Apparels

H&M Group has reported net sales of SEK 55,333 million (~$5.26 billion) in Q1 FY25, a 3 per cent YoY increase, with local currency sales up 2 per cent despite fewer stores.
Gross profit stood at SEK 27,169 million (~$2.58 billion), impacted by a weaker margin.
The group continues investing in digital and physical upgrades.
March 2025 sales are expected to rise 1 per cent YoY.

Carter’s, Inc. has named Douglas C. Palladini as CEO and President, effective 3 April 2025.
With over 30 years of leadership experience, including as Global Brand President of Vans, he is set to drive growth in Carter’s direct-to-consumer and wholesale businesses, enhance global reach, boost innovation, and deepen connections with families through brand loyalty and inspiring products.

India is seeking to prevent a proposed US tariff hike on its apparel exports, potentially raising duties to 30 per cent from April 2.
The AEPC is urging a ‘zero for zero’ policy to eliminate tariffs mutually.
High-level discussions are ongoing, with the US pushing India to lower tariffs on American goods, while India highlights its combined duties that can reach up to 42 per cent.

FILA Group reported a 21.4 per cent YoY revenue decline to reach €612.58 million (~$659.15 million) in 2024, impacted by SAP EWM rollout and macroeconomic factors.
Net profit dropped 52.1 per cent to €81.8 million (~$88.04 million), though adjusted profit rose due to lower financial expenses.
Europe and Latin America showed modest growth.
For 2025, FILA projects moderate revenue and EBITDA growth.

Firefly, a lab-grown diamond startup, operates stores in Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, and aims to scale up to more than 20 locations over the next two years. With the fresh capital, it plans to expand its retail footprint and increase its digital presence.

Firefly, a lab-grown diamond startup, operates stores in Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, and aims to scale up to more than 20 locations over the next two years. With the fresh capital, it plans to expand its retail footprint and increase its digital presence.

Rising tariffs on China are reshaping the US hosiery, full-length stockings, and socks market.
While China remains the dominant supplier, its cost advantage is waning.
This shift is opening doors for cost-efficient players like Pakistan and India.
El Salvador benefits from zero tariffs and niche specialisation, while Vietnam targets premium segments.
The market is poised for realignment.

France’s apparel imports declined slightly by 0.72 per cent to $24.586 billion in 2024.
China remained the top supplier with a 23.08 per cent share, followed by Bangladesh, Italy, Turkiye, and Vietnam.
Imports from China and Vietnam rose, while Turkiye saw a decline.
Italy showed consistent growth.
Other notable suppliers included India, Cambodia, Tunisia, Morocco, and Pakistan.

The Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association’s strategic plan for 2025-2034 envisages setting goals to penetrate global markets with high-quality, value-added products.
It aims at cultivating ethical and responsible operations, employing 1.2-1.6 million workers in the next decade, and growing to a $15-billion industry.
The country’s garment industry is estimated to be worth $5 billion this year.

Uniqlo, in partnership with Plan International, has launched its first skill centre in India to empower underprivileged youth with job-oriented training.
Located in Dwarka, it will offer technical and life skills to 2,700 youths by 2027.
Funded by Fast Retailing’s donation and the PEACE FOR ALL project, the initiative reflects Uniqlo’s long-term commitment to India’s development.