In the ever-evolving world of fashion and apparel, sustainability has emerged as a pivotal force shaping the industry’s present and future. As global consciousness about environmental impact grows, brands are adapting to new paradigms, integrating innovative solutions that reverberate across the apparel supply chain.
A kaleidoscope of such initiatives was unveiled by a diverse array of companies, all converging at the Apparel Sourcing Week (ASW) 2023 to showcase their advancements and foster change. From the heart of India to the shores of Bangladesh, companies like Aero Enterprises, Afflatus and Amarjothi Spinning Mills have pledged their commitment to sustainable practices.
Aero Enterprises, known for its Aero Buttons, is crafting these essential accessories from recycled plastics, wood and coconut, embodying the shift towards eco-friendly materials. Afflatus, a Gurugram-based manufacturer, is delving into sustainable woven jersey and mixed textiles, revolutionising the womenswear, kidswear and menswear market in Europe and the US.
In the realm of denim, AR Jeans Producer Ltd., from Bangladesh is spearheading the change towards sustainable products for major brands like Inditex, highlighting the transformative power of conscious production. Eastman Brands, a subsidiary of Eastman Exports, has introduced a revolutionary sourcing-as-a-service model, leveraging technology, design and end-to-end solutions to empower numerous fashion brands.
As the industry shifts towards regenerative materials, Vasudha Primo, a luxurious, sustainable cotton fibre spearheads the movement by Pratibha Syntex.
Amarjothi Spinning Mills takes pride in producing specialised yarns, embracing colour consistency, organic cotton blends and recycled polyester while keeping its dyeing facility eco-certified with zero discharge. Avery Dennison has introduced RFID enablement, ushering in a new era of real-time inventory management for global brands.
Meanwhile, Azim Group stands as a multi-product organisation, deploying advanced wash unit innovations to reduce water consumption, lower carbon footprint and enhance drying efficiency, setting new benchmarks for sustainable practices.
The realm of sustainability expands beyond clothing to packaging solutions offered by Eco365, catering to major Indian brands like Van Heusen and Louis Philippe. Their compostable packaging, devoid of microns and approved by the Government, reflects a trend towards eco-friendly alternatives in the packaging industry.
As we immerse ourselves in the future of apparel, these pioneering companies serve as beacons of transformation, highlighting how sustainable practices and innovative technologies can redefine and refine the industry. Whether through fabric choices, manufacturing methods or supply chain technologies, this report sheds light on how these trailblazing companies are demonstrating the industry’s collective commitment to creating a more sustainable, ethical and innovative fashion landscape.
Read on to discover!
SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS
Azim Group stands out as a multi-product organisation that covers a diverse range of garments. From jerseys and shirts to padded jackets and even sweaters, its unique proposition is the ability to cater to the entire supply chain of various brands. Notably, its innovation is deeply rooted in sustainability. By employing cutting-edge technologies such as Jeanologia laser and ozone treatments in the washing process, it has managed to substantially reduce its water consumption and power usage. Moreover, the company’s innovative conveyor drying systems maximise the internal heat of the wash unit, further minimising the need for energy-intensive dryers. Additionally, Azim Group’s commitment to environmental responsibility and efficiency has propelled it to the forefront of the industry.
Eco365 is a visionary manufacturer of compostable packaging solutions, with a strong commitment to sustainability. Its products, crafted from plant-based materials, stand out for their eco-friendliness and adherence to strict governmental standards, as evidenced by CPCP approval. Catering to esteemed Indian brands like Louis Philippe, Van Heusen and Peter England, Eco365 has carved a niche for itself in providing sustainable packaging options. Its latest products, showcased at ASW 2023, underscore its innovative approach to addressing the industry’s environmental challenges.
Austria-based Lenzing Fibres is a prominent manufacturer specialising in wood-based fibres like Viscose, Modal and Tencel. It has launched innovative new products centring around sustainable fibres, including carbon-zero Tencel and Modal Indigo technology. With a focus on reducing the environmental impact of its products, Lenzing Fibres sets an industry standard for sustainable fabrics.
| Eco365, a sustainability-driven manufacturer, excels in compostable packaging. Its plant-based products, meeting stringent standards including CPCP approval, are favoured by top Indian brands like Louis Philippe, Van Heusen and Peter England. |
In the Jeans and Denim category, Bangladesh-based AR Jeans Producer Ltd., is a key player. Its product spectrum spans both topwear and bottomwear, with a significant emphasis on denim. What sets it apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. With Inditex as the primary customer, AR Jeans has aligned its focus on producing sustainable products that resonate with the ethos of its partners. This clear dedication to environmental responsibility underscores its innovative approach to denim production.
Headquartered in Tirupur, Dhanvi Intimates specialises in crafting top quality women’s innerwear. Its primary product, the cotton light bra, showcases the company’s dedication to comfort and breathability. With a remarkable track record spanning over three years, it has developed a reputation for producing padded bras and other innerwear items that emphasise both style and fit. Its strategic use of breathable fabrics ensures that customers feel comfortable throughout the day, making Dhanvi Intimates a reliable choice in the innerwear market.
ACCESSORIES
Buttons and Trims: Operating under the brand name Aero Buttons, Aero Enterprises stands as a pioneering manufacturer of buttons. Its innovative approach lies in utilising recycled materials such as plastics, wood and even coconut to create a wide variety of buttons. This commitment to sustainable practices, coupled with a global presence, has positioned Aero Enterprises as a noteworthy player in the button manufacturing industry.
| Aero Enterprises, known as Aero Buttons, leads in button manufacturing. It innovates by using recycled materials like plastic, wood and coconut to craft diverse button offerings, setting a unique industry trend. |
With a legacy spanning three decades, Ketan Buttons specialises in producing buttons made from a diverse range of materials, including polyester, Corozo, natural woods and natural horns. Its recent innovation has been to introduce Corozo buttons to its product line, offering customers an entirely natural and sustainable option. This new addition has garnered significant attention, making Ketan Buttons a sought-after choice for eco-conscious brands.
Embroidery, Trims and Threads: Fashion Accessories India excels in producing a range of accessories, including trims, patches and heat transfers. Its innovative spirit shines through its focus on creating bold and vibrant sustainable trims. By challenging the misconception that sustainable trims must compromise on aesthetics, it has managed to infuse its products with fresh and exciting designs. This dedication to marrying sustainability and style has positioned Fashion Accessories India as an industry leader in providing visually appealing and eco-friendly trims.
Madeira India takes the spotlight as a leading producer of sustainable embroidery threads. Its standout offerings for the season include Polygeon green and Sansa green, which reflect its commitment to delivering environmental-friendly solutions. The incorporation of such threads not only contributes to the aesthetics of embroidered products but also aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable practices in the industry.
INNOVATIVE FABRICS AND YARNS
Amarjothi Spinning Mills boasts a rich legacy in producing specialised and fancy yarns for over three decades. Its innovation this season extends into the realm of sustainability, with a deep emphasis on organic cotton and organic cotton blends, along with recycled polyester. The standout feature of its products lies in the meticulous colour consistency that it maintains across various compositions. Its certified dyeing facility, operating with a zero-discharge policy, contributes to its commitment to sustainability and minimal carbon footprint.
Fairfax Exports Pvt. Ltd., excels in producing an extensive array of outdoor jackets and products. Its focus on cotton exports has been enhanced by incorporating advanced technologies such as Raquel for down jackets. The presence of in-house down filling machines, embroidery, printing and other ancillary departments further underlines its capability to deliver comprehensive jacket solutions.
With an eye on sustainability and quality, Fairfax Exports stands out as a reliable partner for the manufacturing of diverse outdoor garments.
Pratibha Syntex emerges as a trailblazer in the production of innovative fabrics. Its specialisation in regenerative cotton yields a premium, sustainable fibre option. This season, Vasudha Primo, a standout fabric in their collection, epitomises luxury and sustainability, encapsulating Pratibha Syntex’s commitment to quality, innovation and environmental responsibility.
| Pratibha Syntex excels in pioneering fabrics, focusing on regenerative cotton for premium sustainable fibres. Vasudha Primo, a highlight in their latest collection, offers luxury and sustainability, reflecting their dedication to quality, innovation and eco-consciousness. |
FIBRES AND FILAMENTS
Manohar Filaments operates as a vertically integrated organisation, emphasising on sustainability in its production processes. Specialising in yarn and paper, it incorporates eco-friendly practices and community-focused initiatives. This season, its fusion of fashion and sustainability, along with a commitment to environmental stewardship, sets it apart as a company dedicated to making a positive impact.
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND ARTISANAL PRODUCTS
Parshvanath Group of Companies places its focus on craftsmanship and specialises in unique and sustainable fabrics. This season, it has introduced a new range of fabric created from waste clothing, emphasising on circular fashion. This innovative approach to utilising discarded garments for weaving and printing aligns with its commitment to sustainability and responsible production.
SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS
- Jenix Cloud is dedicated to improving apparel industry processes through innovative software solutions. Its ARP software, TPCS, empowers the entire production process, from sampling to dispatch, streamlining operations and preventing inefficiencies. This comprehensive system aims to digitalise operations, prevent material wastage and optimise efficiency.
- Another tool, Zoommet, aids brands, dealers and distributors in showcasing collections digitally, accelerating the order placement process and enabling distributors to digitally showcase collections, streamline order placement and enhance collaboration with customers.
| Jenix Cloud enhances apparel industry processes with innovative software. TPCS, its ARP software, digitises the production process, curbing inefficiencies and waste. Zoommet aids brands, dealers and distributors by digitising collections, expediting orders and improving customer collaboration. |
- Tradelink Technologies is a Hong Kong-based supply chain technology company that specialises in shipment visibility, accuracy and addressability solutions. It offers technologies like RFID and sterilisation support, along with sustainability and traceability solutions.
- With a global presence, including offices in India, it has partnered with over 400 international brands and executed around 12,000 installations worldwide. The company’s commitment to advanced supply chain technologies places it as a leading innovator in the industry.
| HOW BRANDS CAN LEVERAGE THESE INNOVATIONS
These innovations span across materials, production processes and technology, offering a holistic toolkit for transformative change. Here are a few examples of how brands and designers can leverage these innovations: Material Choices for Sustainable Collections: The textile industry is witnessing a shift towards sustainable materials. For instance, companies like Amarjothi Spinning Mills offer organic cotton blends and recycled polyester, which designers can incorporate into their collections to create clothing with a reduced environmental footprint. Brands can embrace these materials for everything from basics to high-fashion garments, aligning with consumer demand for eco-friendly choices. Enhancing Retail and Inventory Management: Avery Dennison’s RFID technology provides brands with real-time inventory tracking. This innovation can revolutionise supply chain logistics, ensuring efficient stock management, reduced overproduction and minimised waste. Designers can work hand-in-hand with brands to optimise their inventory and streamline distribution, leading to cost savings and improved sustainability. Elevating Packaging with Compostable Solutions: Brands can embrace Eco365’s compostable packaging materials, catering to environmentally-conscious consumers. Designers can collaborate with packaging experts to develop eye-catching, sustainable packaging designs that align with brand values and communicate the commitment to eco-friendliness. Sustainable Trims and Embellishments: Sharman Udyog’s range of sustainable trims, tags and labels open doors for designers to add eco-friendly finishing touches to their creations. Designers can select from an array of materials and finishes to match the aesthetic of their collection while ensuring that even the smallest details are aligned with sustainability goals. Incorporating Tech-Driven Design: Intertek Software Business introduces software solutions for apparel brands that can streamline design-to-delivery processes. Designers can utilise these platforms to collaborate seamlessly with their teams, visualise designs digitally and ensure efficient communication throughout the design lifecycle. Crafting Luxurious Sustainable Fibres: The introduction of Vasudha Primo by Pratibha Syntex offers designers the opportunity to create high-end garments with a conscious approach. Designers can craft exquisite pieces using this luxurious fibre, thus combining luxury and sustainability in a novel way. Ethical Craftsmanship: Jamdani work from rural parts of West Bengal can be embraced by designers seeking to incorporate authentic handcrafted textiles into their collections. Collaborating with such craftsmen allows designers to infuse their creations with cultural heritage while supporting sustainable practices. |
