Denimandjeans | Global Trends, News and Reports | Worldwide

Author: Sandeep Agarwal

  • Denimsandjeans Japan – Nov 2022

    Denimsandjeans Japan – Nov 2022

    Denimsandjeans Japan was designed by us as the first Denim Supply Chain show in the country and we had originally scheduled it in March 2020. However, pandemic played the spoilsport and we had to postpone the show and move the dates . Finally we are now holding the show at Tokyo on Nov 1-2 with over 50 companies from Japan and around the world joining us in this maiden attempt. Denimsandjeans provide a platform to assemble link with captains of the denim industry. Denim industry is prone to dynamism. It becomes vital for the manufacturers and the sellers to keep themselves updated about the trends in the market. We are attempting to create an atmosphere where both can connect and transact.


    Japan is one of the most valuable places when it comes to denim. The Japanese have taken the art of denim making to another level and provide inspiration to global buyers and designers who visit there often to learn and to be inspired. Japan is also a place for large retailers and corporations who have immense purchasing power in terms of denim apparel and fabrics for their overseas offices. Did you know that Japan imports over 160-180 million pcs of denim jeans every year ?? Its the third largest importer of these products after EU and US.


    Success of our India show held in June 2022 was a great comeback after pandemic. Now, we are pleased to invite you to Japan show after three long years. Our japan show premiere edition was postponed 15 days prior to the actual show dates in March 2020 and it was a setback for all of us. But , now we are on our toes again and back with all the enthusiasm and commitments from 2020. We look forward for your appearance on 1st and 2nd November at Sunshine City, Tokyo , Japan.

    This time our theme is RAW & RIGHT . The theme emanates from the right way of creating the denim and RAW signifies the original composition and structure of denim which also in some way signifies that the denim needs to remain connected with the nature . RIGHT adds up to the correct way of producing and using the denim without any environmental impact i.e sustainably. Thus , Sustainability plays a definite role here that embarks our theme for the upcoming show.

    Some of the Japanese exhibitors include Nihon Menpu , Collect, Showa, Shinohara, Sanyo Senko, Whoval, JDS , SAAB , HAP and more .The list of exhibitors from Japan and those from around the world can be found here .

    Many local and international fabric , chemical, accessories , technology , trims, yarns etc companies will be participating in the November show displaying their AW23 and SS24 collection. We are expecting to have all the big retailers and brands from Japan and many from US, Europe , Korea etc joining us this time.

    We shall be having some great seminars by some global experts and we shall announce the same shortly. Please do keep following us for more news and we look forward to having you with us in JAPAN !

    REGISTER TODAY ! https://japan.denimsandjeans.com/invite

  • Nearchimica’s Eco Dress Code @ Vietnam

    Nearchimica’s Eco Dress Code @ Vietnam

    Nearchimica is a well known Italian chemical company which has been serving the industry for over 40 years and is well respected for its various initiatives and contributions to the industry specially in the sustainability arena. We spoke to the Managing Director – Roberto Camera – to understand how they are have been moving over these years and what are their plans for Vietnam.

    Nearchimica is over 4 decades old company dealing in auxiliaries for textiles. How has the company grown over the years

    The company has grown step by step, implementing his activity cooperating with Customers on   market need satisfaction, focusing on continuous innovation, offering deep technical support

    What change have you seen in last 10years with focus of the industry changing towards more environment friendly products and how have you kept pace with it

    In the last 10 years many things happened ,with continuous and pressing requirements for eco sustainability  together with  some reluctance from  brands to fully adopt  related  technical innovation for their standard production.

    Starting from 2019, with growing ZDHC compliance demands and its deadlines, this commitment has become more defined and important. Today we can say that most major companies are involved in eco sustainable process developments.

    What do you think are the 3 key concern areas in denim fabric and garment production which need to be addressed to reduce our impact on the mother earth

    Our philosophy is that “ less is better” : less water consumption, less energy consumption, and less hazardous chemicals.

    We call this project Eco dress code which means continuity in our denim tradition, paying attention to people,  workers and  environment.Today technology is available to produce attractive garments with sustainable approach, it’s just a matter of deciding when and how. We’re available for supporting our customers in this transition.

    Your main products which you think can help in the above-mentioned areas.

    As usual our model is based on an offer of   Application knowhow and Chemical product innovation to our partners.   Main subjects are:

    •  Laser technology ,combining new generation  laser booster and smoothers in order to improve laser engraving performance …the object is  to come to a  No Touch process.
    • Selected Enzymes high performing at low temperature and suitable for easy   biodegradable bleaching and cleanings
    • Eco friendly bleaching agents and Ozone activators.
    • Concentrated performing auxiliaries to improve, along the whole textile field, logistic cost and energy cost and pollution related to the transport.

    Major changes you see coming in the auxiliaries in the next few years. How will that impact our industry.

    One of the fundament futures will be recycling. At any level, it will be successful if we’ll be able to transform the waste into a resource. Our company is sharing with our customers projects that are going in that direction. This means that all the life cycle, for  garments & fabrics, must be consciously planned starting from the real beginning.

    SONY DSC

    You are participating in the Denimsandjeans Show in Vietnam in 2023. What are your expectations from the event as it is happening after 3 years

    Our expectation is to overcome problems arising from this long pandemic lockdown and happy to meet by person again re starting relationships.

     It is clear that after the pandemic nothing is  same as before, and we need to adapt ourself to    new needs and  situation, considering  these transformation as a part of a natural evolution.

    For more information , contact Sabrina Beretta ( sabrina.beretta@nearchimica.it )

  • AQUITEX Brings Responsible And Innovative Chemistry To Vietnam

    AQUITEX Brings Responsible And Innovative Chemistry To Vietnam

    Aquitex is a Portuguese company dedicated to the manufacture and sale of textile and ceramic chemicals for over 50 years. The company has a strong sustainable vision and we spoke to their General Manager Jorge Faria to find a little more about them as they also cater to various denim companies globally.

     1) Please share the history and development of Aquitex as a company.

    Aquitex started 59years ago in Portugal as a distributor of very reputed international companies like Novo Nordisk, Sumitomo, Tanatex, and Sigma.  With the time, and mainly after 1995, Aquitex started to produce its own products. We created our line of enzymes and chemical products and, nowadays, we produce more than 5.000ton of products per year. The company had 2 departments: textile and ceramic ( we produce the colors for painting the ceramics like mugs, plates, etc). In 2015 we implemented another department: detergency and cosmetic   At the same time we invested a lot in research.

    Nowadays we are 39 persons working, and half are masters or with a university degree. We worked with the main universities in Portugal, doing the development with them, using their amazing equipment that helps us to have products and systems with patents or in the patent process.  

    Our lab of applications has more than 300sm completely equipped with all equipment needed for textile and ceramic. In textile, we have all the equipment needed for all textile applications including machines for washing and garment treatment.

    In 2018, together with all Portuguese universities and 4 major companies in different areas than textile, we created a lab to study and implement the process of a circular economy that is open to finding solutions for circularity despite the type of industry. This lab is not profit-oriented, which means, the money paid for each work is to cover the cost.

                   
    2) Having a chemical manufacturing company in the EU must be not easy with so many sustainability regulations to follow. How have you adapted yourselves over the years for the same?

    We always follow the European rules and adjusted to them. Now we are a Bluesign company, we have Gots, we follow the REACH regulation and Okotex. We are an Iso 9001 and 14001 company.

    Since 2011 we created products to reduce energy and water. For instance,Toxal PVDT is a product from that time that allows to do reactive dyes to be washed off at 65c. This means that we always anticipated the EU regulations because we felt the need, to be sustainable. Proof of it is the lab I mentioned in the previous point: circular Lab.

    Our water treatment plant is unique because it uses plants to complete the treatment. We created a range of ceramic dyes, products that came from the land, and we have a line of products to bleach, dye, and finish with natural products. We worked together with an European scientist on a product alternative to potassium permanganate which is truly safe and ecological (it gained top score in Screened Chemistry certification as a preferred chemistry product.)


    3) What are your main products for the textile industry?

    We have a full range of products for all the textile industry. For preparation, dyeing ( different types of fibers ) finishing and special products for finishing ., and a full range of products for denim washing. We can cover all textile applications.

    For denim, we have the product to substitute the permanganate, very efficient enzymes that can be used in normal washing process or by  spray  system with the certification “Denisafe “

    4) How big are denim chemicals as part of your portfolio? What advantages do you see for your customers using your chemicals?

    The enzymes for stone wash and products for denin wash represent 25% of our turnover. The advantages are our good know-how, very effective enzymes, and a product to substitute permanganate, as I had mentioned. At the same time together with a “boutique” application Lab, we create collections of different types of washing and applications that are going to be exposed in the exhibition. We believe it will be unique.


    5) How important do you think Vietnam is as a potential market?

    Vietnam, sooner, will be the main textile supplier, therefore, we need to be present in this market. One of the aims of our presence in the Denimsandjeans exhibition is to show  Aquitex and its potentiality and to have the chance to show how innovative, sustainable and fashionable we are.

    We are going, also, to have the chance to find a good distributor that can represent Aquitex for the Vietnam market.


    6) You are participating in our Denimsandjeans Show in 2023. What are your expectations from the show?

    As I mentioned above to show Aquitex and who we are. At the same time, we need to give on step forward in our strategy of being in the Vietnam market.

    For more details on the company, contact: Jorge Faria at this email Jorge.faria@aquitex.pt

  • A Talk With Vinod Mittal – Director Vinod Denim

    A Talk With Vinod Mittal – Director Vinod Denim

    Vinod Denim is one of the well-known denim mills in India. Having been set up only about 11 years back, the mill is a part of the Vinod Group under the leadership of their Director – Mr. Vinod Mittal. We discussed some key points in the denim industry with him in a small interview. Look at some interesting ideas that he shared with us.

    1) When did you think about entering the denim arena and how has been the journey?      

    Vinod Denim Ltd produces denim fabric from 4.25 oz. to 14.0 oz. with a complete range of weaves like 2/1 Twill,3/1 Twill,4/1 Twill,100% cotton, Knitted Denim with or without Lycra, and strong quality control.

    Group Vinod started a greenfield project for manufacturing indigo denim fabric in 2011 and had a modest production capacity of 5 lac meters per month then which has grown by almost 8 times now within a time span of 11 years and is now currently about 4 million mtrs p.a .

    With due diligence and a market survey, the company forayed into exports by selling denim fabric to 11 countries and eyeing a major boost in sales within 3 years of operation. “Sky is the limit for those who have a clear vision of goal and integration of all business units to perform to its optimum efficiency”.

    To augment further market share with an aggressive marketing strategy and expansion Vinod Denim Ltd always look for professionally managed denim fabric channel partner all across its markets.

    2) When did you think about entering the denim arena and how has been the journey?      

    It was 11 years back when we were exploring the possibilities of technical textile from fabric printing, we found allied industry as denim. The denim industry had an attractive annual growth rate of 25% p.a.and one of the biggest industry in India, which prompted us to enter into the arena.

    The best part about denim fabric In US and European markets is that all classes of people had a fancy for this wonder fabric. While in India it was the younger generation who were mad after this fabric while there was a large pool of potential buyers from the middle age group to the older generation. We found an opportunity that was still un-tapped hence final call was taken to start denim fabric manufacturing.

    3) What are the areas where you feel Vinod denim specializes in as a mill?

    Vinod Denim provides has 4 slasher ranges on which different qualities run. With the right mix of warp and weft types, we are able to provide a number of qualities in a reasonable time frame to our customers. This enables us to remain flexible, provide a bigger range and take lesser time in deliveries to our customers. Besides, our higher widths ensure that the customer is getting more fabric sq mtr in a given period.

    4) Out of your current collection, which products do you think are of special interest to your buyers in overseas markets.

    The Indian Denim Industry is showing a notable increase in recent years. Indian denim brands and manufacturers are focusing on increasing their export globally. Considering the significant proportion that India commands in the international trade of textile and garb, the industry is ready to add more exceptional manufacturing capabilities.

    The wider width denim fabric with the good flat finish is in good demand overseas and Vinod Denim specializes in these 2 parameters with total of 213 new looms installed and working with their full capacity making it customers’ first choice.

    The real-time communication and delivery with pocket-friendly pricing of Vinod Denim Fabrics along with sustainability attract foreign buyers.

    5) What are the steps you are taking to improve your sustainability quotient?

    Vinod Denim Ltd with its own ETP Plant not only uses less quantity of water during production processes but also provides safe water for the cultivation of plants in and around the factory. As per WFTO (The world Fair Trade Organisation) report a kilogramme of textile needs around 200 liters of water while VDL is using paltry 70 liters of water.

    The production process uses cadmium, lead, or mercury-free organic chemicals to safeguard the health of workers and the environment and does not pollute water also.

    Vinod Denim has installed photo galvanic cell panels to save power, water & steam and continuously up-grading the technology. It promotes sustainable textile manufacturing by preserving and reusing energy and also it lowers operational costs.

    Vinod Denim with the flow of market dynamics is one of the pioneers for lots of products being manufactured with the usage of market-friendly chemicals and introduced first time in the market like wider width fabrics of specialized finish ensures the lowest fabric consumption during garment manufacturing. Our mission is…..

                           ***ZERO DEFECT & ZERO EFFECT***

    For more details on Vinod Denim , click on this email to connect .

  • Resounding Response To Denimsandjeans India – Post Show Report 2022

    Resounding Response To Denimsandjeans India – Post Show Report 2022

    After almost 3 years , Denimsandjeans India show successfully hosted with a huge traction showing how the industry really missed the physical shows. With around 40 exhibitors from 8 countries participating in the show this year , the 2 day event attracted around 2100 visitors from 600 companies and experienced the Denimsandjeans platform. Major brands, retailers, buying house , traders and manufacturers participated from not only cities in India like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Telangana, New Delhi, Ahmedabad etc, but also from overseas including those from Bangladesh , Turkey , Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. Post the pandemic times , a lot of footfall was witnessed with people wanting to network with each other face to face rather than on online video calls. Meanwhile, all the covid norms and precautions were well maintained at the venue ensuring the safety of one and all.

    All the major retailers and brands including H&M, Marks & Spencer, VF Corporation ,Kontoor Brands , Mufti, Landmark Group , Future Group , Future Retails , El Corte , Li Fung , GAP Inc ,  Fifth Avenue, Bhartiya Fashion, Tesco , Pepe Jeans , Poeticgem UK , Spykar , Benetton , Celio Sourcing, Shopper Stop , Reliance Trends , Myntra/Jabong , Flipkart, ITC Limited , Amazon, VOI Jeans, Saint Blue ,Levis, C&A ,PVH, Being Human, Blackberry, Aditya Birla Fashions , FFI, Ajio, Westside, Asmara India , Asmara Bangladesh , Bestseller , Inmark Retail, Impulse, Arvind Brands, Raymonds Apparels, Synergies Sourcing , Newtimes, etc  visited the show.  Some of the most reputed factories and exporters including  Shahi, Garden City Fashion, Trigger Apparels, Prateek Apparels, Classic Polo Fashion, VD Fashions, Shivassa Apparels, Aquarelle Clothing and Hasbro Clothing also visited with their teams.

    The theme of the show was coined as ‘GREENABLE’ – focusing on denim as a GREEN and COMFORTABLE product post COVID. The keynote address was given by Dr. Naresh Tyagi – Chief Sustainability Officer, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail. His presence and words of wisdom surely helped commence the 4th edition with enthusiasm. See Full video here.

    TREND AREA

    The Trend Area at the 4th edition of Denimsandjeans India showcased the GREENABLE theme with a background view of a garden against the latest creativities of the denim industry . SS23 and AW23 collection were on display in majorly 5 categories as – COMFY FASHION , WATER AND CHEMICAL THRIFT , FASHIONABLES , GREEN FIBERS and RECYCLE THE PAST.

    ACTIVITIES and FUN

    Reinforcing the need to make our earth more green, Denimsandjeans introduced a bare tree to which the leaves were put up by the visitors in the show with their messages and quotes. Many inspiring as well as motivational thoughts were shared through this medium. Along with this , a Denimandjeans magazine photo booth attracted a large number of audience and were shared on instagram handles. But the most interesting part can be said to be the DENIMSANDJEANS PARTY in the evening , where the exhibitors let their hair down and enjoyed the music and networking .

    Denimsandjeans Instagram handle

    There were many seminars including a panel discussion by renowned denim heads on very interesting topics during the show.

    Raw Material Volatility – Effect On The Supply Chain

    A panel discussion moderated by Mr. Stefano Aldighieri ( President , Another Design Studio ) with Panel members –

    Mr. Subir Mukherjee ( Business Head , Bhaskar Industries Pvt Ltd )
    Mr. Fabrizio Maggi ( Apparel Commercial director South Asia and EMEA distribution )
    Mr. Avinash Mane ( Commercial Director (South Asia, Middle East, Thailand), Lenzing Fibers. )
    Mr. Bharat Desai ( President – Raw material Procurement, Alok Industries Ltd. (An integrated textile mill) )
    Mr. Sartaj singh Mehta ( Product Director Pepe Jeans London )

    Escaping Fashion’s Death Valley – How AI can remove uncertainty and waste

    A Presentation by Mr. Ganesh Subramanian Founder and CEO, Stylumia

    STORY TELLING: Never Mind The Medium: Only Content Matter

    Presentation by Mr. Sundeep Ramudamu Experienced Apparel Design Lead/ Video Content creator/ Story Teller Creative cheat sheet and Mr. Stefano Aldighieri President , Another Design Studio

    How Denim Brands Are Adapting To Conscious Customers

    Seminar by Dr. Dilek Erik Global Marketing Manager, Sharabati denim

    Sustainable Denim Spray Dyeing And Finishing Technology

    A seminar by Mr. Jayanta Sanyal , Head Of Technical Sales & Processes , RotaSpray

    From Fast Fashion To Accurate Fashion

    A seminar by Mr. Manuj Kanchan , Division Director-CEA , Jeanologia

    Trend Presentation AW 23-24

    Presentation by Ms. Neha Celly From Denim design and research house Bluehemia and denim couture brand nece gene.

    For more videos, subscribe to our Denimsandjeans youtube channel

    Also, you can download some of the presentations from our speakers from THIS LINK ..

    Denimsandjeans Initiatives

    Complying with the GREENABLE theme , Denimsandjeans took up various initiatives during the show to promote the reduction in wastage by taking some small steps. . Saving over 2000 plastic bottles , the team encouraged the use of metallic bottles and some other ways to provide clean water without using bottles. . Moreover, a large number of plastic covers, papers were replaced by the handbands made from recycled fabrics . It was fun to do this while making our small contribution to the cause.

    We enjoyed the show thoroughly and we again THANK OUR EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS who kept faith in us after the difficult covid period !

    Do not miss to join us for our JAPAN SHOW on Nov 1-2

  • A Talk With Pawan Gupta From Fashinza

    A Talk With Pawan Gupta From Fashinza

    Fashinza is a B2B manufacturing marketplace that solves apparel/fashion supply chain challenges by connecting fashion brands to experienced manufacturers. Fashinza is a creation of diverse team of individuals united by a shared love for technology and sustainability. Their leadership comes with 15+ years of experience in the fashion and IT industries. The Co-Founders – Pawan Gupta, Abhishek Sharma and Jamil Ahmad – launched Fashinza to solve the existing challenges which make the fashion supply chain inefficient, rigid and unethical.

    As Fashinza joins our Denimsandjeans India show , we speak to one of the founders – Pawan Gupta – to find what really is Fashinza doing and how they intend to solve the myriad problems in the fashion industry including denim.

    Fashinza is a B2B manufacturing marketplace that solves apparel/fashion supply chain challenges by connecting fashion brands to experienced manufacturers.

    Yes, Our recent funding announcement of $100Mn created a buzz in the media across the globe.

    Fashinza is an AI-driven B2B marketplace that seeks to fix manufacturing for fashion brands and retailers. We are creating a 21st-century supply chain for fashion that is fast, transparent, and sustainable — all through a single-stop technology-powered platform. 

    Global brands can find vetted cloud-connected manufacturers, browse exclusive designs, place bulk orders online, monitor daily production status, and chat with manufacturers directly through our platform. Our FactoryOS powers assembly lines in small to mid-sized factories with a powerful mobile-driven AI platform that completely digitizes the shop floor and helps them tremendously improve efficiency, quality, and speed. Fashinza allows brands to cover as low as 50 pcs with turnaround times as fast as 45 days.

    What weaknesses do you see in the current sourcing model which necessitate bringing an alternative one?

    The current sourcing model is not designed for scale without human intervention. A typical sourcing cycle involves numerous calls, e-mails, visits, and multiple back & fourth process to arrive at closure. All of this creates a lot of unnecessary redundancy and dependency. This is further compounded by the fact that inventory is still not “just-in-time” and a lot of brands have to deal with shortages or excess inventory at the end of the season. That is where we come into the picture, our control and predictability over the production process help brands plan better, keep a  tab on red flags, and reduce wastage.

    How has been your client experience at the platform till now and how do you want to improve it further 

    We’ve had success in getting brands to use our platform to place and manage orders. At the same time, our supplier also likes the fact that there is a single platform to deal with all the ongoing queries and order management. From here on, we are looking to double down our efforts towards a mobile-first approach to entire order management along with deep tech integration like RFID scanning, and line planning to improve the predictability for our customers.

    With a huge series B funding of $100 million  recently and perhaps many more to come, how do you Fashinza’s growth in the coming 1 year 

    Yes, We will invest our series B funding in two primary areas: supply chain technology and expanding our base globally. This means that we aim to:

    • Create a sustainable (i.e., net positive) supply chain by 2030 that doesn’t cost extra
    • Invest in deep supply chain technology, IoT, and Industry 4.0 solutions for SMB manufacturers
    • Expand our presence in the US
    • Expand the supply chain in India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Turkey, Central America, and hopefully the US

    You are participating in our Denimsandjeans India show in Bangalore. What would be your main focus during the show and what do you expect during the same. 

    Our main focus is to collaborate with relevant brands to understand the current challenges & pain points of their supply chain & sourcing issues. Also, it will help us to exchange ideas and innovations happening in the industry.

    How can Fashinza help the denim industry become more efficient?

    Yes, We are helping brands from denim category to be more efficient on

    1. Pricing: we can bring technical know-how of what is happening in the supply chain from across the world (China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, etc.) – which will reduce costs for suppliers and eventually, to the end buyer.

    2. Production Time(TAT): We are giving the entire design to delivery solutions for buyers with our catalogue launch, on ready fabrics – which eventually reduces TAT for any delivery. 

    3. Low Quantity (MOQ) – we have capability to do low MOQs – which reduces a brand’s working capital requirements

    Can you delve more into the AI behind the Fashinza platform and how specifically it works to help address supply chain issues in the fashion industry?

    Manufacturing is a very data-intensive process. In absence of data, people rely on their intuition to make decisions and more often than not end up with suboptimal outcomes. With our FactoryOS, Fashinza’s AI technology, we are bringing data-driven decision-making and projections to SMB fashion manufacturers. We use data to optimize quality checking, assembly line planning, throughput projections, and matching the right suppliers based on 80 different parameters. The result is that Fashinza FactoryOS-powered factories have very low quality-related wastage, higher throughput, and higher profitability while being faster, reliable, and automated.

    To know more about Fashiza and to meet them at Denimsandjeans Show in Bangalore on June 8-9, 2022 ,

    contact them by clicking here

  • A Talk With Andrea Skatto

    A Talk With Andrea Skatto

    Andrea Skatto has been in the textiles world for about 3 decades, developing fabrics collections, mainly into denim, flats & shirting for a variety of suppliers worldwide, and working to find marketing solutions in  Italian, European and Chinese markets.

    He has worked with companies like  The Bonazzi Group/ Montebello and Tessilbrenta in Italy,  La Panama flats, and C.C.CLUB/ Pianeta Tessile, again flats and outerwear fabrics. In Turkey and with  Calik Denim for 7 years. Besides Arvind mills, Fifth Avenue and SuryaLakshmi Azgard 9, Naveena in Pakistan, Brandix, Foison, etc have been part of his clientele in his long career. 

    Among brands, he was hired by Diesel -Italy to renew their denim fabrics choices and currently works with the Italian brand H.T.C ( HOLYWOOD TRADING CO.).
    He loves to take care of all processes in a mill, from choosing raw materials to yarn sizes study to actual fabrics with a special focus on chemical finishes.

    We thought about taking his views on various aspects of development in the industry today and he shared some of his ideas.

    Q. Andrea, what changes do you see in the retail market of denim and flats post covid? Do you see strong positives or even negatives?

    A. – Denim is still doing pretty well, as is the sale of fabrics and garments that I see currently. 

    Flats need changes. Positive on flats, it can happen if mills start to not just follow the big buying group, they need to get Brands designers interested with new ideas, using different yarns and finishes. Today I do not see many innovations.

    Since the times the Italian suppliers practically disappeared, no one really takes this market and its product study as it should be. The real innovations, I feel, are amiss. 

    Q. – You have a long experience in denim fabric structures and compositions. Do you want to highlight anything important for the same?

    A.- To have interesting, saleable, and usable structures mills need to use a higher number of shafts as possible with rapier looms. Normally all denim makers work max with 8 shafts. We could take as an example the geometrical shirting type of designs reported in denim. I always see too many ugly structures.

    Again, mills should work on new yarns and versatile looms to bring out good designs.

    Q.- Brands are also looking to differentiate themselves among their fabric suppliers based on their own requirements. How important is this for suppliers?

    Brands are also looking to differentiate among their fabric suppliers, based on their own requirements. Can you share some examples which show how their respective functioning and requirements are different?

    A. – I always believed, through my experience, that SUPPLIERS should differentiate themself, finding the “hot spot”, as, what their CLIENTS would like to buy.

    When I started my career in Italy, we did create tendencies of FABRICS which were almost never asked by clients. We worked mainly with Brands. Then the huge retailers arrived, with their price requirements, quality, ultra-fixed deliveries, penalties, etc. The game changed.

    We need as fabrics makers to work more and better in developing what we are good at. From raw materials to yarns, to fabrics, finishes, and presentation, all must be reseen, thinking about better margins through new products, new researches, that will allow suppliers to get and keep retailers vivid interest, that brings better sales of what is considered Basics Fabrics as well.

    Q.- What trends do you see in both flats and denim in the next 2 years? 

    A. Flats can and will gain a lot if they let us work…and it is easier than designing garments.

    Covid itself calls more to the protections of nylon or other technical fiber, but even 100% cotton can have a gore-tex Infinium coating, as an example.

    Denim unless we build mills with relatively more versatile looms and use more finishes, I cannot see huge progress in the long run. Kids live different lives everywhere, they don’t even know most of the huge denim brands still around that were big in the 90′, after that it has been big retailers, but not much of brands.

    Q.- Since you have worked with so many mills and brands, what do you think is the key today for mills to get more traction with buyers  

    Ideas, the world is itself improving through ideas.

    We don’t need to talk about Leonardo da Vinci or Mr.Bezos…but all improve with new ideas, and in textile fabrics, ideas are made of raw material, yarns types, structure and finishes, simple or more inclusive waxing or coating, as mechanical as all types of brushing, preaching, etc.

    I would focus on getting the interest of clients first to my product range, which involves sustainable processes as a standard, but i would count on developing novelties in tight cooperation with clients’ designers,using the experience of fabrics we hold,in order to follow clients in a commercial way.

    To connect with Andrea, use this email address

  • Nandan Denim Brings 100% Recycled Products @ Denimsandjeans India

    Nandan Denim Brings 100% Recycled Products @ Denimsandjeans India

    Nandan denim is one of the largest denim mills in India and a part of the Chiripal Group . With a capacity of over 60 million mtrs, the company is present in all major markets globally dealing with large brands and retailers. We spoke to their Vice President – Subrata Ghosh – an industry veteran who has a vast experience of over 32 years in the denim industry.

    Hi Subrata , pl tell me about your latest collection of Aw 22-23

    In the present market scenario, main challenge is business sustainability in denim supply chain. Garment MRP is not changing in the same speed of all fabric raw materials. So pressure is on denim mills. So In AW 22-23 collection our first focus is Value engineering of fabrics keeping  color, optics and feel as per trends.

    As fashion is cyclical, we are getting Ring optics back in fashion. In high end brands woven knits still getting more popularity. Though frankly there is no off take of Sustainable denim in Indian market, we are presenting our full range of real sustainable denim.     

    What is Nandan’s basic philosophy towards sustainability.

    Till today, Sustainable denim means, GOTS, BCI certified denim.  But in true sense,  GOTS  and BCI  certified denim are very small component of sustainability. Real focus should be denim  from PCW, re-cycled poly and process re-engineering that save water and energy . Green fibres, alternates of cotton, are also very important.     

    Not many companies are going for 100% recycled products . Are you working on such fabrics?

    As we all know, it is very very difficult to make fashion denim from 100% re-cycle raw materials.  But we at Nandan denim ltd, are keeping it our goal and developed few articles also with 100% re-cycle materials as well.

    What would be your focus products at Denimsandjeans Show in Bangalore?

    Focus at Denimandjeans show are, value engineered products, “Best out of waste” means Sustainable collections other than regular AW 22-23 collection. We have to gain confidence of brands that Value engineered products are also fashionable, so keeping them side by side.

    How do you see the denim industry changing post covid?

    Covid has become past now, at least we should think in that direction. New challenge is handling “White Gold” i.e. Cotton price. It may be the  after effect of Covid also, we do not know the real reason.  But yes, post Covid, business opportunity has increased from export markets and there is good demand from all countries.  For fabric suppliers, there are change of customer profile . Eg Online brands became very active immediately after covid though we see see instore brands back in action now .

    For more details on Nandan’s products and to fix any appointments at the show, contact at sghosh@chiripalgroup.com

  • Pioneer Denim To Explore Indian Market @ Denimsandjeans India

    Pioneer Denim To Explore Indian Market @ Denimsandjeans India

    imagePioneer Denim Limited  is one of the largest manufacturers of denim fabrics from Bangladesh and is a part of the well known Badshah Group . With over 60 million yards annual capacity, Pioneer has the advantage of backing of some of the largest spinning plants in Bangladesh . It has been LEED certified and deals with major brands and retailers globally . Pioneer Denim shall be participating in the Denimsandjeans India show which is being held after 3 years at Bangalore on June 8-9 . We had a small chat with the Head of Marketing -  Md Hasibul Huda – regarding Pioneer’s growth , ambitions and plans and also why they felt it important to explore the Indian market.

    Pioneer denim entered the denim industry a couple of years ago. How has been the journey till now.

    We are in the fourth year our operation now and annual production capacity has been increased from 40 ml to 60 ml yards. Thanks to our business partners for keeping trust on our product and service commitments and to our suppliers, specially to our sister concerns, the award wining spinning units of Badsha Group of Industries for their support in our growth and development.

    What are the main markets you are working in and where do you see more of your focus in coming years

    Currently, our business partners are from USA and Europe. However, we are looking for further business opportunities in other regions of the world such as, India, Australia, Japan, Russia, South America, Canada etc.

    You are participating for the first time in the Denimsandjeans India show. What is your expectation from the show and how do you see the Indian market

    With its booming economy in Asia, Indian denim market is becoming very potential as the local brands/retailers are developing rapidly and consumer’s demands for unconventional denim is also increasing. Therefore, we are expecting that participation in this Denimandjeans show will bring us a good exposure and response from the local potential customers as well as offer the opportunities to meet internal brands/retailer regional offices.

    What are the main products you would be showcasing here .

    Mainly, we are planning to introduce our performance and sustainable denim collection in the show. However, the core items and fashion fabrics will also be there in the gallery.

    Can you share some more information about your sustainable collection and green credentials

    Pioneer Denim Limited is the world’s Largest LEED certified denim mill and the only C2C gold level certified Azure denim producer from Bangladesh. Our latest inclusion is inhouse cotton recycling facility which has made us the only denim mill from Bangladesh to have inhouse shredding facility for producing PIW and PCW recycled cotton. Within a very short time, we are going to see ZLD (Zero Liquid Discharge) facility in the factory. Furthermore, the mill has a dedicated researching unit for developing eco-friendly denims to save energy and wastage. Recently, we have introduced some innovations in our sustainable denim range. Such as – Aqua Denim (made with zero water dyeing technology), CleanKore/Quick Wash Denim (highly sensitive to laser and industrial wash), Recycled Denim (made with recycled cotton) and Iceberg Denim (made with cold dyeing technology).

    What are near term plans for growth and expansion

    Pioneer Denim Limited is a second-generation denim mill and already it is ahead of its time in terms of capability and production capacity. However, there is a long-term plan for our expansion and development. We are going to see more sustainable technologies in near future and the annual capacity will increased to 80m yards by 2025. Moreover, our spinning division is also in progress of doubling its existing capacity by 2023 and we are planning for readymade garments and denim washing units to offer customer a one stop service. “From fiber to ready garments”.

    For more information on Pioneer Denim collection or for appointments at Denimsandjeans  , please contact Md Hasibul Huda on this email dgm.mktb@pioneerdenim.com

  • Greenable Denimsandjeans – 2 Days Of Business, Networking and Fun !

    Greenable Denimsandjeans – 2 Days Of Business, Networking and Fun !

    Denimsandjeans is happy to announce the launch of the fourth edition of Denimsandjeans Indian show in Bangalore,  at Lalit Ashok hotel on June 8-9 ,  after a gap of 3 years !  The shows enter the schedule of the year when the pandemic is considered in control. Most of the population is already vaccinated with double doses. The pandemic being active for three years has been impacting numerous domains of lifestyle. Lifestyle of people changed during these years and a mix of offline and online work is now the norm . Everything that affects lifestyle changes the business. The denim industry too has felt the effect of such changes in terms of an enhanced focus on eco friendliness and comfort. This has been boosting up the green inputs into brands globally as well as locally and also enabled the supply chain to create clothing which addresses the new comfort needs of the consumers. And hence the theme of the show – GREENABLE – focuses on these two aspects.   

    The exhibition will be emitting a nostalgic vibe to us as well as the visitors because after quite a time we are meeting physically. We have invited companies which carry global esteem on their shoulders as our exhibitors. Mills, garment producers, wash houses, chemical and fibre companies, and technology companies all will be attending this opportunity to raise the bar for the Denim industry.

    The opening ceremony will take place on June 8  at 10:00 at Lalit Ashok Hotel. Opening and keynote address will be done by Dr Naresh Tyagi – Chief Sustainability Officer of Aditya Birla Group. The Aditya Birla Group has sustainability in their DNA and they have been silently crossing milestones which the fashion industry can be proud of . In 2021 ABFRL was able to ensure 34% of its energy through renewable sources, 1 million sq feet of their retail space is certified under green building rating systems and another 2 million sq feet is under certification, 88% of their packing is now sustainable and many other sustainable goals which most corporates would find it really difficult to achieve.

    “Sustainable Denim Spray Dyeing And Finishing Technology ” by Jayanta Sanyal from Rotaspary would focus on new technologies of spray dyeing while at 1.00pm Manuj Kanchan, Division Director-CEA Jeanologia will throw light on changing “Fast fashion to Accurate Fashion”

    Cotton and other fibers have been creating havoc in the industry with their price volatility. Hence a distinguished panel will speak on its impact on the supply chain .



    “Raw material volatility-effect on the supply chain” will be moderated by Stefano Aldighieri (ex Design Director Levis and ex creative Director 7 For all Mankind )  and includes senior executives from the supply chain including Subir Mukherjee – CEO Bhaskar , Fabrizio Maggi – Apparel Commerical Director EMEA Lycra , Bharat Desai – President Raw Material procurement Alok Industries, Sartaj Singh Mehta – Product Director Pepe Jeans and Avinash Mane – Commercial Director South Asia , Lenzing . The panel will try to go deeper into the raw material issues . And for our visitors and exhibitors, there will be an evening to  chill out and have fun amidst music  and network with each other.

    Denimsandjeans Banner

    On June 9 at 12 pm , the  founder of Stylumia (and ex COO Myntra) – Ganesh Subramaniam – will speak on the issues of wastages in fashion industry and how to resolve them. Stylumia  was founded with a mission of reducing wastage in the fashion and lifestyle industry. Stylumia leverages machine learning to improve product assortments, optimise inventory management, and offers the most accurate consumer-driven fashion forecast in the industry. Stylumia has been recognised as one of the six circular change-makers by United Nations, H&M Innovations and Intellicap for making a significant contribution to sustainability. It has thus far eliminated wastage of over 60 million garments by reducing guesswork.


    At 1 pm, an interesting talk will be made by Stefano Alidighieri and Sandeep Ramudamu – ex Design head Arvind and Story teller ! . “ Storytelling: Never Mind The Medium , Only Content Matters” – speaks about story telling in the right way to bring out the message

    Dr Dilek Erik – a renowned denim expert and global marketing manager at Sharabati Denim will speak about how the brands are changing themselves as the consumers become more conscious with her presentation “How Denim Brands are Adapting To Conscious Customers”

    Also look forward to some global denim trends in our TREND AREA under various categories of denim focus areas as has always been our forte. After these 2 difficult years , we look forward to have 2 full days of business , fun and creativity with our colleagues in the industry.

    Do not miss to get your invite for the show from this link https://india.denimsandjeans.com/invite  .

    BUYER TIMINGS : 9.30 am to 6.00 pm , 8-9 June

    SUPPLIER TIMINGS : 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm 9th June ( only limited suppliers will be allowed)

    For more information , please email us at mktg3@denimsandjeans.com

  • Bangladesh Denim Imports – Jan and Feb 2022

    Bangladesh Denim Imports – Jan and Feb 2022

    Bangladesh is booming in terms of of the export of fabric. In this report, we have done a detailed analysis of the imports of denim fabrics into Bangladesh during the month of January and Februray in 2022. The detailed report shows the imports by Bangladesh over this period.

    PARTICULARS
    Table showing top 10 buyers from Bangladesh during Jan-Feb 2022
    Graphs showing total fabrics imported by Top 10 buyers from Bangladesh during Jan-Feb 2022
    Table showing the top 10 suppliers to Bangladesh from around the world
    Graphs showing the top 10 suppliers to Bangladesh from around the world
    Table showing the top three suppliers of top ten buyers

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    1. TOP 10 BUYERS FROM BANGLADESH

    We can see that HAMEEM Group has imported the biggest quantities of denim fabric in Bangladesh. The average price at USD 3.3/m is a very good one and the company has 3 suppliers who are shipping to them . Besides , ANANTA GROUP BANGLADESH and ABA GROUP are important importers .However, the highest average price has been paid by KENPARK BANGLADESH / HIRDARAMANI . If we look at these top companies, we will find that about 30 million mtrs has been imported by them alone besides many other companies in Bangladesh. We give a breakup of these 30 million mtrs imported in Jan and Feb 2022 and the % share of these companies among the 30 million mtrs.

    BuyerQuantityQTY ( in mtr )Average Price (US$/mtr) % Share
    HAMEEM GROUP/ REFAT GARMENTS LTD 48,47,1473.315.89
    ANANTA GROUP BANGLADESH46,38,3963.3515.21
    ABA GROUP / VINTAGE DENIM APPARELS LIMITED 40,15,4673.0913.17
    KENPARK BANGLADESH / HIRDARAMANI29,84,4613.569.78
    DESIGNER FASHION LTD.25,77,2022.658.45
    AR JEANS PRODUCER LTD24,92,6762.458.17
    ENVOY TEXTILES LIMITED23,24,5383.117.62
    DENIMACH LTD / ARMANA22,75,1902.997.46
    PACIFIC JEANS LIMITED22,28,1223.47.31
    TUSUKA GROUP BANGLADESH21,17,6573.246.94
    Total3,05,00,8563.14100.00

    2. TOP FABRIC SUPPLIERS TO BANGLADESH

    The total denim fabric supplied is about 134 million mtrs to Bangladesh in Jan and Feb 2022. Below is the list of Top 10 suppliers who supplied around 30 million mtrs and given along is the % share amongst them. We can see that ARVIND supplied the biggest quantities of denim fabric in Bangladesh. The average price at USD 3.19/m . Besides , MG MACAO and ARTISTIC MILLINERS are important suppliers .

    SUPPLIERQUANTITY ( in mtrs )AVERAGE PRICE (USD/m)% SHARE
    ARVIND LIMITED- India68,46,7163.1921.5
    MG MACAO COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE – China59,25,4492.7818.6
    ARTISTIC MILLINERS – Pakistan35,30,0973.6411.1
    FOSHAN BLUE DENIM TEXTILE IMPORT AND EXPORT – China29,96,2222.799.4
    SOORTY ENTERPRISES – Pakistan24,75,0503.277.8
    SHAOXING FEIFANLAN TEXTILE – China24,71,3292.297.8
    LUCKY TEXTILE GROUP – China20,58,8013.456.5
    XDD / CONG TY TNHH XINDADONG TEXTILES ( VIET NAM) – China19,65,6232.656.2
    CHANGZHOU DEYI PRINTING AND DYEING CO LTD – China18,04,6713.145.7
    JIANGSU ZHONGCHUANG TEXTILE IMPORT AND EXPORT – China17,72,8752.715.6
    TOTAL31,846,8333.02100

    3. Top Suppliers To Main Bangladesh Buyers

    REFAT GARMENTS LTD / HAMEEM

    The top suppliers to Refat Garments are:

    SupplierCountryQuantity (mtrs)Value (USD) Average Price (USD/mtr)
    ARVIND LIMITEDIndia2,054,529 6,283,252 3.06
    ARTISTIC FABRIC AND GARMENT INDUSTRIESPakistan436,640 1,522,363 3.49
    BLUE DIAMOND / XINGTAI H AND J TEXTILESChina371,209 1,209,150 3.26

    ANANTA GROUP BANGLADESH

    The top suppliers to Ananta Group are:

    SupplierCountryQuantity (mtrs)Value (USD)Average Price (USD/mtr)
    JIANGSU GUOTAI GUOSHENG COMPANY China623,670 2,114,651 3.39
    ARTISTIC MILLINERS ( PVT ) LTDPakistan565,482 1,970,663 3.48
    ARVIND LIMITEDIndia445,288 1,434,558 3.22

    VINTAGE DENIM APPARELS LIMITED / ABA GROUP

    The top suppliers to Vintage Denim are:

    SupplierCountryQuantityValueAverage Price
    D AND J COPORATION HK LTD.China697,731 Mtr1,824,656 USD2.62
    CHTC DAYAO TEXTILE CO.,LTD.China465,565 Mtr1,047,272 USD2.25
    YULIN YIXING SPINIING & WEAVINGChina323,695 Mtr1,063,157 USD3.28

    DESIGNER FASHION LTD.

    The top suppliers to Designer Fashion are:

    SupplierCountryQuantityValueAverage Price
    YULIN YIXING SPINIING & WEAVING- LUCKYChina718,892 Mtr1,891,178 USD2.63
    FOSHAN BLUE DENIM TEXTILE IMPORT AND EXPORT CO. LTD.China697,811 Mtr1,691,768 USD2.42
    LINYI RUYI TRADE CO.,LTDChina363,303 Mtr1,234,355 USD3.4

    AR JEANS PRODUCER LTD

    The top suppliers to AR Jeans are:

    SupplierCountryQuantityValueAverage Price
    SHAOXING FEIFANLAN TEXTILE CO. LTDChina2,196,242 Mtr5,025,517 USD2.29
    SOORTY ENTERPRISES (PRIVATE) LIMITEDPAKISTAN131,374 Mtr444,497 USD3.38
    CHANGZHOU HUITAO CO LTD CHINAChina119,605 Mtr492,634 USD4.12

    ENVOY TEXTILES LIMITED

    The top suppliers to Envoy Textiles are:

    SupplierCountryQuantityValueAverage Price
    T & C GARMENTS S.A.E.Bangladesh543,707 Mtr1,683,954 USD3.1
    REGENCY GARMENTS LTDBangladesh313,160 Mtr841,139 USD2.69
    VELOCITY APPARELZ COMPANY(ESC)Bangladesh280,838 Mtr842,179 USD3

    DENIMACH LTD / ARMANA

    The top suppliers to Denimach are:

    SupplierCountryQuantityValueAverage Price
    ALIBABA ONETOUCH BUSINESS SERVICEChina457,200 Mtr1,118,316 USD2.45
    KASSIM TEXTILES (PRIVATE) LIMITEDPakistan338,939 Mtr1,013,936 USD2.99
    ARVIND LIMITEDIndia275,752 Mtr907,001 USD3.29

    [/private_special]

  • Levi Strauss Q1 2022 Results Surpasses Estimates

    Levi Strauss Q1 2022 Results Surpasses Estimates

    Levi Strauss & Co. revealed financial first-quarter income and sales that surpassed experts’ expectations as it marketed almost all of its jeans and T-shirts at greater price points, straight to its customers. Levi likewise reiterated its fiscal 2022 outlook, assuming no substantial worsening of inflationary pressures or global economic disruptions. It factored in any impact from its recent decision to temporarily cease operations in Russia, which accounts for around 2% of overall revenues.

    Although since everything from fuel prices to grocery expenditures have soared, Levi CEO Chip Bergh told that the retailer has still to see shoppers shop down for inexpensive clothing. Moreover, despite the fact that the company has raised prices on some products to balance other business costs, customer demand stayed high, he noted.

    Being precise, Bergh said Levi is keeping a tight eye on market demands, knowing that economists’ predictions of a coming recession have been escalating. “We don’t have our head in the sand. If we see demand starting to get wobbly, we will take the appropriate action,” the CEO said.

    Levi shares surged about 1.5 percent in extended trade after falling 1.5 percent earlier in the day. Levi reported net income of $196 million, or 48 cents per share, up from $143 million, or 35 cents per share, the previous year. Excluding one-time factors, it earned 46 cents per share, which was more than the 42 cents expected by analysts. Revenue increased 22% year on year to $1.59 billion from $1.31 billion. This surpassed forecasts of $1.55 billion.

    Levi stated it lost $60 million in sales owing to supply chain problems during the most recent quarter. Its worldwide direct-to-consumer sales increased by 35% year on year, while wholesale revenue increased by 15%. While Levi already sells its jeans through big-box retailers like Target and department shops like Macy’s, the brand has increasingly driven customers to its own brick-and-mortar stores and online. Not only can these transactions be more profitable, but it also allows Levi to create closer relationships with customers and get more information about their browsing habits. According to the business, direct-to-consumer sales accounted for 39 percent of overall sales in the third quarter, up from 38 percent in the previous period and 36 percent a year before.

    On a year-over-year scale, sales in the Americas increased by 26 percent, in Europe by 13 percent, and in Asia by 11 percent. Levi confirmed its fiscal 2022 projection, which aims for revenue to increase by 11 to 13 percent year over year. Reports estimate an 11.8 percent gain. The retailer’s yearly per-share profits are still expected to range between $1.50 and $1.56, compared to analysts’ expectations of $1.54. Chief Financial Officer Harmit Singh was optimistic on growth in the coming times .

    The denim category is growing in a low-double-digit rate relative to where it was before pandemic, We’ve seen demand in March maintain the momentum, and that gives us confidence about the rest of the year

    he concluded.