Denimandjeans | Global Trends, News and Reports | Worldwide

Author: Sandeep Agarwal

  • Bangladesh Targets $50 Billion RMG Exports by 2021

    Bangladesh Targets $50 Billion RMG Exports by 2021

    bangladesh के लिए चित्र परिणामA 3 day apparel summit was recently organized by  BGMEA (Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association)  –‘Bangladesh RMG 2021- 50 billion USD in 50 years’- with Alliance, American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), German Development Council and others to chalk out a sustainable road map for the ready made garment industry to reach this ambitious target by 2021 when Bangladesh would be celebrating its 50th anniversary . Garment exports have been the mainstay of Bangladesh’s exports for last many years and have been rapidly growing and forming the major part of the exports from the country. The following table brings out figures of exports of apparel from Bangladesh in the last over 2 decades. From a 32% share in exports from Bangladesh in 1989, the RMG exports now constitutes over 80% of all exports . All the figures have been taken from the data published in an article by the BGMEA President – Mr Md Atiqul Islam- during the apparel summit.

    RMG Exports from Bangladesh 1989 to 2014

    Year Export of RMG Total Export from BD % of RMG Export to Total Number of Garment factories Employment in Millions
    1989-90 624 1,923 32.45 759 0.34
    1994-95 2,228 3,472 64.17 2182 1.20
    1999-00 4,349 5,752 75.61 3200 1.60
    2004-05 6,417 8,654 74.15 4107 2.00
    2009-11 12,496 16,204 77.12 5063 3.60
    2010-11 17,914 22,924 78.15 5150 3.60
    2011-12 19,089 24,287 78.60 5400 4.00
    2012-13 21,515 27,018 79.63 5400 4.00
    2013-14 24,492 30,186 81.13 4536* 4.00**

    All figures in US$ millions
    * A number of least compliant factories have closed down after the incidents in last 2 years.
    ** Latest figures to be updated

    During its growth over last 2 decade and more, the RMG exports from the country has grown well over 15% and has overcome (and is overcoming) many of the challenges that are coming in the way including child labour, MFA phase-out , social compliance etc. The tragic incidents in the last 2 years has further provided the impetus to overcome major challenges that come up as a part of growth in most developing economies. Despite adverse publicity after the Rana Plaza incident, the RMG exports growth during 2013 was about 13.8%.
    The report published by BGMEA sites a number of important reports published by  international organizations bringing out the positive sentiment on sourcing from  Bangladesh.

    MckinseyForecast , Summer 2014
    McKinsey & Co. surveyed 29 chief procurement officers in 2013 at leading apparel companies responsible for a combined purchase of Euro 29 billion. They found that Bangladesh remains at top of the list of apparel –sourcing markets expected to grow in importance in the next few years.

    US Fashion Industry Association Forecast, June 2014
    The ‘Benchmarking Study’ published by the US fashion industry in June 2014 mentions that 60% of the respondents say they expect to somewhat increase sourcing from Bangladesh in the next two years .

    HSBC Trade Confidence Index , Sept 2014

    The trade confidence index rose sharply from 103 in 2013 to 141 in H1 2014 as per HSBC . This index is second highest in a sample of 23 countries. The authorities are introducing more safety regulations to the garments sector and this appears to have provided an additional boost to confidence.

    The China Factor

    Gradual reduction of bulk apparel production by China as rising costs, socio-economic and livelihood uplifts, shift to high tech industries has made large apparel buyers concerned to shift their sourcing from China to other countries . Bangladesh has become the biggest beneficiary of this outcome. China occupied (as per WTO) a 37.35% share in global clothing exports in 2011 whereas Bangladesh occupied about 4.83% (which has increased slightly now). This huge gap is also reflecting on a huge opportunity for Bangladesh as it strengthens its position as second largest exporter and positions itself to take a large part of the ‘ China apparel export cake’.

    New Markets

    It is interesting to note that Bangladesh is also exploring new markets and diversifying its exports and going beyond the traditional exports to EU and US. The share of apparel exports to markets other than EU and North America was 6.88% in 2008-09 and increased to 14.71% in 2013-14. The new markets include Japan, China, India, South Korea, South Africa, Russia, Brazil, Mexico and Chile. The duty free access and preferential market access by countries like India, China, Korea and Malaysia have helped this process.

    Export Components

    The product wise  exports from Bangladesh given below – indicating that the highest share is occupied by  Trousers , followed by T-shirts and Jackets while sweaters and shirts follow. Over the last 5 years , however, the highest growth has been in the exports of shirts and jackets. In the period of about 4 years from 2009-10 to 2013-14 , jacket exports increased by over 120% whereas exports of shirts increased by about 118%. Trouser exports increased by about 87% .

    Product-wise Exports from Bangladesh

    Year Shirts Trousers Jackets T-Shirt Sweater
    2009-10 993.41 3035.35 1350.43 3145.52 1795.39
    2010-11 1566.42 4164.16 1887.50 4696.57 2488.19
    2011-12 1733.54 4686.39 2231.16 4713.11 2340.34
    2012-13 1972.89 5185.48 2634.28 5143.22 2620.73
    2013-14 2173.73 5690.78 2973.16 5863.81 2932.94

    Note:Figures in US$ million

    Challenges

    To achieve the target of $50 billion, there will be significant challenges which Bangladesh will have to overcome , specially related to infrastructure. Lets see how it stands among other Asian countries in Global Competitiveness . The ‘Global Competitiveness Report 2014-15 (World Economic Forum) evaluates important apparel exporting countries on their Infrastructure quality.

    Comparison of Infrastructure Quality : 2014-15

    Country
    /Region    		 Country Ranking Overall Infrastructure Score Electricity Roads Railroads Port
    Bangladesh 109 2.8 2.5 2.9 2.4 3.7
    India 71 3.7 3.4 3.8 4.2 4.0
    China 28 4.4 5.2 4.6 4.8 4.6
    Cambodia 95 3.4 3.0 3.4 1.6 3.6
    Myanmar 134 2.3 2.8 2.4 1.8 2.6
    Pakistan 129 3.3 2.1 3.8 2.5 4.4
    Sri Lanka 73 5.0 4.8 5.1 3.7 4.2
    Thailand 31 4.1 5.1 4.5 2.4 4.5

    The above table shows the areas where Bangladesh still needs to work in relation to infrastructure improvements especially Roads and Electricity . Besides, availability of skilled work force would be another important aspect which would be very important for growth. Investment in education and training would be paramount to raise a large and skilled work force.

    The target of $50 billion is very  ambitious but still not entirely unachievable if one sees the growth achieved in last 5 years as exports doubled from $12 billion to $24 billion. However, the country needs to work really hard in improving its infrastructure and ensure a larger supply of a skilled workforce to reach the magic milestone.

    Denim Exports From Bangladesh

    Denim apparel is becoming an important part of exports from Bangladesh . In 2013 , the combined exports of denim jeans and related apparel to US and EU were over $ 1.2 billion with about 65% going to EU and balance to US. If we consider exports to other nations, the value would be still higher. The exports are set to increase further as Bangladesh overshadows Chinese exports to these regions in next 2 years and becomes the number 1 exporter of denim apparel. Already its exports of men’s jeans to EU is greater than that of China.

  • Denim by PV SS’16 Trends

    Denim by PV SS’16 Trends

    Denim by PV held at Barcelona on 19th and 20th Nov had 2 busy days  with about  100 companies participating and over 4000 visitors coming from around the world. Though some felt that the May show was better, most of the exhibitors and visitors seemed happy with the show.
    The exhibiting companies brought out their latest collections to the show for SS’16 season. Some trends emerged from these collection, one of the important one being the strong desire of denim companies to board the Athletic Wear band wagon and to beat Yoga pants and other competing products  at their home turf. Companies invested in technologies to bring out lighter denims with high stretchability – going upto 100% – with very good recoveries and low growths. Primarily to enable the denim to be used as a highly functional garment competing with all kinds of athletic wear.

    Softness is in : Super soft fabrics were highly focused on as manufacturers tried to bring out various technologies in yarn, weaving and finishing to give that ultra soft touch to the consumer . The knit (jersey) denims are a very important part of the soft brigade as companies take the knits to next level with better stretches , comfort , function and distressability. To many, knit denims shall continue as a base staple fabric on which other value additions will be done.

    Advanced Coatings : Many companies invested in advanced coatings to be done on lighter weight and high stretch fabrics and to give that shiny and pearly look to the fabric. These coatings are technology intensive as normally it is difficult to sustain them on high stretch fabrics.

    Eco sustainability mantra continues with increased vigor. Crailar fiber is being used by a number of exhibitors as an upcoming eco sustainable alternative to cotton and to give that non-uniform linen like effect.

    Selvedge denims seem to be getting more popular as middle rung brands also looking at them for their niche products. Most of the producers of selvedge seemed full and happy. Selvedges have been developed further to bring in more variations including blacks, stretches, dyed wefts and other combinations.

    We now cover some of the companies we visited. It will not be possible to list all though we will try our best to cover as many.

    Cone – USA

    Cone denim brings out ConeFlex – denims that stretch in four directions using stretch warp yarns and Cone’s patented SGene yarn technology in the weft.  Cone Touch introduces soft hand denims with added benefits of enhanced performance . The fabrics with Catch-Move-Release technology catches moisture move it away from body and releases for quick evaporation. Conegard fabrics are durable water repellant fabric engineered to add functionality and protection against elements. This is done without a coating process and does not interfere with cotton’s inherent capacity to breathe for natural comfort.

    IMG_1150

    Orta – Turkey

    Orta Science of Stretch Collection presented in Denim by Premiere Vision on 19-20th December, 2014 in Barcelona is tailor-designed to serve both the active, as well as the fashion-conscience. Experimenting with different yarn blends, Orta brings out various categories of products including Sensual having Tencel and Modal fibers, Flexible for high stretchability , Ultraflex for a body lifting and slimming effect. Comfort Squared creates a better range of motion for active men and women who require both form and function simultaneously , D-Craft for 100% cotton look with comfort of stretch and more.. Orta also presented some yoga performers and some skaters while wearing their garments.

    image

    Arvind – India

    Arvind brings
    Performance Stretches made in Dual Core Dynamo denim and Dual Fx technology.
    Mutant jeans is created with as a combination of construction methods to achieve a denim effect using dobby structures with desirable properties of natural stretch and air permeability.
    Neo Denim brings the truly dark blue denims which wash down gradually offering contrasts at every level on different products like Jacquards, prints, soft stretches , neo dying etc.
    Boomerang denim – the high stretch denim come with high extra softness and high shape retention quality.
    Neo bubble – feathery and airy , light weight denims for women tops , dresses and men’s summer shirts.

    image

    Prosperity – China

    The new S/S16 collections presented by Prosperity Textile,  is based on premium cotton quality, and with many innovative performance fibers.Re-Invent denim seeks to save upto 85% water consumption in dyeing, and more than 75% energy and electricity consumption as well.

    • Everblue 57 represents the deep indigo color retention after repetitive washings, and also high  levels of color fastness.
    • Multi fiber fabric with REPREVE® fibers, Organic Cotton, Recycled Cotton and Hemp to create a eco-denim collection.
    •  J-Fit – 50% less forces needed to reach super stretch compared to commonly-used spandex/Lycra.  Generally, spandex fibers need 1.8 lbs to reach 20% stretch then increases significantly to 4.5 lbs for 50% stretch. With J-Fit, company claims,  one only need 1.9 lbs to get the same 50% stretch – means easier to stretch.
    • F2 denim collection is taking the trendy Jersey Denim(knit denims)  to the next level, with better fit and more functions.Adds a new fiber called Celliant to boost body energy level. The 13 minerals contained in Celliant absorb heat emitted by human body and covert into infrared light, which increases circulation, oxygen and blood flow, to deliver better rest and recovery.
    • 3D Denim, Dark/Dark color in warp and weft filling, plus Dark over-dye or coating, Prosperity’s new collection, 3D Denim, creates a statured deep dark color, and the distinctive high-low effect after wash.
    •  Feel It  Collection in this season is offering extremely soft hand feel. Super soft spun yarn, under innovative structure, not only provide the supreme touch like your cashmere, but also present a bold twill line and good drape. Prosperity’s DFTM finishing is also added to promote the suede look.

    Pizarro – Portugal

    Pizarro brought out some unique washes to the show . For the knits they had  Salt and pepper denim wash, crinkle effects on the knits. and Old Notura method of giving darkened seams.  For the piece dyeds, they had some cool denim looking washes and more.
    SS' 16 Looks from Pizarro - Portugal

    SS' 16 Looks from Pizarro - Portugal

    Calik – Turkey

    Tech it easy – Knit denims with higher level of resistance and more function so that they can be treated like 100% cotton denim.
    Extend Plus – New denims for men with stretch only in warp to give that extra movement space for the men.

    SS' 16 Looks from Calik

    Thinur and Skin Flex – Denim for the women to make them feel comfortable and supported with over 85% stretchability and high recovery. Skin flex – meant to be like second skin-  are very light weight denims with stretch for women.

    SS' 16 Looks from Calik
    Besides , Calik also had some cool fabrics made from Crailar flax combined with tencel adding anti microbial properties with Chitosan extract.

    Soorty – Pakistan

    Hipster collection , in Dual fx,  inspired by the most popular sub cultures of the world  , Modal dual fx for a better feel and stretch ,  360 collection with X fits,  Adamant collection of soft men’s stretches, Cowboy collection of vintage fabrics inspired by Japanese denims . In high stretches, company also came out with  Extreme collection with upto 80% stretch and strong recoveries.

    SS' 16 Looks from Soorty
    SS' 16 Looks from Soorty
    SS' 16 Looks from Soorty

     

    Artistic Milliners

    Artistic Milliners came out with technological advances including new shades ,new finishes , improved Dual Fx and better stretches to address newer needs of the market. Omer Ahmed , Director Artistic Milliners, speaks to us regarding the new collection here.

    Some of their latest products are :

    Aged –  a collection with newer and darker shades
    Hypnosis – A new kind of finish with more lustre for a premium look on denim while retaining shape.
    S1 Technology – an improvement on Dual Fx and gives comfort with cotton and two other fibers , low growth and high strength with stretchability going upto 80. Athleisure and Neoprene– Athletic wear becoming more imp, the company brings the knit denims in improved ways.  Neoprene fabrics go upto 100% elasticity with improved comfort for the consumers and placed against the yoga pants.
    IMG_1340

    IMG_1320

    Denim Clothing Company – Pakistan

    Concentrated a lot on getting some unique washes both from their Pakistan unit and from their desert studio at Dubai. They have been covered in more details here.
    Indigo Garments - Desert Studio

    Jeanologia – Spain

    Jeanologia brought about a new laser technology – Light Scrapers- to give a different character and hand brushed look to the jeans. The machine enables to give to a basic fabric a number of different looks including multi count, slubs and different fabric patterns  . Being eco friendly, the new technology targets to provide more options to the garment manufacturer to provide multiple finished looks on the garment.
    jeanologia

    Atlantic Mills- Thailand

    Atlantic Mills ,bring out bi-stretches, super soft structures and finishes , super stretches upto 80% and more , vintage looks for women wear . For selvedge denim, which the company mentions, it is the largest producer worldwide, had some new variations including those for women.

    Matesa – Turkey

    The Turkish company Brought out new technologies in yarn dyed fabrics which does not use indigo but fading effect is achieved similar to that of indigo. Besides stretches in modal and tencel combinations, knit denims in more comfortable inner structures, special prints on denims which are not visible before washing and bring out used looks after washing.

    SS' 16 Looks from Denim Clothing Company
    SS' 16 Looks from Denim Clothing Company

    US Denim – Pakistan

    US Denim  bring out some selvedge denims including linen selvedges , crailar flax fabrics, wet indigo look fabrics, multi fiber fabrics including cotton modal tencels , polyamide etc.

    SS' 16 Looks from Prosperity

    SS' 16 Looks from Prosperity

     Copen – USA

     

     

     

     

     

    Pocket linnings are becoming a more important part of the jeans as brands experiment with printed and self branded inners. Copen – US brings out some interesting solutions for such buyers.

    IMG_1410

    IMG_1420

  • Denim Apparel Import Into US Falls 7.5% in 2014

    Denim Apparel Import Into US Falls 7.5% in 2014

    Imports of denim apparel into US has fallen by about 7.5% in the period Jan-Oct’14 compared to the same period in 2013.  The imports fell by about 33 million pieces from 437 million pcs to about 404 million pcs during this period. The average price has also seen pressure with the same falling by about 8.6% from $8.12 per piece to about $8.03 per piece.

    Imports of Denim Apparel | 2013-2014 (Jan-Oct)

    Details 2013 2014 Difference (%)

    Quantity (mn .pcs)

    		 437 404 -7.5%

    Price

    		 $8.12 $8.03 -8.6%

    It is worth noting that the imports of denim in US had increased in 2013 by over 4% compared to the year 2012 . However, the imports never touched the peak of over 600 million pcs that US achieved in 2005.

    Denim sales in US have been under pressure as there has been strong competition from Yoga and Athletic wear with female consumers strongly moving in favor of the latter due to their versatility and comfort . Pioneers of form fitting garments like Spanx have been working to create stretchy pants that look like denim and steal consumers away from denim . On the other hand denim companies are fighting back and coming out with products to compete with Yoga wear. High stretch abilities going upto 100% with strong recoveries and low growths with high comfort quotient are being brought out by innovative companies. But it will take time before denim can recover lost ground. As per NPD group , US, the sale of active wear climbed 7% while denim sales fell leading top retailers to increase their offering of athletic and leisure apparel.

  • Leeds Gold Certificate For Artistic Milliners’ Latest Garment Factory

    Leeds Gold Certificate For Artistic Milliners’ Latest Garment Factory

    Artistic Milliners , the denim producer from Pakistan, gets Leeds Gold Certificate for its latest garment factory in Pakistan.

    Developed by the US Green Building Council , the LEED is intended to help building owners and operators be environmentally responsible and use resources efficiently.It  is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. To receive LEED certification, building projects satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels of certification.

    The company mentions that they are highly focused on sustainability and  in 2013 they produced over 2 million mtrs of denim with recycled polyester and over 2 million waterless jeans..

    We spoke to Murtaza Ahmed, Director Artistic Milliners , about this latest project and he mentioned that this is Pakistan’s first Leeds Certified Factory. He further says

    “We are very excited as a group and a company. We have done many initiatives in this unit. All our dry processes are solar powered. We shall be recycling 100% of our water. Our daily consumption is 500,000 gallons. 70% of this will go back to laundry and 30% will go for sanitation and irrigation even though LEEDS does not require us to recycle 100% water. Even the sludge is being used  for making bricks.  We are using technology and automation to make the processes more sustainable including using automated spray booths, laser machines, ozone machines etc….”

    Here is the video on our talk with him where he explains about the latest project and the thought behind it..

     

    Artistic Milliners

     

    Leeds Certified Factory by Artistic Milliners

    image

  • Light Scraper Technology By Jeanologia

    Light Scraper Technology By Jeanologia

    On a recent trip to Valencia where Jeanologia is based, it was fun to go around the research and development centre created by the company and to learn more about their latest developments.  Jeanologia has been continuously creating new technologies which help the industry in its eco sustainable initiative.

    One of their latest developments has bee the light scraper which they unveiled at the Denim by PV. It is a new generation laser which works  to,  not only create effect for and on garments but also ,create designs and patterns of the fabrics.  Basically, the laser can create yarn effects on denim garment which seem to originate  from the fabric structure. For instance, if a normal OE denim fabric has been used to create a garment , then the Light scraper can create different yarn patterns on the garment to give the looks of like Ring Slub , Cross hatch, Multi count etc.  So , instead of just giving a washed look to the garment, the laser will also change the look of fabric structure giving more options to the manufacturers to design their garments and create value addition.

    I spoke to Enrique Silla , President at Jeanologia, about the new technology and he explained

    “…This is a new technology which can create hand sanding or scraping look in the fabric. We can also create slub look from OE fabric , cross hatch look and other yarn looks. It is a complete revolution because from one fabric we can have the look of several fabrics and for the first time we can eliminate human hand completely. We have concentrated on 5 different kind of slub looks initially to be created on the garment….”.

    Here is a complete video of a talk with Enrique Silla

    jeonologia

    The image below shows the vertical slub looks created by Light Scraper machine of Jeanologia. (pl pardon the blurry visual !).

    light scraper denim

    The company also presented three key stories for upcoming  denim trends:

    a)Suiting up – Preppy and sartorial menswear inspire the feminine dandy trend with reviewed 70s flair.  Denim tailoring with retro aesthetics is the key point for men. Contemporary icons for this style are Rachael Zoe and Claudia Schiffer.
    b)Microbreaks and Ristipisto Evolution: From geometrical patterns, fluffy effects, cozy looks micro damages, animal skin look and pop up textures . Creating different images , textures and patterns with lasers.
    micro breaks by laser

    micro breaks by laser

    c. Illusory patches : Vintage and ragged looks created by laser usage.

    laser patches on denim

    We also had a a look at their fabric printing machine which enables to print different laser designs directly on the denim fabric – which is another cool innovation from the company .

    denim fabric laser

    Some other images of some laser treated products and from the research and development centre at Valencia.

    laser looks on denim

    laser looks on denim

    IMG_1762 washed looks with laser + r and d centre jeanologia

    And a cool print on denim of my name  by their nano laser . I seem to have missed my photograph which was also printed by this laser !

    sandeep agarwal laser denim

    Thanks to all at Jeanologia!

    carmen silla

    Note: Check out the latest denim videos from our video section !

  • Versace Spring Summer 2015 Collection Preview

    Versace Spring Summer 2015 Collection Preview

    Versus, the diffusion label of Italian fashion house Versace, has previewed its menswear offering for  SS’ 15.

    The range  is influenced by nineties streetwear  influences and the brand sticks to its signature bold prints in geometric patterns on denims, sportswear, casual wear etc. Besides painted , leather look and ripped denims  (or rather window denims iwith large parts of the jeans disappearing), the label uses mesh, studded leather, shiny materials and accentuated with knee patches and zip leg details.

    Versace has teamed up with Irish designer J.W. Anderson and Italian footwear brand Superga. The complete SS’15 Collection is set for release next year .

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

     

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Vercase Spring Summer 2015 Collection

     

    We are also giving below some cool  images of their current AW’14 denim faded coated denims- all retailing over $1000!!.

    faded coated jeans versace

    faded coated denim versace

    Note: Our updated Denim Store section gives info on many more COOL denim stores from around the world !

  • Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Denim is increasingly being used by non apparel manufacturers to bring out capsule collections and appeal to consumer eyeballs increasingly accustomed to looking for  denim .The Fila Original Tennis “Denim” Collection brings the fashionable denim to Fila’s classic Original Tennis sneaker. The sneaker is outfitted entirely in denim, with the iconic slash in a red-and-blue leather colorway.

    A companion bucket hat and backpack with similar denim features are available but sold separately from the sneakers.The Mayor backpack is made of premium denim and features red stitching to mimic the selvedge intricacies found in premium denim jeans. The collection is available at ALIFE store and retails for $200 for shoes only .Not a mean price by any standard – but who can now deny that denim can enter the most premium segments of multiple consumer products.

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Fila x Flud x Mayor ‘Denim’ Capsule Collection

    Note: EU data has been updated with latest figures for our subscribers

  • Importers of Denim Fabrics in Colombia – July-Aug’14

    Importers of Denim Fabrics in Colombia – July-Aug’14

    Further to our previous reports on Colombian market , this is the third report covering the details on buyers of denim fabrics from Colombia.
    The report has the following content :

    a) Names and contacts of top buyers in Colombia in this period.
    b) Quantities of denim fabrics bought in the period of July- August’14
    c) Average price per sq mtr for denim bought by each buyer.
    d) Linear mtr price for a width of 150cm
    e) Top exporting countries to Colombia during this period.
    f) Average price and quantities from each country which are being exported to Colombia. This would give a fair idea on the type of products exported by each country .

    [private_special]

     

    Importers

    Buyer Name Quantity Purchased
    (Approx.)    		 Avg. Price/Sq. Mtr Avg. Price in linear mtrs.(150cm width)
    FLORAL S. A 6,91,253.52 2.07 3.10
    COMERTEX S.A 4,83,806.23 1.52 2.28
    CONTACTO TEXTIL S.A 4,69,086.6 2.26 3.38
    COLOMBIANA DE COMERCIO S.A 4,25,218.95 1.95 2.92
    PRODUCTORA DE TEXTILES DE TOCANCIPA S A TOPTEX S A 3,85,163.08 1.17 1.75
    PRIMATELA S.A 3,02,651.06 2.59 3.88
    STILOTEX S.A.S 2,99,281.13 2.17 3.26
    COLECCIONES EXCLUSIVAS DE TEXTILES S. A 2,60,074.44 2.45 3.68
    PIZANTEX S.A 2,44,042.57 1.53 2.29
    LUIS EDUARDO CAICEDO S A LEC S A
    		1,79,633.47 1.83 2.74

     

    Buyer Details

    Floral S. A

    Cod Uap 600 Nit 800 147 745 2 Carrera 52 No 19 80 Medellin Colombia
    Ph: 574-444 8886

    COMERTEX S.A

    Cra 17 Autopista Palenque Chimita No 60-170; Giron; Santander
    Ph: +57-7-6760000
    Website: http://www.comertex.com.co/index.php?idi=2

    CONTACTO TEXTIL S.A

    Cr50 G 10 B S-97 Medellin, Colombia
    Ph: 57-4-2856200

    COLOMBIANA DE COMERCIO S.A

    CL 11 31 A 42,BOGOTA
    Ph : 57-1-3649777

     

    PRODUCTORA DE TEXTILES DE TOCANCIPA S A TOPTEX S A

    Cra 43 N’ 9-46, Bogota
    Ph: +57-7-5663000

     

    PRIMATELA S.A

    Ph: +57-1-4137166

    Kra 63 17b 50; Bogota D.C; Bogota D.C

    STILOTEX S.A.S

    Cra 106 # 15-25, Manzan 5 Ints. 13-14

    Website: http://www.stilotex.com/

     

    COLECCIONES EXCLUSIVAS DE TEXTILES S. A

    Carrera 52 # 7 South – 100 Medellin – Colombia

    Ph : 57-4-3206320
    Fax : 57-4-3206322
    Email : info@coletex.com
    Website: http://www.coletex.co/

     

    PIZANTEX S.A

    60-58 17 Av Cl – Colombia, Bogota
    Ph : 57-1-4201302

     

    LUIS EDUARDO CAICEDO S A LEC S A

    Cl 19 Nro 44 35, Bogota 11001
    Ph: +57-7-2087676

     

    Details on other buyers from Colombia can also be found from our previous reports here .

    Top Exporting countries

    From the table below, we can see that China is the largest supplier of denim fabrics to Colombia during the period July-August’14. The second largest exporter has been India and the third is Pakistan. The average prices are lowest from India at about $2.2/linear mtr and the highest are from Italy and even Turkish prices are very good. With the top 9 countries exporting about 6 million mtrs, the quantities are not not too small.

    Country Of Origin Quantity in sq mtrs CIF Value Price (USD/sq mtr) Avg price in mtr for 150cm width
    INDIA 1,324,390.28 1924958.74 1.5 2.2
    CHINA 1,920,937.91 3909155.39 2.0 3.1
    PAKISTAN 964,598.29 2182291.70 2.3 3.4
    TURKEY 423,356.24 1650401.27 3.9 5.8
    MEXICO 660,886.22 1696746.91 2.6 3.9
    BRAZIL 478,036.77 920865.57 1.9 2.9
    ITALY 100,234.07 448724.08 4.5 6.7
    PERU 128,581.03 212272.45 1.7 2.5
    UNITED STATES 71,223.55 207677.73 2.9 4.4

     

    [/private_special]

  • Denim Clothing at DPV Nov`2014

    Denim Clothing at DPV Nov`2014

    DPV had an excellent show at Barcelona last week. A large number of companies from around the world participated visited by industry professionals from around the world. We shall be bringing a full report on SS’16 trends from PV in a report next week.

    We also visited Denim Clothing Company from Pakistan and saw some of their cool washes that they performed on their jeans and other garments. They were upbeat on a large selection of their samples in the DPV trend area . The product development team was upbeat on the  response and selection of a large number of their samples in the PV trend area. The team said

    “We are very happy that over 30 of our samples were selected by PV team for the trend area – which may be the highest for any company. Our latest wash looks have been greatly appreciated by customers.

    “We are focusing on innovative fabrics and special washes. Our Desert Studio at Dubai is a novel idea which is helping premium denim  buyers to develop and source  fashionable products in smaller quantities for quick turnaround and we are getting  a great response there.  Our strength there lies in our ability to do most complex but eco sustainable washes to the satisfaction of our clients.”

    For SS’16 , Denim Clothing brings out

    1) Selvedge denims with variations like light and dark indigos, broken twills, stretches etc.
    2) Special structures and weaves
    3) New coatings to give crisp feelings and lustres
    4) Melange range in PFGD versions
    5) Super soft fabrics
    6) New print range

    Here are some images of their products from their units in Pakistan and from Desert Studio in Dubai.

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Denim Clothing Company

    Desert Studio – Dubai

    denim clothing collage

    Indigo Garments - Desert Studio Indigo Garments - Desert Studio Indigo Garments - Desert Studio Indigo Garments - Desert Studio Indigo Garments - Desert Studio

    Indigo Garments - Desert Studio

    Indigo Garments - Desert Studio

    Indigo Garments - Desert Studio

    Contact Denim Clothing Team here

     Visit their online show

  • Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection Preview

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection Preview

    Diesel brings out a preview of their SS’15 denim collection. The brand  experiments more with patches, worn out effects, new washing technologies, abrasions, hand stitched tailoring, dirty treatments woven together with Italian creative craftsmanship.

    DEBBIE

    New this season, the Debbie has sporty details like an elastic waistband and zip front to guarantee a perfect fit.a cropped leg and stitched front pockets make hips appear smooth and slender and rounded back pockets give a flattering shape at the back.

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Debbie

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Debbie

    ATELIER

    Denim atelier, diesel’s ultra bespoke denim, draws its inspiration from painterly techniques this season. Splatter and worn-out effects, and workwear-like stripes are effortlessly and artfully stylish. Denim is manually ripped, distressed and splattered with various tonal paint colors, coated treatments fade over time to reveal the original denim at its core, and double fabrics are treated and sewn together for a couture patchwork effect.

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Atelier

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Atelier

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Atelier

    DNA BRAVE FRONTIER

    The DNA collection features new washes every season for the bravest innovations diesel can create. This season, brave frontier embodies Diesel’s heritage: 35 years of taking the finest denim, experiments in washing technologies, abrasions, hand stitched tailoring, dirty treatments woven together with Italian creative craftsmanship.

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/DNA Brave Frontier

     Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/DNA Brave Frontier

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/DNA Brave Frontier

    ESSENTIALS

    Essentials are based on the knowledge that a great pair of jeans are a constant, and should be constantly available. A seasonal showcase for  most iconic indigo blue washes, these are timeless, collectable pieces, all made in Italy.

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Essentials

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Essentials

    JOGG JEANS

    Jogg jeans enter a new generation with distressed looks to give that original denim look . With mills further working on their developments and Diesel working more on the finishing, distresses, styles etc, the result are jeans that look quite original but with the comfort of Jogg Jeans (aka knit denim).

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Jogg Jeans

    Diesel Spring Summer 2015 Denim Collection/Jogg Jeans

  • Spring Summer 2015 Denim Looks From Luxury Brands

    Spring Summer 2015 Denim Looks From Luxury Brands

    We bring the SS’15 denim looks from some top  Luxury brands including Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and  Burberry.  They play around with denim using unique styles , embellishments, stitchings  and without much focus on washing to bring a clean but stylish looks.

    Gucci

    Gucci 2015 spring collection is full of  retro looks with modern flavor. The designer was inspired by the 1970s famous American actress Ali MacGraw wearing hunting equipment , especially loose denim pants , hunting jackets . The designs have 70s flavor with a modern taste.

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Gucci Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Dolce & Gabbana

    Dolce & Gabbana 2015 spring collection is a show in decoration on jeans studded with colored stones above , luxurious and embellishments.

    Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2015 Collection

    dolce and gabbana

     

     

    Burberry

    Burberry 2015 spring collection features bright denim aspects in conjunction with leather and prominent stitchings.

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

    Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2015 Collection 

  • Cambodia Increases Minimum Wages

    Cambodia Increases Minimum Wages

    Cambodia had been witnessing a long unrest with unions fighting for over 70% increase in wages. After months of  discussions, unrest and problems, the govt. finally decided to increase the minimum wages by about 28%.

    The minimum wages in Cambodia had been US$100 and and unions had been fighting to increase them to $177 per month. However, this huge increase was not acceptable to the Labour Advisory Committee of the Govt. which gave a recommendation to increase it to $123 .  This amount was increased by the Labor Minister by $5 to $128 .

    The unions had demanded $177 but had mentioned that anything less than $140 was unacceptable. It remains to be seen whether the current declaration will lead to further protests or will the workers accept the amount.

    The govt. has been reluctant to meet the union’s demands as it fears relocation of factories out of Cambodia. The textile industry is big in the country’s economy  with about 500,000 workers employed there. Any major increases can swiftly affect the industry. Cambodia ,even after the increase, has one of the lowest wages in the world.

    How is the increase in wages going to affect the denim industry in Cambodia ?

    The increase is surely going to increase the costs and reduce the margins for the producers and may increase the final prices which may or may not be very palatable to the buyers.  We have already seen before that the average price of jeans from Cambodia to EU is more than that from countries like Bangladesh . The impact of current increase would be further affecting the prices.

    Lets take a look at the exports of jeans and denim apparel into EU and US from Cambodia in the period 2010 –2014.  We will see the quantities , average prices, values and volumes in this period in the tables below. Also we compare the prices from Cambodia with that of average prices of denim from around the world and also with select countries to see where Cambodia stands currently in terms of its pricing competitiveness.  We also see whether US or EU is going to be its main focus market in terms of prices, volumes etc from our data bank.

    Report on Cambodia : Denimsandjeans.com

    Exports of Jeans to EU27 from Cambodia 2010-2014
    [private_special]

    Year of
    Import    		 Jeans
    (million pcs)    		 Total Value
    (million Euro)    		 Average Price
    (Euro/pc)
    2010 0.99 5.60 5.66
    2011 4.98 26.82 5.38
    2012 11.61 71.48 6.16
    2013 17.16 100.35 5.85
    2014(Jan to July) 9.77 59.77 6.12

    As we can see from the table above, the exports of jeans to EU in 2010 was almost negligible but the volumes have picked up sharply in the last 4 years . In 2013 the volumes were about 17 million jeans and average price was Euro 5.85/pc which has increased to over Euro 6 already. With the increased wages, we can expect further increase in this price.  Against this , the average price from Bangladesh for 2014 is Euro 5.34/pc .  This difference of over 0.70 Euro might increase further and Cambodia might lose on some of its orders to other competing countries. Though Bangladesh and Cambodia cannot be strictly compared since Bangladesh is much bigger , but the comparisons are bound to occur.   The world average for export of jeans to EU in 2013 was Euro 7.48 per piece and is about Euro 7.59 till July this year. This gives some breathing room to Cambodia , but it has to be remembered that these prices include shipments from expensive exporters like Turkey, Tunisia etc also.

    When we look at the figures for US, we find that  the quantities peaked in 2010 and after that there has been a  fall in shipments to US.  Whereas in 2010 about 25 million pieces of denim apparel was shipped to US, in 2013 , the quantities are over 40% lesser showing that the country is no longer able to increase exports to US. The average prices at $8.97/pc in 2014 is well over the world average of $8.10/pc. This shows that Cambodia is already not very competitive when it comes to US exports and this is reflected in its declining exports. A further increase with an increase in wages could further increase the prices making it more difficult for the country to export.

    Year of
    Import    		 All Denim Apparel
    (million pcs)    		 Total Value
    (million US$)    		 Average Price
    (US$/pc)
    2010 24.5 183.64 7.49
    2011 20.54 177.04 8.62
    2012 17.51 145.74 8.32
    2013 15.59 132.30 8.49
    2014 (Jan to March) 3.2 28.74 8.97

    The above two tables do make it clear that Cambodia will focus more on Europe especially because it gets the GSP benefit to EU.  The volumes are continuously on the rise and are expected to increase further in the coming times. But labor cost will play a very large and a deciding role in its positioning.

    [/private_special]