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We have an international team of contributors who research and write reports for us. Textiles Intelligence reports have no political bias, and contain no advertising. They contain independently researched information about developments in the industry - including company and country profiles, statistical reports and analyses of trade trends - which provide you with the means to plan your company's
future strategy. You will benefit from Textiles Intelligence reports if you are involved in chemicals, fibres, textiles or apparel - as a manufacturer, retailer, consultant, analyst, educational or governmental organisation. Contact us today ([email protected]) to find out how we can help your business grow.
Legislative and consumer pressures to improve their sustainability credentials have prompted players in the global textile and apparel industries to innovate.
Download our latest report for the most recent news in relation to "sustainable" product development with a focus on polymers, fibres, finishes, treatments, footwear, home textiles, sportswear and traceability technologies. https://bit.ly/3S3nbdB
Clothing which facilitates thermoregulation is being increasingly used in virtually all segments of the clothing industry. Some key materials gaining importance in this field include graphene—a “wonder material” which demonstrates excellent heat preserving properties when applied to fabrics, such as fleece. At the same time, when graphene is integrated into thin, breathable fabrics, it has the ability to quickly release excess heat, thereby producing a cooling effect.
Similarly, xylitol is gaining popularity as a cooling material in textiles due to its ability to absorb heat upon contact with liquid, thereby providing an immediate sensation of coolness through touch. For more on other key innovations in the market for temperature control fabrics, finishes and materials, follow the link. https://bit.ly/3Vnm0rJ
US textile and clothing imports fell sharply in value and volume terms in 2023, and exports also fell in value in 2023 and during early 2024 but retail sales by US clothing stores and department stores rose, albeit only marginally.
In Argentina, textile and clothing exports plunged in 2023 after falling in 2022, although they were up in early 2024. Likewise, textile and clothing imports were down but retail sales surged in 2023 and early 2024. In Brazil, textile and clothing exports fell in 2023 for the first time in six years, reflecting, primarily, a decline in exports of cotton fibres, yarns and woven fabrics. There was also a fall in textile and clothing imports. Textile production inched up in 2023 but clothing production declined. In Colombia, textile and clothing exports fell in 2023, and they were down during early 2024. Also, textile and clothing production fell sharply. In Mexico, meanwhile, textile and clothing exports rose in 2023 following jumps in 2022 and 2021.
For statistical data, information and insight into the textile and apparel industries in the USA, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico, download our latest report. https://bit.ly/3WI7SbU
The future looks bright for Carhartt, a leading workwear manufacturer based in Dearborn, Michigan, USA. The company is poised to benefit from growth in the global markets for workwear and uniforms, having carved a niche in the field of high performance workwear for a range of demanding industries—including agriculture, building and construction, electronics and electrical, health care, logging, manufacturing, oil and gas, and power.
The company’s product portfolio includes functional workwear essentials which offer protection from extreme conditions, and specialist personal protective equipment (PPE) which offers protection from industrial hazards—such as heat, flames and electric arc flashes. Additionally, the company operates a uniform rental service and an international contract business which specialises in the supply of high quality and customisable uniforms in large volumes.
However, the company is not limited to workwear and uniforms as it also operates a successful fashion and streetwear brand called Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress). Follow the link for a 30-page profile of Carhartt now. https://bit.ly/4bXgX6A
Pervormance International, based in Ulm, Germany, has established a foothold in the European markets for cooling accessories, apparel and home textiles. The company boasts an impressive portfolio of more than 20 innovative cooling textile technology patents, and it boasts a range of products which includes weight loss apparel.
The company embraces corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles based on promoting female empowerment, and it strives to implement the United Nations (UN) Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) across the business. In other areas of CSR, the company claims that environmental sustainability is fundamental to its business. It aligns its strategies and operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and it is reportedly the first textile company to be awarded “climate neutral” certification. The company finances several climate protection projects, and it employs practices which help to minimise resource consumption and waste production. Follow the link for a 17-page profile of Pervormance International. https://bit.ly/3LVulNs
Our flagship publication Performance Apparel Markets provides valuable insight and analysis on product innovations and business developments in functional fibres and fabrics, personal protective equipment (PPE), sportswear, outdoor apparel and equipment, workwear, and more.
Published four times a year, the publication contains a think piece on the hottest topics in the performance apparel industry, large research-based news reports, a major feature on a key market, and a profile of an innovative start-up or industry giant. To see for yourself, download a free archive issue now. https://bit.ly/4fkQanl
Legislative and consumer pressures to improve their sustainability credentials have prompted players in the global textile and apparel industries to adapt their business strategies.
Download our latest report for the most recent news in relation to environmental sustainability with a focus on environmental initiatives, investments, joint ventures, legislation, manufacturing facilities and industry standards. https://bit.ly/3zqgBY9
Access three months of free content from Textiles Intelligence covering the latest news in the global textile and apparel industries. Trial our flagship bulletin publications Global Apparel Update, Performance Apparel Update, Technical Textiles Business Update and Home Textiles Update—delivered once a month direct to your inbox.
Available for subscription, these publications offer insight into the most recent product innovations and business developments in apparel and fashion, home and contract textiles, technical textiles and composites, and sportswear and performance gear. Packed full of valuable information and context, follow the link to sign up for three months of free content now. https://bit.ly/4bZ4fnD
During 2023, textile and clothing exports from EU countries to countries outside the EU fell in value and volume, and production of textiles and clothing in the EU also fell. At the same time, imports of textiles and clothing into the EU declined in value and volume. However, EU consumer expenditure on clothing and footwear continued to increase.
That said, EU consumer expenditure is expected to slow in 2024 and 2025. Consequently, EU textile and clothing imports are unlikely to increase substantially in 2024. For statistical data, information and insight into the textile and apparel industries in individual EU member states and the EU as a whole, download our latest report. https://bit.ly/46oIsUZ
Composites will be the materials of choice in cycling and sailing at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. In cycling, carbon fibre and 3D printed materials can help to improve the aerodynamics, ergonomics, structural integrity and weight of bicycles. In sailing, fibre reinforced composites can contribute significantly to the development of critical structural components. One of the main benefits of using fibre reinforced composites in sailing is that they are corrosion resistant. In addition, glass fibre composites offer considerable strength and durability, and their ease of moulding into complex shapes makes them ideal for a variety vessels—from small boats to large yachts. Also, glass fibre composites are relatively cheap.
Meanwhile, carbon fibres have emerged as a popular replacement for nylon as a material for making sails because they offer low elastic deformation and provide sails with aerodynamic efficiency. At the same time, they can enhance the longevity of rigging ropes.
The unbeatable properties of carbon fibre composites will also be evident at the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games. For example, carbon fibre composites are used extensively in racing wheelchairs, and several automotive racing companies have been involved in the development of advanced wheelchair models which are lightweight and benefit from optimised aerodynamics and ergonomics. Carbon fibre composites will also be used in prosthetics, such as running blades. https://bit.ly/3Vnh06e
Germany-based company Saertex commands a leading position in the global market for fibre reinforced composite materials. The company manufactures: non-crimp fabrics (NCFs) for producing composite preforms; structural core materials for composite components; flow media for composite fabrication processes; and adhesives for composite bonding.
Also, it manufactures ultraviolet (UV) cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) technologies for the maintenance of major pipelines, and high performance flame resistant (FR) composite materials for applications where fire safety is critical.
Looking ahead, the prospects for Saertex look promising as the use of fibre reinforced composite materials becomes more widespread. In particular, the company can look forward to strong demand for composite materials in the wind energy industry as major global economies continue to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Follow the link for a 30-page profile of Saertex. https://bit.ly/4c4EFy1
Overall, man-made fibre production in Japan declined in 2023 to its lowest level on record. For example, there were declines in synthetic filament yarn production and synthetic staple fibre production. Mill consumption of man-made fibres for industrial textile production in 2022/23 fell to its second lowest level for several years, and consumption of fibres for tyre reinforcement in 2023 declined to its third lowest level since 1994. Meanwhile, nonwoven fabric production fell to its lowest level for at least 25 years.
Admittedly, production of cellulosic fibres increased. As did production of industrial textile goods—reflecting rises in the production of fishing nets and ground nets, and synthetic fibre ropes. However, production of industrial textile goods was also at its second lowest level in several years. Follow the link for statistical data and analysis of the Japanese man-made fibre and technical textile industry. https://bit.ly/3KleZkO
The global market for nonwoven fabrics is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2021 and 2027, from US$39.8 bn to US$57.9 bn.
Growth will be driven by demand for nonwoven fabrics for making lightweight automotive components. It will also be driven by the development of smart nonwoven fabrics and blast-resistant curtains. Further growth will stem from technological advances in manufacturing technologies, and research and development (R&D) in the production of environmentally sustainable fabrics. For the latest information and analysis of the investments and strategies of 20 medium sized nonwovens producers, follow the link. https://bit.ly/4bFOsKO
Portugal is demonstrating its increasing significance as a near-shore manufacturing partner to the textile and clothing industries in other European countries. The Portuguese textile industry has already made a name for itself in the production of high quality garments for a number of global brands in the fashion, sportswear and workwear sectors but it is eager to form new partnerships and further demonstrate its capabilities and reliability.
The north-west corner of Portugal represents the largest single textile manufacturing region in Europe, and it is home to some major textile and clothing producers. For example, Calvelex, based in Lousada, Portugal, makes around 1 mn garments a year with a focus on premium women’s wear and uniforms. Meanwhile, LAMEIRINHO, based in Guimarães, Portugal, produces around 5 mn textile products a year with a focus on bed linen and table linen, and , also based in Guimarães, produces around 20 mn metres of dyed and white fabric a year with a focus on protective clothing and fashion. https://bit.ly/3V0In4N
The future looks bright for Carhartt, a leading workwear manufacturer based in Dearborn, Michigan, USA. The company is poised to benefit from growth in the global markets for workwear and uniforms, having carved a niche in the field of high performance workwear for a range of demanding industries—including agriculture, building and construction, electronics and electrical, health care, logging, manufacturing, oil and gas, and power.
The company’s product portfolio includes functional workwear essentials which offer protection from extreme conditions, and specialist personal protective equipment (PPE) which offers protection from industrial hazards—such as heat, flames and electric arc flashes.
Additionally, the company operates a uniform rental service and an international contract business which specialises in the supply of high quality and customisable uniforms in large volumes.
However, the company is not limited to workwear and uniforms as it also operates a successful fashion and streetwear brand called Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress). Follow the link for a 30-page profile of Carhartt now. https://bit.ly/4bXgX6A
Clothing which facilitates thermoregulation is being increasingly used in virtually all segments of the clothing industry. Some key materials gaining importance in this field include graphene—a “wonder material” which demonstrates excellent heat preserving properties when applied to fabrics, such as fleece. At the same time, when graphene is integrated into thin, breathable fabrics, it has the ability to quickly release excess heat, thereby producing a cooling effect.
Similarly, xylitol is gaining popularity as a cooling material in textiles due to its ability to absorb heat upon contact with liquid, thereby providing an immediate sensation of coolness through touch. For more on other key innovations in the market for temperature control fabrics, finishes and materials, follow the link. https://bit.ly/3Vnm0rJ
The potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) in home textile applications was a major focus at the 2024 edition of Heimtextil. Several exhibitors demonstrated digital innovations which employ AI and AR, including fabric design applications, image generators and software programmes.
The Millshop Online presented an AI fabric design application called FabricGenie which is said to represent the first AI technology of its kind to be employed in the home textiles industry. At the same time, VARIANT3D demonstrated a software application called Loop which is capable of transforming two-dimensional (2D) models into knit-to-shape programmes for making 3D knitted products. MANND demonstrated an image generator called Interactive Design Studio which is capable of producing interior design concepts based on data entered into a user interface (UI). Meanwhile, Augmented Weaving showcased an AR technology developed in collaboration with Penelope CAD Systems which can display high quality digital prototypes of “real life” textile samples. https://bit.ly/4bX84Kj
Archroma, based in Pratteln, Switzerland, is an established leader in speciality chemicals for coatings, packaging, paper and textiles. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of substances which play key roles along the entire textile value chain. Examples include antibacterial and antimicrobial finishes, durable water repellent (DWR) finishes, dyestuffs, and processing agents.
The company actively pursues the development of textile chemicals which are safe to handle, use and release into the environment at the ends of their useful lives. Also, it engages with associations, organisations and major stakeholders in order to support and drive initiatives which progress chemical safety standards and sustainability. Follow the link for a 20-page profile of Archroma. https://bit.ly/4bZTp0Z
The most commonly used stretch fibres in textiles and clothing are elastomeric fibres, and the most widely used of these is elastane (spandex). In fact, elastane commands around 67% of the global market for stretch fibres.
Despite the widespread use of elastane, it faces some criticism because of the barrier it poses to the effective recycling of textile waste. Also, it has been found to contribute to microfibre pollution. As a result, fibre manufacturers are being spurred to explore alternatives to elastane. If a breakthrough is made in this field, the global market for elastane could encounter considerable disruption. https://bit.ly/3wNVRsD
Grey is a key colour in the design of denim for the spring/summer 2025 season. Also, bleached pastel colours are prevalent, and denim fabrics in rich vintage shades are popular. At the same time, black is also important—reflecting the development of new and novel black dyes which are being described as “eco black”.
In terms of decoration, effects and finishes, there is a trend towards iridescent coatings, metallic glazes, leather effect finishes and wax effect finishes, and maximalist and oversized print designs are key. So are denim fabric collections featuring bleached, distressed, faded, stained and washed effects. Other trends included stretch denim fabrics, and denim fabrics made using organic cotton and regenerative cotton. Discover more via the link. https://bit.ly/3V4GMLl
In 2023 US textile and clothing imports fell in value to their third lowest level since 2013. They also fell in volume terms, although they were still at their third highest level on record. Within the 2023 total, imports of clothing plunged in volume terms to their second lowest level since 2012 and imports of yarn fell to their lowest level since 2016. Imports of fabrics also fell but they were still at their second highest level on record. Imports of made-up textiles fell too but they were still at their fourth highest level on record. Visit the link for more analysis and insight into US textile and clothing import trends. https://bit.ly/3yPyIX4
Chinese textile and clothing exports were down during January-November 2023 compared with the corresponding period a year earlier. Also, production of yarns and fabrics in China fell in 2023 as a whole although production of man-made fibres was up significantly.
In Japan, textile and clothing exports were up during January-November 2023 but imports were down after domestic retail sales of textiles and clothing had risen only minimally in 2022. In South Korea and Taiwan there were declines in textile and clothing exports during January-November 2023. Reflecting these falls, textile production and clothing production in South Korea and Taiwan declined in 2023 as a whole. For more statistical data, information and insight into the textile and apparel industries in East Asia, visit the link. https://bit.ly/456HADL
The use of composites based on flax fibres is continuing to grow in a number of end use sectors as manufacturers profit from significant technical and processing gains, impressive mechanical properties and environmental benefits.
Flax fibres are being used in composite components and reinforcement fabrics for panel walls and hulls for marine vessels, and they are increasingly popular in the manufacture of sporting goods, such as skis, snowboards and tennis racquets. Similarly, flax fibre based composite components are finding favour in automotive and aerospace applications. https://bit.ly/4bXykUS
Production and consumption of technical textiles in India is forecast to grow significantly between 2019/20 and 2024/25. In fact, consumption is predicted to grow faster than global consumption of technical textiles over the five-year period. Moreover, consumption will remain higher than production and India will have to rely on imports to make up the shortfall.
However, a shortfall suggests that there will be an opportunity for technical textile manufacturers in India to increase production at an even faster rate than the current rate of expansion and find a ready market for their additional output. Visit the link for statistical data and analysis of production and consumption of technical textiles in India. https://bit.ly/3R99KIy
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), also known as “forever chemicals”, persist in the environment and have been shown to be bioaccumulative, highly mobile and toxic. As scientific evidence demonstrating their adverse effects increases, lawmakers worldwide are strengthening regulations in order to eliminate PFASs.
For performance apparel brands, a major challenge lies in understanding the impact of forthcoming regulations on the manufacture of waterproof clothing. A larger challenge lies in the development of alternative substances which comply with new regulations while offering the same levels of waterproof performance as PFASs. https://bit.ly/3UWs9JG
Several leading players in the nonwovens industry announced major investments in 2023. Freudenberg completed work on a new needlepunching line in Slovenia and a new production line in China, and it is adding a line in Germany for producing gas diffusion layers for fuel cell technology. Ahlstrom added calendering capabilities to its filtration media plant in South Korea and is adding a laminator line in Brazil, and Fitesa installed a spunmelt nonwovens line at its site in South Carolina, USA.
Meanwhile, Hollingsworth & Vose doubled the capacity at its battery separator facility in India and is adding floor space to its facility in Virginia, USA, in order to accommodate new production equipment. However, ALKEGEN agreed to sell its Thermal Acoustical Solutions (TAS) unit and Berry Global initiated a formal process to evaluate strategic alternatives for its health, hygiene and specialties division. For more on the ten leading producers in nonwovens, visit the link. https://bit.ly/456CzLr
Global consumption of cotton fibre is expected to rise in 2023/24, reflecting an improvement in the global economy. However, it is predicted that production of cotton fibre will fall. That said, production will remain higher than consumption and therefore the stock level will rise. This suggests that there is unlikely to be any upward pressure on cotton prices.
Looking further ahead, man-made fibre production is forecast to rise between 2023 and 2030 to account for almost 75% of global fibre production in 2030. Follow the link for our latest report on global trends in fibre prices, production and consumption. https://bit.ly/4dZgKSc
For the foreseeable future, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester will remain by far the most widely used fibre type in textile and garment production. As such, the establishment of infrastructure for the fibre-to-fibre recycling of PET is critical.
Already, some work is under way to scale up a fibre-to-fibre recycled PET (FFrPET) industry, and some companies are making major investments in recycling facilities and related recycling projects. At the same time, much work is being carried out in order to develop processes for recycling textiles containing difficult fibres, such as elastane, and "next generation" fibre producers are attempting to ramp up scale in response to growing demand for PET alternatives. https://bit.ly/3VchSe4
The textile and clothing industries in Europe and the USA are the focus of increasing legislative efforts as lawmakers steer the industries towards sustainability and circularity. In the EU alone, 16 individual pieces of legislation are being developed as part of an ambitious vision for achieving circularity in the European textile and clothing industries by 2030.
However, there are concerns that suppliers of textiles and clothing operating in regions outside the EU and the USA are being left in the dark about what the legislation means for them. More critically, it is feared that foreign suppliers will bear the greatest burdens as a result of the introduction of proposed legislation. https://bit.ly/3QWXOK1
World textile and clothing trade increased to a record high of US$929 bn in 2022. China was the world's biggest exporter of textiles in 2022, followed by the EU and India. China was also the world's biggest exporter of clothing, followed by the EU and Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, the EU was the world's biggest importer of textiles, followed by the USA, and it was the world's biggest importer of clothing, followed by the USA, Japan and the UK. Follow the link for the our latest report on trends in world textile and clothing trade. https://bit.ly/4buBway
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Textiles Intelligence, headed by Robin Anson, has been supplying high quality business information and market analysis to the world's fibre, textile and apparel industries for over 20 years.
We have expertise in all areas of the fibre, textile and apparel industries -- including markets, product innovations, investments, technology, trade policy, sourcing, strategy, and much more.
