwashing and other environmental claims or so-called ‘eco marketing’ being plastered across fashion items with a clear shift towards information on how long an item should actually last.
The European Parliament explained this new directive is meant to work together with the green claims directive which is currently being discussed at committee stage in Parliament....
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26/1/2024
Coach, Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and the Circular Economy Institute share insights into unlocking the next stages of circularity in the apparel sector and moving from supply chains to ‘supply networks’.
Speaking at the Practical and Scalable Implementation of a Circular Economy, an online event hosted by news agency Reuters in collaboration with The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), representatives from key organisations shared insight into the current state of the circular economy....
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25/1/2024
Just Style reveals three key growth opportunities for the fashion sector given 2024 is set to be the biggest year of travel since before the pandemic.
Fashion brands and retailers are being urged to refresh distribution and category strategies to meet travellers wherever they are in 2024.
According to McKinsey’s State of Fashion 2023 report, 80% of consumers surveyed in the US, UK and China expect to shop for fashion while embarking on travel in 2024, with 28% planning to spend more than the previous year....
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24/1/2024
Global hosiery market, encompassing socks, stockings, tights, and leggings, is expected to reach $75.71 billion by 2029, thanks to a perfect blend of comfort, fashion, and function.
The rise of dance culture is fueling demand for specialized hosiery. Dancers, from professionals to enthusiasts, crave flexibility, breathability, and a touch of flair, driving innovation in this niche.
With eco-consciousness among consumers, the industry is moving towards green options. Biodegradable fibers, organic cotton blends, and recycled materials are replacing traditional fibers, while brands are adopting sustainable practices across the board....
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24/1/2024
The online apparel market is expected to make up 29.3% of total apparel sales by 2027, however a new report has warned fashion brands and retailers face four key challenges that could inhibit growth. GlobalData’s Global Online Apparel Market to 2027 report projects that by 2027, the online channel will make up 29.3% of total apparel sales, which it adds is only 0.9ppts higher than the share it reached in 2020 and stands as a testament to the “enduring appeal and benefits of stores.”...
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23/1/2024
The bustling world of textiles and apparel finds itself in a complex situation of progress and peril in 2024. While consumer demand for sustainable and conscious clothing rises, challenges and concerns weave a tangled web across key regions, economies, and industry segments. Here is a look at the current state of this dynamic industry, examining the pivotal points, pressing concerns, and intricate issues within....
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23/1/2024
Just Style shares four key strategies for tapping the lucrative sportswear market which continues to outperform the global apparel sector and was worth $441bn in 2022. The Global Sportswear Market to 2027 report by GlobalData forecasts a 5.9% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the global sportswear market from 2022 to 2027, growing to a value of $587.2bn.
The report highlighted this growth will be driven by Asia-Pacific which is set to rise at a CAGR of 8.6% as its large emerging middle-class continues to embrace global trends such as streetwear and athleisure....
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22/1/2024
Days of scratchy recycled sweaters and uninspired eco-conscious options are passé. The European fashion market is embracing recycled textile materials with gusto, and a recent study by MDPI reveals the fascinating sourcing strategies behind this trend. Titled: “Importing Clothing Made from Recycled Textile Materials? A Study of Retailers' Sourcing Strategies in Five European Countries", the report highlights, how major retailers in the UK, Italy, France, Germany, and Spain are tapping into a global network of suppliers to bring sustainable style to their customers....
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22/1/2024
The European Union (EU) has adopted a new law to ban greenwashing and other environmental claims with a focus on clearer information especially on the durability of goods to help consumers make better purchasing choices.
The Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have adopted a directive that seeks to protect consumers from misleading marketing claims, with 593 votes in favour, 21 against and 14 abstentions....
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20/1/2024
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) is undertaking a new fact-finding investigation to examine the export competitiveness of the apparel industries in India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia and Pakistan.
The probe was requested by the US trade representative (USTR) last December.
USITC will prepare a public report that will provide a comparison of the relative US market shares held by these nations at present and five and ten years ago. It will analyse changing patterns in market shares and trade, including against other top suppliers, noting any significant shifts....
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20/1/2024
While leading on innovation, the global fashion industry finds it difficult to transition to circularity and still largely depends on a linear business model, according to a report by Geneva-based World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).
Misaligned incentives and reward systems that do not factor in externalities prevent progress on the more circular and sustainable use of resources, and current incentives do not support the transition to circularity and companies lack actionable decision-making information, it notes....
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19/1/2024
US clothing sales jumped 3% in the two months from November to December as consumers enjoyed the easing of prices in certain categories, data analysis from the NRF reveals. The holiday season, defined by NRF as 1 November through 31 December, saw online and non-store sales increase by 8.2% to $276.8bn, surpassing the NRF’s forecasted growth of 7% to 9%.
Core retail sales surged 3.8% to $964.4bn according to data released by the US Census Bureau....
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19/1/2024
Move over, conspicuous consumption. In 2024, luxury is getting a makeover, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and accessibility. The rise of "bridge-to-luxury" fashion is reshaping the industry, blurring the lines between high-end and high-street.
This trend is driven by a growing awareness of fast fashion's environmental and ethical costs, coupled with a shift in consumer values. Shoppers seek today pieces that are well-made, long-lasting, and tell a story. They're willing to invest in quality over quantity, even if it means stepping outside the traditional luxury brands....
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19/1/2024
A new report found resale players are struggling to remain profitable despite the resale apparel market growing by 114.8% between 2017 and 2022 to reach $193.7bn with additional competition from major brands like Zara, Shein with their in-house resale services.
The Global Apparel Resale Market to 2027 report attributes the dampening of profits largely to the high operational costs associated with running resale platforms, which cannot be offset by user fees alone....
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18/1/2024
A new study with the board directors and senior executives who work for fashion brands and retailers in the UK, US and Australia, by Aquapak Polymers Ltd, which specialises in polymer-based material technologies that can deliver both performance and environmental responsibility at scale, has revealed that 12 per cent expect their business to be fully circular within one to two years, 34 per cent within two to three years and 31 per cent within three to four years. One fifth is expecting to reach this goal in four to five years....
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18/1/2024
Rising political tension is overshadowing the trend for friendshoring within the apparel sector with civil unrest unlikely to subside in key garment hubs in 2024.
The trend for friendshoring – or manufacturing and sourcing apparel from countries which are geopolitical allies – is under threat from rising political tension, according to a new report by risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft.
Verisk Maplecroft analysed five-year trends across 40 emerging markets, including key manufacturing hubs Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Thailand and Türkiye, for risk across a combination of issues....
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18/1/2024
As the fashion sector combats a spike in counterfeit goods amid its mission to become more transparent with consumers about the journey of the goods they buy, an expert tells Just Style how blockchain can be leveraged to give customers "deeper insights" into their purchases including its origin and previous ownership.
Data analysis company GlobalData defines blockchain as an electronic ledger of transactions that is continuously maintained in blocks of record and is jointly held and run by all participants. It is coupled with cryptographic security making the ledger tamper-proof....
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17/1/2024
About 58 per cent of US’ consumers consider clothing labels as very important sources of information, with 7 out of 10 (72 per cent) agreeing that clothing labels are convenient to use, according to a recent survey conducted by Cotton Incorporated.
In terms of helpfulness, consumers rated various aspects of clothing labels, finding garment size information to be the most useful at 83 per cent. Description of garment care came in close behind at 80 per cent, followed by fibre content at 61 per cent and country of origin at 50 per cent, as per the Supply Chain Insights – Clothing Label Survey....
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16/1/2024
US clothing retailers benefitted from a strong holiday shopping season in 2023 according to new figures from the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor.
According to the latest figures, US clothing and accessories stores were down 0.44% month over month but up 4.28% year over year unadjusted in the December 2023 holiday period.
“December’s numbers combined with November’s results show retailers had a very successful two-month holiday season,” NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Clearly, retailers got it right this holiday season, providing consumers with what they wanted, options on when and where to make their purchases and with prices customers were comfortable paying.”...
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16/1/2024
Spurred by the growing integration of electronic devices into clothing, the global e-textiles and smart clothing market is project to grow at a robust CAGR of 32.3 per cent from 2024-2030 to reach $2.7 billion by 2030.
According to a report by Ameco Research, growth in the global smart clothing market will be led by upper wear including smart jackets and shirts, due to the speedy real-time data collection and processing capabilities of these garments....
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16/1/2024
European industry leaders, represented by EURATEX and 22 industry associations, have urgently appealed to the EU Presidents in a joint letter to expedite the finalization of trade negotiations with Mercosur. The letter, addressed to Presidents Metsola, Michel, and von der Leyen, emphasizes the time-sensitive nature of reaching an agreement. The associations, spanning diverse sectors from manufacturing to food-related industries, stress the potential economic benefits of the EU-Mercosur deal....
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16/1/2024
The American dream has long been stitched with visions of bustling factories and workers earning their fair share. But beneath the "Made in America" slogan lies a tangled reality, one where ethical production clashes with cost and convenience. Unravelling the complexities of ethical fashion, exploring the struggles of a small Maine-based manufacturer, the dark underbelly of the American garment industry, and the hopeful whispers of a future where fashion aligns with fairness, the story is beyond just patriotism, delving into the intricate web of economics, consumer choices, and the human cost of cheap clothing....
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15/1/2024
From audacious acquisitions to ethical awakenings, 2023 painted a vibrant yet starkly contrasting picture for the fashion industry. While some brands surged ahead with bold strategies and a tech-savvy embrace, others grappled with financial woes and ethical quandaries. This captivating story delves into the key themes that defined the year, from M&S's roaring comeback to Shein's explosive growth amidst legal controversies. But the tale doesn't end there....
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15/1/2024
As we move into the third week of the new year and Blue Monday, the apparel sector is still struggling with the same familiar problems, but it's not too late to start again.
The third Monday of the year — often dubbed ‘Blue Monday’ — is supposedly the most depressing day of the year. The concept is based on winter weather conditions, post-holiday season debt and the average time since new year’s resolutions have been broken....
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15/1/2024
Chemical management company Oeko-Tex will update its application test criteria, limit values and guidelines for its certifications in April, however a new limit value for total fluorine (TF) as part of its ban on the intentional use of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) came into immediate effect on 1 January.
Oeko-Tex said its new regulations, based on “new scientific findings and legal developments,” will come into force from 1 April 2024, following the regular transition period....
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12/1/2024
Egypt is opening what it claims to be the world's largest spinning and weaving factory next month with investments exceeding £30bn ($38bn), according to local news reports.
Mahmoud Esmat, the minister of the public business sector, told local news publication Arab Finance the factory is set to commence operations in the city of Mahalla al-Kubra during the next month as part of Egypt’s national project to develop the textile industry....
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12/1/2024
Renowned sustainability leader, Fashion for Good, is set to spearhead a groundbreaking strategy aimed at propelling regenerative fashion innovations to new heights. The bold move involves a substantial commitment to fortify the Innovation Platform, intensify efforts in brand integration, supplier collaboration, financing, and impact measurement. Simultaneously, the iconic Fashion for Good Museum is set to close its doors in a grand finale at the end of January, metamorphosing into a dynamic blended-use and co-working space by June 2024....
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11/1/2024
US’ textile and apparel (T&A) imports rose by 1.5 per cent in November 2023 as against the corresponding month previous year, as per a report by the Office of Textiles and Apparel of the US Department of Commerce (OTEXA).
The country’s imports from Mexico surged by 79.8 per cent to 443.9 million SME during November 2023 as against 246.9 million SME in November 2022, as per OTEXA....
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10/1/2024
Expected growth in the UK retail sector over Christmas was thwarted by dampened spending as cautious consumers hesitated over purchases.
The British Retail Consortium has warned 2024 looks set to be another challenging year for UK retail with spending constrained over high living costs.
In the three months to December, non-food sales fell 1.5% on a total basis, steeper than the 12-month average decline of 0.1%....
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10/1/2024
The National Retail Federation (NRF)'s chief economist Jack Kleinhenz warns tighter credit conditions and escalating borrowing costs may dampen US consumer spending in 2024.
Speaking in the January issue of the National Retail Federation (NRF) Monthly Economic Review, Kleinhenz acknowledged the resilience of the US economy throughout 2023 and the unexpected strength of consumer spending in the face of challenges such as high inflation and soaring interest rates....
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9/1/2024
High inflation rates and lasting macroeconomic troubles have driven the popularity of resale, with a new report from GlobalData revealing the sector grew 17.7% in 2023.
As customers seek more affordable options, the Global Apparel Resale Market to 2027 report revealed an increase in the importance of online platforms such as Vinted and Vestiaire Collective, which have also helped raise consumer awareness about the practice of secondhand online shopping from the perspective of both buyers and sellers....
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9/1/2024
The latest Global Port Tracker report revealed a "traditional" slowdown post the bustling holiday season but the recent attacks in the Red Sea have caused trade disruptions, leading to prolonged transit times and increased costs. According to the Global Port Tracker report released on 8 January by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates, the inbound cargo volume at the US’ major container ports should gradually slow during the first quarter of 2024 with the holiday season over, before beginning to build again in the spring....
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8/1/2024
The minimum wage protests and political violence that preceded Bangladesh's ruling party winning its fourth term serve as a stark reminder for why the fashion manufacturing sector must prepare itself for the biggest global election year in history.
More than 50 countries around the world with a combined population of around 4.2bn will hold national and regional elections in 2024, according to Forbes....
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5/1/2024
The insatiable appetite for denim took a surprising turn in 2023, as the global denim fabric trade wove a new narrative on the export and import scene. Some countries emerged as trendsetters, sporting vibrant threads of growth, while others faced a re-adjustment in their textile tapestry. Let's unravel the intricacies of this captivating story, revealing the winners and contenders who reshaped the denim landscape. We'll then peek into the looming threads of 2024, anticipating where the next twists and turns might lead....
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5/1/2024
UK clothing retailers are advised to brace themselves for multiple cost pressures this year with business rates set to soar in April and shipping disruptions in the Red Sea likely to impact product availability and pricing.
The British Retail Consortium (BRC)-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), which is described as an accurate monthly measure of UK-wide retail sales performance showed shop price annual inflation held steady at 4.3% in the period 1-7 December, maintaining a level below the three-month average rate of 4.6%....
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4/1/2024
The world's love affair with denim took a fascinating turn in 2023, with some countries strutting in stylish new threads while others faced a wardrobe re-think. Let's unravel the tale of who soared and who slumped in the global denim trade, both exports and imports, and the reasons behind the sartorial shift....
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4/1/2024
The US fashion market witnessed a notable shift in 2023, as fast fashion brands exerted a substantial influence on consumer preferences, reshaping the dynamics of luxury fashion sales. A comprehensive report by Consumer Edge highlights, the allure of high-end fashion labels such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry faced a challenging scenario due to the reproduction and sale of their designs at affordable price s by fast fashion counterparts....
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3/1/2024
Currently valued at $71.23 billion, the global jeans market is expected to grow at 6.31 per cent CAGR from 2023-29 to reach $109.32 billion by 2029.
By 2029, the online sales channel segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate of 11.2 per cent. The growth will be driven by the rise in participants and the popularity of e-commerce sites that offer a large selection of products, such Myntra, Amazon, Alibaba, and Flipkart....
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3/1/2024
In this essential guide to the ever-evolving world of fashion due diligence legislation, Just Style uncovers what it means and how it will impact everyone working within the fashion supply chain.
Regulators worldwide are cracking down on poor labour and environmental practices in fashion supply chains amid growing concerns about upstream parts of the clothing industry. Probes into major international fashion brands, who have been criticised about alleged malpractice by their suppliers have been encouraging legislation and regulation reforms....
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3/1/2024
Danish freight company A.P. Moller-Maersk has announced a suspension of all transits through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden until further notice, in response to the escalating Houthi attacks on its shipping vessels in the region.
Moller-Maersk has paused all transits through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden and is conducting an ongoing investigation into the attack on its vessel, Maersk Hangzhou, which occurred on 30 December....
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3/1/2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) software company Smartex says the apparel supply chain is shifting from one focused solely on price to one focused on price, speed, quality and compliance but without modernisation, factories will be overwhelmed by these competing priorities.
Smartex’s report titled ‘The Modern Textile Factory’ says the status quo of how an apparel factory is run will not serve the purposes of either financial growth or impact reduction....
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3/1/2024
A "rapid decline" in US job openings in November 2023 is being attributed to job closures outpacing the creation of new jobs along with the tightening of company money policies and advancements in generative AI with apparel jobs in particular seeing a strong decline by the end of 2023.
Data analysis company GlobalData said the upcoming US Job Openings and Labour Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report for November 2023, which is due to be released later today (3 January 2024), is expected to print between 8.3 to 8.5 million job openings....
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2/1/2024
A National Retail Federation (NRF) report has revealed that for every $1bn in sales, the average retailer incurred $145m in merchandise returns with shoppers taking advantage of policy, process and system gaps.
The report titled ‘2023 Consumer Returns in the Retail Industry,’ explained total returns for the US retail industry amounted to $743bn in merchandise and the total returns rate as a percentage of sales was 14.5%...
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2/1/2024
The certification label Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has passed the requirements for the Green Button 2.0 certification scheme for sustainable manufacturing and wet processes.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has received recognition from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) who expressed gratitude for GOTS’ active involvement and contributions to the Green Button 2.0 recognition process....
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2/1/2024
The Americans for Free Trade (AFT) coalition is “frustrated” with the short notice the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has given to businesses to prepare for an extension to its reinstated and Covid-related exclusions in its China Section 301 investigation and urges USTR to release the results of its four-year tariffs review "immediately".
AFT, which is a coalition of US businesses, trade organisations and workers united against tariffs, said it appreciates the short-term extension of the China Section 301 tariff exclusions by USTR to 31 May 2024....
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2/1/2024
Fashion brand and retailer success in 2024 and beyond will largely rely on repairing frays within the value chain, according to the latest McKinsey report, which says the "bullwhip effect" that kicked off around the Covid period is likely to linger well beyond 2024.
McKinsey & Co noted in its State of Fashion 2023 report that demand volatility has continued since the pandemic and disproportionately impacted upstream suppliers. It calls this the “bullwhip effect” and added that factories that were at full capacity in 2021 have been operating at 30%-40% below capacity in 2023....
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2/1/2024
New year, new start, big changes in the fashion world. The penultimate week of 2023 saw announcements around acquisitions, divestments and restructures roll in as the industry gears up for what looks set to be a challenging year.
It’s the start of a whole new year and fashion brands and retailers are keen to get their houses in order as evidenced by the raft of acquisition and divestment announcements in the last week of 2023....
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2/1/2024
Currently worth $70 million, the global denim jeans market is projected to grow to $114.6 million by 2030-end.
As per the 'Denim Jeans-Global Strategic Business Report' by ResearchAndMarkets, growth in the global denim jeans market will be driven by a surge in online sales that are expected to grow by 12 per cent CAGR during the analysis period.
On the other hand, the offline sales of denim jeans are projected to grow att 4.2 per cent CAGR and reach $77 million during the analysis period....
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30/12/2023
Despite malls witnessing an uptick in footfalls during the Christmas weekend, consumption across apparel category remained muted.
Apparel retailers witnessed a subdued demand during the October-November festive season as consumers continued to spend with caution. While demand surged during Christmas, the weakness in consumption spilled into December.
This year, consumers seem to have directed their spending to other essential categories. However, this may normalise next year, says Rajneesh Mahajan, CEO, Inorbit Malls....
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30/12/2023
In the period from January to October 2023, the United States encountered a significant 27.45% year-on-year decrease in trouser imports, tallying up to a worrisome $5.64 billion loss in the total value. This downturn raises concerns for global trouser exporters reliant on the US market.
Amid this challenging landscape, Vietnam managed to retain its lead as the top exporter to the US, despite a 29% decline, with exports totaling $3.02 billion. Bangladesh, the second-largest exporter, faced a substantial drop of 29.74%, reaching $2.57 billion, intensifying the competition with Vietnam in a sluggish market....
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29/12/2023
Forget your traditional fashion capitals! In 2023, the world's most captivating runways stretched far beyond the cobbled streets of Milan and the Champs-Élysées. From the vibrant bazaars of Mumbai to the sun-drenched shores of Rio de Janeiro, local designers and age-old traditions took center stage, redefining luxury fashion with a kaleidoscope of cultural influences and sustainable practices.
As 2023 gracefully twirls towards its finale, the global luxury apparel industry finds itself draped in a tapestry woven with shimmering threads of reinvention, resilience, and a dash of uncertainty. Let's embark on a sartorial odyssey, unraveling the key trends that defined the year and peeking into the crystal ball for 2024's prospects....
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28/12/2023
As 2023 draws to a close, the global fashion industry presents a tapestry woven with contrasting threads. While glimmers of recovery and innovation shine through, the year has been marked by uncertainty, economic anxieties, and the ever-present shadow of climate concerns. Let's unravel the key trends that shaped global fashion in this tumultuous year:...
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21/12/2023
Fashion sourcing experts share a roadmap for navigating transparency in 2024 and explain why the future of successful fashion sourcing will depend on collective responsibility throughout the supply chain.
Transparency and accountability have superseded sustainability as the driving forces for fashion sourcing as we head towards 2024....
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21/12/2023
Just Style reveals the top five fashion deals of 2023, ranging from luxury fashion company Tapestry buying its rival for $8.5bn to UK fashion retailer Next ending its recent acquisition spree with the purchase of mid-priced fashion brand Fat Face.
This year saw fashion brands plagued by high energy and material costs on the manufacturing end of the supply chain and a cost of living crisis with high inflation dampening sales and creating excess inventory at the consumer end....
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20/12/2023
Once upon a time, luxury was the symbol of exclusivity, an expensive proposition for the select few. For decades, there were a few luxury brands, mainly of European origin, that had the rights on exclusivity. Leading global luxury brands like Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dior maintained a tight grip on retail operations, mainly through their own outlets which allowed them to avoid discounts and fully control their brand image. The marketing mantra for this upper-most echelon of brands was they were never on discount. Of course these brands held the much-awaited sales a couple of times a year to clear stock and move in with the next season’s collections, tantalizing and teasing those who couldn’t afford them otherwise....
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20/12/2023
The relative absence of the fashion industry at COP28 suggests sustainable fashion has a marketing problem.
The textiles industry is estimated to account for up to 10% of global emissions – more than international flights and shipping combined – yet you probably wouldn’t realise that from scanning the schedule of events at COP28, the annual UN climate conference held in Dubai earlier this month. Of the many hundreds of side events that took place during the conference, just a handful centred on sustainable fashion. During one of those events, a panel exploring strategies to decarbonise the sector hosted by the Alpine Group, the apparel maker that was COP27’s official uniform sponsor, noted the industry’s absence in Dubai....
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20/12/2023
Experts from across the fashion supply chain share their predictions for 2024 as the sector navigates ongoing geopolitical and environmental concerns alongside unexpected twists and turns.
As we head towards 2024 and share expert predictions, there is no doubt that 2023 has been another challenging year for fashion sourcing. The world seemed to be ready to get back on its feet post-pandemic, however the ongoing impact of high inflation led to increased production costs and reduced consumer spend....
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19/12/2023
The price of cotton is depressed and weak demand combined with hefty crops in some parts of the world have dampened prices, but by mid-2024 the cotton market could regain its mojo, writes Robert P. Antoshak, Gherzi Textile Organization partner. Common sense suggests that cotton demand would pick up when prices are down, except in 2023 and potentially 2024 demand for yarns, fabrics, clothing, and home textiles is anaemic. Nothing is selling; production sits in inventory or is side-lined in the shadow of idled equipment....
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18/12/2023
This year has been a rollercoaster ride for the fashion industry with the hype of the metaverse and China reopening its doors post-Covid feeling like a lifetime ago, but has the sector learned anything in 2023 or will the same merry-go-round keep spinning in 2024?
If we rewind back to January 2023, global fashion brands were still raving about the potential of the metaverse and there were high hopes for fashion supply chains to return ‘back to normal’ when China finally reopened its borders and bid farewell to Covid lockdowns for good....
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15/12/2023
The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) ended with the announcement of a new agreement described as “the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era”, as leading apparel sector bodies react to the new deal.
UN climate change executive secretary Simon Stiell said in his closing speech at COP28: “Whilst we didn’t turn the page on the fossil fuel era in Dubai, this outcome is the beginning of the end.”
Stiell added that all governments – as well as businesses – need to turn the pledges made into “real-economy outcomes, without delay”....
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15/12/2023
Frequent extreme weather events are having a negative impact on the fashion value chain according to McKinsey & Co’s latest report with GlobalData's filings data showing an increase in natural disaster mentions in 2023.
McKinsey & Co’s recent State of Fashion report warned the fashion industry needs to build resilience into its supply chain as climate change makes extreme weather events more frequent. It estimates that extreme weather events could jeopardise $65bn worth of apparel exports by 2030....
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15/12/2023
A new study suggests the US adaptive clothing market has significant growth potential but fashion retailers could make it more affordable to people with disabilities by using the import duty-free tariffs available.
One in four US consumers have experienced at least one type of disability, indicating significant growth potential for the adaptive clothing market, according to the authors of a recent study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education Journal....
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14/12/2023
Multiple experts speaking at the World Fashion Convention echoed the same key fashion sourcing regions and countries to watch in 2024 based on the diversity, agility and transparency criteria that remain high on fashion sourcing executives' priority lists.
This year is coming to an end filled with uncertainty but there are still rays of hope in terms of new fashion sourcing countries to watch in 2024.
Fashion sourcing executives preparing strategies for 2024 have a lot to navigate. There are wars in the Middle East and Eastern Europe as well as geopolitical tensions between the US and China....
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14/12/2023
Global apparel brands are realizing the importance of diversified partnerships in today's market. The working between retailers and suppliers requires more flexibility to enhance relationships and drive sales. The global supply chain, originating from low-cost sourcing destinations, is currently facing logistical challenges due to geopolitical tensions and fluctuating demand driven by inflation....
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14/12/2023
The rise of knitwear from its traditional role as innerwear to a fashion statement has been remarkable, capturing the attention of both consumers and designers. The fabric's exceptional versatility has empowered designers to break barriers and explore novel trends, with emerging fashion creators enthusiastically embracing its flexible and unconventional characteristics. The period of global lockdowns in 2021 and 2022 underscored knitwear, as consumers gravitated towards its comfort and adaptability. In a noteworthy shift, knitwear appears poised to outshine its conventional counterpart, woven fabric....
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14/12/2023
In early December 2023, the Consumer Wise team at McKinsey published a report on consumer research findings from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK. The study, based on Q3 data ending September 31, highlighted on the varied sentiments of European consumers regarding the recovery of their respective economies. The prevailing Russo-Ukrainian conflict and unrest in the Middle East have intensified feelings of uncertainty among....
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14/12/2023
The EU has agreed a new set of rules that will require EU and non-EU textile and apparel companies to safeguard human rights and the environment within their policies and risk management systems or risk financial penalties. The EU Parliament and council negotiators have informally agreed on new legislation for corporate sustainability due diligence that will apply to all big companies as well as smaller companies deemed to be in high-risk sectors, such as the textile and apparel sector....
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13/12/2023
The consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) increased by 0.1 per cent in November on a seasonally-adjusted basis, after being unchanged in October, the US Bureau of Labour Statistics reported. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased by 3.1 per cent before seasonal adjustment.
That index for apparel fell by 1.3 per cent in November, after rising by 0.1 per cent the previous month, a BLS release said....
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13/12/2023
Just Style sits down with the man behind the fashion supply chain industry's most hotly anticipated report of 2024 to find out how its new business model intends to turn the industry on its head - from a global laggard into a global leader for sustainability, social ethics, and of course, profitability.
It’s no exaggeration to say this interview was a year in the making and a case of third-time lucky (perhaps persistence pays-off). Just Style first met John Thorbeck, chairman of Chainge Capital LLC, which is an expert on speed-to-market applications at retail and short life-cycle product companies, in November 2022 at the International Apparel Federation’s World Fashion Convention in Bangladesh....
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13/12/2023
At current estimates, clothing and footwear consumption is expected to increase by over 60%, from 62 million tonnes in 2022 to 102 million tonnes in 2023 as GlobalData figures reveal company mentions of sustainability are flagging.
Sustainability is struggling to move from beyond talk to measurable action, according to McKinsey & Co’s State of Fashion 2023 report which notes while there is some industry progress, the pace of transformation falls short of what is needed to prepare for impending regulations....
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12/12/2023
US apparel shipments from all sources sank in October as consumer demand continued to wane with Bangladesh bearing the brunt after wage protests in the country and a sluggish economy.
US apparel imports fell 8.3% in October to 2bn SME with shipments from six of the ten biggest suppliers showing a decline according to the latest data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel....
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11/12/2023
The latest Global Port Tracker report suggests the inbound cargo volume at the US' major container ports should continue to slow in the final weeks of 2023 after reaching its peak in fall, which was later than expected.
The Global Port Tracker report, which is released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates revealed October should turn out to be the peak of the holiday shipping season in 2023....
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11/12/2023
Sportswear retail companies have thrived in recent years, so could the fact a handful have fallen into financial difficulty recently signal the wider fashion sector is about to face yet another crisis?
Last week saw two European sports companies fall on hard times despite the activewear category usually being one of the most resilient in the sector....
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8/12/2023
A new study suggests US policymakers should consider supporting small and medium sized US textile and apparel manufacturers, strengthening US fabric production and supporting exports from outside the Western Hemisphere to improve US apparel manufacturer and export strategies.
Textiles and apparel “Made in the USA” have gained growing attention in recent years amid the increasing supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, the rising geopolitical tensions worldwide, and consumers’ increasing interest in sustainable apparel and faster speed to market....
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8/12/2023
The European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex) believes the European Commission's approved rules aimed at facilitating trade and investment across Pan-Euro-Mediterranean countries will unlock the "biggest and most integrated region of sustainable apparel manufacturing and trade".
European textile and clothing industry body Euratex has welcomed the new rules on origin, which will be introduced across the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) region, covering 27 EU member states and 24 partner countries in the region....
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7/12/2023
The European Parliament and the Council have reached a provisional agreement on the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation which promises to redefine product standards and make sustainable products the “new norm” in the EU.
The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation builds upon the success of the Ecodesign Directive, which has played a key role in enhancing energy efficiency across EU products for nearly two decades....
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6/12/2023
The primary focus when purchasing children’s clothing is on ensuring safety, comfort, and ease of wear. These factors constitute the core value proposition in the global market for kids' wear. Despite the evolution of trends in kid’s apparel sector, cotton remains a fundamental and enduring choice as the staple fiber, catering to the sensitivity of children's delicate skin.
The market is experiencing substantial growth propelled by the demand for sustainable and ethically produced textiles that align with environmental concerns. Additionally, the surge in popularity of gender-neutral unisex clothing and heightened brand awareness among young children, driven by the widespread influence of social media, are key factors contributing to market dynamics....
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5/12/2023
UK retail sales witnessed a 2.7% increase in total retail sales in November, a slight slowdown compared to the 4.2% growth recorded in the same period last year as Black Friday momentum failed to hold out due to cautious consumers delaying Christmas spending.
The 2.7% increase in UK retail sales exceeded the 3-month average growth of 2.6% but fell below the 12-month average growth of 4.1%, according to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), which is an accurate monthly measure of UK-wide retail sales performance over the four weeks 29 October to 25 November....
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4/12/2023
Fashion brands have not fully embraced sustainable practices involving chemical recycling, particularly in adopting innovative methods to transform old textiles into new ones for a more eco-friendly approach. High-tech materials like circulose-containing viscose, utilized in these fabrics, are not readily available and come with a significantly higher cost compared to traditional virgin materials derived from oil, cotton, and wood....
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4/12/2023
After the crazy times of Covid, the way we see denim is changing. Now, everyone's into being eco-friendly and thinking more about the planet. The fashion world, dealing with money ups and downs and global issues, isn't growing as fast. Big clothing companies had big plans for denim, but now it's not the superstar anymore; it's more about keeping things steady....
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1/12/2023
McKinsey’s 2024 ‘State of Fashion’ report points towards significant uncertainty looming over the global fashion industry. Prevailing sluggishness in global economic growth and unabated inflationary pressures signal a challenging landscape. With consumer confidence remaining pessimistic, if not weakened, leaders in the fashion industry are now confronted with the imperative task of pinpointing ‘pockets of value’ and uncovering ‘new performance drivers’....
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1/12/2023
An exclusive content analysis reveals how US fashion companies’ sourcing strategies have evolved in response to rising geopolitical tensions and economic slowdowns as well as the emerging sourcing trends worth watching in 2024.
The sourcing environment facing US fashion companies has significantly shifted over the past few years, from Covid-related supply chain disruptions, hiking inflation and economic slowdown, to rising geopolitical tensions....
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30/11/2023
Fast fashion online retailer Pretty Little Thing appeared to take a lower profile for Black Friday 2023 with Year over Year (YoY) traffic decreasing by almost half (45%). A record 200.4 million consumers shopped over the five-day holiday weekend (from Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday through to Cyber Monday) in the US, surpassing 2022’s record of 196.7 million, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey.
Some 36% of surveyed consumers said they shopped at clothing and accessories stores, while 49% of all gifts bought were clothing and accessories....
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30/11/2023
Supply chain resiliency will be a key area of focus for fashion industry executives in 2024, with transparency and communication across all supply chain stakeholders paramount in future-proofing businesses, the latest McKinsey & Co State of Fashion 2024 report reveals.
According to the eighth annual fashion report by McKinsey & Co, The State of Fashion 2024, 70% of chief procurement officers responding to the survey, believe that improving demand transparency with suppliers through systems and processes is critical in navigating market turmoil....
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30/11/2023
Supply chain resiliency will be a key area of focus for fashion industry executives in 2024, with transparency and communication across all supply chain stakeholders paramount in future-proofing businesses, the latest McKinsey & Co State of Fashion 2024 report reveals.
According to the eighth annual fashion report by McKinsey & Co, The State of Fashion 2024, 70% of chief procurement officers responding to the survey, believe that improving demand transparency with suppliers through systems and processes is critical in navigating market turmoil....
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29/11/2023
With heightened awareness around health and wellness in the post-Covid era, sports-inspired clothing has injected new vitality into the fashion industry. Particularly, the youth segment seeks stylish attire not only for gym sessions but also for home workouts. The surge in global sports events and tournaments has further amplified the demand for athletic clothing styles....
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29/11/2023
Continuing its efforts Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) introduces ongoing pilot for ‘Controlled Supply Chain Scheme’ (CSCS). Initiated in 2022, the CSCS pilot project is designed to aid small-scale operators in surmounting challenges associated with obtaining GOTS certification.
GOTS crafted the scheme to address the administrative and financial hurdles confronted by these operators. The project seeks to enhance supply chain efficiency by simplifying the group certification process, thereby reducing costs and mitigating administrative barriers....
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28/11/2023
Fashion industry experts reveal how digital technologies are already being used to lower the fashion industry's environmental footprint and are forging a path towards more sustainable production.
The intersection of technology and sustainability has sparked a revolution. We are all too familiar with the challenges facing the fashion industry, like excessive stock, overconsumption, and unsustainable production practices....
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27/11/2023
As Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts continue, the disconnect between consumerism and sustainability within the fashion industry is ever more apparent.
Shoppers continue to seek out the best deals during the Black Friday weekend, but the instant gratification of a bargain and the growing need for sustainability in the fashion sector are very much at loggerheads.
At a time when the fashion industry is striving to reduce waste, promote slow fashion, and embrace sustainability, the irony of Black Friday cannot be ignored, especially as it lands just days before COP28....
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22/11/2023
GlobalData's Energy Monitor takes you through what to expect at COP28, the UN climate conference taking place in December in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
On 30 November, some 75,000 delegates including politicians, ministers, representatives from civil society, the private sector, international organisations and media organisations (including Energy Monitor) will descend on Expo City Dubai for what is expected to be the largest COP ever. Leaders including Pope Francis and King Charles III are set to attend (although reportedly, US President Joe Biden will not). Why is COP28 the most important COP since Paris in 2015?...
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22/11/2023
Unseasonable weather has become a key theme in apparel company filings as changing climate impacts consumer choices. Fast fashion brands have been defying the traditional four fashion seasons for decades, as products make their way to consumers faster than ever. Some online retailers now introduce 1000s of products every week, blurring the once clearly defined transitions between summer and autumn, winter and spring....
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22/11/2023
Research suggests sustainable “Made in the USA” apparel featuring recycled textile materials has growth potential. In recent years, the increasing awareness of fashion sustainability and the environmental impact of apparel production and consumption has motivated many fashion brands and retailers to provide “sustainable apparel” products. Although the concept of “sustainable apparel” continues to evolve, using preferred fibres like recycled materials and organic content are among the most popular and essential practices....
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21/11/2023
Latest stats from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal, prices of men’s apparels rose 5 per cent in October 2023 as against the previous year. Comparatively prices of women’s apparels, rose just 1.6 per cent during the month. Prices of all items in men’s wear category surged 3.2 per cent in October, which was less than half the 7.8 per cent increase seen a year earlier....
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21/11/2023
Anticipation grows ahead of the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates and the apparel sector is desperate to try and shake off its reputation as being one of the most polluting industries.
The fashion apparel industry has for long borne the burden of being one of the major contributors to pollution and inadvertently climate change; its impact stemming from pre-and post textile waste generation, chemical usage, water usage, energy consumption and carbon emissions among others....
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20/11/2023
As per a OTEXA report, apparel and textile imports to the US saw a 4.5per cent decline, equivalent to 8.4 billion sq. mt. (SME), in September this year compared to 8.8 billion SME during the same period the previous year. Over the first nine months of 2023, imports recorded a significant 16.5per cent decrease, amounting to 71.0 billion SME compared to 85.0 billion SME in the corresponding period of the previous year....
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17/11/2023
A bipartisan group of senators, led by Ron Wyden, have submitted a letter to the acting commissioner of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Troy Miller, urging enhanced enforcement of textile and apparel trade agreements due to the potential impact on American livelihood and Central American partners.
The letter by a group of US senators including Ron Wyden, Bill Cassidy, Tim Kaine, Thom Tillis, Mark Warner, Lindsey Graham, Sherrod Brown, and Tim Scott, highlighted concerns about the potential impact on American livelihoods and Central American partners due to the reported closures of textile and apparel mills in the US....
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17/11/2023
The most recent annual survey conducted by the National Retail Federation (NRF) in collaboration with data-serving firm, Prosper Insights & Analytics unveils an unprecedented surge, with 182 million individuals gearing up for shopping sprees both in-store and online from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday.
This figure reflects an increase of 15.7 million shoppers compared to the previous year, marking the highest estimate since NRF commenced tracking this data in 2017....
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17/11/2023
One year on from its release, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has started a public conversation about the effects of AI. But what will it mean for business?
ChatGPT will be celebrating one year since its launch at the end of November, a moment that many believe was a turning point for artificial intelligence (AI) leaving the realm of fiction and entering the mainstream.
The popularity of OpenAI’s breakout generative AI (GenAI) chatbot can not be understated. Four days after its launch on 30 November 2022, the site set the record for the fastest sign up of one million users....
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15/11/2023
In general, the goal of COP27 centered around adaptive measures to save those that are in danger of the effects of climate change.
The main perceived success of COP27 was the agreement between 200 nations to set up a “loss and damage fund”.
As part of the agreement, a fund would be established that would provide support to “developing countries” that have been impacted by climate change and need money to reconstruct social and physical infrastructure....
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15/11/2023
A report from UNESCO has suggested Africa has “all it takes” to become one of the next leaders in global fashion.
The African continent exports textiles to the value of $15.5bn annually.
A UNESCO analysis titled “The Fashion Sector in Africa: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Growth”, reveals as well as the African continent exporting textiles to the value of $15.5bn annually, it is a major producer of raw materials, with 37 out of 54 countries producing cotton....
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14/11/2023
People and planet should be prioritised in equal measure but the fashion sector continues to come under fire for neglecting its role in paying for a happy and productive workforce throughout the supply chain.
Last week UK retailer Boohoo made headlines following a BBC Panorama investigation for allegedly pressuring suppliers to drive down prices, even after deals had been agreed.
Boohoo maintains that it is continuing to deliver on the commitments it made as part of its Agenda for Change following the criticisms it received around the pandemic....
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13/11/2023
The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA)'s Apparel Importers Trade and Transportation Conference discusses the impact of a potential US shutdown on 17 November for the wider apparel sector as well as the latest on US-China trade dialogue.
After a turbulent few months in US politics the USFIA’s Washington council and partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP David Spooner told delegates at the Apparel Importers Trade and Transportation Conference in New York the newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is “a relatively new” member of Congress elected to the position after three weeks of negotiations....
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10/11/2023
International Apparel Federation's secretary general, Matthijs Crietee, hopes more fashion manufacturers and factories will break out of the low price trap in 2024 whereby higher volume orders are made to compensate for goods being sold at discounted prices.
The drinks, canapés and fashion industry networking are in full swing on the top floor of Philadelphia’s Bellevue Hotel when Just Style manages to pull Crietee away from his guests to discuss the first day of the 38th World Fashion Convention, which is being co-hosted by the IAF and the Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA)....
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9/11/2023
The National Retail Federation (NRF)'s chief economist predicts a “record-breaking” 2023 holiday sales season in the US, despite challenges and opportunities, due to the resilience of consumers and the retail sector.
As we approach the 2023 holiday season, NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz predicts that it will come with a fresh set of dynamics, building on the unique challenges and trends of the past few years....
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9/11/2023
As we hit the third quarter of the year, official figures from the US Office of Apparel and Textiles (OTEXA) reveal US imports of apparel have fallen 25.2% in the year to September, with all 10 major apparel suppliers to the US experiencing a shipment decline over the period.
Over the nine-month period, the apparel supplier to see the biggest decline was Cambodia, with shipment volumes falling 32.9% to 759m SME....
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9/11/2023
The latest Global Port Tracker report, jointly released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, explains that inbound cargo volume at major container ports in the US is expected to decelerate as the holiday season approaches.
Even though US imports are winding down for the year, Ben Hackett, the founder of Hackett Associates, says the economic conditions in the US remain stronger compared to Europe and Asia....
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8/11/2023
In October 2023, UK retail sales witnessed a moderate increase of 2.5%, compared to the growth of 1.6% in October 2022, tempered by inflation and cautious consumer spending habits.
The BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), an accurate monthly measure of UK-wide retail sales performance said that over the three months leading up to October, UK retail total sales increased by 2.5%, which is below the 3-month average growth of 3.1% and the 12-month average growth of 4.2%....
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6/11/2023
The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) projects global cotton reserves will reach the highest level ever recorded in its 83-year history of data collection, with China’s 23/24 stocks expected to rise to 9.16m tonnes.
Global cotton production for the 2023/24 season is expected to rise by 3% to 25.41m tonnes, while consumption is anticipated to decrease by 0.43% to 23.35m tonnes.
As a result, global cotton stocks are poised to jump by 10%, following a 9% increase in the previous season (2022-2023), reaching 23.32m tonnes....
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6/11/2023
Recent research reveals a potential shift in consumer behaviour, with sustainability poised to influence over 50 per cent of purchasing decisions, marking a significant increase from the current 15 per cent. Where sustainability is taking centre stage, it has emerged as a pivotal metric for evaluating corporate conduct, shaping governance and policy frameworks, and even informing financial strategies. There’s no doubt that companies that embrace sustainability as an integral part of their business model are winning the public sentiment....
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6/11/2023
The latest Textiles 2030 Annual Progress Report from environmental NGO WRAP warns that steps towards sustainable production are being wiped out by “spiralling” production levels.
Apparel brands signed up to WRAP’s voluntary scheme Textiles 2030 have managed to reduce the carbon impact of the textiles they produce by 12%, while reducing water use per tonne of product by 4% between 2019 and 2022....
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3/11/2023
Non-profit Textile Exchange, business strategy firm Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and sustainability consultancy Quantis claim apparel brands can increase net profits by 6% through closing the raw materials gap with sustainable sourcing.
The researchers explain demand for sustainable raw materials could exceed supply by 133 million tonnes by 2030.
The report also cites 85% of leading fashion brands publicly declaring plans to decarbonise their supply chains as well as 35 pending pieces of sustainability-linked legislation due to come into effect in the next two to four years, as drivers of this change....
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3/11/2023
The Biden Administration is being urged to use its executive authority to impose guardrails around the Section 321 de minimis provision to stop the "abuse of duty-free shipments that put US manufacturers at a disadvantage".
The National Council of Textile Organisations (NCTO) has welcomed a call from Congressman Jeff Duncan for the US government to clamp down on the Section 321 de minimis loophole, noting that nearly three million de minimis shipments enter the US each day....
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3/11/2023
At the 38th World Fashion Convention Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) president Michael McDonald explains why now is the time to invest in the US apparel manufacturing sector.
Literally minutes before McDonald officially opened the World Fashion Convention to a live audience in Philadelphia, US, he casually sat down with Just Style for a chat on the balcony of the Bellevue Hotel’s exquisite ballroom overlooking grand chandeliers and a sea of empty chairs facing the main stage....
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3/11/2023
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it's the driving force behind the fashion industry's evolution. Every decision a fashion brand makes design to where sourcing of raw materials, how the products are created even how they communicate their values must resonate with consumers.
An important part of a sustainable business is accounting for where raw materials come from. While sustainable sourcing can be a challenge due to the complex nature of global supply chains and market dispersion, stakeholders increasingly expect companies to maintain updated information on feedstock origin and demonstrate their efforts to mitigate environmental and social risks associated with sourcing....
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3/11/2023
Better Cotton, the world's largest cotton sustainability initiative, has launched a first-of-its-kind traceability solution for the fashion and textile sectors. The solution will provide visibility of cotton's journey through the supply chain and enable companies to accurately trace and disclose the origin of raw materials....
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2/11/2023
Global cotton stocks are poised to jump to 23.32 million tonnes in 2023/24, the highest level ever projected in the 83-year history of data collection by the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC). This represents a 10% increase over the 2022/23 season, and is driven by a projected 3% increase in global production and a 0.43% decrease in global consumption....
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2/11/2023
Fashion, one of the largest industries in the world, pulls in trillions of dollars in revenue annually. It’s no secret that the fashion industry’s practices greatly impact communities, natural resources, and the climate. With increasing pressure from consumers driven by intensifying climate change effects, reduced energy supply, rising costs, and the Covid-19 pandemic, many players in the fashion industry are rapidly shifting towards a greener, more socially accountable approach. Environmental and social impact have become a crucial benchmark for assessing company practices, influencing governance and policy strategies, and even financial decision-making. Companies that adopt a sustainable business model from design to sourcing, production, and communication gain market share, positive media attention, and stakeholder trust....
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30/10/2023
There's no 'silver bullet' for fashion sourcing executives but sourcing from a geopolitical lens is more important than ever given the US is no longer leading on free trade deals.
The World Fashion Convention, which was co-hosted by the International Apparel Federation and Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) in Philadelphia, US observed the world of fashion sourcing from both an international and US standpoint....
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30/10/2023
Wazir Advisors’ monthly report that covers latest apparel consumption and import data of the US, EU, UK, and Japan along with exports data of India has just released its October 2023 edition. Highlighting global market scenario in August and September, the report shows US import market is not too strong with online sales of clothing and accessories registering only a nominal 1 per cent growth in Q2 of 2023 over Q2 2022. Lower figures have also been recorded month-wise, with US apparel imports at $7.8 billion in August 2023, which is 25 per cent lower than August 2022....
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27/10/2023
The European Commission has proposed a revision of the EU Textile Labelling Regulation (TLR) to promote sustainable practices and enhance transparency in the textile sector. The revision will cover both physical and digital textile labelling, with a focus on incorporating sustainability and circularity provisions aligned with the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.
The revision seeks to bring about significant changes, including:
Standardizing fibre composition testing methods, rules on leather, and sizing standards across EU Member States....
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27/10/2023
The European Union (EU) is set to implement a number of new sustainability regulations, with significant implications for businesses. The Empowering Consumers Directive, Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, and Waste Shipment Regulation are all in the pipeline, with businesses given varying periods to prepare for compliance.
The Empowering Consumers Directive will ban unfounded generic environmental claims, unverified emissions offsetting schemes, and planned obsolescence....
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27/10/2023
The voluntary, farm-level science-based sustainability programme US Cotton Trust Protocol reports that there are now 1.6m acres of cotton crop under its progamme in the US, as GlobalData filings analysis shows an increase in interest in US cotton.
The total number of cotton acres has increased 25% since the 2022 crop year, which is the single largest growth reported in the Trust Protocol scheme in any single year.
The increase means that 16% of all planted cotton acres in the US in 2023 are now enrolled in the programme, which the Trust Protocol says is a key milestone in the development of the programme....
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26/10/2023
A new Circular Design Toolkit has been released by the UK government’s Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), with the aim of assisting the textile industry in reducing the environmental impact of textile products at the design stage.
According to WRAP, nearly 80% of the carbon footprint of a textile product is determined during its design phase. The Circular Design Toolkit serves as a comprehensive resource for the textile sector, presenting a consistent framework of circular design strategies....
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26/10/2023
For years, fast fashion brands the likes of H&M and Zara have been pulled up for not being truthful about their sustainable supply chain, mostly dismissed off as ‘green-washing’. What is interesting is sitting at the topmost echelons of fashion, most European luxury clothing labels haven’t been truthful either about their supply chains – the fact that from textile to stitching to embellishments, most haute couture are actually produced in Asian hubs that have been reliable providers of craftsmanship and quality for the likes of Saint Laurent, Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and so on....
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26/10/2023
The apparel import of the European Union (EU) from the world has declined by 9.61% during the first eight months of 2023, according to data released by EUROSTAT. This represents a decrease from US$ 67.66 billion in January-August 2022 to US$ 61.15 billion in January-August 2023. The quantity of apparel imported by the EU also declined by 14.64% during the same period, from 3 billion kilograms to 2.56 billion kilograms....
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25/10/2023
As the apparel industry debates the use of recyclable and non-recyclable materials, it seems that interest in "recycled" is simmering down, as suggested by GlobalData's company filings data.
In the last few years, we have heard discussions about the apparel industry undergoing a transformation, with circularity increasingly becoming a priority. This has led industry stakeholders and consumers to raise questions on the materials used in the production of apparel and textiles and whether or not they can be recycled or upcycled at the end-of-life....
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23/10/2023
Environmental industry experts have come together to address their concerns on the revision of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles and voice recommendations to the EU government.
The proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, has come under scrutiny by environmental advocates and industry stakeholders who have voiced their concerns regarding the effectiveness of the proposal....
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20/10/2023
Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures for September 2023 reveal a 1.6% fall in clothing sales in the UK, as consumers put off shopping for warmer clothing.
September saw unseasonably warm weather in the UK, with the Met Office reporting that the month was the joint-warmest September on record. The ONS says many consumers delayed purchasing new seasonal items, such as warm coats and boots, as a result....
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20/10/2023
The European Parliament is taking steps to prevent products made by forced labour from entering the EU market by proposing a new legislation framework to investigate the use of forced labour within corporate supply chains.
The European Parliament’s Internal Market and International Trade Committees explain if this proposed regulation is ratified, it will introduce a comprehensive framework that would suspend the import and export of company-related goods at the EU’s borders if it is proven that it has used forced labour....
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19/10/2023
While cheap and cheerful fast fashion clothes are currently rocking the ready-to-wear garment industry, those who want to create their own sense of style are still going to their tailor for customized fits and a personal touch. Bespoke or customized clothes stitched to an individual buyer's specifications by a tailor have always been popular in India until the international and domestic fashion brands with their ready-to-wear item took over the bespoke category. Bespoke styling has had a long history in India because tailoring was cheap compared to Western countries and these garments become timeless legacies with a USP of individuality and craftsmanship....
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18/10/2023
American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) president and CEO Steve Lamar explains how the changing direction of US trade policy under the Biden-Harris administration is impacting global fashion sourcing and supply chains.
Lamar tells apparel industry executives, veterans and other stakeholders at the 16th Istanbul Apparel conference that US trade policy is at crossroads, adding that trade should be for the benefit of all....
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18/10/2023
"Made in the USA" fashion is not immune to social responsibility issues in its supply chain with California reporting what is being described as the state's “first” garment manufacturing business owner wage theft prosecution.
The State of California Department of Industrial Relations explains it is the first criminal prosecution of a garment manufacturing business owner under California Penal Code Section 487m (Grand Theft of Wages), which came into effect 1 January 2022....
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17/10/2023
Industry experts argue US fashion sustainability legislation is moving in the right direction at a state level but there is little appetite for country-wide policies that would give real incentives for fashion companies to change.
While many consider sustainability and climate legislation in the United States to be lagging behind Europe, a panel of speakers at the Global Fashion Summit in Boston argue that many state-level laws are starting to push for real change in the US....
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13/10/2023
A new National Retail Federation (NRF) report estimates the cost of adding tariffs to imported household goods, including apparel and footwear.
The NRF’s report considers how ending the country’s permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) trade status would impact common household products, including apparel and footwear as policymakers express a growing interest in changing current practice between the US and China....
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13/10/2023
The latest data released by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) for the period of January-August 2023 shows that USA's apparel import from the world has declined by 22.77% to US$ 53.45 billion from US$ 69.21 billion in the same period of 2022. In terms of quantity, the import has declined by 26.80%.
USA's apparel import from Bangladesh also dropped significantly by 21.77% year-over-year to US$ 5.18 billion from US$ 6.62 billion. It has also declined by 29.10% in terms of quantity....
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11/10/2023
Import cargo volume at major container ports in the US has reportedly peaked for the year and is anticipated to gradually slow down as the holiday season approaches.
The most recent Global Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates indicates that discretionary spending growth has been impacted by concerns over inflation and high-interest rates, particularly in categories such as groceries, automobiles and mortgages....
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10/10/2023
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) says it welcomes the Global Framework on Chemicals to reduce chemical pollution and implement policies to promote safer alternatives by 2030.
The Global Framework on Chemicals is said to represent a shared vision for a world where chemicals and waste pose no harm, fostering safety, health, and sustainability....
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10/10/2023
The controversy just gets deeper and deeper as media fill column after column chiding the global fashion sector over its apparent half-hearted attempts at understanding the gravitas of climate change and coming up with solutions that work rather than making it all look good. In the process, allegations of green washing got thrown around, fast fashion was turned into the dirty outcast of the industry and sustainable supply chains couldn’t provide the required proof and so on....
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9/10/2023
As decarbonisation becomes essential for a sustainable future, the fashion industry is taking steps to reduce its carbon emissions, with global brands and organisations leading the way.
The textile and apparel industry has built up a bit of a reputation when it comes to its environmental footprint. The industry’s entire supply chain, ranging from the production of raw materials to manufacturing, transportation, and disposal, is closely linked to processes that emit high levels of carbon. This has led to an alarming prediction that global emissions from the fashion industry will rise by 50% by 2030, according to earth.org data....
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9/10/2023
Better Cotton and Cotton Egypt Association (CEA) inaugurated the launch of their renewed strategic partnership at a multi-stakeholder event in Cairo.
The event brought together representatives from Better Cotton, CEA, Better Cotton’s Programme Partners in Egypt (Alkan, Modern Nile and El Ekhlas), and a number of leading Better Cotton retailer and brand Members, as well as these members’ suppliers....
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7/10/2023
The Global Textile Industry Survey (GTIS) by ITMF, conducted in September 2023, reveals a cautious sentiment prevailing in the global textile sector. The key news angle is the persistent struggle of companies across the textile value chain, grappling with mounting costs and sluggish demand.
The business situation indicator paints a grim picture, standing at -27 percentage points, while business expectations have stagnated at around +20 pp since July, defying hopes of a boost from the Chinese economy....
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6/10/2023
Euratex urges the EU President to develop a new competitiveness strategy for the manufacturing industry to keep it competitive and says including the textile and clothing industry in the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA) would be a positive first step.
Euratex’s president, Alberto Paccanelli together with CIE President, Jose Vte Serna, made the call ahead of the council in Granada on 6 October....
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6/10/2023
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) launches its GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities to promote sustainability and ethical business conduct in the fashion and textile sectors.
The GOTS Due Diligence Handbook, which was compiled in cooperation with the Hague-based UpRights Foundation, follows the inclusion of due diligence criteria in the latest GOTS 7.0 version, which launched in March....
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6/10/2023
The car industry realised the world was changing, clean technology was happening and it needed to embrace a new way of operating. Industry experts argue the fashion sector is at a similar crossroads in terms of tackling sustainability.
The fashion industry has considered ‘what’ it needs to do to become sustainable and it’s now time to move towards the ‘how’ and make it happen, argues Yuly Fuentes-Medel, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Program Director for Textiles, Climate Grand Challenges....
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6/10/2023
The American Circular Textiles (ACT) coalition for organisations advancing circularity in the US fashion industry have submitted a public comment to the Biden-Harris administration urging it to consider textile circularity within its efforts to expand sustainable product and service procurement.
ACT executive director Rachel Kibbe submitted the letter to the Biden-Harris Administration on behalf of the coalition, outlining the need to incorporate textiles into the procurement strategy and extend collaborative opportunities to textile industry stakeholders....
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4/10/2023
There are three key trends that could impact fashion sustainability compliance over the next year, according to market independent business sustainability rating company EcoVadis.
During the business sustainability fireside chat at Sourcemap’s Supply Chain Transparency Conference 2023, EcoVadis corporate development advisor Victoria Chartier revealed there are three key market-defining trends that will need to be looked at more closely in 2024....
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3/10/2023
Global fashion brands had hoped to grow a customer base in leading fashion sourcing countries such as China, India and Brazil, but 2023's choppy economy has impeded domestic sales.
In 2011 Brazil, which is the world’s 10th largest economy was considered by US-based consultants A.T. Kearney to be the most desirable country for global retail expansion....
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3/10/2023
China’s chips have been down since Covid started four years ago with a chain reaction of global supply-chain upheavals. The effects are expected to persist for many more years as the negative effects of a global economic slowdown has led to a continued drop in the country’s exports. The mega apparel sourcing power houses of the US and European Union are continuing their de-risking operations by cutting down imports and taking steps to make their trade with China less risky....
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2/10/2023
US senators and the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) call on President Biden to tackle the impact of China’s so-called "predatory" trade practices" on the country's domestic apparel manufacturing sector.
A bipartisan group of US Senators seek immediate action to combat what they describe as China’s “illegal trade practices,” which they warn could lead to a “coming disaster” for domestic textile and apparel production and employment and throughout the Western Hemisphere....
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2/10/2023
The apparel industry is leveraging technology more than ever before, to drive efficiency and streamline processes, with leading brands at the forefront of this transformation.
In the ever-evolving apparel world, staying ahead of the curve is vital and technology is helping to deliver on just that.
Today, the apparel industry is undergoing a digital revolution that promises not only to transform the way garments are designed, produced, and sold but also to enhance overall efficiency with technology driving innovation across the board from streamlined supply chains to personalised shopping experiences....
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29/9/2023
US retailer Target cites retail theft as the reason for its upcoming store closures but an industry expert argues inventory mismanagement could be to blame.
US retail behemoth Target announced on Tuesday (26 September) that it would shut nine stores on 21 October, citing the threat of “theft and organised retail crime”....
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28/9/2023
The EU is ready to help the US "reach the same level of ambition" in terms of developing and enforcing fashion legislation to slow the effect of climate change but the task needs to be addressed as a matter of "urgency".
During the Global Fashion Agenda in Boston, the head of global issues and innovation at the European Union Delegation to the United States, Javier Sancho shared the EU stands ready to help the US develop its fashion legislation....
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27/9/2023
Active jobs in the global fashion sector have slipped during September as the industry continues to navigate falling sales with consumer confidence waning on economic pressures.
Global jobs across the fashion industry have gradually fallen over the three months to September with active jobs at 39,828 for June, 36,066 for July and 32,836 for August according to GlobalData’s jobs database. But by 1 September, active jobs had fallen to their lowest during the period — 27,118....
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27/9/2023
Circular fashion business models are on the rise, but too many initiatives today fail to scale because they are not rooted in business reality, writes Matthew Hawthorne, a footprinting expert at sustainability consultancy Quantis.
Fashion circularity is still treated as a quick fix – something to be done because of a push for innovation rather than potential solutions to minimise environmental impacts and maximise the creation of sustainable value....
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27/9/2023
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) commends the reintroduction of the US Shop Safe Act, which aims to stop unsafe counterfeit products being promoted and sold online.
AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar says counterfeit goods often pose product safety and environmental risks, sidestep social responsibility and sustainability standards, and evade accountability....
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26/9/2023
Since the pandemic fashion industry talk has moved from sustainability to the nearshoring market with some remarkable consequences, writes Gherzi Textile Organization partner Robert P. Antoshak.
The drumbeat of fashion environmentalists remains loud, but the cacophony of voices comprising the green crowd has increasingly had to share the stage with the reality of the marketplace....
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25/9/2023
The EU has moved a step ahead of the US once again, revealing the initial steps it is taking as part of its plan to eradicate greenwashing in the fashion sector.
There are almost 5,000 physical miles between the EU and US, but the nations are growing further apart in terms of green fashion legislation....
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25/9/2023
The US apparel sector urges the US government and private sector to work together to keep imports and exports moving ahead of a potential US government shutdown on 1 October 2023 due to a budgetary stand-off.
Lawmakers have warned the US is heading for a shutdown on 1 October as budget talks stall with news reports suggesting the economy could take a hit if a deal isn’t made....
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25/9/2023
UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) figures show retail sales volumes have grown 0.4% in August, up from a revised fall of 1.1% in July.
Taking a broader perspective, the UK’s retail sales volumes in the three months leading up to August 2023 increased by 0.3% when compared to the previous three months.
In terms of value, retail sales were notably higher, standing at 17.3% above their pre-COVID-19 levels in February 2020. However, in terms of actual sales volumes, there was a 1.5% decrease....
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25/9/2023
One of the most popular clothing items across the world, denim jeans never go out of style and that is why some global research conclude that between 2026 and 2030, the denim jeans market size will reach $88.1 billion. Facts Factors released its specialized and expertise-oriented industry research report that ¯scrutinizes the technical and commercial business outlook of the denim jeans industry and predicts that by 2026, the global market size will be $88 billion, growing at compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4 per cent between 2020 and 2026....
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25/9/2023
Researchers from US’ Penn State Smeal College of Business have discovered that consumers are willing to pay more for customisable clothing and are likely to keep these items for a longer duration, potentially reducing the fashion industry's environmental impact.
The study, led by Dan Guide, Smeal’s chaired professor of operations and supply chain management, and Aydin Alptekinoglu, professor of operations and supply chain management, was published in the Journal of Operations Management....
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22/9/2023
Europe was and continues to be in pole position for western wear for men, women and children. A recent report by a research house IMARC Group titled “Europe Menswear Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028” reveals a CAGR of 4.5 per cent between 2023 and 2028 in the menswear category. The baseline of the report was January to December 2022....
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18/9/2023
Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation (NRF) shares that consumers are focused on household priorities as evidenced by spending this back-to- school season, a trend which he believes will continue growing "moderately" entering fall despite uncertainties like inflation and higher interest rates....
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15/9/2023
The Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) has released the latest data on United States' apparel imports for the period of January to July 2023. This report delves into the year-on-year progress of the USA's overall apparel imports from around the globe and highlights trends in imports from top sourcing countries....
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14/9/2023
Chinese textile and clothing manufacturers are increasingly relying on Egyptian cotton due to the US ban on Xinjiang cotton.
China has become Egypt’s second largest buyer of cotton over the past two seasons not only due to Xinjiang but also because of its competitive pricing and strong demand for luxury fibres....
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13/9/2023
The impact of climate change is here and how. Random flooding is commonplace and summer heat waves are the new normal. From the US to Australia, from Japan to Germany, climate change the new reality the world is grappling with alongside inflation, political conflict and wave after wave of uncertainty.
In this mix, there is the writing on the wall for readymade garment manufacturing hubs that the continual cycle of flooding and heat waves will have a huge detrimental impact....
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12/9/2023
Traceability is leading the way in apparel company filings as digital product passports gain traction and supply chains strive to become more transparent.
Apparel company filings data by GlobalData shows “traceability” was the most-used keyword in the apparel industry over the last five years (from September 2019 to 2023)....
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11/9/2023
Retailers are optimistic about the holiday season as US imports are anticipated to hit 2 million Twenty-Foot Equivalents Units (TEU) in September, for the second consecutive month.
The latest Global Port Tracker report, jointly released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, suggests that the US’s major container ports are on track to reach a significant milestone in import cargo volume....
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8/9/2023
The National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist, Jack Kleinhenz indicates that while the US economy continues to expand, recent data suggests a noticeable slowdown in its momentum.
Within the context of the September issue of the NRF Monthly Economic Review, Kleinhenz observed that while the economy is indeed decelerating, it is not coming to a standstill....
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5/9/2023
The BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM) reports clothing and footwear saw weaker sales growth despite consumer confidence increasing as inflation remains dominant with families holding back on spending.
The latest retail sales data by the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), an accurate monthly measure of UK-wide retail sales performance, has revealed a surge in consumer confidence, leading to a 4.1% increase in total retail sales for the month of August....
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4/9/2023
Fast fashion is showing no signs of slowing and the textile waste mountain continues to grow. Is tech that predicts consumer demands the answer to ending the make-take-waste cycle?
The pursuit of “material wealth” has a complex relationship with overconsumption, especially clothing. And we live in a society where consumers are highly influenced by societal pressure and advertising; where the idea of having everything irrespective of need has led to a wasteful consumption culture....
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31/8/2023
The global coated fabrics market is projected to grow from $21.6 billion in 2022 to $29.79 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.1%. The growth of the market is driven by the increasing demand for coated fabrics in a variety of applications, such as protective clothing, furniture, roofing, and industrial applications.
Coated fabrics are treated with polymers and rubber to improve their properties, such as water resistance, UV resistance, and resistance to dirt and oil....
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28/8/2023
The latest projections from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the cotton market in the 2023/24 season indicate a 6% rise in global cotton mill use, reaching 116.9 million bales, the highest since 2020/21.
Notably, Pakistan and India are expected to drive this growth, with gains of 1.4 million and 1.0 million bales, respectively. As mill use is set to outpace production, global cotton ending stocks are projected to decrease by 2.7% (2.5 million bales) to 91.6 million bales....
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25/8/2023
The global plus size women's clothing market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2023 to 2031. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including the increasing number of overweight and obese women, the growing demand for fashionable plus size clothing, and the increasing availability of plus size clothing online.
The market is segmented by product type, age group, distribution channel, and region. The innerwear segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, as there is a growing demand for comfortable and stylish innerwear for plus size women....
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25/8/2023
The women’s active wear promotional segment seems to be doing more harm than good with most women experiencing negative body image as they compare their own body shapes with fit and toned models in tight-fitting clothing on these websites. Most images are far from realistic as these photo-shopped body-focused marketing is used to attract attention and promote their products, ignoring the fact that women experience lower self-esteem and body shaming....
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25/8/2023
A report by GlobalData on global trends in the niche clothing sector suggests extending sizing across core ranges is preferable for shoppers, with 73.8% citing it would give them "greater choice."
The ‘Niche Clothing Trends in the Global Market‘ report by GlobalData states 71.1% out of the 2,000 surveyed feel that not enough retailers stock niche ranges. While 62.7% find it difficult to shop for niche clothing, with another 61.5% stating that they would like more retailers to provide styling advice for their size and shape....
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24/8/2023
Even as some companies redirect their attention to wholesale, direct to consumer mentions in apparel company filings continue to grow.
According to GlobalData’s analytics, mentions of “direct to consumer” (D2C) in apparel company filings increased threefold between 2019 and 2022.
The enthusiasm for direct to consumer apparel sales channels had appeared to be waning as several high-profile companies reported significant wholesale growth and interest....
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24/8/2023
A new research report by Advance Market Analytics titled "Insights into the Western Wear Market up to 2028" provides a comprehensive overview of the global western wear market. The report covers the market size, growth drivers, restraints, and opportunities, as well as profiles of key players.
The report estimates that the global western wear market will reach USD 82.8 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2027. The growth of the market is being driven by the increasing popularity of western wear clothing, driven by the rise of e-retailing....
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23/8/2023
With inflation easing across the UK, apparel shoppers are feeling a bit more positive. with 54% observed in a recent GlobalData survey expecting clothing prices to drop over the next six months.
Despite an expected price decrease for clothing as inflation eases, fewer people expect to be spending discretionary income on the category, according to the Retail Trend Tracker: Consumer Sentiment August report from GlobalData, which polled 2,000 consumers....
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22/8/2023
A recent survey found that over 80% of consumers in the UK, France, and Germany expect the economic downturn to last more than a year. In response, more than 90% of shoppers are changing their spending habits.
Specifically, consumers are spending less (54%), eating out less (49%), purchasing fewer non-essential items (51%), shopping with less expensive brands (44%) and limiting spending on clothing, footwear, and accessories (54%)...
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22/8/2023
The US government continues to curb the import of goods produced with alleged forced labour, however, a recent court ruling has criticised US Customs and Border Protection for detaining goods with "little to no information."
The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continues to support the US government’s efforts to eliminate goods from the supply chain made from forced labour....
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22/8/2023
Non-profit British Fashion Council (BFC) has introduced an industry-wide audit to assess the industry's existing demographics and ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion exist throughout the UK fashion industry,
The British Fashion Council describes ‘The Fashion DEI [Diversity, Equality and Inclusion] Census’ as the “first of its kind” and says it aims to foster collective action and engagement across all levels of the industry....
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21/8/2023
Concerns over climate change are a hot topic for apparel company filings over the last year, beating both ESG and Covid, according to GlobalData
The climate crisis is arguably more notable than ever this summer with soaring temperatures being reported all over the globe and it’s putting the fashion industry’s contribution back into the spotlight....
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21/8/2023
As apparel brands reckon with ongoing claims of labour rights abuses, consumers are becoming more concerned about environmental and social issues within the fashion supply chain.
The apparel sector has responded to several worrying reports about human rights abuses in its supply chain and consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and social issues at play when shopping, so the key question is – can apparel brands keep up?...
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21/8/2023
Overall imports fell by 4.2% from May and 16.7% from the previous year.
In June, imports of textiles and apparel experienced a decline following several consecutive months of growth. The combined volume of textile and apparel imports in June reached 8.43 billion square meter equivalents (SME), indicating a 4.2 percent drop from May and a significant 16.7 percent decline from the corresponding period of the previous year....
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21/8/2023
A new study suggests applying certain cutting and sewing methods during the fashion manufacturing process can significantly reduce the amount of microfibres released when the garments are washed.
The research paper ‘Impact of sewing on microfiber release from polyester fabric during laundry’ reveals that laser and ultrasonic cutting methods can reduce the microfibre release of garments by up to 20 times compared to using conventional scissor-cut edges....
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19/8/2023
The price of women's hosiery in the United States decreased by 1.5% in June 2023 to $488 per thousand pairs (CIF, US). This was the third consecutive month of decline, and the lowest price since October 2022.
The decline in prices was driven by a number of factors, including strengthening of the U.S. dollar against other currencies, which made imported hosiery more expensive, increased competition from domestic manufacturers and a decline in demand for hosiery, as more women opt for pants and other legwear....
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18/8/2023
UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) figures show average weekly online clothing sales hit a record high of £1.7bn in the first half of 2023.
Online sales in the UK increased in July 2023, despite overall retail sales falling by 2.6% as wet weather and the cost of living continue to trouble customers, according to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
Shoppers in the UK are increasingly choosing to shop online, with 27.4% of all retail sales in the country now taking place online in July 2023. This is the highest proportion since February 2022. The ONS says that 11p of every £1 spent online in the UK is now spent at textile, clothing and footwear retailers....
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16/8/2023
National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist Jack Kleinhenz explains that retail sales had been slowing down, but July witnessed a revival thanks to “the special deal days orchestrated by several retailers”.
After a period of dwindling sales, the US retail sector witnessed a revival in July, powered by Amazon’s Prime Day, a flurry of enticing promotions from various brands, and an increase in wages, according to the NRF....
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15/8/2023
As the North Hemisphere swelters this August we're left knowing the fashion industry has the dubious honour of contributing to the planet's climate crisis, so what's next, asks Gherzi Textil Organisation partner Robert P. Antoshak.
The debate over climate change may have taken a turn this year as the North Hemisphere suffered through a brutally hot July. In fact, according to the United Nations, “July has already seen the hottest three-week period ever recorded; the three hottest days on record; and the highest-ever ocean temperatures for this time of year. The era of global warming has ended; the era of global boiling has arrived. Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning,” reported the Washington Post....
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14/8/2023
The consumer price index for all US urban consumers (CPI-U) rose by 0.2 per cent in July this year on a seasonally-adjusted basis, the same increase as in June, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS).
Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased by 3.2 per cent before seasonal adjustment....
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14/8/2023
A US budget apparel retailer was on the look out for over 10 times more employees than its second closest rival in the apparel jobs ranking list for July 2023, according to GlobalData.
Data compiled by GlobalData suggests budget apparel retail is benefitting from the cost of living crisis and rising inflation in the US as Dollar General Corp, a US chain of variety stores that includes apparel looked to hire 61,272 employees as of 31 July 2023....
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11/8/2023
National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist Jack Kleinhenz suggests US consumers are buying more than last year, but spending growth is slowing with a greater focus on purchasing services than apparel and other goods.
Kleinhenz explains the US economy was more resilient in the first half of the year than many expected, however he adds that consumers are still spending but are under financial pressure and have been adjusting how much they buy while also shifting from goods such as apparel to services....
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7/8/2023
Health and safety becomes increasingly important for apparel supply chain hiring between July 2022 and July 2023, according to GlobalData.
Data compiled by GlobalData suggests the importance of health and safety within apparel supply chain hiring has steadily increased from July 2022 to July 2023.
How is health and safety impacting apparel supply chain hiring
The health and safety theme remained in fourth place between this July and last July, sitting behind the global macro outlook in first place, US macro outlook in second place and social in third place....
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7/8/2023
New data reveals the number of US fashion brands and retailers sourcing from CAFTA-DR members grew substantially in 2023 and with the US set to introduce new trade policies the shift is likely to increase further.
Experts from the US fashion industry have predicted overseas apparel sourcing to dip in the near future, in part as a result of consumer confidence waning as inflation soars. But with the attention of apparel brands and retailers shifting from China when it comes to sourcing, there are some big opportunities for other apparel producer majors – particularly ones positioned closer to home turf....
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7/8/2023
The US plus size clothing sector has gained prominence, capturing a dominant 40% market share in 2023 due to key factors driving demand.
The country's substantial obese population, with over 40% of adults classified as such, propels the desire for fashionable and comfortable plus size garments. Noteworthy spending upticks on such attire stem from a burgeoning middle class and increased visibility of plus size models and celebrities.
Americans' escalating caloric intake has elevated the average weight, further fueling the demand for plus size clothing. Retailers are responding to this demand by diversifying their offerings, with many major players and numerous online vendors specializing in plus size attire....
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3/8/2023
The European Union's (EU) apparel import performance for the period of January to May 2023 has seen a decline of 8.84% in value, reaching US$36.31 billion compared to US$39.83 billion in the same period in 2022. The quantity of clothing imported by the EU has also decreased by 16.54%, from US$1.75 billion to US$1.46 billion....
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2/8/2023
The global luxury apparel market is projected to reach USD 139.2 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.23% from 2023 to 2030,according to a report by Market Research Future.
Drivers
The increasing penetration of e-commerce has played a significant role in boosting market growth. Luxury brands have embraced online platforms to reach a broader audience, leading to increased sales.
Consumers prefer the convenience and vast product selection offered by online shopping, making luxury apparel more accessible to a larger customer base....
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2/8/2023
A well-executed inorganic growth strategy remains a top priority within the apparel industry.
Each week, Just Style’s journalists pick out insights from company filings that highlight sentiments in our sector. These filings signals are based on GlobalData’s analysis of earnings statements, call transcripts, investor presentations and sustainability reports. They tell us about key topics on the minds of business leaders and investors, and the themes driving a company’s activities....
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1/8/2023
With the global apparel market set to witness a substantial 11% revenue growth over the next four years, aspiring entrepreneurs are increasingly eyeing the fashion industry. To shed light on the most promising locations, JOOR, a wholesale expert company, conducted a comprehensive study evaluating several key factors, including country population, import and export figures, apparel market valuation, and the presence of 'unicorn companies' in the consumer and retail market. Unicorns are privately held startup companies valued at over $1 billion....
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1/8/2023
A recent report by Allied Market Research titled "Compression Wear and Shapewear Market by Product Type, Gender, Application, and Distribution Channel: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030" sheds light on the thriving market of compression wear and shapewear.
The comprehensive study delves into top investment prospects, winning strategies, drivers, opportunities, market size estimations, competitive landscape, and evolving market trends. The market's growth is attributed to several factors, including increased disposable income among consumers, advancements in fabric technology and garment designs, growing popularity of compression wear among the elderly, shifting lifestyles, and higher demand for compression wear from the fitness industry....
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1/8/2023
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai has unveiled a fresh approach to US trade policy, signalling a departure from the long-standing emphasis on efficient and low cost supply chains.
Addressing the challenges posed by fragile supply chains and the growing dominance of a single economy, Tai says the Biden-Harris Administration’s new strategy is focused on raising standards, driving sustainability, and prioritising the needs of US workers and producers....
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31/7/2023
Inflation and the state of the economy weighs heavy on the minds of US fashion sourcing execs as they focus on deleveraging China and strengthening sourcing ties with CAFTA-DR members, the USFIA 2023 Benchmarking Study has revealed.
The latest set of results from the tenth United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) survey shows US fashion executives are exercising a level of caution as they move into 2024, with only half expecting sourcing volumes to rise, as concerns about inflation and the state of the economy continue....
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31/7/2023
Global economy has the biggest impact on apparel supply chain hiring in Q2 2023, according to GlobalData.
Each week, Just Style’s journalists explore movements in job postings that shed light on hiring trends in our sector. These job signals provide insights into where the leading companies are focusing their recruitment efforts, and why. We reveal the skills that are in high demand in the sector, and the themes driving current hiring patterns....
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31/7/2023
The Vegan Clothing Market in the United States is set for remarkable growth, with a projected absolute increase of US$ 499.6 million, reaching a value of US$ 797.3 million by 2033. From 2018 to 2022, the market experienced a substantial Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.8%. It is expected that from 2023 to 2033, the CAGR will further accelerate to 9.4%....
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29/7/2023
A substantial increase of USD 582.93 billion is projected in global apparel market between 2022 and 2027, with a promising CAGR of 6.65%, as per a report by Technavio.
Segmentation and Growth Projections
Notably, the women's segment is anticipated to experience significant growth during the forecast period due to factors like evolving fashion trends, increased purchasing power, and the convenience of online shopping platforms.
The APAC region is poised to contribute 39% to the global market growth, driven by economic development, rising disposable income, and a burgeoning young population....
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28/7/2023
As of May, the United States continues to experience a sluggish market for textile and apparel imports, witnessing a cumulative year-on-year decline of 22.2% in the first five months. The situation remains challenging, with imports from China dropping by 27.2% compared to the same period last year, and no clear turning point in sight.
Several factors contribute to the weakened demand for textile and apparel imports in the US.
Firstly, wholesalers and retailers still hold high inventory levels and have not completed destocking, leading to reduced motivation for restocking. Secondly, inflation and interest rate hikes in the country have diminished domestic consumption capacity for textile and apparel....
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26/7/2023
The swimwear market, valued at $19.8 billion in 2022, is anticipated to surge at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2023 to 2032, reaching a substantial $30.9 billion, according to a report by Allied Market Research. Swimwear serves not only as functional attire for water-related activities but has evolved into a fashion statement.
Women's swimwear, dominating the market, showcases bold colors, asymmetric designs, African and geometric prints, and modern silhouettes. High-end brands are gaining popularity as they offer trendy prints and convenient cuts that enhance the slimming effect, appealing to consumers seeking both style and functionality....
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25/7/2023
A report based on laboratory testing reveals most consumers believe there is a connection between price and clothing durability but in reality there is not.
The report, Worn out: Is price an accurate indicator of clothing durability, published by the School of Design at the University of Leeds and commissioned by environmental charity Hubbub and fashion retailer Primark has challenged the perception that paying a higher price for clothes means they will last longer....
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24/7/2023
A new market research report titled "Lingerie Market Report (2023-2028)" reveals that the global lingerie market is estimated to be worth USD 82.28 billion in 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.02% during the forecast period.
The innerwear and lingerie industry has witnessed robust growth in recent years, driven by consumers' increasing focus on both style and comfort, influenced by media and advertising. Lingerie is now perceived as a fashion product that enhances body features rather than just a necessity....
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24/7/2023
UK brands, designers and retailers feel it is their responsibility to support customers in making considered purchases and to maximise the use of their existing clothes, according to a new insights report launched by the British Fashion Council’s (BFC) Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF) and Vanish....
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22/7/2023
The denim market is projected to grow at a rate of 6.7% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2029, driven by the increasing consumer disposable income levels, according to a report by Data Bridge. Denim, initially designed for work clothes, has evolved into a vital and fashionable item in modern wardrobes.
The market's growth is further boosted by urbanization, the rising popularity of denim shirts, and the use of synthetic materials blended with cotton to create stretchable denim jeans....
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20/7/2023
The overall back-to-school market for the US is predicted to drop to $31.2 billion with clothing expenditure down 14 per cent year-over-year (YoY). Back-to-school spending for K-12 students is anticipated to decrease by 10 per cent to $597 per student. Shoppers are likely to favour retailers offering competitive pricing, with 80 per cent choosing mass merchants, 60 per cent online retailers, and 33 per cent each for off-price retailers and dollar stores....
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19/7/2023
The global kids apparel market is projected to reach USD 318.34 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.96% from USD 198.80 billion in 2023. The presence of children and tweens on social media platforms has driven parents to invest in attractive, comfortable, and high-quality clothing for their kids.
Cotton remains the preferred fabric for kids apparel due to its comfort, lightweight nature, and color retention. The report analyzes key market segments, recent trends, and driving factors. COVID-19 restrictions negatively affected market growth, but the industry adapted through automation and sanitation protocols....
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19/7/2023
The global sportswear industry experienced considerable growth in media impact value (MIV) in 2022, with some notable regional differences, according to the latest Sportswear Insights report by Launchmetrics.
In 2021, the Americas topped the list in MIV contribution for sportswear, with a staggering $2.5 billion, followed closely by the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region at $2.1 billion. During the same period, China's MIV was reported at $1.2 billion, while the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, excluding China, came in at $901 million, as per the report....
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18/7/2023
US apparel imports continued to slide during May, with shipment quantities falling 28.2% compared to the previous year, owing to headwinds in the US economy and weakening consumer confidence.
It marks the third consecutive month of falling US apparel imports with a 40.2% year-on-year fall in March and a 33.9% fall in apparel shipments in April.
In value terms, US apparel imports fell 25.9% year on year....
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17/7/2023
The US has captured a significant 40% share in the plus size clothing sector, becoming the leader in 2023. This achievement is primarily attributed to the country's large population grappling with obesity and increased spending on plus size apparel. The market's growth is further driven by the rising calorie intake in middle and high-income households, which creates a demand for inclusive clothing options....
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15/7/2023
In May 2023, the United Kingdom's clothing imports amounted to £1.279 billion ($1.680 billion), marking a 28.55 per cent drop from the previous year's £1.790 billion during the same month. There was an upward month-on-month trend, with the figure for April 2023 recorded at £1.197 billion, according to the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS)....
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15/7/2023
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), the International Apparel Federation (IAF), and 128 other globally located organisations have made a united appeal, submitting a letter to global, national, and local authorities. The collective group is advocating for the modernisation of domestic textile, garment, footwear, and related accessories labelling requirements, promoting more sustainable and economically viable digital labels for necessary labelling information....
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14/7/2023
A comprehensive report has been released, analyzing the consequences of Brexit on the fashion, textile, and technology (FTT) industry in the UK. It provides valuable insights and presents five key recommendations aimed at supporting the sector's future growth.
Jointly published by the Business of Fashion, Textiles and Technology (BFTT), led by the University of the Arts London, and the Future Fashion Factory (FFF), led by the University of Leeds, the report was chaired by Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT. Mansell highlighted the significant impact of the UK's departure from the EU, emphasizing the complex trading relationship that emerged....
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14/7/2023
In a highly competitive and fragmented global lingerie market, the dynamics are shifting as working women play a pivotal role in driving its growth. Lingerie market is growing at 7.8% CAGR to reach USD 73.56 Bn by 2029, according to a report Maximising Market Research
With diverse product lines and operations in various regions, these industry leaders strive to gain a competitive edge. Utilizing a robust research methodology, the report provides a bottom-up analysis to determine the market size....
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14/7/2023
Almost nine out of ten fashion brands do not disclose annual production volumes and 99% have not committed to reducing the number of new items they produce despite proposed EU legislation to charge brands for fashion waste, according to the Fashion Transparency Index 2023.
The Fashion Transparency Index 2023, which was published yesterday (13 July), explains mitigating fashion waste remains the big elephant in the room with a 3% increase in the number of fashion brands not disclosing their annual production volumes (88% in 2023 compared to 85% in 2022)....
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14/7/2023
Wool in itself isn’t as large a natural material source cotton and traditionally wool has only been recycled when there was natural calamity that decreased the production of fleece from livestock. However, with climate change a hard-hitting reality, major wool producing countries like New Zealand and Australia are struggling with fleece production, leading to a renewed interest in recycling wool, globally....
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12/7/2023
According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global women's activewear market is projected to reach $216,868 million by 2025, with a CAGR of 7.7% from 2018 to 2025. In 2017, the market was estimated to be $119,078 million, with North America accounting for 42.4% of the total revenue. Activewear, known for its utility and comfort during physical activities, is gaining popularity due to its benefits such as water resistance, bi-stretchable function, and anti-bacterial fabric. The rise in female participation in fitness activities and the adoption of athleisure wear for everyday use are major factors driving market growth....
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11/7/2023
Is US nearshoring a thing? What about onshoring? These topics remain attractive for some fashion companies and an illusion for others. So, what's real and what's not and do consumers care if a product says 'Made in USA'?
When looking at nearshoring, onshoring and Made in USA fashion products it makes sense to start with imports....
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10/7/2023
The West Coast Ports resolution has brought some relief for retailers but ongoing strikes at Vancouver and Prince Rupert ports in Canada could impact retailers and have a ripple effect on other ports.
While a tentative contract agreement has been reached at West Coast ports, retailers remain vigilant as labour disputes continue to develop at ports in western Canada, along with a potential strike by the Teamsters against United Parcel Service (UPS)....
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10/7/2023
Luxury fashion, characterized by its premium, exclusive, and high-price tag products, is experiencing remarkable growth in the global market. With the expanding fashion industry and the increasing demand for aesthetic products, the luxury fashion market reached a size of US$ 237.0 billion in 2022. Looking ahead, market analysis by IMARC Group projects a significant growth rate (CAGR) of 3.60% during the period of 2023-2028, with an expected market value of US$ 294.7 billion....
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8/7/2023
EU apparel imports from the world experienced a significant decline of 7.62% during January-April 2023, reaching a total of US$29.83 billion. The quantity of clothing imports also saw a steep downturn of 15.45%.
Winners and Losers in EU Apparel Imports
Among the top ten sourcing countries for EU apparel, Vietnam and India demonstrated positive growth, while imports from other countries declined notably....
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7/7/2023
National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist, Jack Kleinhenz, is optimistic about the state of the US economy and says it appears to be “rolling forward” but the rate of growth is likely to slow down for the rest of this year.
“The first half of the year is over, and the economy is still moving in the right direction,” said the NRF’s chief economist. “While its rhythm, tone and pattern have slowed, it has not stalled and recently revised data shows underlying strength that seems to be rolling forward.”...
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7/7/2023
Global fashion industry experts weigh the impact of the EU Commission's proposed rules to charge fashion brands and retailers for textile waste.
Earlier this week (5 July), the EU Commission announced proposed rules that will make fashion brands and retailers responsible for the full lifecycle of textile products and will require them to financially support the sustainable management of textile waste across the EU....
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6/7/2023
The impending gloom of a recession in 2023 may just be a false alarm as corporate mergers and acquisitions keep happening while inflation levels remain controlled with most countries bouncing back to post-pandemic days despite the geopolitical and other economic tensions. The US economy as a power-house that leads all others, is currently displaying strong signs of resilience. Although some industry segments may be shrinking under inflation, it seems to be a rolling recession where the overall economy does not stagger and bring a country down to its knees....
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5/7/2023
Mass fashion brands should take note of the strategies being used by luxury retailers to enhance their customer experience, writes Tobias Buxhoidt, founder and CEO of post-purchase customer experience software provider parcelLab.
In the ever-changing, fast-paced world of retail, the luxury sector has consistently set the standard for exclusivity, quality, and personalised customer experiences. As highlighted in the recent Forrester Luxury report, luxury brands have recognised the importance of prioritising digital customer experiences to drive overall sales and engagement....
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4/7/2023
The textile industry is responding to consumer demands for transparency, with fashion brands adopting QR codes on garments to disclose information like fiber content, country of origin, and recycling instructions.
However, achieving transparency remains a challenge, as indicated by a recent report from #WhoMadeMyCotton. The report highlights the industry’s size as a major obstacle, leading to fragmentation that hinders transparency efforts....
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3/7/2023
Consumers are proactively looking for conscious products and there is a significant alignment between beauty and fashion customers in their search for conscious attributes, said Farfetch in its 2023 Conscious Luxury Trends report. There was more than 78 per cent increase for conscious-related search terms. ‘Linen’, ‘vegan’, and ‘organic’ were the top conscious-related search terms for fashion on the Farfetch marketplace in 2022....
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3/7/2023
The global children's and infant wear market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2023 to 2028, reaching USD 202.2 billion by 2028.
Factors driving market growth include the growing birth rate, increased discretionary spending of working parents, and the influence of social media on parents' fashion choices for their newborns....
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30/6/2023
Fashion brands have been warned to step up cybersecurity as the industry becomes digitalised and Russian hackers pose an increased risk.?Sarah Gibbons reports.
While digitalisation brings enhanced sustainability, reduced waste, stricter inventory management, personalised designs, smart wearable tech garments, AI-enabled virtual fittings and integrated supply chains, increasing online data offers bad actors additional attack vectors, says US-based cyber exposure management company Tenable....
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29/6/2023
Slow fashion is growing with mass brands offering rental and resale options. Poorna Rodrigo explores whether consumers are ready to make the switch now or in future.
Opinion polling indicates efforts to steer demand away from mass-produced unsustainable fast fashion in favour of high quality, sustainable, made-to-last slow fashion have borne fruit. However, researchers reveal consumers are still reluctant to follow up their stated good intentions with purchases....
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28/6/2023
With 2025 its date of expiry drawing close, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) that gives duty-free benefits to goods of designated sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, is now set for a change for better or worse. The AGOA legislation was approved by the US Congress in May 2000 and signed by President Clinton to promote better economic growth through good governance and free global markets....
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23/6/2023
Apparel imports from China into the US grew 22.1% between 2016 and 2022 according to a new report from Descartes.
Descartes which provides on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses, published Global Shipping Report: China – US Trade Shift: Where Did the Market Share Go or Did It? evaluates how the market share of top imports from China into the US has changed over the last seven years....
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23/6/2023
The Office of National Statistics (ONS) in the UK has revealed a 0.3% jump in retail sales volumes during May, with non-store retail volumes seeing a spike particularly linked to strong clothing sales on better weather.
Despite soaring inflation and higher borrowing costs, this marked the second consecutive month of growth, following a rise of 0.5% in April. The ONS attributed the positive May retail sales results to factors such as bank holidays and favourable weather conditions....
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22/6/2023
A recent research study delves into the global Denim Fabric market, revealing impressive growth projections. The market, which recorded a value of USD 19,021.04 million in 2022, is expected to reach USD 27,381.25 million by 2028, exhibiting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.26% throughout the forecast period.
Denim fabric, known for its durability and commonly used in the apparel industry, finds application in jeans, jackets, shorts, and other clothing and accessories. By employing weft and warp weaving techniques, denim fabric acquires its distinctive diagonal ribbing. Reinforced by a twill weave, denim can withstand substantial friction before succumbing to wear and tear....
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20/6/2023
The US’s Department of Commerce released data analysis from its Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) that indicate the world’s largest economy is slowing down its import volumes of textiles and apparel. The analysis, which was released in the second week of June 2023, revealed since the last quarter of 2022, there has been a high level of unease in the market and amongst consumers as it became apparent that all was not well with the world’s number one economy....
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19/6/2023
US retail sales rose in May according to the latest figures from the US Census Bureau, but clothing sales remained muted.
According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retail sales rose in May as consumers continued to spend despite economic challenges.
“Consumers continued to spend on household priorities in May, supported by gains in the job market and wages,” NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Retailers recognise the ongoing pressure on cost-sensitive consumers and are offering competitive pricing, a wide product mix and convenient shopping options to help stretch family budgets.”...
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19/6/2023
In a bipartisan effort, US Senators introduce the De Minimis Reciprocity Act of 2023 to halt China’s exploitation of lax US trade laws while the Import Security and Fairness Act aims to protect Ohio businesses from unfair trade practices.
The De Minimis Reciprocity Act of 2023, introduced by US Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D and Tammy Baldwin, seeks to address the abuse of trade laws by Communist China and other nations, which currently allows them to import small dollar goods into the US duty-free. By barring Chinese exports from the expedited “de minimis” channel and adjusting the threshold for duty-free imports to match that of trade partners, the proposed legislation aims to foster reciprocity and enhance transparency at US borders....
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16/6/2023
The European Union (EU) is taking a significant step towards promoting sustainability with the ecodesign framework, aimed at making products longer-lasting, easier to repair, upgrade, and recycle.
The Environment Committee recently presented its recommendations to revise the EU’s ecodesign framework for sustainable products, calling attention to their desire for environmentally friendly, circular, and energy-efficient products throughout their lifecycle....
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16/6/2023
When buying is all about what excites and entices you, duty-free shopping is an integral part of travel adding that extra zing to flying. Duty-free shopping always been linked to tourism flow, is finally back with a bang after post-pandemic with travel restrictions waning. Globally, duty-free markets had plunge almost 70 per cent in 2020 when pandemic was raging everywhere....
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16/6/2023
Truth be told, with all the hoopla of Indian consumers thronging retail outlets to buy, buy and buy may not be entirely true. Despite analysts and retail pundits waxing about the great return to physical retail spaces, many brands are not experiencing the kind of footfalls they were hoping for. Then, what is the reality on the ground for India’s retail spaces that continue growing?...
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14/6/2023
The report found that 78% of consumers are willing to pay the same or more for next-gen materials compared to conventional options.
The consumer research titled: Next-gen materials: A 2023 assessment of the potential for U.S .consumer adoption, produced in collaboration between the Material Innovation Initiative (MII) and North Mountain Consulting Group, highlights a significant shift away from conventional animal products and current-generation synthetics....
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13/6/2023
Apparel imports to the US from China saw the biggest decline of the top 10 major suppliers as fashion brands look to reduce their China exposure.
Of the top ten major apparel suppliers to the US, China booked the largest fall during April of 1.7% to 570.56m while the largest import growth came from Mexico and Nicaragua at 0.7%.
During April US apparel and textile imports fell 22.7% year on year to 7.89bn square metre equivalents (SME)....
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13/6/2023
US retailers and brands have reduced imported readymade garment shipments by almost 25%, impacting exports from China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia.
The latest data from the US Department of Commerce's Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) reveals that in the first four months of this year, the US imported apparel worth $25.21 billion, a decrease of approximately 22.15% compared to the same period last year when imports amounted to $32.39 billion....
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12/6/2023
With heightened awareness on health and fitness worldwide, Indian attitude to swimwear has been swimming against the tide of a relatively nascent apparel segment. Many Indian fashion brands have now entered the swimwear market with innovative designs in the bikinis and one-piece cut-away swimsuits that are the most popular although other silhouettes like monokinis, swimming dresses and even burkinis are also part of the extended portfolio in India and other traditional countries....
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10/6/2023
The USA & Canada secondhand apparel market is set to reach a value of $28.1 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2023 to 2033, as per Future Market Insights. The market's growth is fueled by the rising demand for sustainable fashion as consumers gravitate towards circular fashion practices and seek alternatives to fast fashion. Secondhand clothing contributes to sustainability by prolonging garment lifecycles and reducing clothing waste....
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9/6/2023
Supply chain disruptions stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic are estimated to have cost the US apparel and footwear sectors between $9bn-17bn in 2022 alone according to new data from the International Trade Commission.
The Recent Trends in US Services Trade: 2023 Annual Report from the International Trade Commission (ITC) explores the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global supply chains....
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8/6/2023
New data released by the European Outdoor Group's (EOG) State of Trade (SoT) market research programme indicates growth in sell-in value and volume across all categories during 2022.
The EOG State of Trade report covers products sold by over 100 outdoor companies in Europe in the apparel, footwear and hardware markets, including outdoor sell-in figures from multisport or lifestyle brands....
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8/6/2023
Despite increased consumer spending, disruptions at West Coast ports have the potential to hit cargo volumes. While not yet reflected in nationwide data, concerns have arisen regarding ongoing disruptions and their potential impact on the upcoming holiday season....
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8/6/2023
Economist Jack Kleinhenz of the National Retail Federation (NRF), pointed out that although the economic indicators are giving conflicting signs, the US should be headed toward a soft landing from the rampant inflation and high interest rates of the past two years....
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8/6/2023
Sustainability in business is a topic that is often talked about. Actually making improvements in sustainability, however, can be a difficult thing to do. Will Hutchinson, director of supply chain for Claros Technologies, discusses.
Will Hutchinson, Director of Supply Chain for Claros Technologies I’m a supply chain expert, not an environmental scientist....
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7/6/2023
The Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) and the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) have welcomed the vote in favour of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) by MEPs but have called for further improvements to its text ahead of the trilogues.
The voting on 1 June by the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) resulted in 366 votes in favour, 225 against and 38 abstentions....
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5/6/2023
With governments taking control of how the fashion industry operates, fashion brands and retailers are waking to a new dawn where full supply chain accountability is no longer just a nicety but a necessity.
The fashion industry’s blissful time in Eden has come to an end. Fashion brands and retailers are being held accountable for their impact on human rights and the environment – two major grey areas that have gone under the radar for far too long....
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5/6/2023
For the last few years, the global textile industry has faced many challenges – dip in consumer demand, labour migration back to their homes, major supply-chain disruptions, high operating costs due to energy crises, lockdowns and the never-ending Russo-Ukrainian conflict. And of course green legislations that upset the manufacturing process. The recently published Global Textile Analysis 2023, Grand View Research values the global textile market size at $1,695.13 billion in 2022 that is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.6 per cent in terms of revenue from 2023 to 2030....
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5/6/2023
Huge mountains of discarded apparels are ending up in global landfills and the rest is shipped in the name of worthless donations to poorer countries in the global south. This is causing an environmental, economic, and social catastrophic situation. In fact, Africa has emerged the favorite dump yard of the world, and governments around the world including countries at fault are addressing waste colonialism from the Global North....
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2/6/2023
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) announced yesterday member states will need to incorporate a set of corporate accountability amendments to safeguard human rights and environmental impact, as part of its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), however Clean Clothes Campaign and IndustriALL argue the new rules still don't go far enough.
The European Parliament’s negotiating position on due diligence was adopted with 366 votes in favour, 225 against and 38 abstentions....
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1/6/2023
The European Parliament adopts recommendations for the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles today (1 June), however the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex) argues it could push Europe out of the fashion market.
With 600 votes in favour, 17 against and 16 abstentions, the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles calls for textile products sold in the EU to be more durable, easier to reuse, repair and recycle. It states their production should respect human, social and labour rights, the environment and animal welfare throughout the supply chain....
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30/5/2023
The fashion industry is experiencing a profound transformation towards sustainability as the world leaves behind its wasteful history.
In a world where fashion is often synonymous with excess and disposability, a transformative wind of change is sweeping through the industry.
We find ourselves at the precipice of a fashion renaissance, where sustainability takes centre stage, and conscious practices are becoming the norm. This last week has shown how the hierarchy of the apparel and garment industry’s supply chain has led to this ongoing sustainability revolution....
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30/5/2023
European countries exporting 90% of clothing and textile waste to Africa and Asia have emerged as the fourth central environmental and climate change pressure, according to a report by the European Environment Agency (EEA).
The EEA is urging the textile trade industry to take greater responsibility for sending clothing to lower-income countries and then returning it as second-hand goods, as the consequences are significant....
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30/5/2023
The Ethical fashion market has catapulted into the limelight in post-Covid times with rising awareness among consumers through social media campaigns and government initiatives of the environmental impact of fast fashion, and the growth of e-commerce is currently bringing about this change. The brand manufacturers of the ethical fashion segment are focused on reducing harm to both people and the planet in the whole supply value chain system across garment design, production, and distribution, and consumption....
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26/5/2023
The Office of National Statistics (ONS) shows retail sales volumes rose by 0.5% in April, following a 1.2% decline in March with clothing and department store sales up 1.0%, indicating a slow return to consumer fashion spending.
The three-month period leading up to April 2023 also showed encouraging signs, with sales volumes increasing by 0.8% compared to the previous three months. This growth rate marks the highest recorded since August 2021, suggesting a strengthening retail landscape....
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26/5/2023
The French Government unveiled the first phase of its fashion sustainability rules in January, surpassing upcoming EU laws on eco-labelling. Avery Dennison's Debbie Shakespeare explains why all fashion companies should make the switch to digital product passports before it is widely enforced.
Retailers are required by the French Decree 2022-748 AGEC (Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy Law) to give customers comprehensive information about the environmental characteristics and sources of the products they buy....
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25/5/2023
It could take a year for the global apparel industry's outlook to improve given nine out of 15 key economic factors are weakening, writes Robert P. Antoshak, Gherzi Textile Organization partner.
Is the US economy in trouble and how will it impact the global apparel industry? That’s the big question. There are many indications that we’re about to tumble into a recession. However, not all signs indicate a fall. Many suggest a holding pattern or moderated growth – a pattern we’ve seen since at least last year....
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24/5/2023
The European Commission claims the destruction of unsold consumer products, such as textiles and footwear, is becoming a widespread problem across the EU, particularly due to the rise of online sales.
On Monday (22 May) European Union governments reportedly agreed the bloc should ban the destruction of unsold textiles. The decision aligns with the EU’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting greater reuse and recycling practices....
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24/5/2023
Just Style investigates the seven biggest challenges impacting the US apparel manufacturing industry right now and what can be done to overcome them.
The exhibitors at Texprocess Americas and Techtextil North America 2023 speak to Just Style about the seven key issues facing US apparel manufacturing and the wider industry, from labour shortages and a lack of partnerships, to ongoing supply chain challenges and an opposition to change....
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22/5/2023
Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of sustainability in fashion and are rejecting clothing brands found to be making misleading claims about their products' organic status, according to a recent poll conducted in the UK. Organised ahead of the first-ever Organic Textile Week, the survey polled 2,000 people across the UK. The results showed that 70 per cent of respondents would be less likely to purchase from a brand found to be falsely claiming their products were organic....
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19/5/2023
In a historic milestone, trade in textiles and clothing from the European Union (EU) exceeded €200 billion in 2022, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. However, this growth comes with a concerning trade deficit of about €70 billion in the segment.
The surge in total trade can be attributed to a substantial rise in clothing imports, which saw a 36.6% increase in value. The primary sources of these imports were China and Bangladesh. Despite the positive export performance, the EU's trade deficit in textiles and clothing has grown to €70 billion, representing a 48% increase from the previous year. These findings were revealed in Euratex's 2023 Spring Report, which analyzes the latest trade flows in the textile and clothing sector....
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18/5/2023
The consumer groups that spend the most money, including cross-border shoppers, luxury goods buyers, and Millennials, are primarily driven by sustainability factors when making online purchases, data from ESW reveals.
According to the Sustainable Global Growth and Shopper Expectations report by ESW, the global DTC e-commerce company, the highest-spending consumer cohorts, including cross-border shoppers, luxury goods purchasers, and Millennials, are strongly influenced by sustainability when making online purchases....
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18/5/2023
The global Clothing Fasteners, also known as Zippers, market size was valued at USD 4.2 billion in 2020 and is projected to witness significant growth at a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period, according to Reliable Business Insights.
The market is being driven by the growing demand for innovative and fashionable clothing, the rise in e-commerce sales, and an increase in consumer disposable income....
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17/5/2023
US retail sales rebounded in April, for both month-on-month and year-on-year comparatives, according to the latest data from the US Census Bureau, but clothing sales softened.
Overall retail sales in April were up 0.4% from March and up 1.6% year over year. In March, sales were down 0.7% month over month but up 2.4% year over year....
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17/5/2023
Things do get worse before they get better and the Bangladesh RMG segment is counting on that as their current profit margins sink deeper with international clothing brands demanding further discounts to place orders from their local apparel retailers. Global big and small clothing brands are now demanding up to 5 per cent more discount from Bangladesh’s apparel exporters, without caring it may be the last straw on the camel’s back in an economy already under pressure with constant natural disasters, political turmoil and a volatile global economic scenario....
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17/5/2023
Amidst the looming threat of a global recession, the personal luxury goods industry is defying expectations by projecting further growth in 2023. Unlike the 2008-09 financial crises, the luxury market is proving to be more resilient in the face of economic turmoil.
A combination of factors, including a larger consumer base consisting of customers who are less affected by economic downturns, customer-centric strategies, and a robust multi-touch point ecosystem, positions the luxury industry to weather economic turbulence....
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17/5/2023
The global intimate apparel market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030. The market was valued at $81 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $99.2 billion by 2027, according to Reliable Research report. The increasing demand for fashionable and comfortable lingerie, rising awareness about the health and hygiene benefits of intimate apparel, and growing e-commerce sales are the key factors driving market growth....
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15/5/2023
Retailers are responding to the growing demand for sustainable products, but the lack of a standard definition of sustainability is proving challenging.
According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), consumers are increasingly interested in purchasing sustainable products and retailers are making efforts to meet this demand but the biggest challenge faced by both is the lack of a standard definition of what makes a product sustainable....
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15/5/2023
Figures out last week showed total retail sales in the UK rose by 5.1% in April, marking a significant increase on last year, with sales in the US edging up 0.9%.
While this might suggest fashion consumers are driving demand both in store and at a manufacturing level, it seems retailers are continuing to struggle – so much so that this pressure is now reaching the supplier far more directly....
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13/5/2023
Textile and apparel imports experienced a continued decline in March, with several traditional suppliers witnessing year-over-year decreases, according to data from the Department of Commerce's Office of Textiles and Apparel. The overall imports of textiles and apparel reached 7.14 billion square meter equivalents (SME) in March 2023, marking a 23.5 percent increase from February but a 23.8 percent decrease from the same period last year....
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12/5/2023
The US consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) rose by 0.4 per cent in April on a seasonally-adjusted basis, after increasing by 0.1 per cent in March, the US Bureau of Labour Statistics reported. The index for apparel increased by 0.3 per cent in the month over the March figure. The index for household furnishings rose as well....
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11/5/2023
Keeping up with the demand for supply chain visibility, Better Cotton has updated its cotton tracing guidelines in the new Chain of Custody Standard v1.0.
The revised version of the Better Cotton Chain of Custody Guidelines, renamed the Better Cotton Chain of Custody Standard, will offer both mass balance and physical Chain of Custody (CoC) models to support the need for traceable Better Cotton whilst also continuing important work at the farm level....
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10/5/2023
According to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), although British retail sales growth remained stable in April, the high inflation rate meant customers were receiving less value for their money.
In the latest figures released by the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor (RSM), an accurate monthly measure of UK-wide retail sales performances, the total retail sales in the UK rose by 5.1% in April, marking a significant increase from a decline of 0.3% in April 2022....
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10/5/2023
Retail apparel prices have been on the rise in the US, increasing for the fifth consecutive month, with a 0.5 per cent increase in March. Compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, apparel prices were 4.9 per cent higher, as per a recent report by Cotton Incorporated.Import costs of cotton-dominant apparel, in seasonally adjusted terms, averaged $3.92 per square-meter equivalent (SME). Although down 9 per cent from the peak in November, this remains higher than pre-pandemic levels and significantly higher than post-COVID lows, according to Cotton Inc’s Executive Cotton Update - U.S. Macroeconomic Indicators & the Cotton Supply Chain May 2023....
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10/5/2023
Premium jeans are more a statement than the standard pair of denims. As Claire Dupuis, Senior Product Trend Forecaster at Cotton Incorporated and a denim specialist explains, the basic difference between a premium and a regular pair is the price with the lowest starting point being $100 for the former. It’s all in the brand, Dupuis emphasizes.
A recent report ‘Premium Denim Jeans Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2022-2027’ by the IMARC Group forecasts the market for 2022-27....
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9/5/2023
Import cargo volume at the US’ major container ports is climbing back from a nearly three-year low in February, but will remain below recent levels until inflation rates and inventory surpluses are reduced, new figures show.
The latest figures from National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates’ Global Port Tracker report show import cargo volumes are expected to remain well below last year’s levels heading into autumn....
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8/5/2023
The jeanswear market is set to experience remarkable growth, projected to reach a value of USD 118.28 Billion by 2030, compared to USD 66.77 Billion in 2021. Verified Market Research anticipates a CAGR of 8.51% from 2023 to 2030 for this market. Jeans continue to be immensely popular, especially among the younger demographic, due to their comfort, durability, and ease of wear. Manufacturers in developed economies are placing emphasis on creating "perfect fit" jeans, driving continuous product innovation within the market....
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7/5/2023
In the apparel and textile sector of the US, the Institute of Supply Management's latest report on manufacturing business reveals a sixth consecutive month of contraction in April, following a period of 28 months of expansion. However, there were some bright spots as five manufacturing industries, including printing and related support activities, apparel, leather and allied products, experienced growth during the month....
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7/5/2023
The European Union's (EU) apparel imports have suffered a decline in the first two months of 2023, dropping by $322 million or 2.03% compared to the same period last year. However, China remains the EU's top supplier of apparel, providing 26.27% of the bloc's total apparel imports. Despite this, clothing imports from China fell by 13.11% year-on-year to $4.08 billion. On the other hand, apparel imports from Bangladesh, the EU's second-largest supplier, increased by 5.47% year-on-year, or $183 million....
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5/5/2023
Retail Economics CEO Richard Lim says UK retailers Next and Marks & Spencer are prime examples of how to master multichannel fashion retailing and argues a digitised and lean supply chain is essential given the amount of time consumers spend browsing as opposed to purchasing.
Richard Lim, CEO of consumer insights company Retail Economics, says before the pandemic most UK online sales were made by pure online retailers, but fast forward to today and there’s a competitive advantage to multichannel retailers, such as Next and Marks & Spencer selling online....
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4/5/2023
After recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the global apparel industry faced new difficulties in 2022 due to high inflation. The cost of production increased, and consumer confidence dropped, resulting in a slight decrease in revenue to 1.53 trillion U.S. dollars in 2022. However, the market is expected to rebound in 2023, with revenue forecasted to increase to more than 1.7 trillion dollars, as per analysis of statistics by Statista....
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4/5/2023
The well-intentioned efforts of fashion brands and retailers to put in place grievance mechanisms in their supply chains are missing the mark. Companies should consider sector wide approaches, writes corporate responsibility consultant, Doug Cahn.
When John Ruggie, special representative to the UN secretary general for business and human rights, conceptualised the foundational principles for effective grievance mechanisms throughout the supply chain he understood the central role that fashion brands and retailers would play....
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3/5/2023
As China’s new privacy laws take their toll and high inflation continues to bite, Nikki Baird, vice president of strategy at retail technology provider, Aptos, tells Just Style exclusively how global fashion retailers can think outside the box to boost profitability.
An hour before the doors opened for the annual Retail Technology Show, Aptos’s Nikki Baird kindly sat down with Just Style in a quintessential British café hidden behind the back streets of London’s Olympia to discuss what she’s seeing within the fashion retail sector and its supply chain right now....
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3/5/2023
The time is always ripe for upgrading wardrobes every season if the wallet permits as the saying goes: fashion is like eating and you shouldn’t stick to the same menu. Urban dressing has now become all about creating your unique visual style which is a reflection of attitude and personality and it’s not always about brands. The fashion sector has once again become profitable post-Covid one with a projected market volume of $336.80 bn in 2023 with most of the revenue generated in China....
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2/5/2023
Shoppers want more transparency and virtual reality (VR) experiences, according to materials science and digital identification solutions provider Avery Dennison. Avery Dennison has revealed two-thirds of global fashion shoppers want more transparency about the provenance of garments in its ‘Digital Consumer Behavior’ report produced in partnership with audience insights company GWI....
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1/5/2023
At the conclusion of 2022, the top five luxury brand values indicate that even though most of the world is in a fix with never-ending inflation, luxury just carries on as if all is well with the world. The top five luxury brands closed 2022 with brand values of: Louis Vuitton $124,273 million, Hermès $80,323 million, Chanel $53, 021 million, Gucci $37,887 million and Dior $10,534 million. Year 2023 is turning out be quite similar as the first quarter 0f 2023 shows Louis Vuitton’s sales growing 17 per cent and Hermès sales grew 23 per cent compared to the same period last year....
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28/4/2023
The legal affairs committee (JURI) of the European Parliament has voted on new rules to integrate human rights and environmental impact into companies’ governance under the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) proposal.
With 19 votes against three and three abstentions, MEPs on the Legal Affairs Committee adopted their position on so-called corporate sustainability due diligence....
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28/4/2023
Responding to the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) notice soliciting public comment on its guidelines for the use of environmental marketing claims (Green Guides), the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) recently raised questions about claim substantiation, expressed interest in mechanisms to ensure adherence to the guidelines and demanded changes to labelling rules to facilitate clear and substantiated claims....
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27/4/2023
The annual report from the US Trade Representatives Office identifies foreign countries that fail to provide adequate and effective protection of intellectual property rights.
hopes that the report’s release will encourage foreign countries to improve their intellectual property protection laws and create a more equitable marketplace for American companies. Credit: [Tajuddin Molla – GettyImages]
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has expressed its gratitude to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for releasing the annual Special 301 Review report...
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26/4/2023
With body positivity and size inclusivity now a mainstream fashion trend, plus-size fashion garments are now emerging as a big growth opportunity for brands and retailers. The old order changes yielding place to new as gone are old stereotypes of body-shaming if women did not conform to certain beauty standards have now long gone with people ready to accept and support all shapes and sizes of beauty....
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24/4/2023
The global athleisure market is set to reach USD 330.99 billion by 2022, growing at a CAGR of 9.5% from 2023 to 2030. The rise in health awareness and fitness activities, along with the increased adoption of casual wear in daily life, has propelled the growth of the athleisure market, according to a recent report by Reliable Business Insights....
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21/4/2023
A new report published by the American Circular Textiles group sets out what it describes as the gaps in circular fashion domestically with proposals for policy solutions. The American Circular Textiles (ACT) group has published its first whitepaper in the hope of identifying strategic bipartisan public policy objectives that will help to support a circular fashion economy in the US....
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21/4/2023
What does the US International Trade Commission (USITC)'s report on the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA) reveal about its trade and economic impact on apparel, asks University of Delaware Fashion and Apparel Studies Associate Professor, Dr Sheng Lu.
Earlier this week (17 April), the US International Trade Commission (USITC) released a new report analysing the trade and economic impact of the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA)....
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21/4/2023
March UK retail sales volumes fell 0.9%, following a rise of 1.1% in February 2023, according to the latest data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), with analysts explaining ongoing high inflation combined with wet weather meant the sector failed to spring into action.
On a month-on-month basis, overall March UK retail sales value also fell by 0.9%....
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20/4/2023
The global textile industry is facing a perfect storm scenario as production costs continue to climb and demand declines, a new report by the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) has found. The 19th edition of the ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey found that the global business situation in the textile industry has been negative since June 2022 and is still deteriorating....
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18/4/2023
Transparency, sustainability, nearshoring, and onshoring are challenges for the apparel industry that demand attention, writes Robert Antoshak, Gherzi Textile Organization partner, and MeiLin Wan, vice president at Applied DNA Sciences.
Transparency is just one of many hot topics in the apparel industry that represents a major challenge and demands attention, planning, and problem-solving to maximise future potential and provide answers for some of today’s most pressing problems....
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18/4/2023
Consumer spending in the US has taken a hit for the second consecutive month as the latest retail sales data from the US Census Bureau shows that consumers pulled back on their spending in March.
The decline in spending is seen across several categories with clothing and accessories stores being hit the hardest, slipping 1.7% month on month and 1.8% from a year ago. Spending on electronics and appliances was also down 2.1% month over month, while furniture and home furnishings dropped by a respective 1.2% and 2.4%....
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18/4/2023
UK's textile industry continues to experience fluctuations in imports and exports, influenced by various factors, including economic conditions and global demand, according to the latest data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). UK’s clothing imports declined by 11.51% in February 2023, reaching £1.294 billion ($1.62 billion).This is a significant drop from the £1.443 billion recorded during the same period in the previous year. The decline was also observed on a month-on-month basis, with January 2023 imports standing at £1.384 billion....
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18/4/2023
The Federal Maritime Commissions (FMC) office has written a letter to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to suggest revision in its forced labour enforcement efforts.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has received a letter from Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Commissioner Carl Bentzel urging the agency to take specific actions to ensure that its forced labour enforcement efforts don’t lead to supply chain disruptions....
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17/4/2023
The apparel sector may have moved on from the pandemic but uncertainty remains in the air with recession and concerns over pay throughout the supply chain all bubbling beneath the surface.
It’s now over three years since the Covid pandemic swept across the world causing disruption like we’ve never seen before. But despite the fact life looks completely back to normal and ‘rosy’ on the surface, the state of the apparel sector right now indicates the world and the supply chain still hasn’t found its ‘new normal’....
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14/4/2023
A new generation of consumers in post-pandemic times is making it easy to buy and sell second-hand apparel, shoes, and accessories on a variety of online resale platforms. Buyers can browse through a versatile portfolio of premium and luxury brands. Analysts say one in every three apparel items bought globally in the last year has been second- online resale platforms hand with 37 per cent consumers spending their limited budget in the pre-loved segment as inflation rises....
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14/4/2023
Efforts to improve purchasing practices and embed human rights into apparel supplier contracts are just some of the changes being made to industry buying habits, argues apparel sourcing expert, David Uricoli.
Commercial compliance within the apparel industry has been getting some attention lately and at the apex of these efforts is the Purchase Order. The PO represents a binding trade agreement between apparel buyer and seller. A buyer’s mistreatment of purchase orders to benefit their revolving business plans can devastate the supplier. When production alternatives and suppliers exhaust or misuse engineering options, manufacturing and overhead costs rise. And when costs rise, margins are eroded to the point where completing an order may require more resources than planned, sometimes forcing the supplier to operate at a loss....
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13/4/2023
An analysis of US apparel import trends in the first two months of 2023 by Dr Sheng Lu, University of Delaware explores whether the US is headed in the direction of recession or recovery.
From Vietnam to Bangladesh, garment factories in many leading apparel-exporting countries recently reported a slowdown in sourcing orders. Is another recession coming, or are we on the brink of a recovery?...
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12/4/2023
Import cargo volume at the US’ major container ports is expected to begin climbing steadily through the summer but will remain below record-setting levels seen during most of the pandemic, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation's (NRF) Global Port Tracker.
Import cargo volume at the US’ major container ports is expected to begin climbing steadily through the summer but will remain below record-setting levels seen during most of the pandemic, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) Global Port Tracker....
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11/4/2023
Unsurprisingly, the effects of the war in Ukraine, stubbornly high inflation, and financial market uncertainty are all continuing to have an impact on global trade.
Consequently, major apparel production hubs like Bangladesh are feeling it as buyers from Europe and the US cut their clothing order books due to depressed consumer demand.
It looks likely the lingering effects of the pandemic and rising geopolitical tensions will continue to impact the sector in 2023, but many sourcing countries are hopeful of a recovery....
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11/4/2023
The global secondhand apparel market is expected to nearly double by 2027 as businesses adapt more circular business models and consumers become more environmentally conscious, a new report by ThredUp has found.
A 2023 Resale Report published by online resale platform ThredUp shows that sustainability is a top five motivator for Generation Z with nearly half now refusing to buy from non-sustainable apparel brands and retailers....
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11/4/2023
The global market for cashmere clothing is expected to experience a steady growth rate of 4.2% CAGR during the forecast period, rising from a value of USD 3.20 billion in 2022 to USD 3.33 billion in 2023, before reaching USD 4.44 billion in 2030, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights.
The women's demographic has the highest market share due to the variety of designs and garment choices available to them. Offline distribution channels hold the larger market share as luxury clothing consumers prefer to inspect the product’s quality and authenticity before purchase....
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11/4/2023
The United States witnessed a significant decline in textile and apparel imports in February 2023, reaching a new low since June 2020. The import volume of textiles and apparel stood at 5.78 billion square meters, representing a 28.3% decline year-on-year and a 15.3% decline month-on-month. The import value amounted to $7.99 billion, reflecting a 20.1% YoY and 16.8% MoM decrease....
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11/4/2023
USA's major container ports are expected to see a steady increase in import cargo volume this summer. However, it will remain below the record-setting levels seen during most of the pandemic, according to the Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates....
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10/4/2023
US imports of textiles and apparel have continued to decrease in value terms, falling by 13.01 per cent to $17.554 billion in the first two months of 2023, compared to $20.179 billion during the same period in 2022. China remains the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, holding a 24 per cent market share, followed by Vietnam with a 14.97 per cent share....
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10/4/2023
Sleepwear and loungewear market projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.21% and reach USD 29,398.4 million by 2027, according to a report by Technavio.
One of the key drivers of market growth is the introduction of products with advanced features and innovative designs. Rising disposable income has increased consumers' purchasing power and positively influenced their spending on premium sleepwear and loungewear....
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6/4/2023
Global trade growth in 2023 is still expected to be subpar despite a slight upgrade to GDP projections since last fall, WTO economists have said.
Issued by the World Trade Organization (WTO) yesterday (5 April), the forecast set out in the new ‘Global Trade Outlook and Statistics’ report, estimates real global GDP growth at market exchange rates of 2.4% for 2023....
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6/4/2023
Clothing remains the top priority for teenage girls in this spring, with 28 per cent of females listing it as their top wallet priority for spending category, down 200 basis points (bps) vs fall 2022 when female clothing wallet share peaked at 30 per cent, according to a survey by Piper Sandler Companies....
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5/4/2023
The global sequins clothing market is expected to witness a steady rise at a CAGR of approximately 6% during the forecast period, driven by increasing fashion trends and the evolving landscape of retail brands, as per Future Market Insights. Millennials, who are influenced by luxury lifestyle, are particularly attracted to these sequins dresses. The market is also propelled by the growing demand for sequins clothes during wedding seasons, growing popularity of the theme party and rising trend of the entertainment industry contribute to the market growth....
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4/4/2023
The UK joining the Indo-Pacific trade bloc (CPTPP), which now has a total GDP of GBP11tn (US$13.75tn), could create new relationships for the apparel industry, UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) CEO Adam Mansell tells Just Style exclusively, however he notes the rules of origin are "very narrow".
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced last week (31 March) the country will be joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free-trade area of 11 countries spanning the Indo-Pacific....
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4/4/2023
Textile and apparel were one of a number of industries reporting a contraction in growth in March, according to the US Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
The March Manufacturing PMI registered 46.3%, 1.4 percentage point lower than the 47.7% recorded in February, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee....
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3/4/2023
What do retail brands need to do to secure future growth and avoid going down in the history books as the once greats?
Sharon White, the boss of UK retail giant John Lewis Partnership last week was keen to provide reassurance that she’s doing everything in her power to reposition the business for success after full-year profits sank, leading to the company putting the kibosh on paying partners an annual bonus....
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3/4/2023
A new white paper that debunks a number of myths surrounding the CAFTA-DR trade agreement explains how the pact’s “yarn-forward” rules alone are insufficient, and that Asian suppliers are not the top competitors with US textiles.
The White Paper, ‘US Apparel Sourcing from CAFTA-DR and US Textile Exports: Myth vs. Reality’ by Dr. Sheng Lu, associate professor, fashion and apparel studies, University of Delaware, addresses misconceptions and myths about the impact of CAFTA-DR apparel sourcing on US textile exports to the region and related trade policy issues....
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3/4/2023
The fact that the $2.5 trillion fashion industry is contributing towards 10 per cent of carbon emissions and 20 per cent of waste water effluence is well known. What is news however is, the sector is responding to seriously contributing to decreasing its polluting presence and working towards sustainable production? The dateline for discussions and ideas has been crossed as immediate action is the need of hour....
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1/4/2023
The online clothing rental market is set to experience a significant increase in size by USD 3.00 billion between 2021 and 2026, according to a new report by Technavio.
The market's growth momentum will slow down at a CAGR of 17.91%. The report also identifies the rising popularity of experiential marketing as a key trend in the market, with vendors incorporating consumer participation in various marketing activities to attract more consumers to their platforms....
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31/3/2023
Consumers in the US remain invested in eco-conscious practices, according to a survey from Blue Yonder, a digital supply chain company. The results show that an impressive 69 per cent of respondents said they were willing to pay more for sustainable products, but just 4 per cent expressed willingness to pay 20 per cent more. Furthermore, 48 per cent of respondents shared an increased interest in sustainability over the past year....
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31/3/2023
The National Council of Textile Organisations gave a State of the US Textile Industry Address, highlighting macroeconomic challenges and opportunities in nearshoring and onshoring.
The National Council of Textile Organisations (NCTO) chairman David Poston delivered the trade association’s State of the US textile industry overview at NCTO’s 19th annual meeting on March 30....
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31/3/2023
Although global supply chains have been a key entry point for women to enter the formal workforce, especially in the garment segment however, they face numerous problems every day. Among these, gender discrimination, violence and harassment especially for women from poorer sections of society is common. The International Labour Organization's (ILO) recent report in March 2023 focuses on achieving gender equality in global garment supply chains with a more equitable set of policies and actions that could lift millions of workers out of poverty and drive inclusive economic growth....
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30/3/2023
The US retail sector is being urged to ramp up its focus on the omnichannel experience as customers continue to show an interest in shopping at physical stores, but want to do it in a convenient and interactive way.
The comments around bolstering the omnichannel experience came as part of the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) third annual State of Retail & the Consumer presentation during which chief economist Jack Kleinhenz said retail sales are expected to grow between 4-6% to more than US$5.13trn in 2023....
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29/3/2023
A new report by the United Nations Climate Change and CDP states that the fashion industry has made progress on climate action but still has a long way to go.
Signatories of the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action are making promising strides, according to a new report by UN Climate Change and CDP....
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28/3/2023
The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) has led to a US$231bn increase in trade, with developing members and least-developed country (LDC) members making the most gains.
The Trade Facilitation Agreement, the first multilateral trade agreement in the WTO’s 20-year history, entered into force on 22 February 2017. It is designed to reduce trade barriers and eliminate border transaction costs for companies around the world....
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27/3/2023
Gaining the trust of suppliers, embracing collaboration and sharing data are just some of the challenges apparel businesses need to overcome if they are to improve human rights conditions in their supply chains.
Speaking at the Xplore Sustainability conference this week, organised by supply chain data platform Sedex, Lea Esterhuizen, founder and CEO of due diligence firm &Wider, explained to delegates how worker feedback technology is enabling apparel firms to better understand working conditions at sites in their supply chains....
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27/3/2023
The international clothing and textile sector will have to take account of the first global sustainability reporting standards designed to become compulsory in many countries worldwide from 1 January 2024.
The new global sustainability reporting standards will be published by June, having been approved in February by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB)....
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24/3/2023
The United Kingdom’s clothing imports stood at £1.392 billion ($1.70 billion) during January 2023, which was 12.67 per cent lower than the imports in December 2022 when the country’s inbound shipment was £1.594 billion, as per the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS)....
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24/3/2023
After reaching a record-high apparel import value of US $99.93 billion in 2022, the United States has experienced a decline in its apparel imports, both in terms of value and volume, on a yearly basis.
According to data released by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), the country imported US $7.27 billion worth of apparel in the first month of this year, representing a 3.44% decline on a yearly basis. However, imports increased by 9.16% compared to December 2022 when the country imported US $6.66 billion worth of apparel....
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24/3/2023
“Great merchandising, like great value, never goes out of fashion. In a dynamic and increasingly digital apparel, fashion, and luxury market, companies that get merchandising right tend to outperform their peers,” says McKinsey. In their article ‘Great merchandising never goes out of fashion’, authors David Barrelet, Matthew Chapman, Erik Eklöw, Julia Huang, Felix Rölkens and Hannah Yankelevich highlight in current economic environment and uncertainties there is an urgent need for companies to get merchandising right....
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23/3/2023
The European Commission has now published its proposal for clamping down on misleading environmental claims or “greenwashing”.
Under the proposal, which targets greenwashing businesses, any green claims made need to be independently verified and proven with scientific evidence, while new public environmental labelling schemes will be banned unless developed at EU level....
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23/3/2023
US’ University of Missouri researchers have identified two main challenges for adaptive clothing consumers. The study involved mining online reviews to understand the perspectives of adaptive clothing customers. Customers said product offerings were inadequate and didn’t meet their specific needs. Access to the few products that do exist was limited....
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22/3/2023
Innovation, sustainability and traceability are the mainstays of the 'Made in US' label, according to the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
Following a visit to the Carolinas to see US textile manufacturers in action, USTR Senior Advisors Beth Baltzan and Jamila Thompson released a blog post in which they detailed the important and innovative producers in the domestic supply chain as well as the Biden Administration’s effort to craft smarter trade policy that creates a level playing field while also enhancing the resilience of critical American industries....
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21/3/2023
The US Court of International Trade (CIT) has marked its position on keeping sanctions against China in place with recommended amendments for the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
In September 2020, more than 6,000 plaintiffs filed lawsuits challenging the List 3 and List 4A tariffs as unlawful under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 arguing that USTR exceeded its authority when it imposed tariffs without attempting to connect them to any underlying investigation of China’s trade practices....
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21/3/2023
The fashion industry is entering a new era in which consumer and regulatory interests converge, and apparel brands are beginning to change in response.
Consumers want to know where their products are coming from, how, where and by whom they were produced, and want to get a longer lifespan and recyclability from those items. Cyrus Gilbert-Rolfe, senior vice president for retail and apparel at Kezzler, looks at the challenge facing apparel with its growing data problem....
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21/3/2023
Global fashion industry, just like most other consumables industries have realised the ongoing inflation isn’t going to slow down any time soon as the world couldn’t find time to recover from the pandemic before being hit by the economically-disruptive Russian invasion of Ukraine. High inflation is a challenge, but adapting to a flexible pricing strategy can help retailers and brands control costs, protect margins, and retain customer loyalty....
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21/3/2023
Top apparel exporters have been hit badly by ongoing inflation and unstable prices across the globe.Retail outlets are finding it tough to pay electricity bills,shipping charges and other logistics. At the same time, food prices have almost doubled leaving consumers cash-strapped in many countries and may soon trigger a global crisis that will drive millions more into extreme poverty and malnutrition....
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20/3/2023
A world in which clothing and textiles are no longer discarded and all waste is diverted from landfill and incineration feels a long way off to me.
This may sound a little harsh given clothing and textile waste is an issue talked about extensively in this industry. And don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of initiatives launching regularly to try to tackle this growing problem that fast fashion has undoubtedly contributed to. But I’m not convinced it is enough right now....
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20/3/2023
The tennis apparel market in Americas is set to grow by USD 82.08 million between 2022 and 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Technovia. The growth of the market is attributed to the increasing awareness about the health benefits of sports and the growing adoption of a healthy lifestyle among the urban population. This trend is driving people to involve themselves in sports activities, such as tennis, to stay fit and healthy....
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20/3/2023
A comprehensive report on the Baby Apparel market has been released by Global Insight Services. Baby apparel refers to clothing specifically designed for infants and toddlers, including onesies, sleepers, and outfits for special occasions. These clothes are often designed to be comfortable, practical, and easy to care for, while also being stylish and fashionable, with a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs available....
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20/3/2023
Lingerie has come a long way since the time it was considered a female tool of seduction and titillation.The global lingerie marketwas worth $78.7 billion in 2022, reinforcing demand worldwide. A study by the IMARC Group expects the market to reach $119.4 billion by 2028, growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7 per centfrom 2023 to 2028.A similar study by Transparency Market Research, projects growth up to 2031 at $171.3 billion....
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17/3/2023
The global ethnic wear market is expected to reach $177.2 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.2 per cent from 2022 to 2031, according to a new report published by Allied Market Research.
The report cites increasing demand for fusion wear globally, the emergence of mix-and-match styles, the availability of high-end brands, and the rising number of fashion influencers as prime determinants of growth....
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17/3/2023
The global clothing recycling market is expected to be valued at US$ 5.8 million in 2022, according to Future Market Insights. However, the market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7 per cent through 2032, reaching an anticipated valuation of US$ 16 billion.
Sustainability is a key trend driving the demand for clothing recycling, as consumers and companies alike become more aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion and the importance of circularity....
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16/3/2023
Everyone is on a Refashion Journey: As refashion continues to grow in prevalence, brands must work to differentiate themselves from competitors by enhancing CX and optimising existing processes, writes Giorgio DeMarco, lead design strategist at EPAM Systems Inc.
Refashion is by no means a new or novel concept – the period of scepticism is over. In fact, those fashion retailers and manufacturers not currently selling pre-loved are missing out on a lucrative and ever-expanding market segment. Giorgio DeMarco, lead design strategist at EPAM Systems Inc....
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11/3/2023
In January 2023, a survey conducted by American luxury fashion digital platform Saks revealed that 62 per cent of US-based consumers plan to spend the same or more on luxury items in the upcoming months.
Respondents with an income of over $200K indicated a preference for spending on clothing after travel, events, and activities. Among those surveyed, 60 per cent said they plan to purchase clothing, and 36 per cent will spend on shoes for their upcoming trips....
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10/3/2023
The latest data from the US Office of Textile and Apparel (OTEXA) reveals US apparel import volumes fell in January, in both value and volume terms, however Dr Sheng Lu tells Just Style there are signs of gradual recovery.
US apparel imports, according to the latest data from OTEXA for the month of November, fell by more than 3.4% in value from a year ago, and 17.5% in quantity....
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9/3/2023
Import cargo volume at the US’ major container ports is expected to begin slowly climbing again this month after February saw one of the lowest levels since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation's (NRF) Global Port Tracker.
The Global Port Tracker from NRF and Hackett Associates notes that while there are many uncertainties about the economy, import cargo volumes are expected to show modest gains over the next several months....
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9/3/2023
The traditional classic readymade men’s suit will always stay relevant in the premium formal wear retail segment, even if its popularity has slightly waned in post-Covd dress-down times. With an USP of making the wearer stand out whenever and wherever, this is a forever style even when bespoke or made-to-measure suits that create a new model for each customer are now competing neck-to-neck in premium outlets....
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8/3/2023
On, February 22, 2023, Amazon India went live with its plus size store that has the finest collection of plus size clothing for Indian consumers, curated from leading fashion brands in India – Biba, Bigbanana, Pluss, Allen Solly, NYKD and the U.S. Polo Association among others. The outlet offers over 6,00,000 products spanning 2XL to 8XL. While going live, the head of Amazon Fashion India, Saurabh Srivastava said India is a fast-growing plus size market, mirroring the growth worldwide and just like Amazon elsewhere, the Indian division of the global e-commerce giant is catering to the needs of a diverse range of customers and is being inclusive....
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7/3/2023
UK certification body for the textile industry, Shirley, talks to Just Style exclusively about the main opportunities and challenges it is facing today.
Behind every responsible fashion manufacturer and brand there are certifications awarded by organisations such as Shirley.
The opportunities and challenges for manufacturers and retailers are based on the impact of the economy, current affairs and the supply chain, but how do these factors affect certification bodies?...
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3/3/2023
Denim market growth has always been a steady even in the most fluctuating of global economies. Reason: it is a fundamental component of the casual wardrobe and popular across all social and economic segments for men, women and children. With casual dressing becoming the norm in a post-pandemic world, many analysts feel denim will see stronger-than-ever growth in coming years....
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3/3/2023
The World Trade Organization’s Goods Trade Barometer has lost momentum in the fourth quarter and is likely to remain weak in the first quarter of 2023.
According to the latest WTO Goods Trade Barometer released yesterday (1 March), world trade growth in volume terms is weakening after falling to 92.2, down from 96.2 in the previous release and well below the baseline value of 100....
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2/3/2023
With post-pandemic-induced shopping spree, global industry-wide Christmas sales and India’s wedding and festive season all over, apparel retailers are now doing reality checks. This is because the first financial quarter of 2023 has opened bleakly. What’s more, recession fears are looming in the horizon and a slowdown in sales growth seems likely after the sharp increase post-Covid last year....
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1/3/2023
EU energy prices are six times higher than competitor garment manufacturing hubs in the US, China and Asia. Experts discuss whether or not European garment companies will survive.
EU electricity prices are often around EUR0.56/KWh (US$0.60) at present, compared to $0.10/KWh in competing garment industrial centres, according to EU data....
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28/2/2023
In 2022, the textile and apparel industry in the United States experienced a significant increase in imports and exports. According to US government data, textile and apparel imports into the USA were worth $132.2 billion, exceeding the figure of $127.7 billion recorded in 2019. Meanwhile, textile and apparel exports topped the $30.4 billion mark, which was a considerable increase compared to the $22.1 billion recorded prior to the pandemic. This represented a growth of 37.5% over 2019....
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25/2/2023
The global men’swear market is growing by six per cent a year. Men’s wear refers to clothing that is specifically designed for male consumers.
The escalating product demand on account of the growing fashion consciousness and awareness of the importance of personal appearance among men is primarily driving the men’swear market....
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24/2/2023
Just Style spoke to international manufacturers at Source Fashion on the latest opportunities for sourcing in the ever-changing fashion industry.
The fashion industry today faces global issues that pose a threat to its growth. However, Just Style found many positive trends within the manufacturing sector, that if properly explored could generate big opportunities. Manufacturing companies that attended the Source Fashion London event discussed trade deals, overseas expansion, diversifying markets, sustainable fashion and alternative materials....
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23/2/2023
Just Style spoke to manufacturers at the Source Fashion London event on the challenges they face in the ever-changing fashion industry.
The global fashion industry has faced mounting challenges stemming from the pandemic, the Ukraine war, and a looming recession. At the Source Fashion event in London, Just Style asked the people working at the centre of these challenges for their views as international manufacturers. Their answers paint an alarming picture of an industry-wide lack of demand, rising costs, networking difficulties and unstable supply chains....
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22/2/2023
The global apparel industry is likely to continue to feel the knock-on effects of the Ukraine-Russia war into 2023 and beyond, expert analysts believe, as we mark one year since the beginning of the conflict. Twelve months on from the start of the Ukraine-Russia crisis and the global apparel industry has suffered both directly and indirectly as many brands closed their store networks in Russia and battled rising energy prices and raw material costs....
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22/2/2023
Recycle and reuse are terms we have become more than familiar with in recent times as the global fashion industry looks to lessen its environmental impact and we are bombarded with initiatives.
This is nothing new, of course. But just how far have we come, and exactly how much progress is the industry making right now?
Unfortunately, I don’t have the exact answer to either of these questions, but we can certainly see there is an effort there by global fashion brands to lessen their impact....
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21/2/2023
Despite swimming against the rising tide of high costs of raw materials, complicated shipping and transportation logistics, increased inflation and higher cost of living in post-pandemic years, a reasonably good growth in global fashion sales is expected in 2023 by most fashion retailers.
Global fashion companies are now focussing on strong sourcing diversification, supply chain agility, and sustainable operations to circumvent the current crunch and effectively sail through 2023 with their head above waters....
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17/2/2023
The UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed retail sales value increase in January - likely due to higher prices - but retailers face tough times ahead.
According to the ONS January retail sales report, on a year-on-year seasonally adjusted basis :
• Sales by Value (amount spent) increased 3.7% YoY (this growth is primarily due to rising prices)
• Sales by Volume (quantity bought) fell 5.3% YoY
Responding to the latest ONS Retail Sales Index figures, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Widespread January sales helped sales growth remain positive as the industry entered the New Year. Despite this, the rise in consumer spending could not keep up with the double-digit inflation rates, with another fall in retail volumes. Larger purchases were hit harder as consumers tightened their purse strings or traded down to value brands. Meanwhile, clothing and footwear saw stronger growth last month.”...
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16/2/2023
Global apparel retailers are now realizing that what you see is not always what it seems and are seeking to verify the authenticity of their products from supply sources to protect themselves from fabric mislabelling and fraud. Many premium brands are implementing strict regulations and monitoring processes throughout their global manufacturing process to put an end to the mislabelling of a garment that claims to be what it is not....
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16/2/2023
The UK Government has said it does not expect an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for clothing and textiles to be introduced any time soon.
A consultation on an EPR scheme for clothing and textiles was expected from the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs by the end of 2022.
The EPR is a strategy to add all of the environmental costs associated with a product throughout the product life cycle to the market price of that product. The UK Government, in its publication ‘Our Waste, Our Resources, A Strategy for England 2018’, committed to invoking the “polluter pay” principle and harness the potential of EPR. It identified five priority material streams for consideration under this commitment including textiles....
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16/2/2023
The US consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) rose by 0.5 per cent in January this year on a seasonally-adjusted basis, after increasing by 0.1 per cent in December, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS). The index for all items less food and energy rose by 0.4 per cent in January. Category indices that increased in the month include apparel and household furnishings....
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15/2/2023
UK inflation has fallen for the third consecutive month, with clothing prices easing on the prior month, but analysts warn many businesses may need to maintain higher prices to combat profit loss.
The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show UK inflation eased to 10.1% in the 12 months through January 2023, from 10.5% a month earlier. The Consumer Price Index had peaked at 11.1% in October....
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14/2/2023
The US cotton industry can expect a slowdown in growth from the prior two years, new data shows, as a result of increased production costs, slumping consumer demand and supply chain disruptions.
The latest data from National Cotton Council economists shows US cotton acreage is projected to be down 170% on last year to 11.4m acres. While production costs remain elevated, cotton harvest-time futures prices are currently 16.5% less than a year ago and the prices of most competing commodities are relatively unchanged....
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14/2/2023
The global denim fabric market is growing at 4.4 per cent a year. So says Allied Market Research. The obtainability of denim fabric at reasonable prices and new socio-economic trends are driving the growth of the global denim fabric market.
The rise of biodegradable denim fabric has opened new prospects. But price instability of cotton and ecological risks related with the use of synthetic dyes confine the market to some level. The Covid outbreak impacted the overall supply chain, thereby upsetting the overall growth of the global denim fabric market....
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10/2/2023
Dr Sheng Lu reveals the main US apparel import patterns of 2022 and the critical issues to watch in 2023 based on the latest trade data released by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) and the US International Trade Commission (USITC).
2022 marked the third year since the global pandemic. While the impact of Covid showed signs of abating in areas such as supply chain disruptions, the US and the world economy encountered substantial new obstacles, and geopolitical tensions escalated further....
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9/2/2023
As retailers and consumers scurry through rising inflation, research suggests rising costs will plague 2023 retail sales with inflation adding almost GBP260bn (US$316bn) across international markets.
The Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark Report 2023, commissioned in partnership with economics consultancy Retail Economics, found that 80% of retailers were planning to increase the price of products, with 40% suggesting rising costs will be the biggest challenge this year....
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9/2/2023
Import cargo volumes at America’s major container ports are expected to drop in February 2023 to nearly their lowest level since the beginning of the pandemic. So says the National Retail Federation.
With the US economy slowing, and consumers worried by rising interest rates and still-high inflation, retailers are importing less merchandise. Retailers are being cautious as they wait to see how the economy responds to efforts to bring inflation under control....
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8/2/2023
Global technical textile market is growing at four per cent a year. The market for technical textiles is expected to increase across a variety of end-use industries, including agriculture, construction, aerospace, medicine, and packaging as more people become aware of their advantages. Modern biotechnology has accelerated the progress of conventional farming practices towards a more scientific method. It is anticipated that the adoption and use of highly effective technologies in the agricultural sector would boost crop output, which will have an impact on overall productivity and the need for technological textiles. The technical textiles market is primarily driven by elements including strengthening national economies, technological developments, and expanding end-use applications....
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8/2/2023
January import volume into the US is expected to drop to nearly its lowest level since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation (NRF) Global Port Tracker.
The Global Port Tracker from NRF and Hackett Associates notes that with the US economy slowing and consumers worried by rising interest rates and still-high inflation, retailers are importing less merchandise....
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7/2/2023
A team of researchers led by the University of Michigan has developed woven-in labels made from photonic fibres which could increase the recycling rate of clothing and textiles. Currently, only 15 per cent of the 92 million tons of textiles discarded annually are recycled due to difficulties in sorting.
The new fibres, referred to as barcodes woven directly into the fabric, are customisable and can be made visible to the naked eye, only readable under near-infrared light, or a combination of both. This technology is more effective than traditional tags which are often cut away or become unreadable, and it can be invisible until it needs to be read, the University of Michigan said in a press release....
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6/2/2023
Clothing and footwear retailers emerge unscathed from Christmas 2022 but will be hit by reduced consumer spending.
GlobalData analysis finds that the apparel sector avoided what was expected to be a bleak Christmas period in 2022.
Despite the effects of the cost-of-living crisis and postal strikes, multichannel clothing and footwear retailers saw increased sales. While partly boosted by price rises, retailers who offer in-store and click-and-collect services excelled....
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3/2/2023
The National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts “slight growth” for the US economy in 2023 but no official recession.
The National Retail Federation (NRF) announced that the US economy is more resilient than expected and will experience “slight growth” in 2023.
In the February issue of the NRF’s Monthly Economic Review, chief economist Jack Kleinhenz stated: “A month into 2023, the economy is facing stiff headwinds and – with the exception of easing inflation – will likely face more challenges before it gets better.”...
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2/2/2023
Natural staple fibers are driving this sub-sector within the textile industry as a sea change is being witnessed in terms of fabric preferences. Eco-conscious consumers, especially the millennials and Gen Z, the largest consumer groups worldwide are clear about their eco-friendly choices and the industry is trying to live up to consumer demands. As per a Future Market Insight Report, since 2022, the sub-sector of textile staples is witnessing a promising growth with sales projected to grow at 5.5 per cent. The market at present is pegged at $161.2 billion and is expected to touch $275.48 billion by 2032....
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31/1/2023
A cohort of US apparel industry associations have published a new protocol aimed at assisting policymakers in ensuring successful solutions to advance sustainability and social responsibility in the fashion industry.
The ‘THREADS Sustainability and Social Responsibility Protocol – Principles for effective policymaking concerning the fashion industry’ was jointly released by The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), the Accessories Council, The Council of Fashion Designers of America, and the Responsible Business Coalition....
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30/1/2023
The global swimwear market is growing at five per cent a year.
Swimwear is commonly worn by people participating in water-based activities such as swimming and bathing. It shields the wearer from chlorinated swimming pools and seawater, which contain salts that can cause skin rashes.
Product demand is being driven by the global increase in population and product innovation to meet the need for specialized clothing for water sports and poolside or beachside vacations....
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30/1/2023
The Section 301 Tariffs on American Consumers and US Businesses imposed by the Trump administration in 2018 in response to China’s unfair trade practices, seem to have boomeranged on the US doing more harm than good. A recent joint industry study has pointed out the negative Impacts on US consumers of Section 301, which was intended to compel US companies to move supply chains out of China and has affected many general segments of the average American consumer....
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25/1/2023
As consumers strive to reduce their fashion consumption to become more sustainable, they are becoming increasingly involved in the circular economy.
More apparel consumers are turning to rental operators like Rent the Runway and Hirestreet, rather than purchasing brand new items that they will only wear once, with 8.6% of UK clothing shoppers renting apparel for Christmas 2022....
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24/1/2023
Nearshoring has bumped right up the agenda for many US sporting brands as they look to navigate the issue of rising transport costs and shipping delays on the back of global pandemics and worker shortages. As the sportswear industry is likely to experience negative growth in 2023, a new report from McKinsey & Co explores whether nearshoring is the route to navigating this challenge....
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23/1/2023
Rising costs, the looming threat of a bigger recession, low consumer confidence, and continuing operational challenges are set to create headwinds for the global sporting goods industry in 2023, as per the industry executives interviewed and surveyed for a report by WFSGI and McKinsey. In response, companies are looking to embed resilience into their operations by going beyond raising prices to boost productivity and finding the right balance between saving and investment....
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23/1/2023
The global socks market is growing at six per cent a year.
An increase in the number of working individuals, along with the rising adoption of the formal business environment, signifies one of the key factors anticipated to create ample growth opportunities for the market.
Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest compound annual growth rate. This is attributed to the growing population in developing economies including China and India....
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23/1/2023
The global athleisure market is growing at eight per cent a year.
Athleisure clothing includes casual pants, bomber jackets, polo shirts, crewneck sweaters, and others. Athleisure appeals to several broad trends, such as the global shift toward consumers wearing more casual attire, the desire for comfortable clothing, and the increase in athletic activity among health-conscious consumers who need performance clothing for these activities....
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22/1/2023
The global shapewear market is growing at eight per cent a year. This covers bodysuits, corsets, control tights, control panties, control slips, girdles and slimming camisoles.
Shapewear is a type of underwear which helps in looking slim and improving the body figure by compressing the fats and skin folds. As people nowadays are very conscious about their appearance and their social status, achieving the ideal body shape and complying with beauty standards in society has become critical. For this purpose, people are increasingly using shapewear products. This will continue to boost the market....
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20/1/2023
After two difficult Covid years of dressing down days, the fashion resilience of denim is being felt once agin. Every year, over two billion jeans are sold globally and apparel manufacturers are now focussed on cashing onto this lucrative segment in post-pandemic days.
It is expected by 2023, the size of the market for denim jeans fabrics will reach a stupendous 4,541 million meters as demand sores globally. In the five years between 2018-23 the market is expanding at 4.89 per cent annually from 3,576 million meters in 2018. Denim is an apparel segment that shows its true potential when it comes to export diversification with other apparel....
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20/1/2023
The UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that clothing stores sales volumes rose in December 2022 despite overall retail sales volumes falling by 1% during the peak of the Christmas shopping season.
UK clothing stores saw sales volumes increase by 1.0% in December 2022, however the total non-food stores sales volumes, including department, clothing, household and other non-food stores, fell by 2.1% over the month....
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18/1/2023
The US apparel, footwear and retail sectors are at loggerheads with the textile industry over the impact of Section 301 tariffs which experts suggest are unlikely to be lifted by the Biden Administration as China and the US continue their power struggle.
The American apparel, footwear and retail industries which claim higher costs linked to tariffs are significantly pressuring US brands, retailers and ultimately consumers....
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17/1/2023
Cotton produced the world over in accordance with voluntary sustainability standards (vss) saw a 39 per cent to 40 per cent compound annual growth rate between 2008 and 2019.
In 2019, about 92 per cent of vss-compliant cotton came from Asia, led by India, China, and Turkey. Cotton compliant with vss accounted for at least 14 per cent of total cotton production in 2016. Consumers and companies across the planet are increasingly choosing cotton produced in accordance with vss, such as Better Cotton or Cotton made in Africa....
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16/1/2023
International Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) published a report recently on the growth of sustainable cotton practices and their pricing, as a part of their Global Market Report on agricultural products. Since 2008, IISD has been tracking the growth of voluntary sustainability standards (VSS)-compliant cotton production and states that this genre of cotton doubles its output every 2.5 years. Vivek Voora, Senior Associate at IISD said in the report “Sustainable cotton is in high demand as customers look to make responsible purchasing decisions and brands use sustainability to differentiate their products in the market.” He goes on to say, most of the demand is coming from Europe and North America. But awareness is rising in big developing and emerging markets that suggests the growth will continue....
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16/1/2023
Year 2022 was all about positivity and hope for the fashion industry with much hype about the return of consumers after two years of lockdown and uncertainty. Many brands went on to invest in more “on trend” collections that addressed sustainability and eco-consciousness. Fast fashion was pulled up for its wasteful and environment-damaging ways and brands jumped on the socially-conscious bandwagon. Now, that we are in 2023 and the celebratory confetti of 2022 have settled down on the ground, the sector’s emerging picture looks a little different as quite a few negative trends come to the fore affecting businesses worldwide....
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16/1/2023
This year has kicked off with several reports suggesting that, yet again, the bad purchasing practices of fashion brands and retailers are resulting in the mistreatment of garment suppliers and as a consequence garment workers. But, time has run out and it must stop now.
The fashion industry’s reputation for violating garment workers’ labour rights has existed for years and the term ‘sweatshop’ is still used to explain negative working conditions across any industry – not just fashion....
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16/1/2023
Some 3000 chemical and 300 textile industry plants in the EU will have to comply with new legal norms adopted under the EU Industrial Emissions Directive to reduce their environmental impact.
The new European Commission Decisions refer to the management and treatment of waste gas in the chemical sector and a series of activities in the textile industry....
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16/1/2023
Europe’s secondhand apparel market is growing at eight per cent a year.
Vintage and secondhand clothing play an important part in fashion sustainability. Although Russia and Eastern Europe are known for their secondhand stores and markets, buying secondhand garments was considered a sign of poverty in the Soviet Union. For the newer generations, things are shifting....
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13/1/2023
Maternity apparel is no longer a shapeless outfit designed for maximum comfort and nothing else. Contemporary mothers-to-be see no reason that maternity apparel can’t be stylish and fashionable as they juggle a normal work and social life. Scores of social media influencers, fashion magazines and celebrities have changed the way maternity clothing is looked at and pregnant women are lapping up this niche clothing lines world over....
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13/1/2023
Retail prices for garments in the United States increased by four per cent year over year in November 2022. Month over month retail prices were 0.3 per cent higher. Compared to the average before Covid, clothing prices were 1.7 per cent higher. In November, consumer spending was flat month over month and two per cent higher year over year. Spending on clothing was 0.8 per cent lower month over month and up 0.1 per cent year over year....
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11/1/2023
Slow and steady growth may win in the end for apparel in 2023. It's not as sexy, but it's real and that's something for the industry to consider as it wakes up from its New Year hangover, writes Robert Antoshak, Gherzi Textil Organisation partner.
As we begin another year, it’s hard not to worry about our industry’s prospects and opportunities for growth. For sure, the industry has been knocked around over the past few years and 2022 was no exception....
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10/1/2023
The latest data from the US Office of Textile and Apparel (OTEXA) reveals that US apparel import volumes fell sharply in November, representing the worst performance since the pandemic.
US apparel imports, according to the latest data from OTEXA for the month of November, fell by more than 30% in quantity from a year ago, and nearly 15% in value....
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10/1/2023
January imports into the US appear to be returning to what was normal prior to 2020, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation (NRF) Global Port Tracker.
With a pandemic-driven surge finally over, monthly import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports has fallen below the 2m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units mark– one 20-foot container or its equivalent – and should remain there through most of this spring, according to the Global Port Tracker report released by The National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates....
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9/1/2023
The apparel retail and business analysts at Just Style's parent company, GlobalData, held a webinar recently to round up the key themes and trends that have taken the industry by storm, and uncover what the industry will encounter in 2023 and beyond.
In the webinar titled ‘Key Themes shaping the future of the global apparel market’, GlobalData’s group retail research director, Maureen Hinton, along with apparel analysts summarised major challenges that will be plaguing the apparel industry across the world in 2023. Moreover, they highlighted themes and trends for the upcoming year which are expected to shape and dominate the industry moving forward....
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9/1/2023
The children’s wear industry is becoming sustainable. Parents belonging to the eco-conscious age are readily exercising conscious consumption for their children. They are cognizant of the fact that sustainable clothing has a twofold benefit where it serves the larger cause of rendering a greener environment and at the same time vouches for comfortable organic clothing for children....
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9/1/2023
Big data is the boon the fashion sector has been bestowed with. The primary aim is to identify customer segment through the analysis of customer preferences worldwide and provide insights into the changes in mindset with culture. With this, fashion retailers can target a wider audience for their designs, thus, bringing more potential for outreach and revenue. Big data can also drive one-to-one engagement with shoppers. With nearly 1 in 3 people making purchases online, many fashion companies have personalized their e-commerce journeys. Brands have been able to offer customers what they want and when they want it to cultivate loyalty....
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9/1/2023
January is always a sobering month for retailers. Consumers are cutting back after the expense of the festive period, non-essential spending is significantly reduced, and retailers are looking ahead to the remainder of the year with caution as they attempt to evaluate how rising mortgage costs, energy price rises and inflation in essential goods will affect their bottom line during 2023. Couple that with rising supply chain costs and forecasting for the year ahead is coming with a great deal of uncertainty....
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6/1/2023
In a market fraught with post-lockdown effects and a serious energy, housing and inflation crises, the Fraser Group, Next, Primark, Marks & Spencer, French Connection among other brands shone like beacons of hope for the whole sector in the UK in 2022. High street brands in the UK proved their resilience and might by taking on the post-pandemic challenge head on and winning. As per Drapersonline, the list of winners is led by the Fraser Group, Primark, Marks & Spencer, French Connection among others too showed the way....
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6/1/2023
The fashion industry has been trying to overcome environmental issues for quite a while, with limited success, until the era of biomimicry.
Biomimicry presents a raft of options to the fashion industry that can be used to achieve true sustainability, which has been found to be a little more complicated than once assumed, with the acknowledgement of microplastic pollution and microfibre waste....
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6/1/2023
Just Style has evaluated the scores within GlobalData's Apparel Intelligence Center to reveal the top ten apparel sourcing countries to watch in 2023.
Once again, we have a real mix of likely and unlikely suspects in Just Style‘s top ten list of apparel sourcing countries to watch in 2023, including two intercontinental countries and two based in Central America....
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5/1/2023
US retailers seeking clothing made from recycled materials are relying more heavily on countries closer to home to meet their sourcing needs, rather than Asia, a new study has revealed.
The latest issue of Sustainability features a new study which explores US retailers’ sourcing strategies for clothing made from recycled textile materials and suggests that while the vast majority (over 90%) of US regular new clothing came from developing countries as of 2022, as many as 43% of the sampled clothing items made from recycled textile materials were sourced from developed countries....
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4/1/2023
Recycling textiles through sophisticated industrial processes in the apparel segment is now a thing and it’s not easy. It’s now more of an obligation rather than a choice for EU countries to collect and sort their used textiles so that there is less wastage in the apparel segment as a whole. It’s still a niche yet essential segment with the USP of being environmentally friendly. However, there is no sure fire way to ensure the quality of fibres used and blending ratios of the chemicals used in dyes, prints and other variables does not hinder the recycling process or lower its efficiency to make it unpractical in the long run....
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4/1/2023
Like it or not, the future of China as a market or sourcing base for Western fashion companies remains one of the most heated debates in 2023. University of Delaware's associate professor of fashion and apparel studies, Dr Sheng Lu, uses GlobalData's apparel brand and retail filings to investigate.
China is a US$300-$350bn annual fashion retail market, but its economic growth has slowed amid various new uncertainties in recent years. Likewise, while China continued to serve as the largest source of apparel for many Western markets statistically, its prospect is shadowed by the ongoing trade and geopolitical tensions with the United States, increasing competition from other exporting countries, and fashion companies’ switch to nearshoring....
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3/1/2023
To achieve a more sustainable future, the UK apparel industry must embrace technology, collaborate across the supply chain, promote employee well-being and win buy-in from the very top. So says business information company Textiles Intelligence.
Technology will form the backbone of the industry’s strategy of achieving sustainability. In fact, digital technologies will represent an essential component in the delivery of the change which the industry requires in order to realise a more sustainable future....
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3/1/2023
The US apparel industry has welcomed the passage of the INFORM Consumers Act, after the legislation was voted on in the US Senate and House.
The Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces (INFORM) Consumers Act (Inform) legislation was introduced in October last year. It aims to increase online marketplace transparency and accountability to combat what is being described as the rapidly growing problem of fakes and stolen goods sold through these channels....
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3/1/2023
The National Cotton Council (NCC) has applauded the approval of legislation by the US House and Senate Committee to help stabilise and offer relief to the country’s cotton sector.
The assistance, included in the FY23 omnibus spending package, includes US$3.74bn for disaster assistance for US ranchers and farmers, including cotton and other row crop producers....
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3/1/2023
2023 in the apparel world – a new year, a fresh opportunity to look at the successes and losses of the previous one, manifesting our wins for the next 12 months and weighing up a game plan to tackle our worries. Grab that cuppa, sit back as we might be here a while.
When the Covid pandemic hit (all those years ago), the expectation was apparel supply chains, and the apparel industry overall would return to normal operations by 2023. But the last three years have been anything but normal. It’s already a rocky start to 2023 for global apparel supply chains, as Covid again rears its ugly head....
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28/12/2022
Retail sales in the US rose seven per cent between early November 2022 and December 2022 end. So says Mastercard. This encompasses a majority of the holiday season as steep discounts lured deal-hungry consumers. However, this year's holiday retail sales growth is less than the eight per cent increase last year as decades-high inflation, rising interest rates and the threat of a recession turned consumers cautious....
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28/12/2022
Formal wear is a niche in the fashion sector that proves difficult to gauge statistics wise simply because the definition wise formal wear includes a wide range of apparels and continues to expand. Post pandemic, the lines have blurred as traditional occasions for formal wear have lessened and its definition even more diluted....
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27/12/2022
The European textile industry is facing a loss of competitiveness. For one the energy cost in Europe is six times higher than in the US, China, and neighbouring countries. This factor alone has almost erased the business case for producing in the EU. At present, many textile and clothing companies are producing at net loss or have shut down production. Industrial conditions have worsened in such a way that there is no business case to invest in Europe or buy products produced or processed in the EU....
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26/12/2022
The secondhand luxury goods market is growing at nine per cent a year. Secondhand luxury goods represent premium personal products that are purchased by a second or later end-user.
They generally include antique furniture, footwear, apparel, artwork, jewelry, and fashion accessories such as bags and watches. Several luxury goods are usually durable with an extended warranty period, which makes them suitable for the resale market. In line with this, the re-selling of these items instead of discarding them also offers economic benefits to the seller....
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26/12/2022
For the first nine months of 2022, the EU’s apparel imports grew by 25 per cent.
Apparel imports from China grew by 25 per cent. Imports from Turkey grew by 14 per cent. Imports from India grew by 25 per cent. Imports from Vietnam grew by 29 per cent. Imports from Pakistan grew by 30 per cent, Cambodia 41 per cent and Morocco 12 per cent during the January to September period of the current year. And imports from Bangladesh grew by 43 per cent....
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26/12/2022
The maternity clothing market is growing at six percent a year. The market is expanding thanks to a growing number of working women who do so even while pregnant.
Modern mothers are increasingly choosing maternity clothes that are appropriate for the occasion and the location, thanks to the rising influence of fashion magazines, social media, and celebrity endorsements on millennials. Several clothing companies are concentrating on creating new and fashionable maternity collections in order to take advantage of the growing demand for maternity gear....
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23/12/2022
The market for denim fabrics is growing at four percent a year.
The United States will be the largest market, with India likely to experience the most growth, followed by China and Latin America.The market was 3,299.36 million meters in 2016. It reached 3,576.68 million meters in 2018, 3,429.93 million meters in 2019, 3,737.21 million meters in 2020, and 4,105.64 million meters in 2021.Despite being smaller than China, Latin America, and the United States, India’s market is expected to grow at the fastest rate between 2018 and 2023. India’s market is supposed to arrive at 419.26 million meters in 2023 from 228.39 million meters in 2016. It has the potential to reach 382.49 million meters this year....
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22/12/2022
Sourcing diversification, supply chain agility and sustainable operations are key for brands to navigate the current crisis and successfully sail through 2023.
2023 is around the corner and three years post-Covid; global apparel supply chains are still in limbo. While the initial fallout was a result of dampened consumer demand leading to order cancellations at the supplier end, headlines in the subsequent years have been dominated by higher raw material costs, increased fuel and shipping costs, rising inflation and a cost-of-living crisis that is having a detrimental effect on consumer spending. Following on from our Outlook 2023: Challenges and Opportunities feature, we now consider the steps brands need to take to ensure survival including sourcing diversification, creating a more agile supply chain and shifting to a more sustainable operation....
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22/12/2022
The European Energy Ministry has finally set a 'market correction mechanism' and capped gas wholesale prices to support the economy and industry against wavering prices, however, Euratex says the textile industry needs more support against foreign markets.
On Monday (19 December), the EU energy ministers reached a temporary consensus on setting the market correction mechanism to protect its citizens and the market from excessive gas prices after months of deliberation....
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21/12/2022
The lastest Covid outbreak sweeping China has begun impacting the global textile and apparel supply chain, an industry expert has warned, raising uncertainty over production delays and factory closures.
The Omicron variant of the Covid virus is making its way across several big cities in China after President Xi Jinping made a U-turn on his former zero-Covid policy of containment earlier this month....
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20/12/2022
2023 could be a year full of risks but also opportunities for the industry.
The Ukraine war, inflation, soaring energy costs and a turbulent market environment are all taking their toll on the global apparel and textiles industry. Weakened consumer demand is inevitable next year, while the US and China trade war is likely to continue impacting supply chain decisions. While challenges will be rife, opportunities will be found in sustainability and reducing waste, investment in technology and exploring ways to bring the supply chain closer to home....
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19/12/2022
Cotton had enjoyed significant growth and prices for a while but the current status is that its consumption worldwide is on the downslide with China, India and Pakistan, the three of cotton’s largest customers, slow down on cotton requirement. As per recently released US Department of Agriculture (USDA) figures, China being the largest customer and importer is the industry barometer on the direction in which cotton heads and statistics reveal in China, consumption projected down one million bales this month to 35.5 million, marginally above the previous year but more than five million below two years prior. USDA cites many reasons such as declining supplies, downsizing of orders for yarn from fabric and apparel companies, lower profit margins for spinning mills and the overall higher inflation across the board....
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19/12/2022
Fast fashion is going out of fashion, but a complete industry transformation will take time. In an exclusive interview, the International Apparel Federation’s (IAF) president, Cem Altan discusses the need for education, digitalisation, higher quality pieces combined with lower production to reduce waste as well as fairer prices to ensure everyone embarks on the journey together....
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19/12/2022
United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai has spoken of the significance of Africa’s integration into global supply chains after the signing of an MoU between the two nations.
During the US-Africa Business Forum, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Cooperation for Trade and Investment between the US and the African Continental Free Trade Area with Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Wamkele Men.
“The future is Africa – for the United States and the global economy,” Tai said in a statement following the Forum....
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15/12/2022
European social partners representing those working in the EU clothing and textile sector have outlined several points they say the EU Commission needs to consider to ensure the forthcoming industrial policy is "fit for purpose".
IndustriALL European Trade Union and Euratex note the EU’s forthcoming industrial policy, which features a strategy for sustainable and circular textiles, aims to ensure that by 2030, textile products placed on the EU market are long-lived and recyclable with the industry moving from a linear to a circular business model....
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15/12/2022
The UK consumer price index (CPI) rose by 10.7 per cent in the 12 months to November this year, down from 11.1 per cent in October. On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.4 per cent during the month compared with a rise of 0.7 per cent in November last year. Prices of clothing and footwear rose, overall, by 7.5 per cent in the year to November 2022, down from 8.5 per cent in October....
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14/12/2022
The growing personalised fashion market is ripe for the taking. In a Just Style exclusive, Michael Colarossi, vice president, product line management, innovation, and sustainability at custom design and manufacture specialists, Avery Dennison Retail Branding and Information Solutions (RBIS), explains how mainstream fashion brands can capitalise on this lucrative opportunity....
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14/12/2022
Fashion brands that do not conduct business with a sustainability-first approach are putting their future profitability at risk, industry experts warn.
As due-diligence legislation across the globe moves closer to being realised, fashion brands are being warned to take the necessary steps to future-proof their supply chains from a sustainability perspective before it is imposed upon them....
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13/12/2022
The US Administration has not given an indication to date on whether it intends to lower, or eliminate, the Section 301 additional tariffs it has imposed on imported goods from China.
According to international law firm Travis, Sandler & Rosenberg, there are a number of ways for importers, exporters, and manufacturers to effectively escape or limit the impact of these tariffs....
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13/12/2022
Supply chain agility will be crucial for clothing brands looking to secure their industry positions and grow in a world where macroeconomic pressures are increasingly making for a difficult business environment, a group of experts has conceded.
Over the last three years, the Covid pandemic, rising wages and transport costs, a shortage of workers and rising inflation impacting consumer spending, have all contributed to chaos in global clothing supply chains....
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13/12/2022
The value of UK goods imports decreased by £1.4 billion, or 2.6 per cent, in October this year, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). However, removing the effect of inflation, imports of goods rose by £0.9 billion, or 2.3 per cent. The value of goods exports fell by £0.7 billion, or 2.2 per cent in the month, with exports to both European Union (EU) and non-EU countries falling....
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12/12/2022
With the Bank of England predicting the UK will be mired in recession until the second half of 2024, the country’s clothing industry has been left considering how much worse the slump will be due to Brexit. Keith Nuthall investigates.
The UK’s central bank has put Brexit aside to focus on more recent challenges – saying that “high energy prices and materially tighter financial conditions” (through interest rate increases fighting inflation) “will weigh on spending”....
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12/12/2022
From January 2022 to October 2022, America’s apparel imports grew by 30 per cent.
Imports so far in 2022 have been the best of all time surpassing previous best figures that were witnessed during the same period in 2019.With a substantial rise in import values, all Asian apparel exporting countries experienced increase in their shipment to the US during January 2022 to October 2022. Imports from Bangladesh grew by 48 per cent. Imports from China grew by 20 per cent. Imports from Vietnam grew by 18 per cent. Imports from India were up by 45 per centwhile shipments from Indonesia to the US were up 47 per cent....
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12/12/2022
From January 2022 to October 2022 jeans imports into the United States increased by 24 percent.
As retailers and brands brought in goods for their final fourth-quarter push, women’s and girls’ blue denim trouser shipments slightly surpassed men’s and boys’ jeans imports. Imports of women’s jeans rose by 25 percent while imports of men’s jeans were up 24 percent....
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9/12/2022
Will China remain a stable, reliable supplier to the world's clothing brands? That's the question of the day for the apparel industry, writes Gherzi Textil Organisation partner, Robert Antoshak.
There was a fire in Urumqi, China. And repercussions in Beijing. Media reports suggest ten people died in a high-rise fire recently. A tragedy. But for some observers, the tragedy was avoidable; if only firefighters had arrived at the building sooner....
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9/12/2022
The latest data from the US Office of Textile and Apparel (OTEXA) reveals that during October, apparel shipments into the US fell year-on-year as consumers cut spending habits on money worries.
US apparel imports, according to the latest data from OTEXA for the month of October, fell by more than 22% from a year ago, the worst performance since the pandemic....
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9/12/2022
December imports into the US will be “significantly below records set earlier this year”, according to the latest figures from the National Retail Federation (NRF) Global Port Tracker.
The Global Port Tracker from NRF and Hackett Associates notes that while monthly cargo numbers for the US repeatedly broke previous records this spring before hitting a new all-time high of 2.4 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in May, volume has fallen since and Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said current lower imports are the result of retailers balancing inventory built up earlier against slowing consumer demand and expectations for 2023....
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8/12/2022
US and European clothing brands are increasingly turning to Egypt for their sourcing needs; a country offering shorter lead times as supply chain upheaval globally leaves brands in limbo.
While sluggish consumer demand in the US and Europe has seen sourcing orders slow in the third quarter of 2022 – after a spike post-Covid – many clothing suppliers are still betting on Egypt for the future....
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8/12/2022
US’ imports of textiles and apparel have continued to grow despite the impact of the economic challenges on discretionary expenditure globally. It rose by 22.76 per cent to $114.787 billion in the first ten months of 2022, compared to $93.505 billion in the same period of 2021. With 25.60 per cent share, China continues to be the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, followed by Vietnam with 14.53 per cent....
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7/12/2022
Economic activity in the US manufacturing sector contracted in November 2022 for the first time since May 2020.
The November manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index registered 49 percent, 1.2 percentage points lower than the 50.2 percent recorded in October 2022. Six manufacturing industries reported growth in November, led by apparel, leather and allied products, while among the 12 industries reporting contraction were textile mills, furniture and related products....
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7/12/2022
Investment in growing Africa's clothing sector is being stunted as consumers cut spending on the back of rising inflation and concerns of a looming recession.
The US and Europe, two primary export markets for Africa, are seeing their consumers reduce spending as inflation and recession concerns grow, hampering a rebound for the textile and clothing sector following the Covid-19 pandemic....
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7/12/2022
Some brands have been so preoccupied with sustainability messaging and marketing that they've forgotten to put their money where their mouth is, writes Coats Digital's brand director Stuart McCready-Stocks.
We all know the fashion industry and fashion brands have a bad rap when it comes to sustainability and the environment. We know our industry is the second largest polluter on the planet – responsible for 10% of all global greenhouse gases and 79 billion cubic metres of water every year....
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5/12/2022
Jerseys and T-shirts will be the top performing products in the apparel segment during 2020-2025. The global jersey market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.78 per cent in this period, while that of T-shirts may grow at an annual rate of 6.55 per cent. Global apparel market is expected to grow at 4.50 per cent to reach $1,574 billion by the end of 2025....
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2/12/2022
US’ imports of knitted sportswear are on an annual growth trajectory. The COVID-19 pandemic had slightly affected the shipment, but it recovered soon. Latest data shows that the US’ imports of the product were worth $61.091 million in the first nine months this year. Last year, the country’s imports of these apparel products had amounted to $72.614 million....
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1/12/2022
The US apparel and retail sectors have welcomed a move by lawmakers to pass legislation to prevent a rail strike they said could “devastate” the country’s economy and impact their sectors.
The US House voted this week to approve H.J. Res. 100. The resolution, which now heads to the Senate, will implement the Tentative Agreement that was negotiated between the administration, the rail labour unions and the railroads....
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1/12/2022
Due to the energy crisis in Europe it has been receiving requests for thicker winter clothing to cope with the cold since the use of in-house heaters has been reduced. So that is a market in which Hayleys sees an opportunity. Hayleys Fabrics, based in Sri Lanka, produces around 17,326 metric tons of fabrics a year....
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1/12/2022
Every cloud has a silver lining and industry analysts are predicting good things for 2023. After rampant inflation in 202, with disruption in supply chains after the pandemic, there is a positive projection that the cost of goods as a whole, including apparel, should start to come down by next year....
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1/12/2022
The much-awaited ‘The State of Fashion 2023’ report launched on the second day of the annual gathering of industry experts in London by the Business of Fashion Voices in association with McKinsey & Co reiterates a fact that has already been trending, i.e. global slowdown of the fashion sector....
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30/11/2022
The global fashion industry is headed for a global slowdown in 2023, a new report has revealed, with supply chain pressures, the Ukraine war and rising inflation all creating a bleak picture.
McKinsey & Company’s annual The State of Fashion 2023 report published with The Business of Fashion, highlights how over half of global fashion industry executives expect conditions to worsen in 2023....
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29/11/2022
The global sportswear market is growing by six per cent a year. The rising demand for comfortable yet stylish apparel is driving the sports wearables market growth. During the lockdown, consumption has increased even more. Besides, its use while playing sports and exercising, this comfortable apparel can be worn at and off home. Demand for joggers, hoodies, and sneakers has increased in large numbers and varieties by adults and children. The footwear segment holds a market share of 33 per cent. This is attributable to increased sports activities worldwide and growing awareness about various fitness programs....
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29/11/2022
American imports of suits from January 2022 to September 2022 grew by 105 per cent. Of total suit imports, US imports from China grew by 158 per cent year on year. Suit imports from Vietnam and Indonesia grew by 148 per cent and 216 per cent. Suit imports from India grew by 93 per cent. And imports from Bangladesh grew by 142 per cent....
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29/11/2022
The global luxury market has grown 21 per cent from 2021, says a recent report by Bain & Co. and Altagamma. Despite worsening economic conditions, high inflation and rising costs of living, coupled with ongoing Covid restrictions, some 95 per cent luxury brands have clocked in positive growth in 2022....
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29/11/2022
At the beginning of 2022, across the world few brands were surpassing their pre-Covid performances. They benefited from a burst of pent-up consumer demand that was expected to continue. But the Ukraine War, cost-of-living crisis and ongoing supply chain issues has eroded this optimism somewhat. Next year will likely be a continuation of what the fashion industry faced in the second half of 2022....
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28/11/2022
America’s imports of garments between January 2022 to September 2022 increased by 34 per cent. However imports in September 2022 fell compared to imports in August 2022. Though the import value fell in September, it is still the second highest in 2022. All major Asian apparel exporting countries have seen significant increases in their shipment to the US during January to September. China is still the largest supplier to the US though its share in the US market has shrunk to 22 per cent in 2022 compared to 2021....
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28/11/2022
Just Style catches up with Euratex green chief Mauro Scalia to understand the impact of the incoming German Due Diligence law on fashion brands where their supply chains are concerned.
From January 2023 brands selling fashion in Germany, or operating within the country will be bound by the Due Diligence Law concerning environmental and social responsibility....
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26/11/2022
The global denim market is growing at six per cent a year. Major factors that are expected to boost the growth of the denim market are the rise in the urbanization and the increasing trend of denim shirts. The growing popularity of stretchable denim jeans by blending cotton with synthetic material is further anticipated to propel the growth of the denim market. The rise in consumer income levels is escalating the growth of the denim market....
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26/11/2022
The European Union’s imports of textile and apparel increased 13 per cent in August 2022. From January 2022 to August 2022 the year on year increase was ten per cent. In terms of import value, textile and apparel imports in August 2022 were up 50 per cent and the cumulative year on year growth rose 35 per cent from January 2022 to August 2022....
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21/11/2022
Based on the latest trade data released by the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) and the US International Trade Commission (USITC), this article analyzed the US apparel import patterns in the first three quarters of 2022.
The findings, outlined by Dr Sheng Lu, associate professor in the Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University Delaware, help fashion brands, retailers, and suppliers navigate the shifting business environment and capture the critical emerging US apparel import trends....
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21/11/2022
UK retail sales volumes rose by 0.6 per cent in October 2022 compared to the previous month.
So says the Office for National Statistics. The value of retail sales rose 1.8 per cent compared to the previous month. Looking purely at volumes and on a month-on-month basis, increases were seen in all of the main sectors apart from food stores. Non-food stores sales volumes rose by 1.1 per cent. Clothing stores sales volumes rose by 2.5 per cent month on month but were 3.7 per cent below their February 2020 levels. And department stores volumes fell by 0.3 per cent. The proportion of retail sales taking place online was 26.1 per cent, a broadly consistent level since May 2022....
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19/11/2022
Factory workers in apparel supply chains across the globe are more likely to quit due to wage and benefit violations, relative to violations of other code provisions, such as environment protection and safety standards, according to a new study.
For the study, Professor Sarosh Kuruvilla, from the School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), Cornell University, and his co-author, Chunyun Li, from the London School of Economics and Political Science, secured data from a multinational company, dubbed Pangia, and compared code violations and turnover rates at 622 factories in 28 countries, according to a press release by ILR....
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18/11/2022
US retail sales grew again in October as consumers set aside concerns about inflation and many got a jump start on the holiday season, the National Retail Federation (NRF) said.
“October retail sales data confirms that consumers continue to stretch their dollars on household priorities, including gifts for family and loved ones this holiday season,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said....
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16/11/2022
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has called for developing countries and LDCs to explore ways of diversifying their exports to include “climate-conscious” products.
Speaking at a WTO event on the sidelines of the COP27 climate summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan cited the urgent need to transition to low-carbon economies. She said product standards are a considerable barrier for developing countries but that there were some companies that are ready to make the transition that should serve as an example....
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16/11/2022
The UK, US, Norway and the Netherlands have pledged to roll out green maritime links between the countries at this year’s COP27 conference in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt.
So-called ‘green shipping corridors’ are specific maritime routes decarbonised from end to end, including both land-side infrastructure and vessels.
Setting up such routes involves using zero-emission fuel or energy, putting in place refuelling or recharging infrastructure at ports, and deploying zero-emission capable vessels to demonstrate cleaner, more environmentally-friendly shipping on a given route....
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15/11/2022
The world spent two years in lockdown, with varying intensities based on local laws and work from home became the norm. Indeed, professionals are finding it hard to break in 2022. Is it any wonder then that sleepwear and loungewear the preferred garments for spending time at home has turned to comfortable clothing at work as well? In a study, Technavio, a leading global market research company has stated the global category classified as sleepwear and loungewear is experiencing growth momentum since 2022 with CAGR of 10.21 per cent. The categories’ market share is predicted to reach $29,398.4 million in the next five years with the market growth at a 9.66 per cent year on year. The report was compiled after researching consumers in APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and the Middle East and Africa....
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14/11/2022
The US consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) rose by 0.4 per cent in October on a seasonally-adjusted basis, the same as in September, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS). Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased by 7.7 per cent before seasonal adjustment. The energy index increased by 1.8 per cent over the month as the gasoline and electricity indices rose, but the natural gas index decreased....
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11/11/2022
There is no dispute over the tremendous success of fast fashion and despite questions being raised about it using the planet as a dumping ground, its popularity continues. Globally, this segment of the fashion industry grew from $91.23 billion in 2021 to $99.23 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate of 8.8 per cent. Millennials and Gen Z can’t seem to have enough of it with the lure of quick trends and affordable pricing. However, as this consumption continues, there is a cost that the planet is paying....
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10/11/2022
New research from Avery Dennison suggests US$15.3bn is lost as a result of supply chain waste stemming from stock inefficiencies.
Data gathered in Avery Dennison’s new report The Missing Billions: The Real Cost of Supply Chain Waste suggests 6% of stock is lost – either through the 2% which is damaged or perished or the additional 4% which is overproduced. This loss is the equivalent of 3% of annual profits....
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9/11/2022
US denim imports in September 2022 rose 27 per cent compared to September 2021. However this is a decline from a 31 percent rise in the first eight months of the year and a 42 percent first-half rise.
A slowdown in consumer demand has caused merchants to take stock of their inventory positions. US denim imports in September 2022 from Bangladesh increased 42 percent year over year. This was down slightly from a 46 percent hike in August 2022....
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8/11/2022
Non-food retail sales in the UK fell 1.2% in the three months to October, with clothing and footwear sales declining in particular according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
The BRC’s chief executive Helen Dickinson has warned for many, Christmas will be more gloom than glitter as families focus on making ends meet with mortgage payment rises, and retail could be set for a bumpy ride ahead as a result.
Non-food retail sales in the UK fell 1.2% in the three months to October, with clothing and footwear sales declining in particular according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
The BRC’s chief executive Helen Dickinson has warned for many, Christmas will be more gloom than glitter as families focus on making ends meet with mortgage payment rises, and retail could be set for a bumpy ride ahead as a result....
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4/11/2022
Robert P. Antoshak, Gherzi Textil Organisation partner explains why all roads seem to indicate the end of globalisation for the apparel industry and what it means for sourcing executives moving forward.
We’ve read the headlines. Seen the markets. Experienced changes in everyday life. Stuff costs more or is harder to get. We live in a time of rapid change — and unwinding. In fact, some say we’re living through the end of globalisation for the apparel industry. That may be an exaggeration, but the fundamental underpinnings supporting globalisation are weakening....
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3/11/2022
The apparel manufacturing industry recorded the highest growth in October, according to the US Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which was down on last month at 50.2%.
The US manufacturing sector continues to expand, but at the lowest rate since the coronavirus pandemic recovery began, according to the Institute for Supply Management (Ism) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee....
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2/11/2022
Fashion industry is always the scapegoat when it comes to pollution and environmental damage. While many experts claim the industry is second biggest global polluter in after oil and is responsible for 20 per cent of water pollution and 10 per cent of carbon dioxide output, there is no strong research evidence to back this claim....
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1/11/2022
With ongoing price increases making shoppers increasingly selective about where they shop and what they buy, it is more crucial than ever for apparel retailers to pay close attention to their customers’ needs.
In GlobalData’s UK monthly survey conducted in September 2022, value for money was highlighted as the most influential apparel purchase driver for consumers, so retailers must offer good quality, classic and multifunctional products to reduce cost per wear. GlobalData’s apparel analyst Pippa Stephens explains....
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31/10/2022
The global intimate wear market is growing by eight per cent a year. Rise in awareness regarding hygiene, fluctuation in demographic dividends, and customization of product portfolios are boosting the growth of intimate wear market. New measurement and design techniques combined with production methods and innovative materials are transforming the quality, range, and applications of intimate wear....
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31/10/2022
The apparel market in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region is expected to reach a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% between 2020-2025 according to the latest figures from GlobalData, and brands are being urged to capitalise on the growing opportunity in resale.
According to a report from GlobalData, the resale market is growing in popularity among APAC consumers, with 27% of shoppers intending to purchase clothing via resale in the next 12 months....
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31/10/2022
Sustainability and brand authenticity are key decisions for UK shoppers when making a fashion purchase, new data shows. According to the latest research from ecommerce platform Centra, UK consumers are increasingly rating sustainability and brand authenticity as key consideration factors in their fashion buying decisions....
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28/10/2022
The pandemic rang in bad tidings for apparel exporters in South and Southeast Asia as the dip in US’ imports was significant. Compared to imports worth $111.033 billion in 2019, year 2020 recorded a dip to $89.596 billion. The trend took an upward turn in 2022 as The US Department of Commerce released figures for the first half of the year. The import figures indicate that US economy is witnessing fast recovery, and the world’s largest economy is continuing to support economic recovery in developing countries....
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28/10/2022
The global fast fashion market size is expected to grow from $91.23 billion in 2021 to $99.23 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8 per cent. The fast fashion market is expected to grow to $133.43 billion in 2026 at a CAGR of 7.7 per cent. Whilst the numbers look very attractive, it is actually an indication of how this sector can drastically affect the planet with harmful effluents and emissions. Major players in the fast fashion market include Zara (Inditex), H&M Group, Fast Retailing (Uniqlo), Gap, Forever 21, Mango, Esprit, Primark, New Look, and River Island. Western Europe was the largest region in the fast fashion market in 2021. Asia Pacific was the second largest region in the fast fashion market. This is what the EU is afraid of....
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27/10/2022
Amid consumers’ financial concerns and economic uncertainties heading into the holiday season, fourth-quarter apparel industry sales are expected to decline in the US. With average prices forecasted to rise 2 per cent, dollar sales are projected to fall by 1 per cent, according to the National Purchase Diary Panel (NPD) Group....
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25/10/2022
The global garments market is growing at four per cent a year. High-end and luxury brands are moving towards a see-now-buy-now model, in order to capitalize on consumers inclination for discretionary expenditure, thereby appealing to their desire for instant gratification.
Reshoring (in the United States and Europe) and sustainable production are key strategies of manufacturers who are making significant investments in order to gain higher social acceptance, and to ensure faster deliveries with provisions for customizations....
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24/10/2022
Polyester yarns already make up nearly half the world’s clothing and even this figure is set to increase, as the athleisure, activewear and performance wear clothing trend becomes even more popular with consumers looking for stretchable and resistant garments.
This would mean good news for the casual wear segment, if only polyester was a more sustainable and environment-friendly textile option. Being made from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), which is the most common type of plastic in the world, it remains an environmentally harmful plastic that will eventually become waste and increase the global microplastic problem....
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24/10/2022
Around 15 per cent of global fashion consumers are concerned about sustainability and consistently make purchasing decisions to lower their impact. But this percentage is likely to increase sharply, to more than half of fashion consumers as more shoppers gravitate towards sustainable practices in the coming years, creating new opportunities for brands....
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21/10/2022
An all-new body positivity and size inclusivity fashion portfolio that includes clothes that suit a diverse range of body types is the latest buzzword among brand and retailers these days. There is currently a strong focus on launching a more versatile plus-size portfolio in response to increased demand for this segment.
Although the pandemic affected the sales of plus-size clothing due to inherent manufacturing concerns such as fabric and labour shortages, order cancellations, lower exports as well as tight purse strings on non-essential items, the demand for this segment is now back with a vengeance....
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21/10/2022
The athleisure market is growing at nine per cent a year.
North America dominates the global market. Customers in North America indulge in fitness/sports activities, which is driving the demand for athleisure in the region. Moreover, the increasing presence of international and domestic brands, and the rising disposable income of people, coupled with the desire to adopt improved lifestyles, is bolstering the demand for athleisure in the region....
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21/10/2022
The denim market is growing at six per cent a year. Rise in disposable income levels is escalating the growth of the denim market.
Other major factors are the rise in urbanization and the trend of denim shirts. The growing popularity of stretchable denim jeans by blending cotton with synthetic material is further anticipated to propel the growth of the denim market. Moreover, initiatives to improve product manufacturing are further estimated to cushion the growth of the denim market....
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21/10/2022
After making a strong recovery from the pandemic, Europe’s luxury goods industry must now contend with the challenges brought by much higher than anticipated inflation, particularly around energy prices.
Almost 30 per cent of the European luxury goods industry's revenues are derived from abroad, with travel a key driver of income. The industry, which is at the very top of the consumption pyramid, managed to exit the pandemic in a stronger position than many others by significantly improving e-commerce coverage, especially with regards to the all-important Asian customers, who were affected by strict travel restrictions....
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21/10/2022
Over 60 per cent of consumers in the US will cut down on non-essential categories like apparel, footwear, jewellery, and accessories if they are forced to reduce their holiday shopping budget. So says International Business Machines (IBM).
Nearly half of consumers will spend less if inflation continues to drive price increases. As Covid pandemic concerns abate for many consumers, worries are shifting towards uncertain economic and supply chain conditions this holiday season....
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20/10/2022
As the effect of stimulus dollars wanes and consumers spend more on services, demand for goods like apparel could slow, according to a recent report by Cotton Incorporated. Consumer spending pattern have changed, with stimulus supporting increased spending on goods. The shipping crisis has also made it difficult for retailers to keep up with consumer demand....
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18/10/2022
With the global menswear market expected to register a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period of 2022 to 2027, the demand for occasion-specific clothing among a rising class of consumers with more spending power.
Chinos and casual wear garments are the bestsellers
The global menswear product portfolio is segmented by product type, distribution channel, price ranges, and geographical layouts among others. The distribution retail market is segmented into offline and online retail stores in both emerging and established markets across the globe. The versatile product portfolio for 2022 includes new trends such as athleisure, high-street, anti-fit, sustainable fashion, and androgynous fashion. Commando shoes, bowling shirts, and ethical fashion apparel as an addition to the usual portfolio of top and bottom wear....
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18/10/2022
Post pandemic, the US is sitting pretty, watching the US dollar rise in value and other currencies decline. The latest on the Euro is that hit a 20-year low and the Pound Sterling just experienced a crash that it hadn’t seen in the last 40 years. In this currency related chaos, exporters from countries with weakening currencies are hoping to cash in on lower prices but there is a flip side to it – importing the raw material is becoming dearer, therefore shooting up production costs locally....
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18/10/2022
We are in the midst of a real-time, seismic shift as consumers transform expectations of global supply and demand models.
The pandemic exposed the fragility of many supply chain networks. Global economies and brands suffered from an inability to adapt dynamically to shifting signals of demand, consumer preferences, labour requirements, and transportation, storage, inventory, as well as trade policy changes....
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14/10/2022
The European Union (EU) exports to preferential partners surpassed the EUR1 trillion (US$900bn) mark for the first time in 2021, according to the European Commission's Second Annual Report on the Implementation and Enforcement of EU Trade Agreements.
The European Commission explains in its new report on EU trade agreements that the EU’s exports in 2021 were EUR7.2bn higher thanks to the removal of several trade barriers between 2015 and 2020, and points out EU trade deals mean increased exports, more stable economic relations and secure access to resources....
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14/10/2022
The US Consumer Price Index September inflation figures are up 0.4% on a seasonally adjusted basis, despite apparel showing a 0.3% decline, and a supply chain expert predicts a wider fall later this year.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September reveals apparel’s annual inflation fell to -0.3% from 0.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis, and it fell to 2.2% from 5.5% on an unadjusted basis....
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14/10/2022
The US apparel industry has mixed views on the next stage of The Office of the United States Trade Representative's Four-Year Review of China 301 Tariffs for US imports and its handling to date.
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has announced the next steps of its four-year review on the Section 301 tariffs against China, following requests for continuation from the US’ domestic industries, however the US apparel industry has mixed views on the upcoming public comment part of the process and handling so far....
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13/10/2022
The US Department of Labor has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on guidelines around how contractors are classified, much to the concern of US retailers.
The rule could result in more people being deemed employees instead of “independent contractors”, that are granted federal protections like minimum wage and overtime pay which the retail industry believes could increase costs for businesses.
When employers classify their workforce as contractors they are not under obligation to pay payroll taxes that fund Social Security or unemployment insurance programmes....
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12/10/2022
Retail prices for garments in the US have been increasing more slowly than the overall inflation rate, according to the latest report by Cotton Incorporated (Cotton Inc). Relative to averages in 2019 (pre-COVID), the CPI for apparel was 2.2 per cent higher in August, while the overall CPI was 15.8 per cent higher....
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11/10/2022
Menswear is a booming business. In some cases it’s growing faster than women’s. Expanding into menswear simply allows brands to reap the benefits of both phenomena. There has been exponential growth in the men’s designer ready-to-wear market that presents an opportunity for womenswear brands to move into the category and create organic brand expansion....
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11/10/2022
Imports at the nation’s major container ports are expected to fall to their lowest level in nearly two years by the end of 2022 even though retail sales continue to grow, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.
US ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.26m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU) – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in August, the latest month for which final numbers are available. That was up 3.5% from July but down 0.4% from August 2021....
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11/10/2022
The estimated value of the apparel, footwear, and accessories resale market is between $100 and $120 billion worldwide—more than thrice the size it was in 2020, according to new research by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Vestiaire Collective, a global platform for preowned fashion. The second-hand market is already worth 3 per cent to 5 per cent of this overall sector and could grow to as much as 40 per cent....
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10/10/2022
Given the volatility and roller coaster ride cotton has been going through in recent times, in terms of pricing and demand- supply; is adding further to the existing uncertainty in fashion business as well as disrupting the supply and global value chains. A peep into the three of the cotton world leaders India, China and the USA, at their cotton production, consumption and participation in global trade may reflect on the immediate future outlook, as what lies in stock for the fashion business....
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6/10/2022
Babywear imports by the United States has been on a rise since April this year. The imports increased to $255.955 million in July 2022 from $245.802 million in June 2022. The country imported babywear worth $1,633.762 million in the first seven months of this year, while they amounted to $2.414 billion last year, an analysis of the latest data showed....
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6/10/2022
The pandemic was not a happy period for the clothing industry in general with the exception of activewear. The fact that it is projected to becoming USD 276.61 billion in the next six years is the proof of its popularity and staying power. UK-based research agency Technavio presented a report titled Activewear Apparel Market by Distribution Channel and Geography - Forecast Analysis 2022-2026 – it stated that the growth momentum is anticipated to accelerate at a CAGR of 11.24% during the forecast period. The report attributed this growth due to innovative use of fabrics and styles as well as creating an activewear line that is premium and on trend....
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5/10/2022
Sustainability is taking a backseat to price when it comes to shopping for fashion, a new report has found.
Consumers want online fashion retailers to address sustainability by offering slower deliveries, enabling apparel repairs and reducing product returns, but they want it all at a lower price, according to a survey from commerce platform Nosto....
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30/9/2022
From Covid-19 lockdown times to economic slowdowns, the pandemic has hugely affected health, wealth and happiness parameters around the world. The cost of living for each income bracket has now changed and a brand strategy of smart retail intelligence is now the strongest line of defence for a company against economic uncertainty.
To cut down costs, consumers are now pulling the plug on the more expensive homeware items such as furniture, kitchen equipment and electrical sales. Home appliances are undergoing a major shift as compared to last year while absorbing price inflation from shipping and materials....
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30/9/2022
Gym apparel market shows good growth, expanding at six percent a year.
During the first few months of the Covid pandemic, gym apparel sales significantly decreased. However some positive effects were crucial in driving up the demand for gym clothing in the years that followed. Many people were urged to start their own personal gyms or join ones in their communities in response to the lockdown’s increasing length. There was a significant increase in the number of people going to the gym every day, which fuelled the expansion of the gym clothing business....
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28/9/2022
As underdeveloped countries transit to developing status, their retail sectors are getting better organised and enabling a large number of brands use the affordability and accessibility platforms to reach out to the masses. The global fast fashion market size is expected to grow from $91.23 billion in 2021 to $99.23 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8%. The fast fashion market is expected to grow to $133.43 billion in 2026 at a CAGR of 7.7%....
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27/9/2022
As fibre-to-fibre textile recycling commitments increase across Europe, as well as the amount of textile waste collected, the infrastructure required to drive the move towards circular systems requires significant investment to scale.
A report published today (27 September) by global sustainable fashion initiative Fashion for Good details how the amount of textile waste collected across Europe is likely to increase, due to growing consumption and disposal, and incoming legislation, such as the Waste Framework Directive....
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26/9/2022
With Europe rushing to cut its reliance on Russian fossil fuels, gas prices across the continent are soaring. Countries are scrambling to introduce policies to curb the impact of increasing prices on businesses as well as households but in Europe’s textile and fashion sector, it seems this is just not enough.
Last week, the European Commission proposed to change the Title Transfer Fund (TTF) benchmark parameters and decouple the TTF from the electricity market and revise the merit-order principle for the electricity market, and amend the state-aid framework....
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26/9/2022
The pandemic rang in bad tidings for apparel exporters in Asia and South East Asia as the dip in US’ imports was significant. Compared to imports worth USD 111.033 billion in 2019, in 2020 imports worth USD 89.596 billion were registered. The trend took an upward turn in 2022 as The US Department of Commerce released figures for the first half of this year. The latest import figures indicate that US economy is witnessing fast recovery, and the world’s largest economy is continuing to support economic recovery in developing countries....
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26/9/2022
Established disruptor brands the likes of Shein, ASOS, Boohoo, and PrettyLittleThing, who are maturing at their peak, are hot on the heels of luxury brands in terms of conversations surrounding fashion. So says leading consumer intelligence platform Talkwalker.
As sustainability continues to dominate and define the fashion industry, challenger fast fashion brands are shaking things up, by developing products people want at the price and convenience level consumers now demand.For both luxury fashion houses and fast fashion brands, sustainability and ethics are hot topics....
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24/9/2022
Global textile powerhouse China’s apparel exports amounted to $71.423 billion during January-June 2022. Trousers and shorts continue to remain the top apparel export products, accounting for 20.36 per cent at $14.542 billion during the period under review. The share of coats, sportswear and suits remained negligible at less than 1 per cent each....
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24/9/2022
On average, 82 per cent of consumers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and the US have less confidence to spend, according to a recent study. With the holiday shopping season fast approaching, rising prices are negatively impacting consumer confidence. In terms of spending, apparel, footwear, and accessories are among the several categories that consumers are cutting back on....
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23/9/2022
A surge in nationalist sentiment and growing hostility to foreign labels is compelling global fashion brands to reduce their footprint in China. A report by SCMP indicates, US clothing brand Gap is reducing its retail footprint in China by cutting down the number of stores to 143. And experts say, foreign brands in China continue to struggle with competition from domestic brands that offer cheaper products via live-streaming and e-commerce platforms....
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21/9/2022
Optimisation within the supply chain is the answer to solving fashion's inflation problem, writes apparel industry expert, Roit Kathiala.
Even with the closest look into history it would be hard to find parallels to the current economic environment. Never have we seen before an environment with high inflation, recessionary interest rate hikes, plunging stock markets, high commodity prices and still high job growth all rolled into one, but optimisation as opposed to globalisation will be the solution to fashion’s current inflation problem....
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21/9/2022
The UK apparel sector will likely welcome news this morning (21 September) of an energy support package for businesses.
The Energy Bill Relief Scheme will see a significant cut in energy bills for UK businesses and applies to both fixed contracts agreed on or after 1 April 2022, as well as to variable and flexible tariffs and contracts.
The discount will apply to energy usage from 1 October 2022 to 31 March 2023, running for an initial six-month period for all non-domestic energy users....
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20/9/2022
The United States and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) has revealed its objectives, however apparel experts believe it also highlights the US' wider aim to reduce sourcing from China.
The 13 countries that sit within the United States and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), including apparel sourcing countries Vietnam and India, announced four negotiation objectives last week (9 September), as part of a wider aim to create a high-standard and inclusive economic framework....
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20/9/2022
The fashion industry has a prolific carbon footprint and research suggests it accounts for around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, consuming more energy than both aviation and shipping combined, writes David Dillon, a global labelling solutions executive at Loftware.
The size of its carbon footprint is no surprise when you consider the entire lifecycle of a garment, from manufacture and transportation to laundering and eventual disposal into a landfill. There is also water pollution caused by dyeing processes, as well as microfibres that escape into the environment....
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19/9/2022
The exports of textile and apparel from the United States went up by 12.78 per cent year-on-year in the first seven months of this year. The value of exports stood at $14.516 billion during January-July 2022 compared to $12.871 billion in the same period of 2021, according to data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel, US department of commerce....
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19/9/2022
Global custom T-shirt printing market is expected to surpass $9,009.3 million with a CAGR of over 9.7 per cent to 2023 says a new study by Future Markets Insights (FMI) a premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services. In its latest report, FMI cited customized T-shirts are gaining immense popularity among the younger generation and a growing trend of wearing graphic, pre-printed T-shirts with movie logos and slogans is propelling sales in custom T-shirt printing market. Today, many prefer wearing printed T-shirts because of their unique design and trendy look on both men and women. These prints are usually extracted from computer. Usually, graphic professionals provide design to the fashion designers....
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16/9/2022
Seventy-one per cent of consumers across the world are concerned about sustainability in the apparel category, while 38 per cent of them are already adopting sustainable behaviours for protecting the environment and tackling climate change, according to a survey by global management consulting firm Boston Consulting Group (BCG)....
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16/9/2022
Chinese exporters are having a difficult time. Softer foreign markets are forcing them to shed workers. They are switching to lower-value goods and even renting out their factories. Customers are placing fewer orders and are reluctant to buy expensive products.
Compared to 2020 and 2021, this year is more difficult for exporters. Sales could decline by 20 per cent in the third quarter compared to last year.These alerts echo in workshops in China’s eastern and southern manufacturing centers, in industries ranging from machinery parts and textiles to high-tech household appliances, where businesses shrink while export orders dry up. Export growth has been well below expectations and slowed for the first time in four months....
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16/9/2022
The pursuit of pre-loved clothing is emerging as the most prominent trend in the African market with consumers continually upgrading their wardrobes by donating or reselling used items.
As per an Euromonitor International report, known as Madunusa in South Africa, Okrika in Nigeria, and Mtumba in Kenya, the African secondhand clothing market is diverse. Aimed at all income groups, the market ranges from basic everyday use worn clothes to luxury apparel and thrift clothing. The Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyles Survey 2022 by Euromonitor International shows, Nigerians are the biggest buyers of second-hand clothing with nearly 10 per cent reporting buying and selling used items at least once a week....
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16/9/2022
Old habits die hard in the post-pandemic global active-wear segment as consumers still prefer to wear comfortable the clothes they have become used to over the last two years. With healthy lifestyles taking precedence over having a good time and an indulgent lifestyle, majority of consumers (76 per cent) say they are trying to put more emphasis on improving their physical health, revealed a Coronavirus Response Survey (Wave 12, July 2022)....
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16/9/2022
The US apparel sector has applauded a decision that has avoided a shutdown of the nation’s freight rail system.
On Wednesday (14 September) night, a tentative agreement was reached between US freight railroads and rail labor organisations – avoiding a shutdown of the nation’s freight rail system – which would have put severe pressure on the apparel supply chain....
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16/9/2022
Clothing stores across the UK saw sales volumes fall 0.6% during August according to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics.
The ONS said non-food store sales volumes in the UK fell 1.9% during the month because of falls in each of its subsectors: other non-food stores (negative 2.8%), department stores (negative 2.7%), household goods stores (negative 1.1%) and clothing stores (negative 0.6%)....
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15/9/2022
Even after 18 months of UK officially leaving the European Union, the country has failed to resolve bilateral trade issues. As Mark Neale, CEO, Mountain Warehouse opines, supplying materials to retail stores in Europe has become more complicated and tiresome post Brexit. Increased costs and bureaucracy have made trading more challenging in the region with sales of smaller brands and businesses declining....
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15/9/2022
The import of textiles and apparel by the US continues to grow at high rate and it rose by 29.83 per cent to $78.402 billion in the first seven months of 2022, compared to $60.388 billion in the same period of 2021. With 26.90 per cent share China continues to be the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, followed by Vietnam with 14 per cent....
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14/9/2022
Following the US' decision to continue the Section 301 tariffs against China, associate professor of apparel and textile studies at the University of Delaware, Dr Sheng Lu reveals what it means for the apparel sector four years on.
On 2 September 2022, the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) announced it would continue the billions of dollars of Section 301 punitive tariffs against Chinese products....
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13/9/2022
The compression wear and shapewear market is growing at a CAGR of seven per cent a year.
Compression wear and shapewear are tight-fitted apparels designed specifically to keep the body in a certain posture. Change in lifestyles, rise in disposable income of consumers, high-end advancements in fabrics and garment design and a surge in demand from the geriatric population are driving the growth of the market. Male users are leading the global compression wear and shapewear market. Men prefer compression garments during a workout, further fueling the demand from the male consumer segment. The women’s segment too is growing owing to interest in fitness and comfortable clothing and an increased participation of women in sports activities....
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10/9/2022
The global custom T-shirt printing market is expanding at seven per cent.
The T-shirt design and printing industry has evolved, driving fashion trends in the form of personalized T-shirts, graphic T-shirts, vintage T-shirt designs, and long sleeve custom T-shirts. With leading fashion brands across the globe embracing T-shirt printing, the outlook appears positive.
Custom-print shirts are specifically targeted toward the young population segment. One of the main reasons behind the popularity among youth is that customized T-shirts strike a chord with the creativity hidden inside each teenager....
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9/9/2022
The global denim market is growing at six per cent. The rise in disposable income levels is aiding the growth of the denim market. Other factors are the rise in urbanization and the trend of denim shirts. Further, the growing popularity of stretchable denim jeans by blending cotton with synthetic material is further anticipated to propel the growth of the denim market....
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8/9/2022
With inflation continuing and the Federal Reserve hoping to cool demand through higher interest rates, imports at major US container ports are expected to fall below last year’s levels for the remainder of 2022, according to the Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates....
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7/9/2022
During January 2022 to July 2022, the total exports of China’s textile and apparel goods were up 12 per cent year-on-year.
Apparel exports alone were up 13 per cent year-on-year.Viewed from the proportion of major products exported, knitted garments made of chemical fiber took the largest part, and cotton knitted garments came second, followed by woven fabrics made of chemical fibers and other fabrics.
From January to July, the share of fabric exports was rather large, accounting for about 23 per cent of total textile and apparel exports.China’s exports of textile and apparel made of chemical fibers performed better than cotton goods. One of the reasons lies in the ban on Xinjiang cotton and another reason is that the unit price of cotton products increases faster than the unit price of products made of chemical fibers....
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5/9/2022
US economic growth has slowed, recent figures show, but it is unclear whether the nation is in a recession according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).
Gross domestic product fell by 1.6% year over year in the first quarter and another 0.6% in the second quarter, according to the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis, with the National Retail Federation (NRF) saying economic indicators are signalling “an unsteady US expansion in the face of several headwinds”....
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1/9/2022
The UK Government has established a new regulatory framework to boost industrial emissions standards and reduce air pollution for the textiles and chemicals industries.
The textiles and chemicals industries in the UK will be required to adopt sustainable best practices under the Best Available Techniques framework launched this week as the government looks to reduce emissions and improve the environmental performance of businesses....
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31/8/2022
In the 27 years from 1992 to year to date July 2022, garment retail market share fell from 5.9% of total retail sales to 4.4%: A decline of 26%.
Our industry may well be in the final phase of a three-year disaster that began in 2020 with the Covid-19-pandemic and hopefully will end in 2022 that will long be remembered as the garment industry year of chaos, when US retailers increased imports by 40% compared to the same period in 2021 expecting a great increase in consumer demand that never materialised, with the result that the retailers faced mountains of unsold and possibly unsaleable goods....
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27/8/2022
The plus size clothing market is projected to grow at a 5.7 per cent CAGR to reach $1,044.3 billion by 2032. Sales of plus size clothing are anticipated to increase at the quickest rate during the duration of the prediction. The need for products that give the same level of luxury as customers in other sizes will increase the market for plus-size clothes between 2022 and 2032....
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26/8/2022
As the UK announces domestic energy bills will rise up to GBP3,549 (US$4202) per year from 1 October and there are no caps for apparel factories or retailers, a GlobalData analyst says apparel spend will be reduced and some retailers will struggle with overheads, which could restrict growth for the sector.
The UK’s regulator Ofgem’s new energy price cap means a home in England, Wales and Scotland using a typical amount of energy will pay nearly GBP300 a month, according to BBC news, meanwhile companies, including apparel factories and retailers will not benefit from energy bill caps so will be at the mercy of wholesale gas markets, explains The Guardian....
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25/8/2022
The United States apparel imports totalled at $48.176 billion during first half of this year. Of these, trousers & shorts was on top on the list of imported apparel items with a share of 26.52 per cent. The top three items i.e., trousers & shorts, jerseys and T-shirts together accounted for over 50 per cent of the total apparel import during the same period....
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23/8/2022
UK clothing brands and retailers have applauded a new framework offering developing nations lower tariffs and simplified rules of origin requirements for exporting.
The UK has rolled out the Developing Countries Trading Scheme which applies to goods including clothing and food and cuts tariffs for 65 developing exporting countries....
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22/8/2022
The imports value of US textile and apparelsincreased by 28.1 per cent Y-o-Y to $11.45 billion in June. The imports volume increased by 18.2 per cent Y-o-Y to 10.65 billion sq m. US apparel imports value in June 2022 rose sharply by 40.3 per cent Y-o-Y to 8.64 billion and the imports volume increased by 18.9 per cent Y-o-Y to 2.76 billion sq m....
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19/8/2022
UK retail sales volumes rose by 0.3% in July and were 2.3% above their pre-coronavirus February 2020 levels, but demand for clothing waned as the cost of living restricted wallet spend on ‘nice-to-haves’.
Official data released today (19 August) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows retail sales volumes rose by 0.3% in July, following a fall of 0.2% in June (revised from a fall of 0.1%) as the cost of living in the UK continues to rise....
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18/8/2022
Propelled by growing health and wellness trend, the global functional apparel market is forecast to reach $519.04 billion by 2027. A new report by Reports and Data indicates, rise in the number of people engaging in fitness activities and outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling etc, works as a growth driver for global functional apparel market. Future growth is also likely to be driven by rising youth participation in various sporting activities....
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18/8/2022
The US is to benefit from an inland port designed to relieve supply chain pressure at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The Mojave Inland Port will be situated 90 miles from San Pedro Bay, allowing goods to arrive by rail from nearby ports more efficiently and to be redirected to their final destinations more quickly. Ground on the new facility is expected to be broken in 2023 and it is expected to be fully operational in 2024....
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18/8/2022
US consumers are continuing to shop despite high inflation but failing to prioritise wallet spend on clothing, new figures show.
Core US retail sales, as calculated by The National Retail Federation (NRF ), rose in July even as overall sales reported by the Census Bureau remained flat on a monthly basis, and both calculations showed strong year-over-year gains as consumers kept shopping despite high inflation....
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18/8/2022
The metaverse, technology, 'phygital retail', and transparency online have all been flagged as key trends influencing the global online apparel market.
A sustained desire to purchase apparel online following the closure of bricks-and-mortar stores in the midst of the Covid pandemic will continue to boost online spend in the years ahead, a new study shows....
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16/8/2022
All clothing sold in the EU might need to be recyclable from 2030. The University of Delaware's Leah Marsh and Dr Sheng Lu investigate the future potential of Europe's recycled clothing market.
Consumers’ increasing sustainability awareness has encouraged fashion retailers to carry more clothing made from recycled textile materials. For example, in Europe, one of the world’s largest apparel consumption markets, a growing number of fashion companies, from fast-fashion leaders like Zara and H&M to luxury brands such as Prada and Burberry, have entered the recycled clothing business....
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15/8/2022
Some economists may rely upon qualifiers, but Gherzi Textil Organisation's partner Bob Antoshak argues that despite rising levels of employment, the US is already in a technical state of recession and the rest of the world is following suit.
What a mess. For the past two quarters, US GDP has declined and the same may be the case in Europe, although it hasn’t yet been reported in the statistics....
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15/8/2022
The exports of textile and apparel from the United States went up by 13.10 per cent year-on-year in the first six months of this year. The value of exports stood at $12.434 billion during January-June 2022 compared to $10.994 billion in the same period of 2021, according to data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel, US department of commerce....
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12/8/2022
US' textile and apparel imports grew by 30.97 per cent to $66.308 billion in the first six months of 2022, compared to $50.626 billion in the same period of 2021. With a 26.8 per cent share China continued to be the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, followed by Vietnam with 13.87 per cent. As per a Fashion Network report, apparel dominated of textiles and garments imports of the US in January-June 2022, and were valued at $49.578 billion, while non-apparel imports accounted for $16.729 billion, according to the latest Major Shippers Report, released by the US department of commerce....
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12/8/2022
The consumer price index for all US urban consumers (CPI-U) was unchanged in July on a seasonally-adjusted basis after rising by 1.3 per cent in June, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased by 8.5 per cent before seasonal adjustment. The index for apparel declined in July by 0.1 per cent from the June figure....
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12/8/2022
The US Government can tackle record inflation for apparel and footwear shoppers by cancelling both Section 301 and consumer goods tariffs, says the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)'s president and CEO Steve Lamar.
After years of inaction, Washington finally has scored a decisive trade victory for US families and the timely and unanimous win may even show a bipartisan path forward out of our years-long trade quagmire, however, more can be done to help US apparel and footwear shoppers....
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12/8/2022
July US inflation figures moderated to 8.5% from a very high 9.1% in the prior month, however retail analyst Neil Saunders suggests there are signs that non-essential categories such as apparel are 'fraying around the edges'.
US apparel retailers saw sales decline by -0.1% month-on-month in July, according to data released by the US Census Bureau, after rising the prior two months...
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12/8/2022
A GlobalData apparel analyst tells Just Style UK apparel retailers will need to make smart decisions in the coming months as clothing and footwear is attributed to the UK's gross domestic product (GDP) falling 0.1% in Q2 following the Bank of England increasing interest rates and announcing a recession later this year.
The UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed the decline in the UK’s gross domestic product (GDP) for the second quarter of 2022 a week after the Bank of England announced the country is projected to enter recession from the fourth quarter of this year and made the decision to increase interest rates by half a percentage point (the largest increase for 27 years)....
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12/8/2022
Two categories—trousers & shorts, and T-shirts—together accounted for 40 per cent of total apparel imports by Germany in the first three months of 2022. Trousers & shorts comprised 27.65 per cent of all apparel imports worth $9.755 billion during January-March. T-shirts was the second largest product 13.19 per cent share in total imports....
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11/8/2022
During the first half of 2022, the US apparel imports increased by 40.14 Y-o-Y to $49.58 billion. Particularly in June ’22, the imports grew by 40.30 per cent Y-o-Y to $8.64 billion, while the growth noted on monthly basis over May ’22 was 1.52 per cent. As per OTEXA data, analyzed by team Apparel Resources, top six Asian countries (China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia and Cambodia) together exported garments worth $32.82 billion to the US in H1 ’22, which is 66.20 per cent of total import values of the US....
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10/8/2022
The import of textiles and apparel by the US continues to grow at high rate and it rose by 30.97 per cent to $66.308 billion in the first six months of 2022, compared to $50.626 billion in the same period of 2021. With 26.80 per cent share China continues to be the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, followed by Vietnam with 13.87 per cent....
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10/8/2022
UK clothing manufacturers are to see significant challenges as energy bills look set to surge again, with many unable to pass on the cost to consumers, the UK Fashion and Textiles Association tells Just Style.
Head of UKFT, Adam Mansell explains the impact of rising energy prices has been felt by the UK manufacturing sector for some time now and clothing manufacturers are being forced to absorb the cost increases....
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9/8/2022
After a record-setting spring, imports at major US container ports are expected to slow significantly for the remainder of the year but 2022 should still see a net gain over 2021, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates.
“Retail sales are still growing, but the economy is slowing down and that is reflected in cargo imports,” says NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy, Jonathan Gold....
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9/8/2022
The global denim market is expected to grow at a rate of 6.7 per centCAGR in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029. The rise in the consumer disposable income levels is escalating the growth of denim market.
The size of the global denim jeans market size is projected to reach $88.1 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.2 per cent from 2021 to 2030.Rise in spending capacity, per capita consumption of the denim jeans, consciousness regarding the cloths suitable for the body types and acceptance for casual wears for office work is likely to garner the growth of the denim jeans market....
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8/8/2022
Clothing was one of only two UK online retail categories to record year-on-year sales growth in July.
UK online retail sales growth dipped 2.3% year-on-year in July thanks to a boost from clothing retailers, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks online sales for 200 retailers. This represents the joint lowest decline the Index has seen this year – and a considerable improvement on the three- (-3.6%), six- (-13.5%) and 12-month (-18.1%) averages....
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8/8/2022
Presently valued at $16.760 million, the global zippers market is expected to grow by 4.1 per cent CAGR to $22.280 million by 2028. According to an analysis by Market Research Guru, top five zippers producers including YKK, Coats Industrial, SBS, Weixing Group and YBS Zipper, account for around 20 per cent of the market....
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6/8/2022
US will retain top position in the global denim jeans market, but its annual growth will be lower than the global average. The growth rate of market size is projected at 3.14 per cent for 2021-2026 while global market will grow at an annual rate of 3.65 per cent in the same period. Developing economies like China and India are chasing the US very closely....
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6/8/2022
The plus size clothing market is expected to grow at a 5.7 per cent CAGR from $601.7 billion in 2022 to $1,044.3 billion by 2032.
The COVID-19 epidemic had a negative impact on the market share for plus-size clothing. The sales of plus size apparel have fallen as a result of a lack of labour, production issues like fabric shortages and order cancellations, lower exports, and a decline in consumer spending on non-essential items....
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6/8/2022
We live in an age of uncertainty and with this uncertainty comes a shaky economy and a challenging business environment for the apparel industry, but what does it mean for sustainability, asks Robert Antoshak, partner at Gherzi Textil Organisation.
The pandemic, supply chain disruption, a war, tensions over Taiwan, and accelerating inflation. All of this adds up to uncertainty and that’s just the economic situation. How about other aspects of our business besides economics, like sustainability? What happens to sustainability initiatives during times like these?...
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5/8/2022
Latest Future Markets Insights report shows, global sales of maternity apparel will increase 5.8 per cent year-over-year in 2021. Demand for maternity apparels will be driven by growing number of women professionals continuing to work through their pregnancy. From 2021-2031, global maternity apparels market is projected to grow at 6.7 per cent CAGR and reach $41.3 billion by 2031....
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4/8/2022
Economic activity in the manufacturing sector grew in July, new data shows, with the overall economy achieving a twenty-sixth consecutive month of growth.
US supply executives offered their thoughts on raw material prices in the latest ‘Manufacturing ISM Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Report On Business. Those in the textile industry reported a continued increase in the price of raw materials.
The ISM Prices Index registered 60% in July, 18.5 percentage points lower compared to the June reading of 78.5%, indicating raw material prices increased for the twenty-sixth consecutive month, albeit at a much slower rate....
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4/8/2022
Economic activity in the US manufacturing sector expanded in July, with the overall economy achieving a 26th consecutive month of growth, the nation's supply executives said in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business released by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Eleven manufacturing industries reported growth in July, with apparel, leather and allied products reporting the highest growth....
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3/8/2022
Fashion companies are facing a major change in how they report their performance with the launch of three new initiatives that will push them to generate and declare social and sustainability data.
Draft mandatory requirements are being consulted upon in the European Union (EU) and the United States, with optional reporting rules being developed by an International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) for the fashion and textile industry....
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3/8/2022
Nearly 59 per cent of respondents to a survey by the Global Expert Network members of the Luxury Institute believe, current economic slowdown will lead to a downturn in the global luxury goods and services sector. Around 41 per cent predict, current situation will lead to a recession in the global luxury sector with aggressive interest hikes from central banks to result in mass scale unemployment, especially in the technology sector. The survey predicts, consumer spending across all income levels will tighten with persistent fluctuations in the stock market to influence the budgets and psyches of rich consumers....
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2/8/2022
Increasing focus on sustainability is propelling the growth of global secondhand apparel market that is likely to expand at 11.2 per cent CAGR from 2021-2031. Sales through online channels are likely to grow at 17.9 per cent CAGR through the assessment period, says latest Future Markets Insights report.
Accounting for over 10 per cent of the world’s carbon footprint, the fashion industry is becoming more eco-conscious. With consumers expecting more transparent processes, the industry is championing the cause for a sustainable fashion movement while abandoning fast fashion that contributes to pollution, climate change and unethical labor practices....
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1/8/2022
Consumer’s desire for fast fashion continues to grow stronger with each passing year, shows the latest data from FactSet compiled with the data from United Nation’s Comtrade.
Using UN customs export data by countries, the report shows, the apparel and footwear industry manufactured and exported goods worth $582,1 billion in 2021. The value of apparel and footwear products manufactured by the industry surged by $47.8 billion compared to levels seen in 2017....
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1/8/2022
The number of sustainable and second-hand fashion small businesses has increased by 23% in the UK in the last year as demand for circular fashion grows, new data shows.
There has been a surge in the number of people looking to switch to eco-friendly shopping styles, coupled with a growth in small sustainable fashion businesses....
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30/7/2022
Badly hit by Brexit and COVID-19 pandemic, the value of UK’s apparel imports has been declining from 2019, when it became imminent that Brexit is going to take place. The subsequent onset of COVID-19 only increased this declining trend. However, home textiles imports performed better in 2020.
UK’s apparel imports peaked in 2018 at $26.502 billion, compared to $24.308 billion in 2017. But the declining trend started since 2019 when the import value was $25.809 billion. It further decreased to $22.943 billion in 2020 and 20.886 billion in 2021. Imports in the first four months of this year stood at $7.634 billion....
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29/7/2022
Apparel industry experts tell Just Style exclusively the US Inflation Reduction Act 2022 needs to get passed by Congress quickly to have a positive impact on the US apparel industry.
US President Joe Biden released a statement earlier this week (27 July) in support of a new bill to lower inflation, called the US Inflation Reduction Act 2022, however, apparel industry experts tell Just Style the impact it will have on the wider apparel industry will depend on the speed at which the bill is passed and how quickly it can bring down inflation....
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26/7/2022
The latest Fashion Transparency Index by Fashion Revolution says, world's largest fashion brands and retailers will have to increase transparency to tackle the climate crisis and social inequality. Ranking 250 of the world’s largest fashion brands and retailers for their public disclosure of human rights and environmental policies, the seventh edition of the index shows, around 85 per cent brands are not honest in disclosing their annual production volumes despite mounting evidence of clothing waste around the world, and around 96 per cent brands and retailers do not reveal the number of workers in their supply chain paid a living wage....
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25/7/2022
The pandemic has fuelled US consumers’ love for pre-owned fashion. A report by resale clothing website ThredUp, shows, in 2020, the pandemic year, around thirty-three million consumers in the country bought secondhand apparel for the first time. Around 76 per cent of these first-time buyers plan to increase their spending on secondhand clothing in the next five years. The secondhand apparel market in the US is projected to double to $77 billion in the next five years. Analytics company GlobalData, also pegs the growth of clothing resale market to be 11 times faster than the broader retail clothing sector through 2025. Mapped by online resale pioneer eBay, Tirath Kamdar, General Manager-Luxury, opines, growth has accelerated as more consumers are becoming eco-conscious. It is also being driven by the increase in luxury shoppers, he adds....
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25/7/2022
The import of apparel by the United Kingdom was badly hit by Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. The value of UK’s apparel import has been declining from 2019, when it became imminent that Brexit is going to take place. The subsequent onset of COVID-19 only increased this declining trend. However, home textiles imports performed better in 2020....
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25/7/2022
The EU and China have agreed on the need to prevent supply chain disruptions, primarily caused by Covid.
The EU and China have agreed to increase cooperation in supply chain disruptions in addition to bilateral trade and investment.
Speaking at the 9th EU-China High-Level Economic and Trade Dialogue (HED), the two sides discussed global economic challenges, disruptions to the supply chain caused by Covid and the impact of Russia’s invasion on Ukraine....
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25/7/2022
Just Style deep dives into the sourcing strategies of Europe’s biggest clothing brands from Inditex and Adidas to Hugo Boss and Primark.
Sourcing clothing today is no mean feat as global supply chains are incredibly complex. Today’s consumer is wholly invested in the entire supply chain process and demands transparency from brands at every stage....
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25/7/2022
A new survey suggests digitalisation has become key to survival for small and medium-sized manufacturers.
If small and medium sized (SME) manufacturers are to survive, they need to invest in digitalisation, according to a survey conducted by Made Smarter, which explores how UK manufacturing industries can prosper via integration of digital technology tools and innovation.
SME manufacturers across all sectors are being urged to accelerate technology adoption to adjust to the economic challenges around the supply chain, energy costs, post-Brexit and Covid....
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22/7/2022
Sales volumes at UK clothing stores decreased by almost 5% in June from the month prior as rising inflation impacts consumer spending.
Official data released today (21 July) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows UK clothing stores reported a monthly decline in sales volume of 4.7% in June 2022, down from an increase of 2.2% in May 2022 as inflation impacts consumer spending despite it being the peak of holiday travel season based-demand....
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20/7/2022
The European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) has launched the ‘Good Clothes, Fair Pay’ campaign to demand legislation on the living wages for garment workers. The ECI wants European Union (EU) laws to make it compulsory for companies selling garments, textiles, and footwear in the EU to regulate living wages in their supply chains. If this law gets passed, brands and retailers would be legally mandated to evaluate wages, and publicly disclose their development....
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19/7/2022
The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA)'s annual report has revealed most of the key challenges facing the US fashion industry in 2022 are related to the economy.
The USFIA’s 2022 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study, which features 34 fashion companies of various types from within the industry, has revealed the main issue facing the sector right now is increased production and sourcing costs....
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18/7/2022
The clothing and footwear industry has managed to slash its delivery lead times by almost half since 2020.
Digitisation, nearshoring and reducing the number of options in stock have helped clothing, footwear and accessories brands cut lead times by almost half in the last two years, according to industry experts....
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15/7/2022
European Union (EU) apparel manufacturers prepare to carry out more checks on clothing safety under a new EU rules proposal to protect consumers from potentially dangerous products.
The proposal’s new product safety rules for the apparel industry, which was approved by the European Parliament’s internal market and consumer protection committee on 16 June includes addressing potential flammability, dyes that may cause allergic reactions and dangerous drawstrings....
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14/7/2022
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) tells Just Style an end to Section 301 Tariffs is the solution to rising US inflation levels as official June figures reveal overall inflation is up 9.1% versus last year with apparel increasing 5.2%.
The AAFA believes the US Government ending Section 301 tariffs on basic consumer goods like apparel and shoes could be a quick-fire solution for tackling rising US inflation levels, however apparel industry consultant Robert Antoshak predicts the US Federal Reserve will opt to raise interest rates....
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14/7/2022
Imports of denim jeans by US brands and retailers increased 40 per cent year over year through May compared to the same period in 2021, reveals OTEXA figures. Imports from top supplier Bangladesh increased 54 per cent, outpacing the 51 per cent year to date gain through April and giving the country a 22 per cent market share. Pakistan’s shipments rose 67 per cent, slightly below privious month’s 72 per cent year-to-date gain. Imports from Vietnam were on par with the prior month with a 40 per cent increase to $170.54 million, while China’s shipments rose 24 per cent, gaining ground on the 20 per cent year-to-date hike in April....
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13/7/2022
New figures released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) signal a decline in sales volumes not seen since the depths of the pandemic, with sales for the three months to June for non-food retail falling 3.3%.
The BRC says during 2020/21 much of UK retail “bounced between being open and closed”, significantly impacting sales and changing consumer behaviours....
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13/7/2022
A political agreement could see a European Union directive guiding member states on setting minimum wages to boost pay in lower salary sectors, such as apparel manufacturing.
European countries have traditional strengths in making apparel and textiles, especially luxury lines, but relatively high costs have left the region exposed to competition from near-sourcing hubs in north Africa and the Middle East, such as Turkey....
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12/7/2022
The US trade deficit in goods and services declined by 1.3% in May, reflecting a decrease in the goods deficit of US$2.9bn and a fall in the services surplus of $1.7bn.
The deficit amounted to US$85.5bn in May, down US$1.1bn from US$86.7bn in April, revised, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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12/7/2022
We've analysed companies' annual reports and other filings to see which key issues are receiving the most attention.
Mentions of digitalization within the filings of companies in the fashion industry fell 30% between the first and second quarters of 2022.
In total, the frequency of sentences related to digitalization between July 2021 and June 2022 was 92% higher than in 2016 when GlobalData, from whom our data for this article is taken, first began to track the key issues referred to in company filings....
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12/7/2022
Even as a few sectors continue to reel under the COVID pressures, across the world, apparel retail, is booming. Figures show, 2022 was particularly a good year for fashion retail as it managed to navigate through all challenges, be it the Omicron scare or the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict....
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12/7/2022
Even though most apparel sold in the US is made overseas, many designers and brands in the country continue to flaunt their garments as ‘Made in the US’.
As per a Lifestyle Monitor report, the US currently makes 97 per cent of its apparel overseas. This is in sharp contrast to the 1960a when about 95 per cent of the apparel sold in the country were made in the country, says the American Apparel and Footwear Association. However, change in the trade policies in the 1990s led the industry to seek low-cost manufacturing from developing countries. The apparel and textile industry lost 81 per cent of its jobs from 1979 and 2019, shows data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics....
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11/7/2022
Global non-profit Textile Exchange has successfully challenged a number of apparel brands to explore lower impact sourcing options for the apparel industry's two most commonly used fibres - cotton and polyester, however more companies need to join to help the wider industry tackle climate change.
Textile Exchange, which has published reports for both its Sustainable Cotton Challenge and Recycled Polyester Challenge, explains it has successfully encouraged apparel brands to use lower impact sourcing to replace conventional counterparts, rather than substitute other fibre categories or justify increased industry growth....
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11/7/2022
The proportion of apparel supply chain companies hiring for digital media related positions rose significantly in June compared with the equivalent month last year, with 100% of the companies included in our analysis recruiting for at least one such position.
All of the apparel companies included in our analysis were recruiting for digital media-related positions in June....
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6/7/2022
After spending almost two years in their sweatpants, customers across the world are yearning to get back into denims. As a report by the Edited shows, demand for straight cut jeans made up 21 per cent and 23 per cent of the total apparel demand in the US and the UK respectively. Skinny jeans dominated menswear demand in Fall 2021 in the US. In terms of colors black jeans dominated demand with 22 per cent rise. The sell-out rate for black denim was also higher at 24 per cent than blue denims....
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5/7/2022
Cost of living pressure is prompting more people to repair their own clothes according to new research from Primark’s Ireland arm, Penneys.
Penneys Ireland conducted research which revealed Gen Z is repairing clothing more than any other age group, with 77% mending their clothes in the last 18 months. This compares to just over a third (36%) of 25-34-year-olds and 45% of 35-44 year olds....
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5/7/2022
Portfolio transformation, green business building, green premiums and green operations focused on circularity can help European consumer goods firms shift to circular value pools of over €500 billion of annual revenues by 2030, estimates McKinsey. In the fashion industry, about 63 per cent of emissions reduction potential lies in more efficient, cleaner energy, it says....
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5/7/2022
A report by GlobalData Plc says, the US sportswear market is expected to grow at over at 6 per cent CAGR during the forecast period of 2020-25. Titled, ‘The United States of America (USA) Sportswear Market Size and Analytics’ by category (apparel, footwear accessories), segments (gender, positioning, activity, retail channel and key brands 2020-25), the report estimates, the US sportswear market reached $126.1 billion in 2020 with sports clothing accounting for the largest share in the growth....
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4/7/2022
The US apparel industry has joined a call for the government to engage in talks to
avoid potential disruption at ports after the expiry of the US West Coast port contract. A letter to the White House signed by over 150 local, state and national trade associations urges the administration to engage in talks over a new contract after the current one expired on 1 July and concern grows over supply disruption at ports....
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28/6/2022
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the global zippers market, currently worth $16.760 million, is forecast to a readjusted size of $22.280 million by 2028 with a CAGR of 4.1 per cent during the forecast period 2022-2028.
As per a report by Market Research Guru, key players in the global zippers market include YKK, Coats Industrial, SBS, Weixing Group, YBS Zipper, etc. Global top five manufacturers hold a share about 20 per cent. Asia-Pacific is the largest market, with a share about 60% per cent followed by Europe and North America, both with a share about 15 percent....
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27/6/2022
China displaced the US to gain top position in terms of apparel retail market size during COVID-19 years of 2022 and 2021, mainly owing to milder impact of the pandemic compared to the world’s largest economy. It is projected that China would gain further lead over the US by 2025 because the market size growth will be more than double for the Asian giant....
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27/6/2022
Apparel experts tell Just Style exclusively how the US apparel sector will be affected by the US Supreme Court overturning the Roe Vs. Wade case that gave US women the right to an abortion.
On Friday 24 June, the US Supreme Court overturned its 50-year-old Roe v Wade decision which means millions of US women will lose the constitutional right to have an abortion and apparel sector consultant Bob Antoshak believes it will have a ripple effect on the entire apparel sector....
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24/6/2022
Sales volumes at UK clothing stores rose by more than 2% in May from the month prior, with feedback from some retailers suggesting the increase was linked to consumers shopping for summer holidays.
Official data released today (24 June) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows clothing stores reported a monthly increase in sales volumes of 2.2% as consumers are planning holidays and therefore buying new clothes....
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24/6/2022
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) is urging the US Trade Representative (USTR) to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for at least another ten years, noting as companies are poised to diversify out of China, Africa is a logical place for many of them.
In a letter to William Shpiece, chair of the Trade Policy Staff Committee for USTR, Beth Hughes, vice president of trade and customs policy for the AAFA, says if AGOA were to be renewed this year for at least another ten years, companies would have the necessary certainty and timeframe they need to grow a vertical, responsible, and competitive industry in Africa up to and past 2025....
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24/6/2022
Luxury has just become more expensive, says a new report by Edited. Prices of luxury fashion products have surged 7 per cent above 2020 and 25 per cent above 2019, the report analyzes. They are currently at a four-year low though there’s less than 1 per cent year-on-year difference from last year.
Women’s outwear dominates price-rise
Prices of women’s outerwear have surged most during the three-year period increasing 20 per cent over 2019 to $3,395.12 on average. Products like Dolce & Gabbana’s Jacquard coat with embroidery are retailing at $66,000 now; these are followed by menswear retailing at $3,053.94....
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23/6/2022
New figures from the European Outdoor Group suggest the public’s increased appetite for getting out into nature has led to strong growth, topping EUR6bn for the first time.
The European Outdoor Group’s (EOG) State of Trade market research programme indicates that the outdoor sector has bounced back strongly following the height of the Covid-19 pandemic....
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22/6/2022
Supply chain management, virtual and augmented reality, and unsurprisingly, Covid-19 are among the top ten major themes set to impact the apparel sector in 2022, new research from GlobalData shows.
Utilising its thematic research ecosystem, GlobalData pinpoints the ten themes in its latest thematic research report for the sector, ‘Top 10 Themes in Apparel 2022’....
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21/6/2022
Circular business models of rental and resale are not a new phenomenon, but there has been a significant uptake of the schemes among fashion firms in recent months. But why now, and will these programmes actually help to move the needle when it comes to creating a more sustainable sector?
Apparel players from Boohoo Group’s PrettyLittleThing to Burberry are unsurprisingly eager to dip their toes in the rental and/or resale markets, as consumer awareness of sustainability continues to rise. Not to mention the potential of a lucrative new revenue stream....
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20/6/2022
US textile groups are urging the Biden Administration to maintain Section 301 penalty tariffs on finished textiles and apparel or risk reversing investment and efforts into nearshoring and US jobs.
The National Council of Textile Organisations, The Narrow Fabrics Institute and the United States Industrial Fabrics Institute penned a formal submission to the US Trade Representative’s (USTR) office, which is conducting a four-year statutory review of the tariffs, the associations expressed strong support for the continuation of penalty tariffs on imports from China and warned of the consequences associated with removing the tariffs....
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17/6/2022
New research shows 78% of UK shoppers care about the authenticity of apparel and fashion items, with 59% noting transparency into how and where a product was made is key to their purchasing decisions.
The research was carried out across 2,000 UK consumers by independent research firm Censuswide for the Digimarc Corporation....
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17/6/2022
As per the latest data from the CCF Group, textile and apparel imports by the United States increased by 34.4 per cent Y-o-Y to $10.99 billion in April 2022. The imports volume in increased by 65.2 per cent Y-o-Y to 10.18 billion sq m. The value of US apparel imports rose by 43.2 per cent Y-o-Y to $8.12 billion while the imports volume increased by 29.7 per cent Y-o-Y to 2.68 billion sq m....
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16/6/2022
US retail sales slowed in May as consumers faced continuing inflation and higher prices for essentials like food and gasoline, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).
“Retail sales are reflecting Americans’ growing concern about inflation and its impact on the cost of everything from groceries to gas,” NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay says....
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15/6/2022
The US trade deficit in goods and services fell by more than 19% in April after topping US$100bn for what was understood to be the first time a month prior. The goods and services deficit amounted to $87.1bn in April, down 19.1% or $20.6bn from $107.7bn in March, revised, according to trade statistics released by the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis....
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15/6/2022
European, Chinese and American consumers are increasingly on the lookout for digitally-accessible detailed information about the history of garments they purchase and their aftercare, according to new research from Avery Dennison Corp. Avery Dennison recently published research in its Made to Mention Magazine which details consumer expectations of digital experiences....
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13/6/2022
UK online clothing retailers bucked the trend in May, with sales rising by 14% during the month compared to the same period last year, as online retail sales growth fell by more than 8% overall.
Online retail sales growth fell by 8.7% year-on-year (YoY) in May, despite being measured against a negative performance in the same month last year (-6%), as trading conditions continue to be tough....
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13/6/2022
Imports of denim apparels the United States grew by 40.84 per cent to $1.25 billion in the January-April ’22 period, as per a report by OTEXA.
Exports by all denim manufacturers to the US increased during the period with largest growth recorded by Pakistan, Bangladesh and Egypt.
As per Apparel Resources, US; imports of denim apparels from Bangladesh grew by 51 per cent Y-o-Y to $ 248 million during the January-April ’22 period....
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13/6/2022
Boosted by growing brassieres imports, the US lingerie market is projected to reach $11.50 billion by 2025. As per a report by the Statista, the market is currently worth $9.13 billion.
From January-April’22, brassieres imports by the US grew by 24.58 per cent, as per the latest data from OTEXA. China remained the top exporter of brassieres during the period with exports increasing by 21.79 per cent to $55.74 million during the period....
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10/6/2022
Imports at major US retail container ports should see near-record volume again this month, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released this week by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.
Volume remains high at US retail container ports as retailers work to meet still-strong consumer demand and also protect themselves against potential disruptions at West Coast port as the contract deadline approaches....
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10/6/2022
The latest figures to come from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) for April reveal Pakistan is becoming an increasingly important partner to the region, now overtaking Honduras and Mexico to become its seventh-largest supplier of apparel.
According to an analysis of OTEXA data, US apparel imports during April rose 29.73% on the same month last year to 2.68bn million square metres (MM2), with Bangladesh proving the most popular apparel sourcing destination during the month, with shipment growth of 51% year-on-year....
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9/6/2022
The import of woven apparel and clothing accessories (HS code 62) by the United States were valued at $10.464 billion during the first quarter of current year 2022. After declining in second quarter (April-June) of 2021, import of woven apparel by the US has shown an upward trend during the subsequent three quarters, with China being the largest supplier....
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9/6/2022
As COVID-induced lockdowns in China snap the links of global suppliers, US manufactures are benefitting from growing ‘Made in USA’ sentiment among consumers. Established in 1992, New Jersey-based Unionwear saw a rapid surge in business this year. With 100 per cent local supply chain, the manufacturer of customized baseball hats, scarves and backpacks, the company witnessed a surge in buyers no longer able to import goods due to lockdown....
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6/6/2022
On the eve of its Global Fashion Summit, Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) has released a new report to help guide fashion leaders towards a net positive fashion industry.
Global Fashion Agenda (GFA), the non-profit organisation that fosters collaboration on sustainability in fashion to drive impact, has unveiled its ‘The GFA Monitor‘ report to accelerate alignment with the 1.5-degree pathway and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals laid out by the United Nations....
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5/6/2022
Economic activity in the US manufacturing sector grew in May, with the overall economy achieving a 24th consecutive month of growth, the nation's supply executives said in in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business. Fifteen manufacturing industries reported growth in May, with apparel, leather and allied products topping the list....
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2/6/2022
To maintain its competitiveness, China's textile and apparel sector plans to develop innovative fibers and focus on sustainable production while expanding its reach to markets covering the regions included in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement.
China’s textile and garment exports are currently under tremendous pressure owing to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Uncertain global economic recovery and geopolitical issues have impacted growth, points out Sun Ruizhe, President, China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC)....
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1/6/2022
US and Central America apparel and textile trade groups encourage the Biden/Harris administration to continue its support of the China 301 tariffs on finished apparel imports, ahead of the Summit of the Americas.
The manufacturing trade groups sent a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris yesterday (31 May), requesting the US Government uphold its strong rules of origin in the US free trade agreement with the region....
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1/6/2022
After 18 months of non-stop acceleration, growth in the Chinese luxury market is set to slowdown to low double-digits in 2022, as per latest Bain & Co research. However, the pace of Chinese luxury consumption will remain stable with the local Chinese market overtaking the US market by 2025. As per a Women’s Wear Daily report, Chinese luxury market will account for almost 27 per cent of the global market in the forecast period with most of the growth driven by digital sales channels....
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31/5/2022
GlobalData's apparel analyst Pippa Stephens predicts clothing brands targeting younger UK consumers and females will be most impacted by high inflation rates.
Most UK consumers (69.6%) plan to change their clothing and footwear shopping habits as a result of the ongoing surge in inflation rates and living costs, explains GlobalData’s apparel analyst Pippa Stephens, however clothing brands targeting young females could be hardest hit as discretionary incomes will force them to cut back on non-essential purchases....
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27/5/2022
The first status report of an initiative launched last year to tackle audit and standard fatigue in the apparel sector says brands and retailers should consider dropping their proprietary standards in favour of more streamlined third-party standards.
The Standard Convergence Initiative (SCI) was unveiled by the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) and the International Apparel Federation (IAF) at the OECD Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector in February of last year....
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26/5/2022
Latest research report from the NPD Group shows, socks have become shoppers’ top clothing purchase, replacing T- shirts over the last two years As per the report, one out of every five items of clothing bought in the US in 2020 and 2021 was a pair of socks.
The trend dovetails with people staying at home for longer periods, as nearly 70 per cent of American adults wear socks around the house....
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25/5/2022
US apparel trade bodies have welcomed the launch of a new Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) but say there should be a tariff negotiation component, particularly for goods such as clothing and footwear.
US President Joe Biden launched the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) in Tokyo, Japan, earlier this week with a dozen initial partners: Australia, Brunei, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Together, the partners represent 40% of world GDP....
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21/5/2022
Compared to 2019, sales revenue for women’s plus-size apparel in the US grew by three times faster by 18 per cent in 2021, compared to 2019, which is over three-times faster than consumer spending on the remaining women’s market, according to The NPD Group.
After casual apparel, basics make up the largest share of apparel units sold in plus-size apparel, at 27 per cent, compared to 19 per cent for the rest of the market, based on the new Inclusive Apparel Market Trends report from NPD....
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20/5/2022
UK retail sales volumes rose by 1.4% in April and were up by more than 4.1% on their pre-pandemic levels, with stronger clothing sales helping to drive the increase.
Official data released today (20 May) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows non-store retailing sales volumes, which are predominantly sales from online-only retailers, rose by 3.7% in April, led by stronger clothing sales. Sales volumes were 26.7% above their pre-coronavirus level....
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19/5/2022
GlobalData apparel analyst Pippa Stephens tells Just Style exclusively why women's clothing prices are rising faster than men's and predicts it could have an impact on clothing sales in the coming months.
An analysis of the data reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggests womenswear clothing prices in the UK have increased 37% over the last five years, while menswear has only gone up by a quarter (25%), according to Sky News....
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18/5/2022
Consumers accustomed to inflation continued to spend in April as US retail sales overcame higher prices to show both monthly and year-over-year increases, with sales at clothing stores up by 0.8% and 8% respectively, according to US Census Bureau data.
Overall retail sales in April were up 0.9% seasonally adjusted from March and up 8.2% year over year, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. That compared with increases of 1.4% month over month and 7.3% year over year in March....
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18/5/2022
UK inflation hit a 40-year high this morning (18 May) at 9%, with experts warning clothing retailers will see demand sink as consumers prioritise spending on essentials.
The hike in inflation means the cost of everyday items such as food, fuel and clothing will go up for consumers across the UK.
And with the Bank of England forecasting inflation will continue to rise to 10% this year, the situation is likely to become even more strained in the coming months....
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17/5/2022
A new report ‘Western Wear Market’ by the Allied Market Research estimates, global western wear market valued at $74,497.50 million in 2020, is projected to grow 5.37 per cent to reach $136,881.41 million by 2031. The formal wear segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8 per cent in value during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific region is expected to register the highest CAGR of 6.6 per cent during period. Developing lifestyle and rise in disposable income of consumers are expected to drive the Asia-Pacific market....
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17/5/2022
Increased sourcing from Bangladesh and China led to 33.87 per cent rise in India’s apparel imports in the first two-month period of 2022. As per official data released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India imported garments worth $219.23 million during January-February ’22 period, as compared with $163.78 million in the same period of previous year....
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12/5/2022
How will falling birth rates in East Asia affect the apparel industry and is overpopulation still a problem? Apparel industry consultant Robert Antoshak discusses what the next 30 years could have in-store.
It’s an understatement to say that we live in challenging times, particularly when considering how our industry has changed due to supply chain and lockdown disruptions caused by the pandemic. And now we have a war in Ukraine to further complicate things....
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12/5/2022
The US trade deficit in goods and services soared by 22.3% in March, topping US$1bn for what is understood to be the first time.
The goods and services deficit amounted to $109.8bn in March, up $20bn from $89.8bn in February revised, according to trade statistics released by the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis....
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12/5/2022
US inflation moderated slightly in April compared to March, while apparel prices fell, although for the year prices are still up over 5%.
US apparel retailers saw sales decline by -0.8% month-on-month in April, according to data released by the US Census Bureau, which ends six months of consecutive increases, however, sales still increased by 5.4% compared to the same period a year ago....
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10/5/2022
Online retail sales fell by 12% year-on-year in April while inflation continued to rise and consumers prioritised wallet spend on apparel, with clothing sales up 4.2% against a tough comparative.
The findings of the IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers, show online retail sales growth for April fell to -12%, a significant improvement from -25.7% the month before, but nowhere near a return to pre-pandemic levels....
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9/5/2022
Imports at US major retail container ports set a new record this spring and are expected to see near-record volume this month as retailers bring in merchandise ahead of rising costs and further supply chain issues. The figures for US imports are according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates....
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9/5/2022
Denim imports by the US increased by 37.55 percent year to date though March to a value of $965.32 million. The sourcing of blue denim apparel by the US from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey increased significantly while those two mainstays posted more moderate gains.
As per a Sourcing Journal report, Levi’s shipments from Bangladesh rose by 47.26 percent in the period to $196.26 million, Pakistan’s imports jumped 69.65 percent to $116.04 million and Vietnam’s shipments increased 41.42 percent to $107.03 million....
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5/5/2022
As the US Trade Representative issues notice for the statutory process leading up to the four-year anniversary of the Section 301 tariff actions against China, the US apparel industry tells Just style what it could mean for apparel....
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29/4/2022
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has praised the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) following the release of its Special 301 Review, which identifies countries that fail to protect intellectual property (IP) rights on goods, including apparel and footwear.
The latest annual “Special 301” Report conducted by the USTR has reviewed more than 100 trading partners and placed 27 of countries on the Priority Watch List or Watch List....
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26/4/2022
The pandemic has created new opportunities for activewear brands like Vuori and Gymshark. Demand for sportswear is expected to increase from €295 billion ($384 billion) in 2021 to €395 billion by 2025, says a McKinsey & Company report However, foraying in this market can be challenging as newcomers have to compete with global distribution and high-budget marketing campaigns of Nike and Adidas. They have to also convince lifelong customers of these established retailers of offering better quality products, indicates a Business of Fashion report....
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25/4/2022
We've analysed hiring patterns using data from GlobalData
The proportion of apparel supply chain companies hiring for cloud related positions rose significantly in March 2022 compared with the equivalent month last year, with 87.5% of the companies included in our analysis recruiting for at least one such position....
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22/4/2022
UK retail sales volumes fell by 1.4% in March, with clothing store retailers among those feeling the pinch.
The latest data released today (22 April) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows clothing store retailers saw sales volumes fall by 0.5% in March.
Overall, UK retail sales volumes fell by 1.4% last month, following a fall of 0.5% (revised from a fall of 0.3%) in February. Sales volumes were 2.2% above their pre-coronavirus (Covid-19) February 2020 levels....
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21/4/2022
The price of apparel in the United States is rising faster online than offline. In March 2022, prices for apparel increased 16.3 per cent year-over-year (YoY) and 0.3 per cent month-over-month (MoM), more than any other category, according to the online inflation data by Adobe. This has marked the 22nd consecutive month of YoY inflation online....
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21/4/2022
In contrast to regular fashion market, the global kidswear market has been growing in a robust fashion for the last two years. Statista reports, the global infant and toddler wear market has been growing at 3.7 per cent since 2018 and is projected to reach $239 billion in 2023. Segment growth will be dominated by girls’ wear, projected to reach $132.3 billion by the end of analysis period while boys’ wear will grow at 2.8 per cent CAGR....
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21/4/2022
The US trade deficit in goods and services edged down by 0.1% in February, reflecting a US$1.1bn decline in both the goods deficit and services surplus.
The goods and services deficit amounted to $89.2bn in February, down less than $0.1bn from $89.2bn in January revised, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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19/4/2022
Kidswear imports by the United States grew by 21.34 per cent during January-February’22 to reach $485.48 million. Data from Apparel Resources shows, imports from China, India and Vietnam grew significantly while those form Bangladesh witnessed marginal growth.
US kidswearimports from China grew by 24 per cent Y-o-Y to $119.74 million in January-February ’22, growing 24 per cent on yearly basis, while the same valued $76 million from India as the shipment grew by 24.81 per cent on Y-o-Y basis....
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19/4/2022
With sales and exports growing at a sustained pace, the EU clothing industry witnessed significant improvement in Q4 FY21performance. Most clothing companies in the region reached their pre-pandemic levels of growth during the quarter, says latest Euratex report. Clothing production surged 10 per cent during the quarter over Q4 FY20 while turnover increased 21.4 per cent. Retail sales during the quarter also rose 17.9 per cent...
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19/4/2022
US retail sales grew in March even as inflation edged higher, with demand for apparel up both year-on-year and sequentially.
US apparel retailers saw sales rise 2.6% month-on-month in March, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. Sales increased by 7.3% compared to the same period a year ago....
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14/4/2022
The proportion of apparel supply chain companies hiring for robotics related positions rose significantly in March 2022 compared with the equivalent month last year, with 18.8% of the companies included in our analysis recruiting for at least one such position....
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14/4/2022
Consumer prices in the United States increased by 8.5 per cent in March compared to a year ago, according to the monthly report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Compared to February, prices increased by 1.2 per cent in March on top of a 0.8 per cent rise in February....
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13/4/2022
As the US Consumer Price Index reveals the March inflation figures, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) tells Just Style exclusively "record high prices" on apparel and footwear are already "tripping up consumers" and need to be addressed as soon as possible....
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12/4/2022
UK online retail sales fell by more than a quarter in March compared to last year but demand for apparel remains strong with womenswear and menswear recording double-digit increases.
UK online retail sales fell 25.5% year-on-year, last month, which is to be expected when compared to March 2021’s growth of 57%. That is according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers....
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8/4/2022
Denim apparel imports by the US declined 2.94 per cent M-o-M to $299.12 million in February while increasing by 43.41 per cent Y-o-Y, as per the latest report by OTEXA. Of the top five shippers, imports from Pakistan grew 6.94 per cent M-o-M and 117.63 per cent on a Y-o-Y basis. Bangladesh again topped the list with $ 60.80 million in export to the US....
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8/4/2022
Alpine Group, a manufacturer for brands including Under Armour, American Eagle Outfitters and Abercrombie & Fitch has announced the launch of its “factory of the future” due to open in the fourth quarter of 2022 in Egypt.
The factory of the future will add an additional 10 million garments to its annual capacity in Egypt. Alpine Group is in the process of securing LEED Gold certification for the facility, which is expected to provide an additional 2,000+ jobs for the local community....
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8/4/2022
GlobalData analysts examine the data to give Just Style an exclusive overview of how the top ten global apparel companies have fared during the Covid pandemic.
When the first Covid outbreak instigated lockdowns of ‘non-essential’ stores across the globe, including clothing and department stores, some apparel companies were quick to adapt to the ‘new normal’. Most already had a thriving online presence or had upped their direct-to-consumer sales models. But for those that relied solely on bricks and mortar, lockdowns led to a complete halt in business....
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8/4/2022
Major US retail container ports have begun to catch up with the backlog of cargo seen over the past several months but could experience another surge this summer.
The latest Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates says US ports handled 2.11m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU) – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in February, the latest month for which final numbers are available. That was down 2.3% from January but up 13% year-over-year....
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6/4/2022
Influenced by growing emphasis on health and wealth, the global market for functional apparels is forecast to grow at 7.3 per cent CAGR to reach $519.04 billion by 2027 says a new report by Reports and Data. In North America, the professional athletic apparel segment is anticipated to grow from $46.81 billion in 2019 to $80.37 billion by 2027. Sportswear manufacturers have initiated efficient commercial campaigns to raise awareness among target customers about their products. Under Armour has launched aggressive promotional activities after witnessing a surge in demand for sportswear products in 2017....
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6/4/2022
Egypt’s Readymade Garments Export Council (RMGEC) recently signed a cooperation protocol with the country’s customs authority's exporters and producers unit to help garment exporters get access to foreign markets. RMGEC chairperson Mary Lewis said the protocol comes as part of government directives to double Egyptian exports to $100 billion annually....
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6/4/2022
Apparel brands that capitalise on the casualisation trend and seize the online opportunity stand to do better than others post-pandemic, says GlobalData.
Research from GlobalData exploring the future of the apparel market post-pandemic reveals that throughout the pandemic, apparel was one of the hardest-hit retail sectors since it lacks the essentiality of some of its counterparts such as food, grocery, and health and beauty....
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6/4/2022
The likes of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Cambodia’s apparel exports to the US have now surpassed pre-Covid levels as buyers look to diversify their sourcing portfolios. But will they continue to pick up pace? Just Style explores.
Two years ago Covid hit, sending the US apparel industry into chaos with global retail closures and huge supply delays weighing on imports....
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4/4/2022
Two years on from the initial devastating impact of Covid, Just Style explores the rate of recovery of the top ten apparel suppliers to the US. All but three appear to have not only steadied the ship but surpassed pre-Covid volume levels – with Bangladesh and Pakistan leading the charge....
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1/4/2022
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) has joined a letter urging the US Trade Representative Katherine Tai for a fully transparent review of the Section 301 tariffs on products from China.
The letter from Americans for Free Trade calls for a comprehensive economic assessment of the tariffs’ impact on American businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers and asks the USTR to share its plans for reviewing the tariffs, including timing and opportunities for stakeholder input....
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28/3/2022
Retaliatory tariffs on blue jeans have been dropped as a result of an agreement between the US and UK to remove steel tariffs which the US apparel industry says is “welcome news”.
On 22 March the Department for International Trade announced the UK and US had secured a resolution to end the ongoing issue regarding steel and aluminium tariffs with the US....
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28/3/2022
The global custom T-shirt printing market is expected to grow at a 9.70 per cent CAGR to surpass $9 billion upto 2032, as per a recent report by Future Market Insights (FMI). As per an Apparel Resources report, growth in this market is being triggered by the growing trend of wearing graphic, pre-printed T-shirts with movie logos and slogans....
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26/3/2022
Valued at $983.7 billion in 2019, the global readymade garments market size is projected to reach $1,268.3 billion by 2027. As per report by Allied Market Research Report, the market will grow at 8.8 per cent CAGR from 2021 to 2027. The outer clothing segment is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.8 per cent during the forecast period....
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25/3/2022
UK clothing store sales volumes soared by more than 13% in February, which may be linked to wider socialising and a return to the office following the lifting of Plan B restrictions at the end of January.
The latest data released today (25 March) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows non-food stores sales volumes rose by 0.6% in February, compared to the prior month, with strong growth in clothing stores at 13.2% and department stores up 1.3%....
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24/3/2022
The value of textiles and apparels imports by the US increased by 28 per cent Y-o-Y in January 2022 to $10.19 billion. As per a CC Group report, volume increased by 38.1 per cent Y-o-Y to 8.59 billion sq m. The value of US’ apparel imports surged 36.6 per cent in January 2022 to $7.54 billion and volume grew 22.5 per cent Y-o-Y to reach 2.614 billion sq m....
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24/3/2022
A radical rethink of the fashion industry's economic model is the only way to curb its sustainability problem, a new report claims. The new ‘Wellbeing Wardrobe’ study commissioned by the European Environmental Bureau, makes the case for moving fashion beyond growth towards a system where human and ecological health come first....
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23/3/2022
The US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved the bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform bill yesterday (22 March), which the US apparel industry believes will strengthen the overseas apparel supply chain.
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) sent a letter to the committee ahead of the vote, outlining why the bill is vital for bolstering the Federal Maritime Commission and strengthening the overseas supply chain for the wider industry....
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22/3/2022
Restrictions on airspace over Ukraine and Russia will pressure already strained global supply chains and could result in a jump in consumer prices of apparel.
Higher freight rates could see consumers pay around 10.2% more for their clothing and textiles the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has warned as restrictions on trade routes through Russia and Ukraine are further complicated....
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22/3/2022
Sharad Amalean, Chairman of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), says, the global apparel industry will reach $2.2 trillion by 2025. With sharp price points and constant pursuit of cost efficiencies, the apparel industry currently faces competing priorities, Amalean adds. The pandemic has brought these aspects even more sharply into focus; brands and companies have increased their vigilance on the social, environmental, governance and ethical aspects of manufacturing....
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22/3/2022
Just Style asks a panel of industry experts if apparel business strategies have changed due to the supply chain challenges that arose during the Covid pandemic and if the industry is better prepared now than it was in 2020 to handle another global crisis in future.
While some believe the industry has made positive changes to weather another global pandemic, others are yet to be convinced....
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18/3/2022
What were the greatest lessons the industry learned from the pandemic, and what opportunities has it presented? Supply chain vulnerability, partner-based relationships, and a multi-channel offering are all among the biggest takeaways from the last two years.
Industry executives also point to the importance of flexibility and say change is here to stay....
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17/3/2022
US retail sales are expected to grow between 6-8% in 2022 with the National Retail Federation (NRF) anticipating durable growth this year, notwithstanding risks related to inflation, Covid, and geopolitical threats.
Issuing its annual forecast, NRF said it expects retail sales will reach more than US$4.86 trillion in 2022. The announcement was made during NRF’s annual State of Retail & the Consumer virtual event where retail industry leaders discussed the strength of the consumer economy and the future of retail....
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17/3/2022
US retail sales showed a strong year-over-year gain in February, with clothing stores leading growth, but the monthly pace slowed compared with January as inflation drove up prices and lingering effects of Omicron affected the supply chain.
Overall US retail sales in February were up 0.3% seasonally adjusted from January and up 17.6% year-over-year, according to US Census Bureau data. That built on a monthly increase of 4.9% in January over December – more than a percentage point higher than the original estimate of 3.8% – and January’s 14% increase year-over-year....
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15/3/2022
Egypt's garment exports grew by 54 per cent to $204 million in January 2022 compared to 132 million in January 2021, says Marie Louise, Head, Apparel Export Council. The US emerged largest destination for Egyptian garment exports with a value of $123 million in January 2022, compared to $78million in 2021; followed by European markets which received clothing with a value of $37 million compared to $28 million....
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15/3/2022
The February 2022 online prices increased 3.6 per cent year-over-year (YoY) and 0.1 per cent month-over-month (MoM) in the United States, as per a latest online inflation report. This is a new record high, after the previous record in November 2021 when prices rose 3.5 per cent YoY. It marked the twenty-first consecutive month of YoY online inflation. February marked the twenty-first consecutive month of online inflation....
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11/3/2022
Apparel exports from Turkiye increased by 5.52 per cent year-on-year in January 2022, according to the data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the country’s ministry of trade. During the first month of the current year, Turkiye exported apparel worth $1.418 billion, compared to exports of $1.344 billion during the corresponding period of 2021....
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11/3/2022
The US trade deficit in goods and services rose by 9.4% in January, reflecting an increase in the goods deficit of US$7.1bn and a decline in the services surplus of $0.6bn. The trade deficit in goods amounted to $89.7bn in January, up $7.7bn from $82bn in December, revised, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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9/3/2022
Imports at major US retail container ports are expected to be at near-record levels this spring and summer as consumer demand and supply chain challenges continue to result in congestion. “Consumers are still spending and the supply chain is still working to keep up,” NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy, Jonathan Gold says....
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9/3/2022
UK online retail sales growth dropped to 27% year-on-year in February, versus a 24.4% decline in January, according to the IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index.
Despite February’s year-on-year online retail growth dropping even lower than the previous month’s record, there were signs of a return to normal spending patterns within the broader set of results, according to the Index, which tracks the online sales performance for over 200 retailers....
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7/3/2022
Several global fashion and footwear brands including Nike, Mango, Zara owner Inditex, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Under Armour, Canada Goose, Puma as well as home furnishings brand Ikea have suspended operations in Russia following its invasion in Ukraine. Luxury brands like LVMH, Hermès and Kering among others have also temporarily closed their Russian stores....
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7/3/2022
The failure of Bangladesh’s backward-linkage industry to support the apparel subsector is causing the share of woven garments in its export earnings to wane.
Bangladesh's woven apparel subsector faces strict rules-of-origin (RoO) requirements in its major destinations, including the European Union, after Bangladesh's LDC graduation. Manufacturers in the country will need to comply with double-transformation requirement irrespective of their access to GSP or GSP-plus schemes....
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5/3/2022
Pakistan's textile industry has set a target a increase textile exports to $20 billion in the next few years. Its textile exports rose by 37 per cent to $1.69 billion in February 2022, as against $1.23 billion in February 2021, reveals All Pakistan Textile Mills Association. The exports of textile commodities surged by 24.73 percent during the first seven months of the current fiscal year (2021-22) as compared to the corresponding period of last year, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported....
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4/3/2022
The importance of manufacturing in fashion was reemphasized in the last two years as the pandemic and US-China trade war disrupted production in China and other parts of the world. Virus flare ups continued to disrupt production across countries like Italy and Vietnam. Besides, manufacturers in countries like Ukraine are also contending with geopolitical tensions....
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4/3/2022
China's share of US apparel imports has grown for the first time since 2017, with new figures suggesting sourcing executives relied on the country at a greater rate in 2021 – despite the industry being awash with talk of re- and near-shoring.
Just Style has analysed full-year import data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) which reveals the top ten apparel suppliers to the US in 2021....
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3/3/2022
The European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex) is urging the EU to control spikes in oil and gas prices, saying many textile and clothing companies will be forced to shut down production due the rise in energy costs....
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3/3/2022
Bangladesh’s garment accessory makers recently sought renewal of various licences once every three years to help the industry save time and money. They also demanded suspension of corporate tax for three years, saying many factories remained closed or failed to resume operations due to non-payment from buyers and insufficient government financial support since March 2020....
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28/2/2022
Defying global slowdown, the textile and apparel manufacturing sector has been growing at a steady rate. The sector has emerged as one of the most well-established industries across nations. The top 10 highly prospective apparel exporters in 2022 according to Textile Today were:...
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25/2/2022
Indonesia’s garment industry is likely to grow 10.44 per cent in the first half of the 2022, as the upcoming Ramadan festival will drive demand, estimates Elis Masitoh, Director- Textile, Leather and Footwear Industry, Ministry of Industry. Production volume of the apparel industry could grow 10.44 per cent on an annual basis in the first quarter of 2022. However, demand is likely to rebound to only 75 per cent of pre-COVID levels, adds Masitoh....
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25/2/2022
As the US announces a broad range of restrictions and sanctions on exports to Russia following the country's invasion of Ukraine, the US apparel industry reveals it is taking measures to ensure operations are fully compliant....
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24/2/2022
The European Commission has adopted a proposal for a directive on corporate sustainability due diligence, meaning clothing brands selling and operating within the bloc will be held to account over the impact of their operations on the environment and people working within their supply chains. However, there are some exceptions....
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23/2/2022
US textile and clothing imports, which had declined in 2020, rebounded sharply during January-November 2021, notes a Textileintelligence report by Innovation in Textiles. US textile and clothing production and exports also rebounded during the period. US’ imports of textile and clothing from Argentina had declined sharply in 2020. However, there was significant rebound during January- September 2021. Textile and clothing production, imports and retail sales in the country had also declined in 2020 but rebounded from January-September 2021....
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21/2/2022
The US’ cotton trousers imports grew over 32.24 per cent to $12.04 billion in 2021, according to OTEXA. As per Apparel Resources, imports also crossed pre-pandemic levels of $11.80 billion. Bangladesh emerged top exporter with exports growing 34 per cent to $2.57 billion. Vietnam occupied the second position with exports growing by 15.09 per cent to $1.98 billion. The third largest exporter was China whose exports grew by 35.60 per cent y-o-y to $1.69 billion. Mexico with exports worth $920.14 million, Pakistan with $ 868.43 million exports, Cambodia $625.48 million and Indonesia $ 610.15 million also reported a robust growth in cotton trousers exports to the US....
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18/2/2022
Despite surging COVID-19 cases, Vietnam's apparel exports are expected to rise by 7.4 per cent this year to $43.5 billion as factories continued production. The country recently lifted most of its COVID-19 restrictions as it expects a milder impact on the garment and textile industry owning to a high vaccination rate, says Troung Van Cam, Vice Chairman, Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association....
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17/2/2022
US retail sales powered through Covid-19’s Omicron variant, inflation, and other challenges to post strong increases in January, with clothing sales edging up 0.7% on the month prior.
Overall US retail sales during January were up 3.8% seasonally adjusted from December and up 13% year-over-year, according to US Census Bureau data. By comparison, December sales were down 2.5% from November but up 16.7% year-over-year....
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16/2/2022
Higher UK clothing and footwear prices helped to keep inflation at a near 30 year high in January, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights in its Consumer Prices Index for January that clothing and footwear made the largest upward contribution to the 12-month inflation rate with ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner explaining inflation reached a “near 30 year high”....
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15/2/2022
In 2021, Bangladesh emerged the largest exporter of denim garments to the US for the second consecutive year, as per the latest OTEXA report. The value of Bangladesh’s denim garments exports to the country surged 42.25 per cent y-o-y to $798.42 million from $561.29 million in 2020....
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14/2/2022
Portuguese textile and clothing exports increased by 16.5 per cent to €5.419 billion in 2021 compared to 2020 and 3.9 per cent above the 2019 figure, according to the Textile and Clothing Association of Portugal (ATP). Export of knitted garments increased 9 per cent compared to 2019 to €2.336 billion. Home textiles exports increased 17 per cent to €763 million compared to the 2019 figure....
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11/2/2022
US' jeans imports increased by 31.36 percent to $3.68 billion in 2021, according to the Commerce Department’s Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA).
Jeans imports from top supplier Bangladesh jumped 42.25 percent to $798.42 million in 2021 following 2020’s 3.98 percent decline, according to OTEXA. While labor and factory safety concerns continued, Bangladesh’s’ import market share rose to 21.69 percent last year from 20 percent in 2020....
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11/2/2022
AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar says the results of the January 2022 Consumer Price Index report, which shows apparel prices were up by 5.1% compared to 2021 and footwear by 6.1%, shows the Biden administration needs to alleviate ‘spiralling’ inflation for consumers and the US apparel industry....
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10/2/2022
China has come out on top as having the most self-sufficient apparel and textile supply chains in the world in terms of what it outputs versus the amount of each commodity it imports, according to a supply chain vulnerability index published by Just Style.
Just Style analysed data supplied by global trade database Comtrade which explores 127 of the world's 195 countries to determine a goods balance between textile imports and exports and apparel imports and exports....
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10/2/2022
The goods and services deficit amounted to $80.7bn in December, up $1.4bn from $79.3bn in November, revised, according to trade statistics released by the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis.
December exports were $228.1bn, $3.4bn more than November exports, while imports during December were $308.9bn, $4.8bn more than those in November imports....
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10/2/2022
Continued high volumes at major retail container ports will, however, keep up the pressure that built last year as the economy bounced back from the pandemic.
“We’re not going to see the dramatic growth in imports we saw this time last year, but the fact that volumes aren’t falling is a clear sign of continued consumer demand,” says NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy, Jonathan Gold. “Last year set a new bar for imports, and the numbers remain high as consumers continue to spend despite Covid-19 and inflation. The slowdown in cargo growth will be welcome as the supply chain continues to try to adapt to these elevated volumes. Unfortunately, many experts expect ongoing disruptions throughout 2022 for a variety of reasons.”...
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7/2/2022
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has welcomed the passage of the America Competes Act which it says will protect consumers from dangerous counterfeits and address the worsening shipping crisis.
Included within the America Competes Act is the Shop Safe Act, Inform Consumers Act, Ocean Shipping Reform Act (OSRA), and the retroactive renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB),...
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7/2/2022
The results of five surveys conducted for the USFIA seminar, revealed that shipping delays, supply chain disruptions, increasing logistics costs, and managing risks from forced labour in supply chains such as in China’s Xinjiang region, were the most pressing problems for the industry today....
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5/2/2022
During the July-January period of FY 2021-22, earnings from Bangladesh readymade garments (RMG) exports grew by 30.3 per cent to $23.98 billion, shows data from Export Promotion Bureau.
Earnings from knitwear exports grew by 32,89 per cent to $13.27 billion while those from woven products exports grew by 27.23 per cent to $10.71 billion as per a Textile Today report....
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4/2/2022
The United States is the second-largest investing country in Turkey, with over $1.1 billion investment in 2021, according to Turkish official data, which recently revealed foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to Turkey increased by 87 per cent in the first 11 months of 2021....
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2/2/2022
Buoyed by strong orders and revival of global retail industry, India’s apparel export revenues surged 24 per cent in 2021 over 2020. Export evenues increased to $15.21 billion during calendar year 2021 as compared to $12.27 billion in 2020. Revenues shrunk 24.50 per cent due to the pandemic in 2020 that wreaked havoc in the global apparel industry. Compared to 2019, export revenues declined by 6.43 per cent in 2021. The US emerged as top apparel export destination for India during 2021 with shipments totaling $4.78 billion worth of garments, noting 44.93 per cent Y-o-Y growth....
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2/2/2022
Nearly two years on from the short-lived 2020 recession, the US appears to be at the midpoint of an economic cycle that should continue to see growth even as the Federal Reserve raises interest rates to bring inflation under control, National Retail Federation (NRF) chief economist Jack Kleinhenz says....
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2/2/2022
The British Retail Consortium says it is going to be impossible to protect consumers from product price rises in future with commodity prices, energy prices and transportation costs continuing to rise and fuelling inflation across retail stores, including clothing sellers....
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31/1/2022
Focus on high-value added products can help India boost apparel exports to Columbia by double digits, says Narendra Goenka, Chairman, AEPC. India’s exporters are already focusing on higher value and specialized products like man-made fibre (MMF) apparels, medical and technical textiles, he adds. Currently there has been a fall in RMG imports by Columbia though Indian exporters have been able to maintain their share at 3.2 per cent with $ 21 million in 2019 and $13 million in 2020, he adds....
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28/1/2022
Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) exports to the US surged 45.91 per cent during the July-December period of fiscal year 2021-22. Country-wise RMG export data published by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), shows, Bangladesh’s apparel export earnings surged to $4.2 billion in the first six months of the current fiscal year from $2.9 billion during the same period of FY21. As per a Dhaka Tribune report, Bangladesh’s exports of woven products grew by 39.97 per cent during the period to $2.83 billion. Its knitwear exports grew by 57.48 per cent to $1.54 billion....
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28/1/2022
Until recently, Bangladesh' dominance in the world apparel market remained unchallenged. However, in the last few years, Vietnam has slowly begun to usurp Bangladesh's position as leading fashion manufacturer of the world. Recent World Trade Organization (WTO) report shows, Vietnam’s fashion industry is at least one score ahead of Bangladesh on 10 leading indices. On the other hands, its score on sustainability and political stability are 1.5 and 2 points ahead respectively....
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28/1/2022
The Egyptian apparel sector's exports rose by 41 per cent in 2021 to $2.49 billion compared to $1.457 billion in 2020, according to Marie Louise, head of Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE), who recently noted that these figures are the highest for Egypt's garment export sector, and it is a historical increase that has not been achieved before....
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26/1/2022
The returns figure accounts for an average of 16.6% of total US retail sales, which soared to $4.583 trillion in 2021, according to a new report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Appriss Retail.
“As total retail sales continue to accelerate from sustained consumer demand during the pandemic, it is no surprise that the overall rate of returns has also been impacted,” says Mark Mathews, NRF’s vice president of research development and industry analysis....
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25/1/2022
As per trade promotion body ZimTrade, Zimbabwe’s textile and footwear exports by 85 percent in 2021 as the country made inroads into regional markets. Zimbabwe’s exports of these products surged to $32,3 million in the first eight months of 2021 from $17,7 million in 2020, as per a report by The Herald.
Traditionally Zimbabwe's textile market sector exports products mainly to South Africa with an estimated export market share of 91,74 percent, Zambia (1,91 percent), Germany (0,34), Malawi with an exports contribution of 0,12 percent, and Mozambique....
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25/1/2022
About 12,659 garment companies of China earned a combined operating revenue of 1.33 trillion yuan (approximately $209.48 billion) during January to November 2021, recording a 7.7 per cent YoY growth, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The country’s garment industry reported a growth in production, revenue and profits....
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24/1/2022
Cambodia's garments, textiles and footwear exports have surged by 10 per cent annually over the last decade. Garments industry bounced back last year after a year of decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19. Members of Garment Manufacturers Association Cambodia (GMAC) hope to mark 2021 as a year of strong growth for the sector....
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22/1/2022
Bangladesh apparel exports grew by 30.36 per cent in the calendar year 2021. According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data, its exports earnings grew by 30.36 per cent during the year to $35.81 billion against $27.47 billion in 2020. Of the total exports earned from the clothing products, earnings from knitwear exports surged by 37.72 per cent to $19.60 billion while earnings from the export of woven products surged by 22.45 per cent to $16.21 billion...
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21/1/2022
Ethiopia's textile and garment sector has exceeded its target export revenues in the last five months. In particular, the leather business is expected to generate $90 million this year. The industry is expected to help the country’s overall economy by improving its performance.
Around 80 of the 400 textile and garment firms in Ethiopia export textile items. The textile and leather sectors in the country face a number of issues, including the availability of foreign money, input raw materials, and spare parts....
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19/1/2022
The findings, published by Tradeshift, a cloud-based supply chain payments platform for a number of clients, including apparel, show global supply chain growth remained flat in Q4 2021 despite Omicron, however the slowing of China’s supply chains due to lockdowns could still have a knock-on impact for the rest of the world.
The report states: "A spate of lockdowns in key industrial regions across
China could trigger more shortages of crucial manufacturing components and extended order backlogs."...
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17/1/2022
The goods and services deficit amounted to $80.2bn in November, up $13bn from $67.2bn in October, revised, according to trade statistics released by the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis. The figure is just below September's record $81.5bn, according to international trade law firm Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg (ST&R)....
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17/1/2022
Pakistan's textile exports fell 61 per cent in the first nine days of January, shows official data by the Ministry of Commerce. Data released by the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) also confirms, Pakistan's textile production declined by $290 million in the first nine days of 2022. Production of value-added textiles accounted for $213 million and other textiles accounted for $77 million in terms of both value and volume, as per a report by the Global Village Space....
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17/1/2022
As per the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef), the Indonesian textile industry will grow only 3 per cent this year, much below the Ministry of Industry's target of 5 per cent, says Ahmad Tauhid, Executive Director, Indef. Several factors will impact the industry's growth in 2022, as per an Indo Textiles report. These include the uncertainty surrounding spread of Omicron variant whose impact can restrain demand in shopping and trade centers....
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14/1/2022
The poll, which was conducted by audit firm KPMG and OnePoll between 13 to 17 December 2021, revealed that for the third of UK consumers (32%) who want to cut spending in 2022, clothing (50%) was only second behind eating out (55%) as the main luxuries they would choose to reduce. However, when the results were analysed by gender, the percentage rose to 59% amongst women polled....
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13/1/2022
In a letter to President Joe Biden, the head of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) Steve Lamar applauded efforts taken thus far by the administration to tackle the crisis, which includes key legislation and long-term investments in infrastructure and initiatives to combat the endemic trucker shortage which it says will pay dividends in the medium and long term to help prevent the next shipping crisis....
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12/1/2022
The sportswear segment is in its glory days, benefitting from a need for comfort with more people at home and taking up fitness activities following the outbreak of Covid across the globe.
The pandemic has forced a lifestyle shift which has seen people spending significant amounts of time at home and prioritising comfort and wellbeing....
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10/1/2022
The latest Global Port Tracker report by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates has revealed US imports saw year-over-year growth as high as 65% in some months during 2021.
After a year of unprecedented increases, imports at the US's major retail container ports are expected to return to normal growth rates in 2022 but volumes will remain high....
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10/1/2022
Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) industry is capable of handling monthly orders worth $7 billion to $8 billion soon, according to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Faruque Hassan, who recently said the country earned $4 billion exporting apparel in December last year, the highest-ever monthly record....
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8/1/2022
After registering a steep fall of 21 per cent year-on-year to $4.423 billion in 2020, textile and garment exports from Sri Lanka are likely to cross $5-billion mark in 2021, as the island nation has already earned $4.404 billion until October, growing at 20.8 per cent year-on-year, according to the statistics released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka....
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7/1/2022
Readymade garment (RMG) exports from Bangladesh increased by 28.02 per cent to $19.900 billion in the first six months of fiscal 2021-22 compared to exports of $15.545 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal, according to the provisional data released by the Export Promotion Bureau. Knitwear exports gained more than woven RMG exports....
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5/1/2022
Indian apparel exports grew by 35 per cent during the first nine months of 2021, the AEPC has said. This is despite the fact that local restrictions impacted operations in the first quarter during the second wave of the pandemic. Exporters have done exceedingly well and dealt well with the challenges. Garment exporters have a fast growing order book from brands and buyers across the world. With the active support of the government and driven by strong demand conditions, Indian apparel exports are expected to see historic highs in the coming months....
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5/1/2022
Just Style's list of top 10 apparel sourcing countries to watch out in 2022 contains a mix of a few likely and unlikely suspects. Based on the ranking of GlobalData's Apparel Intelligence Center the list rates countries on the basis of 15 main factors that influence a supply chain executive’s decision to use a country for apparel sourcing in 2022.
The list contains 27 countries, rated for their ability to offer free/freight on board, price, tariff advantage, compliance/sustainability, efficiency, lead time, reliability, ability to make basic products, financial stability, ability to source new materials, political stability, flexibility of order quantity, innovation and ability to develop products with buyers and ability to create value-added products....
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4/1/2022
There are already 10 key trends in motion within the apparel industry that can be used to make an educated guess for what will be in store over the course of 2022, argues industry consultant Robert P. Antoshak.
As I nurse my New Year's Eve hangover, I am preoccupied with two issues. One, when will my head stop hurting? And, two, what’s in store in terms of trends within the apparel industry for 2022: Will there be more headaches or some relief?...
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4/1/2022
The value of textile and garment exports from Pakistan increased by 28.41 per cent year-on-year in dollar terms in the first five months of fiscal 2021-22. During the period, Pakistan earned $7.758 billion from textile and apparel exports, compared to exports of $6.041 billion in July-November 2020, according to data from Pakistan Bureau of Statistics....
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4/1/2022
From January to November end 2021, Egypt's readymade garment and apparel exports increased by 38 per cent, according to the Marie Louise, Head, Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE). Exports amounted to $1.7 billion, compared to $1.3 billion in the same period of 2020. Exports to the US were highest during the first 11 months valued at $1.04 billion compared to $726 million in the same period in 2020, an increase of 44 per cent. Additionally, exports to Europe increased 3 per cent to record $320 million in 11 months of 2021, compared to $310 million in the same period last year....
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3/1/2022
Imports of textiles and apparel by the US increased 25 per cent in the first 10 months of 2021 compared to the first 10 months of 2020 reveal OTEXA data. With a 27 per cent share, China continues to be the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the US, followed by Vietnam with a 13 per cent share. Apparel constituted the bulk of textile and garment imports made by the US during the 19 months while non-apparel imports accounted for the remainder....
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3/1/2022
Apparel exports from Turkey increased by 23.02 per cent year-on-year in the first eleven months of 2021, according to the data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the country’s ministry of trade. In January-November 2021, Turkey exported apparel worth $16.676 billion, compared to exports of $13.555 billion during the corresponding period of 2020....
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29/12/2021
During the first 10 months of 2021, import of children's wear into the US grew 32 per cent. Sourcing of children’s clothing is back on track this year after COVID woes. As per OTEXA figures, China is still the largest children's wear exporter to the US even as the country has been facing serious backlash over unethical business practices of late. China's exports to the US from January 2021 to October 2021 grew by 41 per cent....
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25/12/2021
The amended Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) provides duty-free treatment for certain apparel articles imported to the United States directly from Haiti. One of the preferences—the ‘value-added’ provision—requires apparel to meet a minimum threshold percentage of value-added in Haiti, the United States and certain beneficiary countries subject to a quantitative limitation....
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24/12/2021
The outbreak of COVID-19 in Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries led to a sharp drop in apparel and textile exports from these countries. At the same time, the gradual subsiding of the pandemic in China and its stable and complete supply chain resulted in a few apparel and textile orders meant for these countries being diverted to China. China also witnessed a rebound in operating rate of domestic textile and apparel mills that led to a sharp surge exports....
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24/12/2021
On Thursday (23 December). US President Joe Biden signed a bill that bans the import of all goods from the Xinjiang region of China, following claims of forced labour in the region.
The US bill banning the import of all goods from China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang), is called H.R. 6256 or The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and it also imposes sanctions on foreign individuals responsible for what it calls 'forced labour' in the region....
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23/12/2021
Cotton production in India during the cotton season 2021-22 is expected to be above 350 lakh bales, says Indian Cotton Federation. The increase in minimum support prices has encouraged farmers and helped maintain the area under cotton. It incentivised farmers to take up better crop management practices. On the export front, too, the demand is robust. The Indian textile industry saw good demand during Covid because of the market for protective garments and later because of the market going up for garments and made-ups....
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22/12/2021
Pakistan's textile exports increased eight per cent in November 2021, reveals a Topline Securities report. The main reason was depreciation of Pakistani rupee. Growth was mainly driven by the low base effect due to Covid-led restrictions and volumetric growth in value-added segments excluding knitwear segment.
The major contributor in the significant recovery of textile exports is the value-added segment that includes knitwear. Exports of value added textiles recorded a growth of seven per cent. Exports of readymade garments increased 11 per cent, bedwear by nine per cent and towel exports by 28 per cent....
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21/12/2021
The International Trade Centre (ITC) and the International Apparel Federation (IAF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support garment manufacturing companies in addressing emerging challenges related to competitiveness.
The collaboration between the ITC and the IAF will also support associations of garment manufacturers and apparel manufacturing companies themselves in understanding the governance structure of the global apparel value chain and industrial relations between brands and retailers and supplying garment manufacturers....
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20/12/2021
Asia-Pacific is likely to hold a significant market share from 2021 to 2026 owing to growth in the infant population especially in developing countries like India and China, reveals a research report by Research and Markets. Robust economic growth and rising household incomes are expected to increase consumer spending on children’s apparel and footwear products in the Asia-Pacific region. The growth in the number of high net worth individuals and urbanisation in Middle East countries, especially Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE, is creating huge opportunities for luxury children's apparel brands to enter the apparel market of these countries. The growing operational expansion of key players in Asian countries is likely to boost the market growth in African region....
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17/12/2021
7. Egypt
Score: 51/75
Egypt, which sits on the border between Africa and the Middle East, also scored 51/75 but was ranked higher than Guatemala as it scored two ‘excellent’ ratings as opposed to the Central American country’s one.
Egypt was awarded excellent (5/5) for its lead time and ability to provide FOB for garments from formal wear and denim to cotton basics.
A major benefit of using Egypt as an apparel sourcing destination is it’s average lead times range from 30-75 days. In fact, some products can be ready to ship in as few as 12 days, and samples can be ready in as little as a week. Shipping to countries within Egypt's region takes two to 18 days, to Europe from six to 12 days, and to the US from 12 to 30 days. Egypt has also improved its port processing speed, although labour unrest can lengthen load and sitting times.
Egypt has a moderate-sized garment industry with the EU and the US listed as its largest export markets. Textiles and apparel represent about 8% of exports, 27% of industrial production, and 10% of the country's working population. The apparel sector employs about 1.5m workers in 2,500 factories. However, outside Egypt’s Qualified Industrial Zone, the industry is dominated by small and mid-sized companies, often not modernised or integrated into garment production.
Over the past few years, it has become easier to carry out business within the country and interest rates have fallen. Egypt has worked hard to increase sustainability, although workers' rights remain among the poorest, according to the annual report of the International Trade Union Confederation....
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17/12/2021
The US trade deficit in goods and services tumbled by 17.6% in October, reflecting a decline in the goods deficit of US$14bn and an increase in the services surplus of $0.3bn. The deficit amounted to $67.1bn in October 2021, down $14.3bn from $81.4bn in September, revised, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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16/12/2021
US imports of denim increased 28 per cent in October 2021 compared to a year earlier. As per Commerce Department’s Office of Textiles & Apparel (OTEXA) data, imports from Mexico grew 43 per cent. Shipments from countries of the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) rose 29 per cent, led by a 30 per cent from Nicaragua and a 22 per cent gain from Guatemala. Columbia contributed with a 30 per cent rise. Denim imports from Vietnam remained tepid with a four per cent rise. Top supplier Bangladesh rolled along with a 31 per cent increase in the month while China saw a 17 per cent gain. Imports from Pakistan jumped 51 per cent, Cambodia rose 18 per cent and Sri Lanka was up 43 per cent. Jeans imports from Turkey increased 61 per cent in October 2021. October increases were posted by Lesotho, Madagascar, India, Macau, Italy and Japan. Declines were seen from Jordan, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania....
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16/12/2021
Apparel exports from India have registered strong growth in the last three months, according to the latest data released by the Apparel Export Promotion Council. Exports in September, October and November 2021 increased by 20.3 per cent, 13.0 per cent and 1.3 per cent respectively, over the same months in 2019 (since 2020 was a whitewash)....
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14/12/2021
As the threat of Christmas lockdown drove consumers out of their houses to socialise and shop last month, UK online retail sales recorded their lowest ever growth – with every category, except clothing, seeing double-digit negative growth.
UK online retail experienced its worst month of sales growth ever in November, falling by a 19.8% year-on-year, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers....
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14/12/2021
US consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.8 per cent in November after surging by 0.9 per cent in October. In the 12 months till November, CPI accelerated by 6.8 per cent—the biggest year-on-year rise since June 1982 and followed a 6.2 per cent advance in October.
President Joe Biden acknowledged the burden on household budgets arising out of the high inflation and assured citizens that efforts are being made to ease supply bottlenecks. "We are making progress on pandemic-related challenges to our supply chain which make it more expensive to get goods on shelves, and I expect more progress on that in the weeks ahead," Biden said in a statement....
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13/12/2021
The American Apparel & Footwear Association is urging Biden to tackle rising apparel inflation rates following the news the US Consumer Price Index has increased to a 40-year high of 6.8%.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics announced last week (10 December 2021) the all items index rose 6.8% for the 12 months ending November 2021, with inflation rising to 5% for apparel and 4.7% for footwear during this time....
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9/12/2021
Imports at the nation''s major retail container ports are expected to end 2021 with both the largest volume and fastest growth on record despite supply chain disruptions brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The latest Global Port Tracker report by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates has revealed retail imports for 2021 are expected to total 26m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU), an increase of 18.3% over 2020 and the highest number since NRF began tracking imports in 2002....
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9/12/2021
Despite the impact of the pandemic, the Vietnamese ministry of industry and trade (MoIT)recently forecast that the country’s total trade value this year may hit $640-645 billion, with a slight trade surplus. Major industries like textiles, garments, leather and footwear are on track to achieve their business targets earlier than expected, it said....
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9/12/2021
The Turkish ready-to-wear industry expects exports to jump 15 per cent in 2022. The reason for this optimism is European markets are eyeing more imports from Turkey. As per Mustafa Gültepe, Head, Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (IHKIB) European brands are looking at Turkey due to problems in the supply chain, increased freight and logistics costs. The disruptions that the pandemic has caused in the global economy, including in supply chains across continents, have prompted many global fashion retailers to consider turning away from low cost manufacturing hubs in Asia. Some plan to shift their production to Turkey....
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8/12/2021
Sri Lanka's apparel industry forayed into exports in the late 70s. This ushered in forex and recognition to the industry. Facilitated by the 200 Garment Factories Program, Sri Lanka expanded manufacturing across the country during the 90's. This helped the country uplift its rural economies. As per a Knitting Industry report, its manufacturing evolved further in the last decade as it focused on end-to-end partnerships and complete customer solutions. However, the industry's full potential is yet to be realised....
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6/12/2021
Having witnessed a tremendous uptick over the years, the US market for denim jeans is estimated to be around 25 per cent of the global denim apparel market. As per Global Industry Analysts Inc (GIA), the total value of the market is expected to reach $16.40 billion in 2021. The import data released by OTEXA also supports the market value estimated by GIA. As per an OTEXA report, US' imports of denim apparels increased by 28.56 per cent Y-o-Y to $2.54 billion during January-September '21 period. In terms of quantity, the imports grew by30 per cent to 27.07 million dozen annually....
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6/12/2021
The 2021 holiday shopping season appears to be on track to exceed the National Retail Federation (NRF) forecast for record spending despite supply chain disruptions, inflation, and challenges like the new Covid-19 omicron variant.
“Now that we’re in December, the holiday shopping season is nearing the finish line,” says NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz....
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6/12/2021
All goods produced in Turkey, including clothing for exports, will be labelled 'Made in Türkiye', a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette said. 'Made in Türkiye', instead of 'Made in Turkey', was first suggested for voluntary use on all the country’s products meant for exports, by the Turkish Exporters' Assembly (TIM) in January 2000....
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4/12/2021
Vietnam earned $30.659 billion from textile and garment exports in the first ten months of 2021. Of this, yarn exports accounted for $4.564 billion while fabric and garment exports were valued at $26.091 billion, according to the preliminary data released by the customs IT & statistics department, general department of customs, Vietnam’s ministry of finance....
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3/12/2021
From January 2021 to September 2021 denim exports from Bangladesh to the US rose 31.40 per cent, making Bangladesh the top denim supplier to the US reveal OTEXA figures. But in the same period prices of Bangladesh-made denim fell 2.46 per cent. While unit prices of denim made in Mexico grew by 1.25 per cent.
China's dominance as one of the top denim sourcing countries has diminished significantly. Despite the fact that the country offers one of the bottommost unit prices among the top five denim exporting countries, all brands are lowering their reliance on Chinese cotton. And other prominent denim exporters are grabbing this opportunity....
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1/12/2021
US exports of textiles and apparels increased 20.15 per cent year on year in the first nine months of 2021 reveals OTEXA figures. Apparel exports increased 28.94 per cent year on year while exports of textile mill products rose 17.31 per cent during the first nine months of 2021. Among textile mill products, yarn exports increased by 26.09 per cent year on year, while fabric exports were up 15.79 per cent and made-up and miscellaneous article exports grew 12.92 per cent....
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30/11/2021
Apparel exports from Turkey increased by 25.72 per cent year-on-year in the first ten months of 2021, according to the data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the country's ministry of trade. In January-October 2021, Turkey exported apparel worth $15.118 billion, compared to exports of $12.252 billion during the corresponding period of 2020....
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30/11/2021
The value of textile and garment exports from Pakistan increased by 26.55 per cent year on year in dollar terms in the first four months of fiscal 2021-22. Knitwear exports rose a sharp 35.45 per cent year on year during the four-month period while exports of non-knit readymade garments were up 22.34 per cent. Among textiles, cotton yarn exports increased 71.39 per cent. Exports of cotton fabric rose 18.54 per cent during the period under review. Bedwear exports jumped 21.30 per cent....
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26/11/2021
Changes to apparel supply chains on the back of Brexit will ultimately lead to greater efficiency gains in the long run, a new thematic report from GlobalData has revealed.
The thematic report titled ‘The Impact of Brexit on Apparel’ outlines the effects of the UK agreeing the terms of its departure from the EU bloc in December 2020, on the apparel sector....
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25/11/2021
US apparel sellers are seeing customers returning to stores. Customers returning to schools and offices are shopping more at physical stores following the easing of Covid curbs. People stuck at home during lockdowns turned to comfortable joggers and sweatshirts, but reopening of schools, workplaces and public spaces following vaccinations has prompted them to splurge again on street wear, including jeans and shirts. The start of holiday season has been promising. Customers have come out early to shop and have been responding well to assortments. Retailers have shrugged off holiday inventory concerns, confident they have ample goods despite port congestion and some factory closures. American department store chains delivered strong results for the fiscal third quarter....
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24/11/2021
Vietnam's ministry of industry and trade (MoIT) recently forecast that the total import-export revenue this year may reach $640-$645 billion, with a slight trade deficit. The ministry attributed that to the efforts of the business community in overcoming pandemic-induced difficulties to maintain production, especially those in the garment, textile and leather sectors....
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23/11/2021
Cambodia's garment exports increased by 11.40 per cent from January to September 2021 compared to the same time previous year reveal General Department of Customs and Excise stats. Despite Covid, the Cambodian garment industry managed to avoid falling into negative territory. The industry has been gaining market share as a result of extraordinary hurdles stemming from political concerns and Covid consequences of rival nations. The surge in garment exports bodes well for economic activity in the country as other nations grapple with the difficult conditions imposed by the virus. This year Cambodia was lucky to receive some orders shifted from Myanmar and would have grown bigger were it not for the February 20 community outbreak....
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22/11/2021
India's exports in October 2021 rose 43 per cent compared to October 2020 reveal India merchandise trade's latest stats. As compared to October 2019, exports in October 2021 exhibited a positive growth of 35.89 per cent in dollar terms and 43.30 per cent in rupee terms. Leather exports rose 15 per cent in October 2021. Carpet exports rose 10 per cent....
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19/11/2021
UK retail sales edged up in October, marking the first increase over the month in sales volumes since April 2021 when non-essential retailing re-opened. Clothing stores were among those helping to boost growth, with sales now only 0.5% below their pre-pandemic level.
The latest data released today (19 November) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows overall UK retail sales volumes rose by 0.8% month-on-month in October, from a revised unchanged (0.0%) position between August and September....
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18/11/2021
Ethiopia will no longer be eligible for benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Ethiopia is home to one of Africa’s largest textile industries and this would threaten Ethiopia’s aspirations to become a light manufacturing hub and dent hard-won economic gains in a nation once a byword for hunger and poverty. Though Ethiopia is not a large global supplier, suspension of its US trade status would be yet another problem on the list for global fashion brands such as The Children’s Place, Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein as Covid-19 disrupts manufacturing capacity, ports and supply chains....
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18/11/2021
Global merchandise trade is slowing with production and supply disruptions in critical sectors dampening growth alongside cooling import demand, according to the WTO's latest Goods Trade Barometer.
Recent supply shocks, including port gridlock arising from surging import demand in the first half of the year and disrupted production of widely traded goods have contributed to the trade barometer's decline....
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17/11/2021
US retail sales rose in October as many consumers began holiday shopping early to avoid any shortages amid pandemic-driven supply chain disruptions that are dominating businesses and shoppers this holiday season.
Overall US retail sales during October were up 1.7% seasonally adjusted from a month prior and up 16.3% year-over-year, according to US Census Bureau data. That compares with increases of 0.8% month-over-month and 14.3% year-over-year in September....
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17/11/2021
Denim, sneakers and sportswear are among the retail categories which have seen product prices spike as a result of record-high US inflation.
New data from retail market intelligence platform Edited reveals denim, sneakers, luxury handbags, cult footwear and sportswear are the five categories that have seen the impact of inflation hitting a 30-year high in October which resulted in consumer prices surging 6.2%....
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17/11/2021
American imports of denim apparels in January 2021 to September 2021 surged by 28.56 per cent reveals latest OTEXA stats. Pakistan's denim exports to the US were up 63.40 per cent in this period. However, Bangladesh has yet again remained top shipper of denim clothing to the US with 31.40 per cent yearly increase. Mexico’s exports of denim apparels to the US in the first nine months of 2021 grew by 46.53 per cent. The US market is embracing denim clothing well in 2021 after falling in 2020 and 2019 on a yearly basis....
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16/11/2021
China's garment industry continued to expand in the first three quarters of 2021, reporting growth in production, revenue and profit, according to official data, which showed that from January to September, the combined operating revenue of 12,557 major Chinese garment companies was nearly 1.05 trillion yuan ($163.9 billion), up by 9 per cent year on year....
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15/11/2021
India's apparel exports have grown by 44 per cent during April 2021 to October 2021. In fact, shipments have grown to double digit in the past two months. With peak season approaching, India has the opportunity to leverage the good global demand and order position and meet the $20.03 billion export target for 2021-22. However, the Indian apparel industry has been impacted by the steep rise in cotton yarn and fabric prices....
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15/11/2021
Exports of men's garments increased 32 per cent. Exports of home textiles increased 22 per cent. Cotton fabric exports grew 20 per cent. Cotton yarn exports increased by 73 per cent, jerseys and cardigans by 60 per cent, women's garments by 20 per cent and synthetic fabric exports by 35 per cent. Pakistan's overall exports increased 24.71 per cent in the first four months of the current financial year reveal Pakistan Bureau of Statistics stats....
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15/11/2021
The latest bi-annual apparel sourcing report by McKinsey & Company has revealed that every step of the value chain and every company involved needs to change to achieve a more flexible, resilient, sustainable, and customer-centric sourcing model.
The apparel sourcing report, which is called "Revamping fashion sourcing: Speed and flexibility to the fore" highlights that the pandemic and ongoing disruptions to supply chains has placed apparel sourcing at the top of the agenda for many fashion chief executives around the world....
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15/11/2021
The apparel industry in Romania has been badly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic with supplies of raw materials from China and exports to Italy disrupted. The pandemic is also choking off labour supplies, which were already a problem for this near-sourcing hub.
The government of Romania and its apparel sector’s efforts to revive production and sales have yet to find success....
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12/11/2021
Canada's apparel imports fell 6.68 per cent in September 2021 compared to August 2021, reveals Statistics Canada. However, compared to September 2020, imports have gone up by 6.24 per cent. Of the top 10 apparel shippers to Canada, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, Mexico and Sri Lanka remained positive on a year on year basis, while Cambodia, US and Italy couldn’t remain positive with their shipments....
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12/11/2021
For the third quarter Indonesia's textile and apparel industry contracted by -3.34 per cent year-on-year reveals Central Statistics Agency (BPS) data. In the first quarter the textile and apparel industry contracted by 13.28 per cent. In the second quarter there was a 4.54 per cent decline. As for last year, the textile industry contracted by 8.88 per cent....
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12/11/2021
The economy in the United States grew at a 2 per cent seasonally-adjusted annual rate in the third quarter (Q3 2021), The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) estimates. This is lower than the 6.7 per cent growth in Q2 2021 and the 6.3 per cent growth registered in Q1. One of the reasons for the slower overall growth was a slowdown in consumer spending....
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11/11/2021
Readymade garment (RMG) exports from Bangladesh increased by 20.78 per cent to $12.621 billion in the first four months of fiscal 2021-22 compared to exports of $10.450 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal, according to the provisional data released by the Export Promotion Bureau. Knitwear exports gained more than woven RMG exports.
Knitwear exports increased by 24.27 per cent to $7.210 billion in July-October 2021-22, as against exports of $5.801 billion during the comparable period of the previous fiscal, as per the data....
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8/11/2021
The recent fuel price hike in Bangladesh will push up the overall cost of doing business, thereby affecting the competitiveness of the domestic textile and apparel industry in the global market. The hike comes at a time when the sector has just started reviving, bagging sizable work orders. Added to the problem is the rise in prices of raw materials like cotton and yarn, and freight charges....
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6/11/2021
Turkey recorded a 25.72 per cent year-on-year rise in apparel exports in the first three quarters of 2021, according to the data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the country's ministry of trade. In January-September 2021, Turkey exported apparel worth $13.364 billion, compared to exports of $10.630 billion during the corresponding period of 2020.
Category-wise, exports of knitted and crocheted clothing and accessories increased by 35 per cent to $7.792 billion during the first nine months of the current year compared to $5.770 billion earned during the same period of the previous year....
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4/11/2021
Though a number of export-oriented industries in the country have increased their production capacities, Indonesia's export volume is expected to reach pre-COVID-19 levels only by next year, says Anne Patricia Sutanto, Deputy Chairperson, Indonesian Textile Association (API). The average utilization of the export-oriented textile industry has reached 100 percent with a number of business actors even adding capacity....
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3/11/2021
The impact of the pandemic on the nation's economy will be a key factor in retail sales during the 2021 holiday season, but the National Retail Federation (NRF) is nonetheless confident in its forecast for record growth as US consumers are spending because they can....
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3/11/2021
The US administration has revealed how it plans to address its global supply chain issues, including new funding to tackle bottlenecks in Mexico and Central America and new initiatives to aid the customs process between Southeast Asia and the US.
President Biden and the US administration has revealed how it plans to address both its global and domestic supply chain issues....
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3/11/2021
The US is terminating Ethiopia, Mali and Guinea's access to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade preference scheme, in a blow to the region’s apparel sector.
US President Joe Biden said Ethiopia, Mali and Guinea will be terminated from the AGOA trade preference program as of 1 January.
The move comes on the back of concerns about human rights violations in the three nations....
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1/11/2021
The success of fast fashion is predicated on growth, and lots of it, a constant churn of products in the stores. Apparel industry expert Bob Antoshak asks: What happens to fast fashion if global growth falters?
Fast fashion is also a business model that presupposes sustained economic growth supported by ever-growing consumer demand for stuff. Indeed, suppose consumers pull back on their spending. In that case, economies won't do well – lessening the churn necessary for fast fashion suppliers to thrive....
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1/11/2021
The organisers of Sourcing at Magic say the physical event will return in 2022, taking place on 13-16 February and 7-10 August at the Las Vegas Convention Center, USA.
Informa Markets Fashion says the Sourcing at Magic Online event will also return next year, running from 1 February – 1 April, with a second date also in the works for the latter half of the year....
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28/10/2021
US holiday spending has the potential to shatter previous records, as the National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts sales during November and December will grow between 8.5-10.5% over 2020.
The forecast from the NRF expects US holiday sales to range between US$843.4bn and $859bn. The numbers, which exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants, compare with a previous high of 8.2% in 2020 to $777.3bn and an average increase of 4.4% over the past five years....
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28/10/2021
The UK's chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the UK Autumn Budget and Spending Review on 27 October 2021. Here is Just Style's round-up of how it could affect the UK apparel industry and beyond.
Just Style reveals what a UK autumn budget described as providing a "stronger economy for the British people" and "stronger growth," means for the apparel industry and global supply chains....
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28/10/2021
Cambodia's garment exports from January to September this year rose 11.4 per cent over the same period last year. The uptick was despite the February 20 community outbreak of Covid-19 and the ensuing lockdowns. Garment orders have managed to avoid sliding into negative territory despite the pandemic. This year, Cambodia was lucky to receive some orders that shifted from Myanmar and would have grown bigger were it not for the February 20 community outbreak....
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26/10/2021
The Indonesian textile industry is unable to handle the soaring coal prices. When global coal prices soar, many domestic industries that using coal such as cement, petrochemical, and textile experience difficulties. The fertilizer industry, the cement industry, the petrochemical industry, textiles are all energy-intensive industries....
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25/10/2021
Sri Lanka's apparel sector will suffer heavy economic as well as "social and human" costs as a result of being stripped of the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preference (GSP) trade benefits, says its representative trade body. During 2020, the EU accounted for nearly a quarter of Sri Lanka's total earning exports under the GSP – equivalent to roughly 3.2% of Sri Lanka's entire Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for 2020....
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23/10/2021
The government aims to achieve $100 billion worth of textiles and garment exports over the next five years. It has urged the industry to take advantage of a global market shift where China is pruning its market share in the labor-intensive segment.
In FY21, India's textiles and allied product exports declined by 10 per cent to $30.4 billion due to the Covid crisis. In the first five months of this fiscal, exports jumped by 87 per cent on year to $16.6 billion, aided by strong economic recovery in key markets such as the US and the EU....
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22/10/2021
Recovering from the pandemic shocks, Pakistan's textile exports are set to grow to $22 billion in FY22. Most of this growth will be driven by the introduction of supportive policies by the government and stabilization of the industry. As per a Global Village Space report, Pakistan’s textile industry has yielded spectacular results in recent times. Boosted by increasing investments from industrialists, the industry is set to rise by 25 per cent annually from FY2022....
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22/10/2021
US consumers are worried they may have difficulty finding items of clothing to purchase while Christmas shopping this year as supply chain challenges continue.
Apparel is among the top items holiday shoppers are concerned about as the supply chain challenges that have been exacerbated since the beginning of the pandemic remain top of mind for consumers. Nearly half (47%) of holiday shoppers are worried they will have difficulty finding items this year. The top items they are concerned about finding are electronics (44%), clothes (40%), and toys (28%)....
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22/10/2021
UK retail sales were down in September from the month prior but clothing retailers continue to buck the trend with sales volumes up 4.3% from August.
The latest data released today (22 October) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows overall UK retail sales volumes fell by 0.2% month-on-month in September, following an upwardly revised 0.6% fall in August....
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22/10/2021
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern signed a free trade deal on 20 October, but what does it mean for the apparel industry?
The UK and New Zealand Free Trade deal, which was agreed earlier this week (20 October) will include removing UK exports tariffs as high as 10% from apparel and footwear....
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19/10/2021
Cambodia's garment exports surged by 11.40 per cent to $8.2417 billion during January-September 202 as against the same period last year, shows data by the General Department of Customs and Excise.
As per Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia, garment sector in the country managed to avoid sliding into negative territory despite COVID. The sector has been gaining market share due to the unprecedented challenges arising from political issues and COVID-19 ramifications of competing countries, says a report by the The Phnom Penh....
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18/10/2021
US retail sales increased again in September as worries about the Covid-19 delta variant pushed consumer spending toward merchandise including clothing over services like dining, entertainment, or travel despite supply chain disruptions and inflation....
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18/10/2021
Despite evidence of an upturn in growth last month, online UK retail sales took a turn for the worse in September – although clothing retailers were able to maintain good levels of growth.
Online retail sales fell by 12.5% year-on-year last month, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers. The figure marks a further drop on August’s 9.3% decline....
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14/10/2021
The US international trade deficit in goods and services increased to US$73.3 billion in August from $70.3bn in July (revised), as imports increased more than exports, according to the United States International Trade Data report.
The statistics from the Department of Commerce US international trade deficit in goods and services report revealed US imports rose 1.4% to a record US$287bn while exports had increased by 0.5% to $213.7bn....
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13/10/2021
Bangladesh commerce minister Tipu Munshi recently stressed on enhancing bilateral relations with China, especially boosting trade ties in future. “There’s no doubt that China is a great friend of Bangladesh and they play a big role in our development efforts,” he said while addressing a ceremony to honour reporting on Bangladesh-China ties....
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12/10/2021
An important part of its manufacturing sector, the textile and clothing sector plays a crucial role in ensuring the economic and social well-being of European countries. With around 160,000 companies operating in this space and 1.5 million workers, it is an essential pillar of the economy across many EU regions. With over € 61 billion in exports, the sector has 3 per cent share of value added exports and a 6 per cent share of employment in total manufacturing in Europe....
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12/10/2021
Garment exports by African (Sub-Saharan) countries to the US increased during the eighth month of the year.
As per Apparel Resources, Kenya's exports grew by 51.30 per cent to $44.12 million while Madagascar's exports grew by over 100 per cent to $23.72 million in the same period....
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11/10/2021
In H1 '21, US' underwear imports increased 7.52 per cent to $2.01 billion from $1.86 billion in H1 '19, reports Apparel Resources. Compared to H1'20, US' import values surged by 70.96 per cent indicating market of underwear in the country is on an upward trajectory. India’s contribution grew 9.26 per cent and clocked om $176.70 million in revenues in total US underwear imports....
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9/10/2021
Readymade garment (RMG) exports from Bangladesh gained 11.48 per cent year-on-year in the July-September quarter, according to the provisional data released by the Export Promotion Bureau. However, increasing prices of coal, raw material supply disruption from China due to power crisis there and other factors may put a break in October-December....
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9/10/2021
According to the export report published by the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters' Association (ITHIB), Turkey's textile exports increased by 41 per cent to $8.2 billion during the January-August period of 2021. In August, the sector's exports increased by 36 per cent to $1 billion compared to the same period of the previous year, reaching the highest August export figure of all time....
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8/10/2021
The National Retail Federation (NRF) has reported that US retail imports at retail container ports remain high but port congestion is impacting operations.
The latest Global Port Tracker report by the NRF and Hackett Associates has revealed US retail imports at the US's largest retail container ports should remain at near-record levels this month. It could see a slight dip from last year's unusually high numbers however as congestion slows the movement of backed-up cargo....
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7/10/2021
The relevance of Pakistan as an apparel sourcing hub is fast becoming evident when we look at the latest set of import data published by the US Department of Commerce’s Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), but despite the pandemic severely pressuring supply chains reliant on China, the sourcing giant is holding firmly on to its title as top clothing supplier to the US....
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7/10/2021
Supported by higher cotton output, Pakistan's gross domestic product (GDP) growth is likely to rise by over 5 per cent in the current fiscal year, predicts the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA).
Pakistan's cotton arrivals from farms have increased by 100 per cent to 3.8 million bales. By October 1, over 3.846 million bales of cotton had arrived in local markets as compared to 1.907 million bales by the same time in the previous year....
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6/10/2021
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) recently upgraded its forecast for global merchandise trade volume to a 10.8 per cent rise in 2021 from the 8 per cent increase projected in March this year on the back of last year’s slump, which bottomed out in the second quarter of 2020. WTO projects export volume growth at 14.4 per cent in Asia this year....
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5/10/2021
The UK economy expanded by more than previously thought in the April-June quarter before what seems to be a recent sharp slowdown as post-lockdown bottlenecks, including a shortage of truck drivers, rise. Gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 5.5 per cent in the second quarter, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said, stronger than its preliminary estimate of growth of 4.8 per cent....
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5/10/2021
The overall effect of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) on the US economy generally, and on US imports, industries and consumers continues to be negligible in 2020, while the effect on beneficiary countries is small but positive, according to the US International Trade Commission (USITC), an independent, non-partisan, fact-finding federal agency....
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5/10/2021
The US textiles and manufacturing industries have placed their support behind Trade Ambassador Katherine Tai's decision to enforce the Phase One deal with China and maintain tariffs on finished textile and apparel products.
Speaking at the Center for Strategic and International Studies yesterday (4 October) where she outlined the Biden administration’s China trade policy and Phase One deal, Tai described the bilateral relationship between the two countries as "complex and competitive"....
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4/10/2021
Despite falling consumer confidence numbers amid the recent rise in Covid-19 infections, shoppers are continuing to spend, the National Retail Federation (NRF) has said.
"With consumer spending accounting for roughly two-thirds of US gross domestic product, all eyes are closely watching shoppers’ ability to drive the economy," NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz said....
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1/10/2021
Vietnam's trade turnover in the first nine months of this year reached $483.17 billion—a year-on-year increase of 24.4 per cent, according to the country's General Statistics Office. In September alone, the import-export turnover was $53.5 billion, down by 2 per cent from the previous month's figure but up by 4.2 per cent over the same month last year....
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30/9/2021
In October last year, Cambodia signed a free trade agreement (FTA) with China to boost its COVID-19-hit economy. As per a Business Times report, the agreement includes development of infrastructure and connectivity projects to facilitate transportation of goods between the two countries. The FTA was signed under the Chinese government's Belt and Road Initiative. It aims to boost Cambodia’s infrastructure capacity and logistic performance, says Prayag Chitrakar, Country Manager, DHL Express Cambodia....
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30/9/2021
The planned shutdowns in industrial provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Guangdong are likely to boost China’s textiles and garments’ prices 30 to 40 per cent in the coming weeks. The shutdowns will range from 40-60 per cent, and continue till December 2021, as the Chinese government plans to curb emissions ahead of the Winter Olympics scheduled for February 4 to 22, 2022, in Beijing....
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30/9/2021
With most apparel sourcing companies adopting a ‘China plus one’ strategy, both Bangladesh and Vietnam are going to benefit due to their different capabilities and advantages. As per WTO statistics, Vietnam surpassed Bangladesh as the second largest apparel exporter in 2020. But Bangladesh regained its position in the first half of 2021, according to the BGMEA....
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30/9/2021
In the first six months of 2021, trade between Vietnam and the Netherlands hit $4.2 billion—up by 19.5 per cent from the same period last year—accounting for 15 per cent of total trade revenue of Vietnam with the European Union (EU), according to the general department of Vietnam customs. Economists foresee high prospects of export of consumer goods to the Netherlands....
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28/9/2021
Taking historic and decisive action to help keep workers safe on the job and combat unfair pay practices, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a package of 18 worker protection bills, including nation-leading legislation that will end decades-old, unfair pay practices and requires garment manufacturers to pay workers an hourly wage....
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28/9/2021
The Cambodian government has increased the minimum wage for its textile, garment and footwear workers to $194 a month - a hike of $2 that is effective from January next year.
The $2 minimum wage rise for Cambodian garment workers had been proposed by the National Council on Minimum Wage....
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27/9/2021
Textile and apparel goods are susceptible to fraud due to their high duty rates.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) saw increases in some measures used to enforce trade laws and regulations governing textiles in the third quarter of 2021, including factory visits and audits, and collected more duties, according to new data....
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27/9/2021
Egypt's cotton prices have almost doubled to a record level in 2021, shows the latest report by Cotton Research Institute. Growth is mainly attributed to the government's initiative of promoting the textile industry, by expanding the cultivated areas and improving the quality of seeds. As per the Big News Network, the price of a qantar of cotton (45 kg of lint cotton) has surged more than 70 per cent to 3,900 Egyptian pounds (nearly $248) compared to $114.5 last year....
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21/9/2021
To diversify its exports and markets, Kenya should endeavor to increase its global market knowledge by, for instance, engaging in international market research and regularly participating in trade exhibitions to identify and cultivate new markets in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the East African Community (EAC) and the rest of Africa, according to a paper published in Kenya Studies Review....
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20/9/2021
Cambodia's garment exports surged 3.3-per cent in the first eight months of 2021, shows a report from the Ministry of Commerce. As per reports, the Southeast Asian nation exported products worth $5.02 billion during the January-August period this year as against $4.86 billion exported over the same period last year. Growth is being attributed to the high COVID-19 vaccination rates and controllable COVID-19 situation. Cambodia launched a COVID-19 inoculation campaign in February, with China being the key vaccine supplier....
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20/9/2021
Associate professor in the Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies from the University of Delaware, Dr Sheng Lu shares a preliminary analysis of the potential impact of China’s membership in CPTPP for related textile and apparel trade flows.
On 16 September 2021, China officially presented its application to join the 11-member Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). While the approval of China’s membership in CPTPP remains a long shot and won’t happen anytime soon, the debate on the potential impact of China’s accession to the trade agreement for apparel trade already starts to heat up....
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17/9/2021
The US Government Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) has published its apparel US exports data as of July 2021. Here, David Birnbaum reveals exclusively what it means for the global apparel industry.
US data is particularly important not only because the US is the world's second largest garment importer but more importantly because the US has virtually no domestic industry. Indeed, approximately 95% of all US retail garment sales are derived from garment imports. As a result, there is a direct connection between imports and total US garment retail sales....
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17/9/2021
US retail sales increased during August as consumer demand outweighed the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and other factors affecting spending.
Overall US retail sales during August were up 0.7% seasonally adjusted from July and up 15.1% year-over-year. That compares with a decline of 1.8% month-over-month and an increase of 15.1% year-over-year in July....
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17/9/2021
UK retail sales maintained their negative trajectory in August from the month prior, with the impact of labour shortages and supply chain disruption weighing heavily on the sector. Apparel retailers bucked the trend, however, with sales volumes edging up 0.7%....
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17/9/2021
The monthly average of apparel exports from Pakistan is expected to grow 13.44 per cent in H2 FY2021 to reach $ 641.60 million from $565.60 million in the H1 FY 2021. The collective monthly average of textiles and clothing exports from Pakistan is expected to increase 9.12 per cent from $1237.55 million in the H1 FY 2021 to reach $1350.40 million in H2FY21....
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15/9/2021
Rise in demand for winter clothing is expected to boost prices of China's 32/1 combed cotton yarn and India’s 30/1 combed cotton yarn during the peak season for textiles and apparel. The demand for new cotton is also expected to move up in China and will likely be procured immediately by the country’s spinners....
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15/9/2021
The US retail sector is set to experience a merry holiday season with growth spurred by elevated consumer spending on services and continued growth in e-commerce sales.
US holiday retail sales are likely to increase between 7-9% in 2021 compared to the same period last year, according to Deloitte's annual holiday retail forecast....
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15/9/2021
Inflation has caused concern for many people in our industry. What's worse is what happens if the economic rebound experienced early this year grinds to a halt because of the effects of ineffective government policies to control the Delta variant of Covid-19?
Well, then we would have "stagflation"
- stagnated growth coupled with inflationary prices. A nightmare scenario for any consumer-facing industry, let alone ours....
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15/9/2021
Bangladesh has regained its position as the second largest apparel exporter by earning $1.94 billion more than Vietnam in the first seven months of this year, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Bangladesh exported apparel products worth $18.80 billion during the period, against Vietnam's $16.86 billion....
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15/9/2021
US' T-shirts imports grew by 37.97 per cent Y-o-Y to $ 9.78 billion during the January-June ’21 period, as per OTEXA reports.
The volume of these imports surged by 46.37 per cent on a Y-o-Y basis to 287.62 million a dozen during the period, reports Textile Focus. The highest imports were recorded by Vietnam whose exports surged by 21.82 per cent to $1.72 billion while exports from China grew by 43.59 per cent Y-o-Y to $1.56 billion....
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14/9/2021
Euratex has released its vision for a new EU strategy for textiles and clothing. The new strategy aims to develop a forward looking business model and lay down the foundations for a competitive and sustainable European textiles industry.
The European Commission plans to publish an ‘EU Sustainable Textiles Strategy’ before 2021-end. It will also develop a "transition pathway" for the textiles sector – being one of the 14 critical ecosystems of the EU's new Industrial Strategy....
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14/9/2021
A coalition of more than 152 companies and trade associations representing US importers, exporters, transportation providers and other supply chain stakeholders have endorsed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021.
The coalition including the National Retail Federation (NRF) and American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) submitted a letter to Congress in support of the Shipping Act....
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14/9/2021
Readymade garment (RMG) exports from Bangladesh dropped slightly by 1.27 per cent to $5.640 billion in the first two months of fiscal 2021-22 compared to exports of $5.712 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal, according to the provisional data released by the Export Promotion Bureau. While knitwear gained, woven RMG exports fell....
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13/9/2021
Both value and volume of Japan's textile and apparel imports decreased in July compared to the same period last year, and also shrank compared to 2019. Although there was a month on month increase in July, Japan's textile and apparel import demand recovered weakly. As per the latest data by the CCF Group, the volume of Japan's textile and apparel imports increased month-on-month in July. However, it declined by double-digits year-over-year compared with the same period in 2019....
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13/9/2021
The US trade deficit in goods and services fell by 4.3% in July, reflecting decreases in the goods deficit and the services surplus of US$5.5bn and $2.4bn respectively.
The deficit amounted to US$70.1bn July, down $3.2bn from $73.2bn in June, revised, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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11/9/2021
Pakistan's textile exports grew by 46 per cent in fiscal year August 2021-22 to as compared to $1.01 billion exports in fiscal year August 2020-21. The average increase in the exports of textile products for the current fiscal year -- comprising two months recorded as 29 percent to $2.949 billion as compared to the $2.289 billion exports of corresponding period of the last financial year....
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11/9/2021
Despite good diplomatic relations with Gulf countries, Bangladesh is missing out on the $10 billion unexplored apparel market owing to a lack of initiatives on parts of the government and the private sector.
According to the International Trade Centre data, in 2020, the UAE sourced about $4.40 billion worth of apparel items from global markets, Saudi Arabia $3.01 billion, Kuwait $1.13 billion, Qatar $660 million, Oman $608 million and Bahrain $274 million....
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10/9/2021
Double-digit growth in imports at the nation’s largest retail container ports is slipping to single digits as pandemic-related supply chain disruptions around the world continue.
US ports covered by the monthly Global Port Tracker report, released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates, handled 2.19m Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU) in July, the latest month for which final numbers are available....
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9/9/2021
Cambodia’s National Council on Minimum Wage (NCMW) will organise a series of meetings beginning mid-September to negotiate the 2022 minimum wage for workers in the textile, garment and footwear sectors. In a recent statement, NCMW said it had held online discussions on the issue and organisational structure of NCMW for the second mandate....
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9/9/2021
Brazil's textile output is expected to increase by 7.4 per cent to reach 2 million tons in 2021. Fernanado Pimental, President, Abit (Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association) says, revenues from the sector will rise by 9.2 per cent over 2020, bringing the total to R$57.5 billion. Brazil's textile output increased 36 per cent from January-May 2021 compared to the same period in2020. As per Textile Focus, Brazil was able to maintain production rate during the year by shifting to protective items, such as masks....
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8/9/2021
Cotton apparel exports from India to the US are expected to rise by the end of 2021, while Chinese cotton apparel exports to the US may decline. The US has already banned imports of cotton and cotton products from China’s Xinjiang region. Meanwhile, India is trying to benefit from China’s reducing share with new FTA strategies, duty structures, trade policies and freight management....
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8/9/2021
After encouraging signs in July of a possible bounce back to positive growth, online retail sales failed to make up much ground in August – although clothing managed to remain positive.
Online retail sales fell by 9.3% year-on-year last month, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers. The figure marks a small improvement on July’s 9.6% drop....
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8/9/2021
India's RMG exports increased 13.99 per cent to $1.235 billion in August this year compared to $1.083 billion in August last year, according to preliminary data on India's merchandise trade for the month. During the month, India's exports of cotton yarn, fabrics, made-ups and handloom products increased 55.62 per cent to $1.297 billion compared to $833.95 million in the same month last year....
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7/9/2021
Exports of readymade garments of all textiles in August this year were worth $1.235 billion compared to $1.083 billion in August last year-a 13.99 per cent rise, according to preliminary data on India's merchandise trade for the month released recently. Exports of cotton yarn, fabrics, made-ups and handloom products were worth $1.297 billion in August compared to $833.95 million in the same month last year-a 55.62 per cent increase....
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7/9/2021
Top apparel manufacturers in Sri Lanka recently reiterated that the European Union's (EU) generalised scheme of preferences plus (GSP+) is critical for the future growth of exports and expressed hope that the government will work towards retaining the concession. The apparel sector contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) is 16 per cent and its share in total exports is 43 per cent....
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6/9/2021
The latest figures from the Department of Commerce's Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) show US apparel imports and sourcing trends in the year to July.
First, the shipping crisis and new wave of Covid cases start to affect US apparel imports negatively....
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6/9/2021
US-based Fair Labour Association (FLA) has documented significant increases in net wages—ranging from 29 per cent to 57 per cent over a three-year period-in a recent report. The rise allowed factory workers in China and Vietnam to earn a living wage without working overtime. Factory workers in the supply chains of three FLA affiliates earned more wages during the regular workweek as factories reduced excessive overtime....
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4/9/2021
Indonesia's textile exports declined considerably during H1 FY2021 on an annual basis (Y-o-Y). Data from the Industry and Trade Office of the Province of Bali shows, during the first half of 2021, the value of Indonesia’s textile exports decreased by 47.93 percent Y-o-Y in meters....
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4/9/2021
Bangladesh's export earnings grew by 14 per cent year-on-year in August this year following a more than 11 per cent slump a month ago. Riding on apparel shipments, the country raked in $3.38 billion. However, the export earnings are still 8.84 per cent short of the monthly target of $3.71 billion, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB)....
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3/9/2021
Since the beginning of this year, trade between the UK and the EU has plummeted - but that's just half the story.
Many of the sales that have been made between the UK and the EU have incurred a loss. It is estimated that the cost of doing business has increased by 30% – and in many cases the VAT, customs and delivery costs have been passed on directly to the end customer. Repeat business has fallen off a cliff and companies have been forced to write off stock in Europe due to the prohibitive cost of repatriating it into the UK supply chain....
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3/9/2021
Apparel exports from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries are likely to drop in the next couple of months due to the recurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic in the region, which has affected manufacturing as well as the demand. Some factories in countries like Vietnam and Malaysia have been forced to shut down due to the rising cases....
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2/9/2021
Fashion firms and buyers in the United States plan to increase sourcing from Bangladesh in the next two years, according to the United States Fashion Industry Association’s (USFIA) "2021 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study. As per Textile Focus, this decision is influenced by lower prices of Bangladesh produced textiles and garments. A garment product in Bangladesh was priced at $2.5 in July-May this year, while the global average price was $2.6....
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2/9/2021
Pakistan hopes to expand its market share of knitwear exports to 20 per cent in 2021-22. In 2020-21, Pakistan's knitwear exports increased by 36.57 per cent compared to 2019-20. As per a Textile Focus report, revenues from knitwear exports increased 25.83 per cent compared to revenues from export of woven garments. Knitwear exports earnings also surpassed earnings from bedwear by 37.68 per cent....
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27/8/2021
UK retail sales increased in August at the sharpest pace in nearly seven years as consumer spending drove economic recovery, according to research by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), which found that 60 per cent of retailers reported higher sales in the year to August. This was up from 23 per cent in July and the highest since December 2014....
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26/8/2021
Cambodian trade unions recently asked for a minimum monthly wage of $200 for workers from next year, terming the demand as reasonable. They had demanded $250 last year. However, the Garment Manufacturers Association of Cambodia asked the unions to reconsider their demand before joining a tripartite discussion in September as some garments are now arriving from Myanmar....
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26/8/2021
Turkey's ready to wear and confection shipments to foreign markets grew by a robust 27 percent to over $11.1 billion on an annual basis from January to July this year. Exports to Germany grew to $1.9 billion, followed by Spain to 1.5 billion and the UK to $1.2 billion. Exports to the Czech Republic grew by over 200 per cent in the first seven months of the year to $148 million and by 250 percent to Tunisia to $63.5 million....
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25/8/2021
Kidswear imports by the US increased by 40.08 per cent to $1.10 million during the January-June '21 period.
As per an Apparel Resources report, this growth is attributed to rising momentum in back-to-school shopping in the US. The growth in the US kidswear market has given Asian exporters a reason to cheer as all major shipping destinations have grown in their respective shipments to USA in H1 '21....
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25/8/2021
Shanghai's import of garments and accessories from the European Union (EU) doubled in the first seven months of this year, according to Shanghai customs figures.
From January to July, Shanghai’s import totaled 13.47 billion yuan (about $2.07 billion), soaring 99.9 percent year on year, and nearly two times the export volume in the same period, which logged 7.04 billion yuan....
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24/8/2021
Apparel retail sales by Japanese department stores increased 0.80 per cent in July '21 over July '20, shows data released by Japan Department Stores Association (JDSA). As per an Apparel Resources report, total revenues from apparel sales in the country's department stores reached 95,832.73 million yen ($870.80 million) during July '21. These constituted 23.80 per cent of the total revenues earned by the Japanese department stores in the month of July '21....
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24/8/2021
The global nonwovens market is expected to show a value differential of $ 17.72 billion and a volume differential of 8.34 million tonne in future. The market recently reached a value of $ 32.76 billion. As per a China Textiles report, this growth could be attributed to increased demand for nonwovens products and solutions for hygiene, medical, construction and filtration applications. The main growth drivers included the growth of the modern healthcare industry in emerging markets, rising birth rates and the growing elderly population in western countries....
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23/8/2021
T-shirt imports by the US grew 37.97 per cent Y-o-Y to $ 9.78 billion during the January-June '21 period, reports OTEXA. As per Apparel Resources, the volume of these imports surged by 46.37 per cent on a Y-o-Y basis to 287.62 million dozen during the period. Vietnam emerged the top exporter with exports surging by 21.82 per cent to $1.72 billion while exports from China grew by 43.59 per cent Y-o-Y to $1.56 billion....
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23/8/2021
The WTO's Goods Trade Barometer hit a record high in its latest reading thanks to strong trade expansion and recovery from the pandemic.
World merchandise trade continued its robust recovery from the shock of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, new figures show....
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23/8/2021
Financial services enterprises have been slow to embrace the power of digital. But Covid 19 has accelerated the need to make changes.
Despite consistently citing digital adoption as a top business priority, the financial services industry has lagged behind other sectors in migrating its legacy systems....
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21/8/2021
Sri Lanka's textile and garment exports increased by 28 per cent year-on-year to $2.5 billion in the January to June period, according to statistics released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
As per a report by Business of Fashion, textile exports increased by 47.8 percent to $156.6 million, while garment exports surged by 30.8 percent to $2.27 billion....
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20/8/2021
UK retail sales were down in July from the month prior as poor weather and shifting consumer spending demands took their toll. The impact was felt at clothing store retailers where sales volumes fell 2%.
The latest data released today (20 August) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows overall UK retail sales volumes fell by 2.5% between June and July 2021....
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20/8/2021
The US apparel market has revived in 2021 following consumers' optimism for shopping after a dreadful 2020 in both values and volumes. As per an Apparel Resources report, US' apparel imports increased by 26.92 per cent in H1'21 to $35.38 billion from H1 '20. Volume-wise, its imports surged by 38.39 per cent Y-o-Y to 13,365.48 million SME....
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19/8/2021
Earlier this month the US Government Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) published apparel export data as of June 2021. David Birnbaum explains what it means for the global apparel industry.
The US exports data as of June 2021 is extremely important for the global apparel industry because the US is the world’s second largest garment importer (after the EU)....
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19/8/2021
Apparel exports from Vietnam have taken an unexpected hit and are likely to decline further in the second half of this year due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country. Exports rose consistently in the first quarter due to the efforts of industry stakeholders, implementation of sustainable strategies, vaccination drives and improved product quality....
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18/8/2021
Exports of textiles and raw materials by Turkey increased to $7 billion from January-July 2021. As per the "Export Performance Report, July 2021" published by the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters' Association (ITHB), the rate of textile exports increased from 5.6 per cent to 5.9 per cent during the period. In July 2021, this rate increased by 46 per cent to reach $924 million....
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18/8/2021
US retail sales slowed during July as retailers continued to face supply chain disruptions and increased vaccinations allowed consumers to shift some spending from goods to activities.
US clothing sales were down 2.6% month-on-month in July, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. Sales surged by 43.4% compared to the same period a year ago when they were still suppressed from the pandemic....
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18/8/2021
The market for preferred fibres and materials continues to grow, however the pace is not fast enough, according to a new report, which is calling for the transition to preferred fibres and materials to be a "non-negotiable" decision.
The latest annual update from Textile Exchange, the global non-profit that promotes the adoption of preferred fibre and materials and responsible supply networks, found that the market share for preferred fibre and materials grew significantly in 2020....
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18/8/2021
Published in January 2021, a new study by Global Industry Analysts (GIA), projects 4.4 per cent CAGR growth from 2019-2026 for the global sports and fitness clothing market. The market is predicted to grow to $221.3 billion by 2026, as per a Textile Today report. The GIA report highlights North America as the biggest market for sports and fitness clothing where the US has a share of $63 billion this year....
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17/8/2021
Pakistan's textile and clothing exports increased 22.94 per cent to $15.4 billion in FY2020-21 as compared to $12.526 billion in the previous year, shows the latest data by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Most of this growth was fueled by the expansion in export of value-added sectors. In addition, in the last financial year export-oriented industries remained closed due to COVID-19 lockdown and cancellation of orders from global buyers, which also contributed to the steep rise of exports....
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17/8/2021
South Africa's Unemployment Insurance Fund's (UIF) Destroyed, Affected or Looted Workplaces: Temporary Financial Relief Scheme was recently been approved by the government. The scheme has been set up to assist workers whose workplaces were closed due to recent unrest in KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng, resulting in either reduced pay or no pay at all....
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16/8/2021
UK online retail sales grew from a low of 19% to a high of 36% amidst the pandemic, new figures show.
The UK saw the greatest increase in online sales as a percentage of total retail sales during the pandemic, according to new research into consumer shopping trends....
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16/8/2021
Despite Covid upheavals and the Section 301 tariffs, sourcing costs in China have remained surprisingly flat in comparison to SE Asia.
As companies revisit their supply chains to help them manage current and future risks, Southeast Asia is proving a key region of interest thanks to its low sourcing costs, proximity to established suppliers in China, and rapidly developing manufacturing capabilities, a new report has found....
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16/8/2021
India's government is expected to confirm an export incentive scheme for apparel exporters called the Refund of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) this week, according to reports by The Times of India.
India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is expected to provide final clearance of the Refund of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) export scheme in the next few days, based on the reports....
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16/8/2021
The Bangladesh government has taken a special initiative to raise the volume of garment exports to the United States as the shipment of apparel items to the former's single largest export destination is growing due to high demand, commerce minister Tipu Munshi told the concluding session of the "Men's Apparel Guild in California" in Las Vegas recently....
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13/8/2021
Today's younger generation care about consumerism and fashion but what does this mean for apparel and textiles? Industry consultant Robert Antoshak reviews two books that discuss the origins of the sector and how the world would look if we all stopped shopping....
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12/8/2021
Internet of things deals, jobs and patents have been booming in the last few years. But is the apparel sector keeping up?
The apparel industry is seeing changes in internet of things investment across several key metrics, according to an analysis of GlobalData figures....
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12/8/2021
Garment exports in the Philippines are expected to fall below the $1.4-billion projection for the year due to disruptions from the pandemic-induced lockdowns and shipping space constraints, according to the Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP), which recently said exporters are facing order cancellations. Curfew, lack of transport and other restrictions have added to the problem....
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12/8/2021
According to Fernando Pimentel, President, Abit (Brazalian Textile and Apparel Industry Association) there was an increase of 36 per cent in Brazil's textile production between January and May 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. Pimentel also highlighted the growth in clothing production, as well as in commerce and especially in jobs....
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12/8/2021
In the first four months of 2021, Sri Lanka's textile and garment export revenues increased 28.7 per cent year-on-year to $ 1,699 million, show statistics released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The country's textile exports increased by 41.2 per cent to $ 98.9 million and clothing exports increased 27.3 per cent to $ 1,556 million....
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11/8/2021
Bangladesh RMG exports to the US surged by 26.81 per cent from January-June 2021 as increased vaccination in the US boosted demand for apparel items in the country. As per Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) data by the US Department of Commerce, US' apparel imports from Bangladesh increased $662 million to $3.13 billion in the first half of 2021 from $2.45 billion in the same period of 2020. As per a New Age Data report, export orders and the inquiries from the US buyers increased in recent months as the country opened its business after massive COVID vaccination....
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11/8/2021
US saw a 32.87 per cent Y-o-Y increase in its denim clothing import values from worldwide from January-June 2021.
As per Apparel Resources, the US imported $1.44 billion worth of denim apparels in January to June 2021 period as against $1.08 billion in the corresponding period of prior year.
Bangladesh ended 2020 as a top ranked denim apparel shipper to US but the country has been surpassed by Mexico in H1 2021....
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10/8/2021
After recording the steepest drops in the history of the IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index for two months in a row, the fall in UK online retail sales appears to be slowing, with shoppers continuing to prioritise fashion. Online retail sales fell by 9.6% year-on-year last month, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers. That compares to a 14.1% drop in June....
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10/8/2021
The apparel industry of Tunisia has been hit hard by the pandemic as well as the political turmoil in the country. Exports dropped significantly by 90.93 per cent to $25.03 million towards the end of the second quarter of this year from $276.01 million in March 2021. However, they are expected to recover in the second half of this year....
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10/8/2021
The top apparel and textile suppliers to the US saw significant growth in the first half of 2020, with El Salvador and India leading the table, new figures show. Six months into the year and apparel and textile suppliers to the US are continuing to push orders through in a bid to recover from a challenging 2020. All ten top supplier countries recorded growth in US apparel imports, with four showing triple digit growth, headed by El Salvador....
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9/8/2021
The US apparel industry is standing with other sectors in calling upon President Joe Biden to restart negotiations with China and cut tariffs on imports they say are hurting the US economy and consumers. Tariffs on apparel were retained to ensure China fulfils its obligations under its 2020 Phase One trade pact with the US....
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9/8/2021
The June increase reflects an increase in the goods deficit of $4bn to $93.2bn and a decrease in the services surplus.
The US trade deficit in goods and services hit an all-time high in June, up 6.8% to US$75.7bn from $71.2bn in May, according to trade statistics released by the Department of Commerce....
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9/8/2021
Imports at the nation's largest retail container ports should hit yet another record in August as consumer demand continues to stretch supply chains and retailers shift from the back-to-school season to the peak shipping season for winter holiday merchandise....
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9/8/2021
Chinese cotton industry is moving ahead with plans to form a fairer and more transparent international industry standard-setting platform to replace the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), a Switzerland-based nongovernmental organization, as the latter failed to facilitate the positive and sound development of the global cotton supply chain....
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9/8/2021
Reduced access to physical stores as a result of the global pandemic has prompted a rise in cross-border e-commerce, new data shows, with clothing one of the most popular types of purchase. The "Global Voices: Pre-Peak Pulse 2021" survey from eShopWorld (ESW) reveals the rise in cross-border e-commerce in the last six months has been led by millennial demographics, with reduced access to stores during the pandemic prompting over half (52%) of 25-34 year olds to buy direct from international online brands....
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7/8/2021
Darshana Jardosh, Minister of State for Textiles, said, high tariffs are causing setback to the Indian textile and garment exporters to the European Union (EU) and the UK.
According to Jardosh, India's textile and garment exports in 2020 totaled $29.61 billion, while shipments of Bangladesh, Vietnam and Cambodia for that year totaled $37.95 billion, $37.10 billion and $7.77 billion, respectively....
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7/8/2021
Vietnamese textile-garment firms are staring at the risk of losing orders to competitors amid the COVID-19 situation in August with over four-fifths of such enterprises in the southern region having had to either lower productivity or suspend operations to combat the pandemic. Only 70-80 per cent of such companies in the northern region are operating....
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6/8/2021
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) recently requested the Indian government to expedite and facilitate Bangladesh's export-import trade through the Bangaon-Benapole land port. BGMEA president Faruque Hassan wrote a letter to the Indian high commissioner in Dhaka Vikram Kumar Doraiswami regarding this issue....
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6/8/2021
Based on the World Trade Statistical Review 2021 report released by the World Trade Organization (WTO), here is a big-picture overview of the latest world textiles and apparel trade patterns.
Affected by the pandemic and companies' evolving production and sourcing strategies in response to the shifting business environment, the textiles and apparel trade patterns in 2020 include both continuities and new trends, according to the World Trade Organization's World Trade Statistical Review 2021....
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5/8/2021
The wholesale value of the outdoor goods sector in Europe dropped 9.5% last year to EUR5.3bn (US$6.3bn) as a result of Covid-19 with apparel and footwear both falling 10.4% to EUR2.6bn and EUR1.5bn respectively.
All countries in Europe experienced a decline in outdoor gear sales with Norway recording the largest drop linked to the impact of Covid, according to the latest round of the European Outdoor Group’s (EOG) State of Trade market research programme....
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5/8/2021
In 2020 several new trade patterns emerged in the global textile and apparel industry, as per the new World Trade Statistical Review 2021 report released by the World Trade Organization (WTO). A new course material from Fash455 course shows, some of these patterns were a continuation of earlier trends while others evolved with companies' shifting production and sourcing strategies in response to the changing business environment....
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4/8/2021
Efforts to strengthen and diversify supply chains since the Covid-19 pandemic struck have generally been hit or miss rather than systematic, according to a new report from McKinsey & Co.
McKinsey & Co., published an update on its "Trends that will define 2021 and beyond" report which explores its projections six months on with one of its key points centred around supply chains - specifically, the vulnerabilities and weaknesses that were exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic - and how businesses are trying to diversify away from having all production centred in one location....
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4/8/2021
While the Covid-19 pandemic drove global cotton production down by 7% on the year prior in 2021/21, the industry has responded well and production is expected to rise by 3% in 2021/22.
The rise will see global cotton production reach 25m tonnes in 2021/22, compared to 24.2m tonnes a year earlier, according to the latest update from the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC)....
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4/8/2021
Fashion suppliers in China fear regional lockdowns will have serious long-term impacts on their stock levels, profit margins and retailer relationships. As per a Drapers Online report, since July 7, China has enforced lockdowns in urban areas throughout large areas of Eastern China, including parts of Beijing, Shijiazhuang, Nanjing and Heilongjiang, China's northern-most province. The lockdowns have led garment and textile factories across the country to temporarily close, while workers have been instructed to self-isolate at short notice....
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4/8/2021
Bangladesh's RMG shipments dipped 16 per cent year-on-year in July due to the Eid vacations, weeks-long lockdown, and a severe container congestion in the Chittagong port. During the month, Bangladesh exported apparels worth $2.60 billion against $3.08 billion worth of apparels exported last July, reports Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA)....
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4/8/2021
Over the last 20 years, India's textile and apparel exports declined from 24 per cent in 2001 to 11 per cent in 2020. Exports of cotton yarn declined from 2 per cent to 1 per cent while RMG exports fell from 11 per cent to 4 per cent. According to a report by CRISIL Research, cotton yarn accounted for India’s total textile and apparel exports in the last financial year, while RMG exports accounted for 28 per cent. Lack of FTAs and increased competition are some of the reasons for India’s dismal exports over the years....
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3/8/2021
From January-May 2021, US' PPE imports increased by 284 per cent on a Y-o-Y basis to $10.68 billion, shows an OTEXA report. As per Textile Today, US' import of face masks and shields under increased to $ 2.07 billion during period. Import share of face masks from China increased by 68.20 per cent to $1.41 billion....
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3/8/2021
The woven casualwear category within the readymade garment (RMG) sector of Bangladesh is expected to grow at the rate of 4-5 per cent in the current calendar year, according to Sheikh Islam Shaheenul, director – marketing & merchandising of Dhaka-based casualwear exporter Windy Group. The category's growth took a beating of 13 per cent due to COVID-19 in 2020....
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2/8/2021
Bangladesh recently lost its rank as the second largest apparel exporter to Vietnam, according to the latest data released by the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Vietnam sold $29 billion worth of apparel merchandise to the world in 2020, while Bangladesh's garment exports were valued at $28 billion, the World Trade Statistical Review revealed....
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2/8/2021
The declining trend of China's garment exports is in line with the view of many observers that the reliance on Chinese garment and footwear production is shrinking, according to a research brief by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
Although the diversification of production to countries other than China is a trend that is expected to continue beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and indeed may further accelerate, the crisis is prompting some firms to re-evaluate the worth of a broader supplier base to diversify supply chain risk....
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2/8/2021
Working conditions for garment workers were already under distress pre-COVID. The pandemic has worsened the situation with wage thefts across Asian garment factories rising, says a new report by the Asia Floor Wage Alliance (AFWA). The report states, predatory purchasing practices adopted by brands during the pandemic has forced many suppliers to lower production costs besides accepting unstable offers and delayed payments....
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2/8/2021
As global economies return to normal, Pakistan is experiencing a major surge in export orders. As per a BOL report, with $15.4 billion Pakistan’s textile exports reached its highest levels in FY21. Exports in the second half of FY 2021 exceeded that in the first half by 7 per cent. Compared to FY 2019, the second half exports increased by 19.10 per cent against 11.8 per cent in the first half, indicating a robust outlook for the sector in the near-term with order book stretching to 6 million to 9 million....
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2/8/2021
As per Iran's Afsaneh Mehrabi, Director General-Weaving and Garment Industries Department, the country's garment exports grew 98 per cent to reach over $113 million during the previous Iranian calendar year 1399 that ended March 20, 2021. Mehrabi said production of garments and textile products in the previous Iranian calendar year increased 25 per cent compared to previous year....
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2/8/2021
Risk experts are warning increased tensions with Beijing and a growing Chinese security presence could damage Hong Kong's apparel sector.
The recent warning by the US Government against investing in Hong Kong because of a strengthened Chinese security presence may weaken Hong Kong's standing as a major centre for sourcing clothing and textile goods from mainland China, according to observers in the Special Administrative Region....
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2/8/2021
Companies are increasingly hiring for artificial intelligence roles in the fashion and accessories sector, but some parts of the world are proving more attractive than others.
Artificial intelligence is an area which has seen rapid growth across a variety of industries in recent years – not least among apparel supply chain companies....
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2/8/2021
Care labelling will remain mandatory for apparel and certain textile goods sold in the US.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted in an open Commission meeting to retain the mandatory care labelling requirements for apparel and certain textile goods after a proposal in June 2020 to repeal the requirements.
The FTC said the Care Labeling Rule ensures American consumers continue to get accurate information on how to take care of their fabrics and extend the life of their clothes....
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31/7/2021
Darshana Jardosh, Union State Minister of Textiles says, India's export performance is being negatively impacted by high tariffs faced by domestic exporters in the European Union and the UK as compared to zero duty access given by these countries to nations like Bangladesh and Cambodia.
As per a Free Press Journal report, in 2020, India's textiles exports amounted to$29.61 billion, while thoses of Bangladesh, Vietnam and Cambodia aggregated to$37.95 billion, $37.10 billion and $ 7.77 billion, respectively. Textiles exports to China increased to $1.56 billion in 2020-21 as against $ 1.13 billion in 2019-20....
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30/7/2021
US textile and apparel imports were up 22.6 per cent in May 2021 compared with the same period in 2019, reveals CCF Group stats. Both US apparel imports volume and value moved up sharply year-on-year and month-on-month but they were close to or lower than the level in 2019. Therefore, the import volume and value did not recover to the level in the same period of 2019....
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30/7/2021
US apparel and footwear imports from China declined to 37.9 per cent in 2019. It was 50.7 per cent in 2010. Similarly, the EU's imports from China declined to 36.1 per cent in 2019, from 47.6 per cent in 2010.
Bangladesh and Vietnam have benefited the most due to the shift in apparel and footwear exports from China. In 2019, both countries' combined share of apparel and footwear exports to the US and the European Union (EU) equaled half of China's share....
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30/7/2021
Japan has recorded a 2.13 per cent dip in apparel from January to May 2021. There has been continuous fall in woven garment imports. Japan's import of woven clothing plunged by 8.35 per cent in these five-months. However imports of knitted garments were up 4.78 per cent in the same period.
Of the major shippers to Japan, China, India and Bangladesh registered growth in shipments. On the other hand, Pakistan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka recorded a fall in shipments. Japan is a sophisticated market, leaning towards small-lot and short cycle delivery of supplies....
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29/7/2021
Pakistan's knitwear export surged 36.57 per cent during 2020-21 over 2019-20. And it aims to increase its share to 20 per cent in 2021-22. The country's earnings from knitwear exports are 25.83 per cent more than earnings from woven garment exports, 37.68 per cent more than exports of bed wear and 307 per cent more than exports of towel.
While Pakistan's share in total world imports of knitwear is 1.83 per cent Bangladesh has 8.12 per cent share. About 30 per cent of small and medium units have closed in Pakistan in the last two years after the imposition of a 17 per cent sales tax....
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29/7/2021
In recent years, China's ginning capacity has risen fast, especially in 2020. The newly-added ginning capacity this year is due to delayed construction last year affected by the epidemic. Ginners may have higher enthusiasm to procure seed cotton this year as they have gained good profits last year, says a CCF Group report.
In addition to the expectations over high new seed cotton prices, market players also have certain expectations over the coming traditional buoyant season....
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28/7/2021
The apparel, textile, footwear, and electronics industries in Vietnam have been most harshly affected by COVID-19-related shutdown. There are more than 6,000 factories in Vietnam, which employ more than three million workers. Production shutdowns at footwear manufacturers have already caused supply chain disruptions for major brands, some of whom have begun using airfreight to get their products out of Vietnam as quickly as possible amid a shipping crunch. Also at risk of interruption are supply chains of other large companies that have their products manufactured in factories in Vietnam....
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28/7/2021
Messe Frankfurt's customer survey has found that 97% of companies want to continue participating in trade fairs.
Companies surveyed for Messe Frankfurt's Customer Care Campaign (CCC) expressed clear approval of the additional digital benefits offered by hybrid trade fair formats during the pandemic in particular. However, people want - and need - in-person trade fairs.
"This is a clear vote of confidence for in-person events," says Wolfgang Marzin, president and CEO of Messe Frankfurt....
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27/7/2021
In the first half of 2021 the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) welcomed more than 180 new members across its membership categories.
Among the brands and retailers that committed to supporting more sustainable cotton farming practices around the globe were Gerber Childrenswear LLC, Hanes Brands Inc, and Rip Curl....
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27/7/2021
More than one-third of UK online shoppers will only associate with responsible brands that treat staff fairly, source ethically, and do not misuse consumer data, according to a new survey.
Research into online shopping behaviour and ethics from global commerce search and discovery platform Empathy.co shows half of UK online shoppers (47%) prefer to shop with brands they trust, and 22% will pay more for the brands they trust....
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27/7/2021
Jordan’s garment industry did not witness the pandemic’s worst impact, proving to be ‘relatively’ resilient in its adaptability to new trends, according to Better Work Jordan Annual Report 2021, which noted that the economic downturn in the country’s garment industry has only had a 15 per cent reduction in exports and a full rebound is expected by 2021 end....
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27/7/2021
The global economy is changing, with transformation at the very top of corporate agendas across virtually all industries. From recent, seismic shocks to the system such as Covid-19, to longer-term macro trends such as the energy transition, economies are thinking about their longer-term futures like never before. That future, it seems, is digital, and enterprises across the Middle East are pursuing it with zeal....
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26/7/2021
Canada is stuck in a strange predicament. As per a recent survey, post pandemic, the country has witnessed renewed demand for locally made goods. Yet, shopping for local products in the country has become more challenging, says a report by Macleans. As per a 2019 report, most clothing purchased in Canada is imported from China, Bangladesh and Vietnam. Though, brands including Roots, Lululemon and Joe Fresh design their clothing in Canada, majority is manufactured elsewhere....
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26/7/2021
Fashion brands and buyers in the United States are eager to increase sourcing from Bangladesh over the next two years. They find the prices of apparel and textile products in Bangladesh to be lower than global average prices. The "2021 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study" conducted by the United States Fashion Industry Association revealed the unit price of apparel products in Bangladesh was $2.5 in July-May of this year while the global average price was $2.6 in the period. Consistent with the survey results from 2017 to 2020, respondents this year again say Bangladesh offers the most competitive price, followed by China, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Cambodia, the USFIA said....
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26/7/2021
Vietnamese companies have not made headway with several orders due to Covid-19 related complications.
The stay-at-home mandate under the prime minister's directive 16 has significantly affected firms' operations. They expect a probable shift of orders to other countries. Textile-garment makers in the southern localities have had to suspend their operations due to the resurgence of the coronavirus, thus making it tough to commit to business partners and, consequently, creating concerns among business partners about the disruption of their supply chain....
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26/7/2021
The UK’s Department for International Trade has launched a consultation to grow “free and fair” trade with lower income nations.
The proposed Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) to drive free and fair trade would apply to 70 qualifying countries currently and include improvements such as lower tariffs and simpler rules of origin requirements for countries exporting to the UK....
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26/7/2021
Crystal International Group Limited has published a new Sustainability Report that explains how manufacturers and the wider apparel sector can innovate in the new normal post-Covid-19.
Crystal International Group Limited, which comprises 20 garment manufacturing facilities, has published its 2020 Sustainability Report, which is focused on the changes manufacturers have made and can continue to make to innovate in the new normal....
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26/7/2021
Australian consumers believe ethical purchasing is important, but are failing to follow through on their own beliefs, according to a new report.
The new Australian Ethical Consumer report, released by Christian aid and development organisation Baptist World Aid Australia, analyses consumer fashion purchasing....
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26/7/2021
Trade unions in Myanmar are calling for comprehensive economic sanctions against the country to prevent companies using the current situation to employ casual workers in unsafe factories.
The Confederation of Trade Unions of Myanmar (CTUM) says economic sanctions are needed, and for the international community to isolate the military regime. The CTUM is part of the 16-member Labour Alliance, representing the entire labour movement in the country....
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26/7/2021
Low-cost and high-volume apparel exports from China and other Asian countries in the global market are continuously overwhelming Ghana’s exports, according to the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), which recently said inadequate promotion of Ghanaian textiles and Afro-centric fashion in mainstream apparel channels abroad remains a bane for the sector....
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24/7/2021
As per the statistics released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Pakistan's total textile exports increased by 23 per cent to $15.42 billion Y-o-Y in FY 2021.
Knitwear exports posted the highest growth of 37 per cent Y-o-Y basis to $3.83 in FY21 as against $ 2.80 billion in FY20. Among others, bed wear and readymade garment's segments also recorded a substantial growth in exports by 29 per cent Y-o-Y and 19 per cent Y-o-Y respectively....
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23/7/2021
UK retail sales edged up in June from the month prior but consumer demand for apparel continues to wane with sales volumes at clothing stores falling by 4.7%
The latest data released today (23 July) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows overall UK retail sales volumes increased by 0.5% between May and June 2021, and were up 9.5% when compared with their pre-coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic February 2020 levels....
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23/7/2021
A new research paper has revealed what the future of the post-Covid-19 apparel industry could look like and its impact for workers, employers and governments in the Asia and Pacific region.
Cornell University researchers worked with the Internationl Labor Organization (ILO) to produce the research paper called ‘Repeat, Repair or Renegotiate? The Post-Covid Future of the Apparel Industry’ which explores the industry changes and new directions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic....
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23/7/2021
Bangladesh will stay resilient, continue to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and live up to its image of a favourite destination for global investors despite the pandemic-induced economic downturn, according to a new report released by the US Department of State, which mentioned about the country’s large, young, and hard-working workforce and strategic location....
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23/7/2021
Growing allegations of forced labor in their cotton supply chains have made sourcing awareness a top priority for fashion brands. Brands across the world are pressurized to refute usage of Xinjiang cotton in their garments. One such instance is Japan-based casual wear brand Uniqlo whose US shipments were blocked recently over concerns of connections with forced labor in China’s Xinjiang province....
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23/7/2021
As footwear and apparel costs in the US rise faster than they have done in years, the presidents of the USFIA and FDRA ask: Is it time to end the outdated footwear and apparel tariffs?
Like July 4th fireworks soaring overhead, shoppers in 2021 are seeing footwear and apparel costs rise the fastest in years point out, United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) president Julia Hughes and Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) president and CEO Matt Priest....
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23/7/2021
Labour market conditions in Myanmar has witnessed ‘significant deterioration’ since the military took power in February this year, according to estimates released by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which recently said employment contracted by an estimated 6 per cent in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the fourth quarter of 2020, reflecting 1.2 million job losses....
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22/7/2021
Large patches of apparel-producing zones in Asia will be under water by 2030, threatening thousands of suppliers with submersion unless they relocate to higher ground, an analysis by two Cornell University researchers showed. It was part of a paper commissioned by the International Labour Organization (ILO) released last week. It overlaid maps of rising sea levels onto factory locations....
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22/7/2021
China's textile and apparel (T&A) imports from Europe increased to $2 billion during January-April 2021 from $1.4 billion during the corresponding period in the previous year. As per a Textile Value Chain report, China's imports from Europe grew 44.11 per cent during January-April 2021. Imports from Vietnam increased 35.74 per cent to $1.7 billion in 2021 during the same period. Imports from the US increased 72.98 per cent or $0.4 billion....
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22/7/2021
India's Finance Ministry has refused to remove 10 per cent duty on cotton imports saying it benefits domestic producers. However, garment manufacturers argue the 10 cent duty on cotton imports makes export of high-quality clothing uncompetitive in the international market, reports United News of India. Amit Sethi, Joint Managing Director, Orient Fashions alleges, the duty makes import of high-quality cotton from Australia and America expensive. This makes India uncompetitive in the international high-end clothing market, he adds....
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22/7/2021
Ghana's apparel exports are being continuously threatened by the low-cost, high-volume competing exports from China and other Asian countries, says the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA). The sector's prospects are linked to the relative speed with which it can be set up and the large impact on employment-generation, especially in industrial settings....
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22/7/2021
The Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) report 2020 revealed the impact of Covid-19 on the organic cotton farming industry, the challenges still to come and how collaboration is key to securing a market for organic cotton farmers.
The Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) 2020 report revealed it secured higher net profits for organic farmers in its Farm Programme for a third year, despite the Covid-19 pandemic. Plus, premiums of over EUR1m were paid out to farmers directly on top of the market price....
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21/7/2021
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation has published a new report that reveals it is possible for fashion and apparel brands to make jeans fit for today's circular economy.
‘The Jeans Redesign: Insights from the first two years’ reveals the barriers, solutions and innovation gaps faced by the 72 brands, retailers, garment manufacturers, fabric mills and laundries signed up to The Jeans Redesign’s common guidelines and definitions....
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20/7/2021
Iran’s garment exports reached over $113 million during the previous Iranian calendar year 1399 (ended March 20), registering a 99 per cent rise year on year, according to Afsaneh Mehrabi, director general of the weaving and garment industries department at the ministry of industry, mining and trade. The value of such exports in the year 1398 was $59 million....
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20/7/2021
Sri Lanka’s Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) is optimistic about the possibility of securing an industry-critical extension of the European Union’s generalised scheme of preferences plus (EU GSP+) programme following its third round of discussions with the ministry of regional cooperation on July 16 on reforms and strategy to secure the facility again....
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20/7/2021
The US Treasury Department has reached an agreement with the State Bank of Vietnam to address concerns it had over the southeast Asian country’s currency practices.
The US treasury dropped Vietnam from its list of currency manipulators in April; a move seen as reassurance the US might not impose new tariffs, quotas or other restrictions on Vietnamese imports as part of its Section 301 investigation....
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20/7/2021
South Africa’s textile and garment sector is being undermined by illegal imports from China, unions have said, which are threatening the revival of the industry.
Cheap Chinese imports have decimated the textile industries in Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, and other countries, according to IndustriAll Global Union affiliates during an online meeting. In Ghana, only four out of 30 textile companies remain operational, said the Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU)....
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20/7/2021
US retail sales saw solid growth during June, increasing in most categories on a monthly basis and across the board on a yearly basis, with demand for apparel continuing to rise as the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic continues.
US clothing sales were up 2.6% month-on-month in June, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. Sales surged by 47.1% compared to the same period a year ago when some stores had begun to reopen....
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19/7/2021
A new United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) report has revealed rising costs are a top concern for US apparel companies in 2021.
The latest United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study found a surge in sourcing costs is a concern for 97% of apparel executives in 2021. Plus, sourcing costs are expected to increase further this year with 37% expecting a substantial increase from 2020....
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16/7/2021
India has extended its textile export rebate scheme on apparel exports until March 2024.
India has received support for extending its Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) scheme on apparel exports until 31 March 2024 to boost the apparel industry following the Covid-19 pandemic....
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16/7/2021
Fast fashion production has doubled in the past 20 years ago, estimates a Business Insider report. The industry produces clothes equivalent to one garbage truck full of clothing waste in its single production cycle, says World Economic Forum. Notorious for its gross disregard for the environment, the industry contributes to high carbon emissions, water waste, and overall environmental pollution....
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16/7/2021
Economic relations between Bangladesh and France were affected last year by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bilateral trade last year came down to €2.76 billion, recording a fall of 15 per cent compared to 2019 figures, according to the embassy of France in Bangladesh. The total value of French imports from the country fell by 15 per cent in a year to reach €2.52 billion in 2020....
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14/7/2021
A support scheme for British exporters at international trade shows has been scrapped by the Department for International Trade.
The Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP) provided a small amount of financial support to SME companies attending major international trade shows....
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14/7/2021
Higher apparel and footwear prices contributed to the rise in the UK annual inflation rate from 2.1% to 2.5% according to The Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed the price of apparel and footwear contributed to the UK inflation rate (Consumer Prices Index) rising by 2.4% in the 12 months to June 2021. This means it is up from 2.1% in the 12 months to May....
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13/7/2021
Faced with a reopened high street, further easing of lockdown, and a comparative 12-year e-commerce high in 2020, online retail sales continued to fall to record-breaking lows in June – but consumers continued to update their wardrobes.
Online retail sales fell by 14.1% year-on-year last month, according to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of over 200 retailers....
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