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The textile industry is evolving towards sustainability, with natural and cellulosic fibres leading the way. As demand for eco-friendly materialsrises,thesefibresareshapingagreener fashionfuture.
Natural fibres like cotton, hemp, bamboo, and linen have been essential for centuries. Their breathability, durability, and biodegradability make them ideal for sustainable fashion. Hemp requires minimal water and no pesticides, while bamboo regenerates quickly, making them lowimpact choices. These fibres also blend seamlessly with other materials to create innovativefabrics.
Cellulosic fibres, derived from plant-based sourceslikewoodpulp,aretransformingtextiles. Lyocell, modal, and viscose are prized for their softness and moisture-wicking properties. Lyocell, for example, is produced through a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents, making it a leading sustainable alternative.These fibres combine the benefits of bothnaturalandsyntheticmaterials.
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Theadoptionofthesefibresiskeytoreducingthe fashion industry’s environmental footprint. Brands must invest in research to enhance their functionality, while consumer awareness can drivedemandforsustainablefashion.
Astheindustrymovestowardscircularity,natural and cellulosic fibres will play a crucial role in creatingaresponsibleandresilienttextilesector. Byembracingthem,wecanweaveafuturewhere fashionisbothstylishandsustainable.
LushDecor,aglobalandemergingmulti-category homefashionssupplierwithoriginsinNewJersey made its grand debut in India at BharatTex 2025. FoundedbyJennyJingZhuin2008withavisionto revolutionize home decor, the brand will soon launchinIndia.AsLushDecorexpandsitsglobal reach,enteringtheIndianmarketmarksanexciting new chapter in bringing its signature designs to homesacrossthecountry.
Renowned for its sophisticated aesthetics and exceptionalcraftsmanship,LushDecorshowcased an exquisite range of home décor products at BharatTex2025.Fromelegantsheetingandplush comforters to intricately designed quilts and decorative pillows, every piece is crafted to add a touch of luxury to everyday living. The display featuredcozythrows,stylishwindowcurtains,and functional yet chic shower curtains, all designed withqualityandinnovationattheircore.
To offer an exclusive preview to guests at Bharat Tex, Lush Decor created a unique customer experience kiosk, allowing visitors to explore, experience,andshopdirectlyfromAmazonUSA. Additionally, attendees had the option to explore andpurchasefromthebrand’sdirect-to-consumer website,ensuringaseamlessshoppingexperience forIndiancustomers.
Sharing her excitement about the launch, Jenny Jing Zhu, Founder of Lush Decor, said, “My journey with textiles has always been about blending culture, tradition, and modernity into
designsthatresonatewithhomesworldwide.India, with its rich textile heritage and deep appreciation fortimelessyetcontemporarydecor,haslongbeen an inspiring market for us. This launch is a significantmilestone,andIcan’twaittobringLush Decor’s vision of accessible luxury to Indian homes.”
Dr. Paola Peretti, Chief Executive Officer of Lush Decor, added, “India is a dynamic and rapidly growing market for home textiles, making this expansion a natural step in our journey. Through Bharat Tex 2025, we look forward to introducing Indiancustomerstoathoughtfullycuratedrangeof products that combine quality, innovation, and aesthetic appeal. Our aim is to embrace India’s diverse tastes and offering home decor solutions thattrulyelevateeverydayliving.”
Birla
FromLefttoRight: Mr.VishvajitJuikar–GroupLeaderNPD,R&D,BirlaCellulose-Pulp&FibreInnovationCentre,Mr.AshutoshSharma President&ChiefMarketingOfficerGreyanddyedBusinessRSWM–LNJGroup,Mr.AnkurKhaitan–CEOTACC-LNJ Group,Mr.N.KBahedia–BusinessHeadYarnBusinessRSWM–LNJGroup,Mr.ManMohanSingh–ChiefMarketing Officer–BirlaCellulose,MsVaishaliKamble–AsstGeneralManager,FutureFibre&NewProductDev–BirlaCellulose, Mr.ShyamlalPatnaik–JtPresident&BusinessHead–FutureFibre&NewProductDev–BirlaCellulose
Birla Cellulose, Cellulosic Fibres division of Grasim Industries Ltd is pleased to announce the signingofaJointDevelopmentAgreement(JDA) with LNJ Bhilwara Group Companies (RSWM Limited&TACCLimited)asthenextstepforward in the development of graphene technology for textileapplications.
Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms in a hexagonal lattice, is known for its exceptional strength, conductivity, and lightweight properties, with applications in electronics, energy storage, coatings, composites, construction materials, and textiles.
Underthiscollaboration:
• TACCLimitedwillsupplygraphenederivatives toBirlaCellulose
• BirlaCellulosewillintegrateTACC’sgraphene derivativesintotheproductionofviscosefibres.
• RSWM Limited will use these grapheneenhanced viscose fibres for textile manufacturing
This collaboration is set to evaluate textile innovation, integrating graphene’s remarkable properties into fabrics, enhancing durability, performance,andsustainability.
AboutTACC
TACCLimited,aninnovation-drivenventureofthe LNJ Bhilwara Group, is a key player in the advancedmaterialssector,specializinginsynthetic graphite and graphene derivatives. With a strong commitment to green technologies and sustainability, TACC continues to push the boundaries of graphene synthesis and its diverse industrialapplications.
AboutRSWM
As one of India’s largest textile manufacturers, RSWM Limited has been at the forefront of innovation in yarn and fabric production for over five decades. With state-of-the-art manufacturing units and a strong export presence in over 70 countries, RSWM is a leader in delivering highqualitytextilesolutionstoglobalmarkets.
Oerlikon Riri, the luxury zipper and button brand within Oerlikon Luxury, unveils its Ss26 collection, where two distinct yet complementary themes redefine the essence of high-end accessories: Athletic Elegance and Neoclassical Luxury. This season, Oerlikon Riri blends performancewithsophisticationandheritagewith innovation, crafting a collection that embodies both contemporary dynamism and timeless refinement. With an increasing transition to stainless steel components and chains, the collection reflects Oerlikon Riri’s commitment to sustainability.Themetalpartscontainatleast50% recycled stainless steel, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to eco-conscious innovation. The integration of Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) technology ensures superior durability, reduces environmentalimpacts,anddeliversahigh-quality finish. By embracing recycled materials, innovative surface treatments, and high-precision manufacturing techniques, the brand continues to set new standards for excellence in the fashion industry.
ThecrasisofSportandStyle Luxury and sportswear have never been more intertwined. Inspired by the synergy between high fashion and elite sports connections, the Athletic Elegancethemeintroducesbold,highperformance
accessories that echo the energy of competitive arenas while maintaining an unmistakable refinement. This collection features high-tech finishes, cutting-edge materials, and a vibrant color palette of aquamarineandred,evokingthedynamism of movement and speed. Stainless steel pullers and precision-engineered buttons with PVD coatings further enhance the collection’s refined technical aesthetic. Among the highlights of this collection is Metamorph, a newly developed button range featuring an asymmetrical synthetic ring. Designed for optimal functionality, it offersafirmresistancewhenopeningwhile ensuringalighter,moreeffortlessclosurecompared tosimilardesigns.Additionally,theaestheticofthe Zerobutton,longcelebratedforitsdistinctivestyle, has been reinterpreted in a slim version, enhancing itseleganceandrefinementforamoresophisticated look.
AtributetoHeritageandRefinement
The Neoclassical Luxury theme draws inspiration from classical Greek culture, art, and philosophy, celebrating the enduring beauty of historical aestheticsthroughamodern,minimalistlens.This mood presents a sacred palette of neutral tones –cream, beige, and soft brown – complemented by opulentgoldandpalladiumfinishes.
The collection introduces exquisitely crafted accessories, including zippers with Greek columninspired pullers, diamond-embellished details, and high-quality natural stones. A prominent feature is the MIM (Metal Injection Molding)technology,whichallowsforthecreation of intricately shaped components with exceptional durability and mechanical properties, reinforcing OerlikonRiri’stechnicalexpertise.
In keeping with the brand’s sustainability strategy, stainless steel zippers and buttons, alongside increased PVD applications, highlight the shift toward longer-lasting, ecofriendly luxury accessories.
Returnsas‘FashionPartner’forthesecondconsecutiveyear
PDS Limited, a global fashion infrastructure and solutionscompanyparticipatedasthe'FashionPartner' for the second consecutive year at Bharat Tex 2025, India’slargestTextileandApparelExpo&Conference. At the event, PDS booth showcased its prowess and scaleinsourcing,brand,andmanufacturingsolutions.
"Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s growing prominenceasaglobaltextileandapparelpowerhouse. Inanincreasinglyuncertainworld,Indiacanbeastable and reliable partner by strengthening supply chain resilience through digital transformation, strategic nearshoring, and sustainable manufacturing. At PDS, we are committed to driving agility, collaboration, and innovationtopositionIndiaasakeyplayerintheglobal textile value chain" said Pallak Seth, Executive Vice Chairman,PDSLimited.
At the Bharat Tex 2025, Pallak Seth participated in a roundtable discussion on “How can India be a stable partnerinanuncertainworldbybuildingSupplyChain Resilience and Adapting to Market Volatility and Disruptions”. Meanwhile, Sanjay Jain, Group CEO of PDSLtdsharedhisinsightsonthestrategyof“Scaling up Textile Manufacturing in India: Grabbing
Opportunities,AddressingChallenges”throughanother panel session. These sessions also engaged senior government officials, industry leaders, and investors, focusingonthegrowthprospectsandfutureroadmapof the Indian textile sector, and exploring how to achieve keymilestonesby2025.
CommentingfurtherSanjayJain,GroupCEO,PDSLtd said, "BharatTex 2025 has been a pivotal platform for driving global collaboration and innovation in the textile industry.At PDS, we are not only committed to fostering sustainable growth, but also expanding our sourcing and manufacturing footprint in India and strengthenthecountry’sroleintheglobalsupplychain. Our participation in this event underscores our dedication to responsible sourcing, process-driven innovation,andpositioningIndiaasakeyhubforhighquality, scalable, and sustainable textile manufacturing.”
PDS leverages Bharat Tex 2025 to strengthen global partnerships, engage with key stakeholders, and highlight its extensive expertise in fashion infrastructure, responsible sourcing, and supply chain transformation.
ISKO is excited to announce a special collaborationwithGANT,settolaunchonlineand inselectedstoresonFebruary13th.
Thispartnershipbringstogethertimelessstyleand innovative sustainability, resulting in pieces that are both durable and fashion-forward. Crafted using recycled materials and ISKO’s advanced fabric technologies, this collection embodies strength, quality, and conscious design, demonstrating that sustainability does not have to compromiseonstyleorperformance.
This collaboration highlights both brands’ commitmenttoresponsiblefashion,leveragingthe innovative use of recycled materials as well as patented fabric technology to create stylish, highquality, and durable products. At the heart of this collaboration with GANT is a shared belief in fashionfirst thinking, powered by the strength of innovation and sustainability. Together, we’re provingthatstyleandresponsibilitycangohandin hand, while maintaining the highest standards of excellence said Mirela Slowik, ISKO Global ProductMarketingManager.
The 56th edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris took place in a particularly dynamic atmosphere.Morethan8,500internationalvisitors discoveredandmadebusinessconnectionwiththe 1,250exhibitorsfrom32countriesoverthreedays attheParis-LeBourgetExhibitionCentre.
TexworldApparelSourcingParis,Europe'sbiggest marketplace for fashion textiles and clothing, has confirmeditspositionastheleadingglobalfashion platform for mid-range segment buyers and suppliers.Heldfrom10to12February2025atthe Paris - Le Bourget Exhibition Centre, the new edition attracted more than 8,500 visitors, a 10% increasecomparingtotheFebruary2024edition.
Paris as an unmissable global sourcing destinationforfashionbuyers
This Parisian event has established itself as an unmissablecontactpointfordesigners,buyersand suppliers of fabrics and finished products. It also confirms the importance of Europe for the global fashion industry, with the Top 5 visitors coming from France, the UK, Italy, Spain and Germany. After a few years of adjustment, many international buyers returned to Paris, with international participation on the rise. The grand
returnofinternationalbuyerstoParis,whileFrench buyersremainsstable,showstheresilienceofParis inanincreasinglyvolatilefashionmarket.
“The global market, beyond the general geopolitico-commercialsituation,isstillundergoinga majormetamorphosis,withagradualshiftfromthe entry-level segments of the past towards a more qualitative offering, which now accounts for the bulk of global clothing consumption, points out Julien Schmoll, Marketing and Communications Director at Messe Frankfurt France. We've redesigned our trade fairs to meet the needs of buyersinthesemid-rangemarkets,byfocusingour selectiononadiversified,enriched,qualitativeand cutting-edge offer, with a very wide choice at competitiveprices,presentedinafunctionalsetting conducivetoexchanges”.
This year saw the spotlight shine on African sourcing, now seen as an attractive alternative by many buyers. The nine Ethiopian companies
presentinParismadepromisingcommitmentswith Europeanbrands.MaryseMbonyumutwa,founder of the Rwandan group Pink Mango, the first African manufacturing platform for sustainable andethicalglobalbrands,hasalsomadesomesolid contacts: “We've had promising discussions with representatives of several European brands that couldsignupwithuslocally”,shesays.
Exhibitors-visitors:threedaysofactiveexchanges
On the buyers' side, the feedback also points to active exchanges. Bangladeshi manufacturer NZ Denim was able to meet almost all its European customers, including Celio, OKaïdi, Kiabi and Jules,overthreedays.“Theshowisanopportunity forustomeetthedesignteamstodiscussmaterials forfuturecollections,explainsNajamUsSaqib,the manufacturer's R&D manager. As for the buyers, they take advantage of our visit to Paris to keep abreast of the latest developments, such as the naturallycolouredcottonAckalaCoton,whichwe are presenting this year”. This innovation was highlighted during the Econogy Tour, which was organised for visitors interested in identifying companies that respect the ecological and social standardsofthetextileindustry.
Frommainstreambrandstohautecouture
The materials manager and the buyer for a major French general clothing brand have also set themselvesthegoalofmonitoringthemarket."We come to the show to meet our Indian,Turkish and Chinese suppliers, they explain, and then we do a lot of monitoring for future collections... Not forgetting the shopping list given to us by the designers, which we supplement with requests for samples”.
Thesameapproachappliestohautecouture.Livia Stoianova and Yassen Samouilov, founders of On Aura Tout Vu, came to meet Chinese and Indian suppliers: ”We wanted to identify materials and suppliers for a show production company that we support and advise, explain the two designers.We startedwiththeselectionsuggestedbyLouisGérin and Grégory Lamaud, the artistic directors of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris (and authors of Néocène, the show's spring-summer 2026 trend book). For a first visit, we found some very interesting and particularly creative things”, they add.
15-17 September 2025: Rendez-vous at Le Bourget
Save the date now: the next edition of Texworld ApparelSourcingParis,whichwillincludethekey sectorsAvantex and Leatherworld, will be held at theParis-Le-Bourgetexhibitioncentreinasimilar layout to the February edition, with a service offeringdesignedforbuyersandvisitorareassetup to create synergies between raw materials and finishedproducts
Asartorialjourneythroughsun-soakedescapes,breezyevenings, andtherefinedeaseofsummerdressing
Louis Philippe, the premium menswear brand from Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited, presents the ‘Moods of Summer’ collection—an ode to effortless eleganceandrefinedsummerdressing.Inspiredbysunsoaked escapes, breezy evenings, and the art of sophisticated leisure, this collection redefines seasonal style with a seamless blend of comfort and class. Designed for the modern man who moves with effortlesssophistication,thiscollectionisaninvitation to embrace the lighter, livelier side of life.Airy linens, breezy cotton, and impeccably tailored silhouettes definealineupthattransitionsseamlesslyfrompoolside afternoons to starlit soirées. Whether it’s the laid-back elegance of linen shirts and relaxed chinos, the playful charm of pastel polos and tailored shorts, or the sleek refinement of lightweight blazers and satin evening wear, ‘Moods of Summer’ is a masterclass in refined summer dressing. Speaking on the launch, Ms. Farida Kaliyadan, Chief Operating Officer, Louis Philippe, said,“Thiscollectionisallaboutcapturingtheessence of summer-whether it’s the tranquility of a beachside retreatortheenergyofabustlingEuropeancity.‘Moods of Summer’is designed for men who seek a seamless blendofcomfortandclass,nomatterwheretheseason takes them. With premium fabrics, nuanced craftsmanship, and a colour palette inspired by the world’s most beautiful destinations, this collection is a love letter to summer itself.” A wardrobe for every summer escape Each collection is a journey through style,capturingtheessenceofdiversedestinationsand culturalinspirationstocreateawardrobethatembodies botheleganceandadventure.
• Linen by Nature – The ultimate summer essential, reimaginedinsophisticatedpastels, crisp whites, and sun-kissed neutrals. Designed for the
manwhovalueseffortlessstyleandbreathablecomfort.
• Tales of Masai – Inspired by the rich art and craft traditionsofAfrica,thiscollectionfeaturesboldprints, earth-toned palettes, and intricate embroidered details thatevokeaspiritofadventureineverylook.
• Land of Sakura – A business traveller’s delight, this collection blends Japan’s understated beauty with modernbusinesssilhouettes,creatingtheidealsummer formalforthosewhovaluebothstyleandstillness.
•CarnivalLinens–Avibrantcelebrationofcolourand whimsy, featuring playful prints and breezy hues, reminiscent of long summer afternoons and balmy evenings.
• Casino Couture – For nights that call for statement dressing,thiscapsuleblendshigh-glosssatin,baroqueinspired motifs, and striking details for a touch of oldworldglamour.
• Korean Konnect – Where tradition meets modernity. Inspired by the elegance of EastAsian craftsmanship, thiscollectionblendsstructuredsilhouettes,softflorals, andunderstatedsophistication,redefiningyoungformal athworkwithacontemporaryedge.
Curated from inspirations across the world, ‘Moods of Summer’ embodies an aesthetic that is both polished andeffortless-balancingsharptailoringwithasenseof
ease.Thesilhouettesarerelaxedyetstructured,offering movementandbreathabilitywithoutcompromisingon form.Soft-washedlinensmeetcleancuts,andprintsare layeredwithdepth,creatingawardrobethatisversatile yet distinct. Whether styled for a summer business meeting or a seaside escapade, the pieces exude a refinednonchalance,provingthatsophisticationcanbe aslightastheseasonitself.
More than just clothing, ‘Moods of Summer’ is a travelogue of style - an exploration of elegance that transcends borders. From sun-drenched linen suits perfect for an Amalfi sundowner to effortless resort wearidealforabarefootweekendintheMaldives,each piece tells a story of indulgence and escape. Created with inspirations drawn from different parts of the world, the collection reflects a global perspective, where diverse influences come together to shape a seamlessexpressionofstyle.
Louis Philippe’s ‘Moods of Summer’ collection is availableinLouisPhilippestorespan-India,authorized retailers nationwide, online at www.louisphilippe.abfrl.in and through the brand’s mobileapp.
Pantaloons, India’s leading fashion retailer from Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd., has unveiled its newly transformed store at Vasundhara Mall, Patna. Spanning 27,000 sq. ft., the store features a contemporary layout with curated aisles, eye-catching displays and refreshed design, offering an elevated shoppingexperience.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sangeeta Tanwani, Chief Executive Officer, Pantaloons and Style Up said, “We are excited to introduce an enhanced shoppingexperienceforourcustomersin Patna.Thisgrandre-openingreflectsour commitment to delivering elevated and stylish fashion to our consumers that is inspiring and engaging. Our vision for Pantaloons is to be a styling destination forthecity'sfashion-forwardaudience.”
EcoVadisratingvalidatesX-Rite’sbusinesssustainabilitycommitmentsandperformance.
X-RiteIncorporated,agloballeaderincolorscienceand technology, announced that it has achieved a Silver Badge from EcoVadis, a global leader in business sustainability assessments. Earning a Silver Medal places X-Rite in the top 15 percent of companies globallyforsustainabilitypractices.
The EcoVadis assessment evaluates 21 sustainability criteriaacrossfourcorethemes:Environment,Labor& Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Morethan130,000companiesgloballyhavebeenrated byEcoVadis.
“We are extremely excited to receive a Silver rating in our first assessment through EcoVadis,” said Jeff McKee, President, X-Rite. “This recognition validates our longstanding commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. As a trusted partner to our customers, we are dedicated to making a positive environmental and social impact through our operations,products,andpartnerships.”
X-Rite’ssustainabilityinitiativesarebuiltonthreecore pillars - Products, Planet, and People - driving the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprintandpromotingresponsiblebusinesspractices.
Ourteamworksacrossallfunctionsandgeographiesto upholdthehigheststandardsofcorporateresponsibility andcontinuousimprovement.AspartofVeralto,X-Rite contributes to a broader mission of Safeguarding the World’s Most Vital Resources™ by supporting scientific and technological innovation that help our customers advance sustainability, branding, safety, compliance,andtraceabilityobjectives.
EcoVadis’business sustainability ratings are based on international sustainability standards such as the Ten PrinciplesoftheUNGlobalCompact,theInternational Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, the Global ReportingInitiative(GRI)standards,andtheISO26000 standard. The ratings provide an evidenced-based analysisonperformanceandanactionableroadmapfor continuousimprovement.
Backed by Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Alok Industries Ltd. is set to redefine the global textile industry with its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. As one of India’s leading textile manufacturers, Alok is undergoing a remarkable transformation, leveraging RIL’svastexpertiseandsynergiestodriveitsresurgence inYarn,HomeTextiles,Apparel,andFabrics.
ANext-GenerationTextilePowerhouse
Alok Industries has evolved into a modern, matrixdrivenorganization,utilizingtheunparalleledstrengths oftheRelianceIndustriestodeveloppioneeringtextile solutions. With an expansive product range covering Sustainable Yarns, Bed & Bath Products, Knitted & Woven Fabrics, Apparels, and Specialized Schiffli Embroidery,thecompanyispoisedtomeettheevolving demandsofglobalconsumers.
Innovative&SustainableProductPortfolio
Alok Industries leads the way with a next-gen textile portfolioenrichedbyRIL’sRecron®fibertechnologies, including Green Gold, EcoGold, Kooltex, and Ecotherm. These advanced materials deliver superior comfort, durability, and sustainability, reinforcing the company’scommitmenttoresponsiblemanufacturing.
The brand’s eco-conscious product line also includes Bed & Bath collections, Apparel, and Fabrics made frominnovativefiberssuchasBamboo,Tencel,Modal, and Cotton - including the exclusive, India-grown KASTURI COTTON. Alok’s sustainability-driven approach ensures that consumers receive premiumqualitytextileswhilesupportingagreenerplanet.
SustainabilityattheCore
AtAlokIndustries,sustainabilityisnotjustapracticeit’samission.Fromincorporatingrecycledcontentand organic natural fibers to deploying responsible production processes, Alok is setting new industry benchmarksforeco-conscioustextilesolutions.
With a renewed focus on global expansion, Alok Industries is being steered by a dynamic leadership team.PolyesterveteranMr.HarshBapna,GroupCEO, isleadingthetransformationalongsideindustryexperts Mr.BijiChacko,GroupCOO,Mr.JayeshSaxena,CEO – Home Textiles, and Mr. Ravi Bhargava, CEO –Apparels & Fabrics. Their visionary leadership is
fuellingproductdiversification,innovation,andgrowth inkeyinternationalmarkets.
AGlobalShowcase:TheNewYorkShowroom
Strengthening its international presence, Alok Industries has unveiled a state-of-the-art showroom on Madison Avenue, New York. This premier space will serveasahubforcollaborationswithglobalclientsand partners during the Spring New York Home Textiles Market,offeringafirsthandlookatAlok’strend-setting designsandsustainabletextilesolutions.
WithRIL’sbackingandacustomer-centric,innovationdrivenapproach,AlokIndustriesisonadefinitivepath to global textile leadership. Combining technological excellence, a diverse product portfolio, and a steadfast commitmenttosustainability,Alokisabrandtowatch intheever-evolvingYarn,HomeTextiles,Apparel,and Fabricsindustry.
Alok Industries - Powered by Reliance. Driven by Innovation.CommittedtoSustainability.
TheDornbirnGFCInnovationDaysarebackforthe5th year,andwe’reonthelookoutforgroundbreakingideas fromyoungcompaniesandstartups!Thisisyourchance topitch,con-nect,andgainvisibilityinfrontofindustry leaders,potentialinvestors,andglobalinnovators.
KeyDetails
• ApplicationDeadline:March31,2025
• EventLocation:Dornbirn,Austria
• What’sIncluded:Livepitchopportunity,networking withtopindustryplayers,andaccessto100+expert presentations.
WhyJoin?
• Get noticed: Present your innovation to fiber producers,machinebuilders,anddecision-makers.
• Pitchyourstartup:Takethestageandshowcaseyour ideastoaninternationalaudience.
• Build connections: Network with key players in fibers,textiles,andcross-industrysolutions.
• Showcaseyourinnovationfor3days:Yourdedicated exhibition space allows you to connect with fiber producers, processors, and machine builders in a dynamicnet-workingenvironment.
• Gainexclusiveinsights:Learnfromindustryleaders throughexperttalksanddiscus-sions.
• CompetefortheInnovationDaysAward:Achanceto gainindustryrecognition.
• Free access to Dornbirn GFC: Includes the gala and speakernetworkingevening.
FocusTopics2025
• Carbon Stewardship – Biomass, Recycling &
CaptureforaSustainableFuture
• Fiber Innovations – From Production toApplication
• Workwear & Protective Textiles –Advancingsafetyanddefensesolutions
• Cross-Industry Synergies – Energy Transition, Pulp, Paper & Packaging Innovations
• Startups and early-stage innovators developing bio-based, recycled, and carbon-negative fibers, smart textiles, high-performance materials, and sustainable nonwoven solutions for applications in fashion, workwear, defense, packaging, and energy transition
• Researchers and entrepreneurs with disruptive solutions
• Companies looking for visibility, and new partnerships
Thisisyouropportunitytostandoutinthefiberindustry andconnectwiththoseshapingthefu-ture.
Applynow–Deadline:March31,2025
For more information, contact: office@dornbirngfc.com|Ms.SonjaSpöcker
SavetheDates:
All Dornbirn GFC Activities 2025 – Key Dates for Innovation&Networking!
• Dornbirn GFC ASIA / KoreaIn collaboration with DYETEC, KOFOTI, and Textile TechForum, this event will take place on3rd & 4thApril 2025 at the BusanExhibitionandConventionCenter(BEXCO), Busan,SouthKorea.
• CRETE 2025 International Conference Organized togetherwiththeTechnicalUniversityofCrete,this conference will run from 27thto 31st May 2025 in Chania,Greece.
• 64th Dornbirn GFC & 5th Innovation Days Join us for the flagship event from 10th to 12th September 2025inDornbirn,Austria,show-casingcutting-edge researchandinnovation.
• Dornbirn GFC ASIA / India In partnership with TechtextilIndia2025,thiseventwillbeheldon18th November2025inMumbai,India
The retail industry in India is undergoing a paradigm shiftwiththeexplosivegrowthofvalueretail,asegment driven by consumers seeking affordability without compromisingonstyleandquality.Thistransformation took centre stage at Bharat Tex 2025, where Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) brought together leading industry experts for the panel discussion "VALUE RETAIL: Consumer’s Delight, Industry’sOpportunity."
ModeratedbyB.S.Nagesh,Chairman,ShoppersStop& Founder, TRRAIN, the panel featured eminent voices fromtheretailsector:P.Venkatesalu,CEO&Executive Director, Trent Ltd; Rakesh Biyani, Mentor, Nexon Omniverse Ltd; Ram Chandra Agarwal, Chairman & MD, V2 Retail Ltd; Rajesh Jain, MD & CEO, Sports And Leisure Apparel Limited (Lacoste India); Vedant Modi, Chief Revenue Officer, Vedant Fashions Ltd. (Manyavar);andSumanSaha,CXO,Myntra.
TheRiseofValueRetailinIndia
Thediscussionhighlightedthatvalueretailisnolonger justaboutlowprices-itisaboutdeliveringaspirational
products at an affordable price point. Panellists emphasized the growing demand for fashion and lifestyleproductsinbothurbanandnon-urbanmarkets, propelled by increased disposable income, digital awareness,andshiftingconsumerexpectations.
Ram Chandra Agarwal, Chairman & MD, V2 Retail Ltd, emphasized the boundless potential in value fashion retail, stating, “India’s biggest fashion retail companycanbeavaluefashionretailcompany.Thesize of the opportunity is unlimited, and success will be determined by competence in supply chain, product innovation, and operational efficiency. India already exportsgarmentsworldwide;thenextstepistoestablish globalretailfootprints.”
Panellists noted that aspirations, not just affordability, are driving value retail’s success. Social media and digital trends have blurred the traditional hierarchy of fashiontrickle-down,makingstyleaccessibleinstantly acrossdifferentdemographics.
Suman Saha, CXO, Myntra, shed light on how social media is reshaping consumer behaviour, stating, “Earlier,fashiontrendsusedtotrickledownovertime. Now, virality on social platforms is dictating demand. ‘Farewell Sarees’ became a national trend overnight. Consumers today are looking for a combination of affordability, trendiness, and relevance, and brands mustbeagiletocatertotheseevolvingneeds.”
Tier2&3Cities:TheNextGrowthFrontier
Whilemetrocitiescontinuetodrivesales,Tier2&Tier 3 cities are witnessing an unprecedented retail boom. VedantModi,ChiefRevenueOfficer,VedantFashions Ltd. (Manyavar), highlighted this shift with an example: “One of our largest stores is now in Gorakhpur,spanning25,000sq.ft.Thespendingpower in smaller cities, especially during weddings, is astonishing. Instead of opening multiple small stores, we are now consolidating with larger, experiencedrivenretailformatstobetterservethesemarkets.”
TheOnlinevs.OfflineDebate
Despite the rapid rise of e-commerce, offline retail remains crucial for categories requiring tactile experiences. However, digital platforms are increasingly being leveraged for brand discovery and convenienceshopping.
P.Venkatesalu,CEO&ExecutiveDirector,TrentLtd., noted the importance of a strategic approach to omnichannel retail: “The modern consumer is nuanced—she shops across formats. While Gen Z is hookedondigital,Zudiohasconsciouslychosennotto go online. Success lies in making clear choices rather thanblindlyfollowingtrends.”
Rajesh Jain, MD & CEO, Sports and LeisureApparel Limited (Lacoste India), elaborated on the evolving definitionofvalueinretail,“Valuecan’tbedefinedas justmoney."Hepresentedacasestudy:“Thecustomer buyinga₹3,999Lacostepolowantstobeassatisfiedas thecustomerbuyinga₹399localbrand’spolo.”
Nagesh,asked,"Doyouthinkthisisavaluecustomer? Will this customer with a Lacoste polo also have somethingfromZudio?"
Jain answered in the affirmative, “One hundred per cent. The customer who wears a Lacoste polo when going out with friends will feel more comfortable wearingacheaperpoloathome.”
The panel also shed light on value retail’s massive potential for employment generation. With modern retail expanding to 1000+ cities, the sector is poised to createover30millionjobs.
RakeshBiyani,Mentor,NexonOmniverseLtd.,stressed theroleofmanufacturinginfuellingthisgrowth:“India is uniquely positioned as both a production and consumption hub. The key is to enhance supply chain efficiencies and support large-scale manufacturing to meetdemandsustainably.”
ThispaneldiscussionatBharatTex2025broughtforth severalcrucialinsights: