Apparels

Though 2024 saw the continued rollout of legislation mandating human rights and environmental due diligence in supply chains, QIMA data suggests that a certain percentage of facilities still tends to resist improvement.
Critical violations related to work hours and wages were recorded in one-third of Bangladesh factories inspected last year—a rate notably higher compared to 2023 figures.

AEPC has urged the government to reform labour laws, improve workforce skilling schemes, and make fabric import policies more flexible to boost apparel exports. The goal is to achieve USD 40 billion in exports by 2030, with emphasis on capacity building and addressing skilled labour shortages. The council highlights India’s design strength and favourable FTAs.

Toyoda Gosei and ASICS have partnered to create SKYHAND OG sneakers using leather remnants from steering wheel production.
Available 1 February 2025, this sustainable initiative follows their 2023 airbag-fabric sneakers.
By repurposing materials and manufacturing in Vietnam, they aim to reduce waste and CO2 emissions, supporting a shared vision for a sustainable society.

Union Budget 2025: Jewellers and bullion dealers urge Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to facilitate gold purchases via EMI for the middle class, allocate funds for artisan upskilling, and appoint a single regulator for the gold market. They also seek reduced import duties and tax rates to boost the sector’s growth and support job creation and exports.

Decathlon has partnered with football star Antoine Griezmann, making him the official supplier of his boots through its Kipsta label.
The collaboration aims to enhance performance through co-designed products, combining Griezmann’s expertise with Decathlon’s commitment to innovation.
This partnership strengthens Decathlon’s presence in elite football.

India’s fashion industry is set for recovery in FY26, with a notable upturn in fast fashion, ethnic wear, and luxury segments. Rising disposable incomes, more weddings, and favorable monsoons are expected to drive demand, particularly in smaller cities. E-commerce growth, Gen-Z’s influence on fashion, and strategic retailer expansions are key factors in this anticipated revival.

Currently, Joker & Witch offers watches, sunglasses, jewellery, and other accessories, and going ahead it plans to expand further in the accessories segment which is size-agnostic like bags. Teejh, which offers traditional jewellery, potlis, and clutches, is looking to strengthen its latest offering – sarees.

Handloom clothing brand Dressfolk has secured funding led by Eternal Capital, with notable participation from D2C founders and various ventures. The company aims to diversify its offerings beyond sarees and expand globally, leveraging its unique focus on authentic handlooms and craftsmanship to resonate with customers seeking contemporary Indian wear.

The prolonged slowdown in demand for clothing, lifestyle products, and electronics is persisting, despite aggressive discounting strategies. This trend has led to flat business growth during Republic Day sales, with companies predicting a potential demand recovery only by the second half of 2025.

US buyout fund Advent closes in to pick up around 51-75% in Rosy Blue company; may announce deal soon. People familiar with the situation told ET that Orra has been seeking partners to infuse capital and grow the business in India and overseas, amid a larger disruption by new-age brands and lab-grown diamonds.