Since the beginning of May, Loepfe Brothers Ltd. has been led by a new management team. Former CEO Ralph Mennicke’s departure prompts restructuring, including the addition of Gregor Stalder as CFO. The Board of Directors has appointed Markus Kleindorp as the new CEO of Loepfe. Kleindorp brings a wealth of experience from his tenure within the Vandewiele Group and as the former CEO of MEMMINGER-IRO GmbH, offering deep insights into the textile industry. Besides, Gregor Stalder, a proven expert in finance with long-term experience in the position of CFO, is introduced as the new CFO of Loepfe.
Ministry of Trade takes action against dumped products in fabric imports
To protect Turkish fabric manufacturers from unfair competition, it was determined by the Ministry that the anti-dumping measure, which was first launched in 2001 in artificial and synthetic woven fabrics to prevent dumped imports, was ineffective through some countries. In the statement made on the social media account of the Ministry of Commerce, it was conveyed that these countries were also included in the scope of the measure.
Noting that artificial and synthetic woven fabrics are used especially in apparel sector and are among the most important production and export items of the Turkish textile sector, the statement remarked as follows: “The Ministry will continue to effectively implement import policies in line with the objectives of supporting domestic production and employment and to protect our domestic producers against unfair competition in imports. In this respect, companies that try to bring dumped products illegally into our country under different origins will not be allowed.”
Santoni Shanghai, acquiring Terrot, increased its claim in the market
Santoni Shanghai’s acquisition of Terrot changed the agenda in the textile and knitting market in particular. Santoni Shanghai Knitting Machinery Co., Ltd., founded and wholly owned by Italy’s Lonati family, announced the strategic acquisition of Terrot GmbH, a leading manufacturer of circular knitting machines based in Chemnitz, Germany on September, 13. The move comes as the latest development in Santoni Shanghai’s long-term vision to build an ecosystem that aims to reshape and consolidate the circular knitting industry. The new partnership with Terrot aims to further the company’s strategy centred around innovation, sustainability and digitalization, by enhancing Santoni’s integrated and scaled-up ecosystem, while also driving the sustainable development of the global knitting machinery industry. The transaction will be finalized pending approval from Chinese regulatory authorities.
CEO of Santoni Shanghai Gianpietro Belotti said that the integration of Terrot, which also includes the well-known Pilotelli brand, will bring an immediate and extraordinary boost to their product portfolio, noting: “Terrot’s incredible technical capabilities, extensive product range and vast experience in serving customers all over the world will enable us to better achieve our shared aspirations.”
Terrot GmbH Managing Director Robert Czajkowski commented: “With the strategic investment of Santoni, we aim to strengthen our position as the preferred solution provider to many of the world’s leading textile manufacturers and top brands as well as continue working with industry talents as we provide valuable and essential know-how to drive premium ‘Made in Germany’ textile machinery.”
The press release did not include any information about the purchase price.
Zorlu Tekstil gains admiration with its innovative products at Hometex
Zorlu Tekstil, Europe’s largest integrated manufacturer of home textile products and polyester yarn, was one of the hotspots of visitors with its eye-catching and innovative home textiles and licensed products at the Hometex 2023, held at the Istanbul Expo Centre (IFM) on May 16-20.
Zorlu Tekstil introduced its wide range of products ranging from curtains to bed linen, bedspreads, towels and licensed products to its customers at Hometex and presented natural dreams, bamboo dreams and lovely dreams collections covering bed textiles and bathroom textiles. The company also introduced sleeping set collections in different new qualities at the exhibition. One of the most popular products at the exhibition was the Nouvelle curtain collection in the Premium segment, which was presented for the first time. Positioned as a combinable upper segment curtain collection, many innovations were added to this series, from packaging to catalogue. Taç Collection attracted attention with its new patterns.
Taç Kids and Teens products of the company were also highly admired at the exhibition. Expanding its series in this segment, the company has the products of more than 100 licensed characters including cartoon heroes and sports clubs. In addition, the company, which holds the production, sales and marketing rights of the Disney Home brand in Europe, Russia and Türkiye, exhibited its D100 special products specially designed for Disney’s 100th anniversary at the exhibition. The products were especially admired by young people.
Zorlu Tekstil, continuing to grow with the products and solutions it offers with the goal of a sustainable world, also inspires the sector with the projects it realises.
Turk Grass Ma Carpet introduces its game-changing products at Hometex
Gaziantep-based Turk Grass Ma Carpet, which has one hundred percent domestic capital, exhibited its high quality artificial grass carpets at Hometex 2023. The brand, whose products are used in many world-famous places, revealed its focus on the global market during the exhibition. Turk Grass Ma Carpet founder Mehmet Arslan said that they aim to reach a turnover of 8 million dollars by the end of 2023 and that their aim is not to be a best-selling company, but to be known for quality.
Arslan, stating that they export to 50 countries, reminded that they reached a turnover of 6.5 million dollars in 2022. Emphasising that they produce anti-static and sunlight-resistant grass carpets with great care as well as decorative grass carpets developed in their own factories, Arslan noted that their product portfolio has expanded in parallel with new technological developments.
Arslan disclosed that they waved the Turkish flag with their exports, saying: “We were established in Gaziantep 2 years ago with the idea of creating an international brand. We carry out production, marketing, trade and export of synthetic turf, wall-to-wall carpets, piece carpets and sports grounds. We produce special turf for the carpet fields of world-famous football teams. We sell artificial turf to the world. Now we have pressed the button to serve the domestic market. We are determined to put the Made in Türkiye stamp all over the world.”
Hefa Group stands out at Hometex with its special leather collections
Hefa Group, which has 41 years of history in the sector with its textile and artificial leather products, hosted professionals from different geographies of the world at its stand at Hometex 2023. Intensive negotiations for new agreements took place at the Hefa Group booth, which attracted the attention of the exhibition visitors with its latest collections as well as specially designed products.
Fatih Şahinler, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hefa Group, which opened to the world with the slogan ‘Fast and First Quality’, said that the exhibition started very strongly for them. Stating that Türkiye is in a very good position in textile compared to many countries, Şahinler noted that home textile is a sector that feeds exports. He said: “As Hefa Group, we export to all over the world. Our exports are on an upward momentum every year. We believe that Hometex has a supporting power. We encountered an intense interest, we are proud to take part in organisations that contribute to the development of our sector, we will continue our work in this parallel.”
Mayer & Cie. is selected as one of Germany’s best SME employers
The textile machinery manufacturer Mayer & Cie. has been named by the Centre for Employer Attractiveness (zeag GmbH) as one of the most attractive SME employers in Germany. The Albstadt-based company was granted The Top Job award as the result of the findings of an external survey of employees and management. Marcus Mayer, one of Mayer & Cie.’s two managing partners, received the award, which is presented by former German Vice-Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel, on 24 February, in Berlin.
Marcus Mayer said that they have long been aware that they have a special corporate culture and commented: “We are told that both by employees, some of whom spend their entire working lives with us, and by business partners. The external survey has now scientifically confirmed this ‘intuitive knowledge’ by underpinning it with figures.” Mayer, noting that they see the feedback as a privilege, stated: “In the further development of our circular knitting machines and braiding machines we fundamentally see a good result as an incentive. We are looking for approaches to further improvements. Thanks to the external survey we are now aware of the adjusting screws we can turn in the human resources sector, and we have every intention of turning them because committed, motivated employees are of decisive importance for a company’s long-term success.”
Oerlikon acquiring Riri to expand in the luxury market
Oerlikon Group, global supplier of surface engineering, polymer processing and additive manufacturing, successfully closed acquisition of Riri Group, one of the leading providers of coated metal accessories for the luxury fashion industry, following the agreement on December 16, 2022. This deal represents a strategic next step to complement Oerlikon’s acquisition of Coeurdor, a full-service provider of components for the fast-growing luxury goods industry, in 2021. As the demand for PVD (Physial Vapor Deposition) coatings grows, Oerlikon’s PVD technologies that provide environmentally friendly solutions will accelerate the shift of the luxury goods industry to greener PVD technology.
Oerlikon Executive Chairman Michael Suess said that the acquisition leverages Oerlikon’s core PVD coating competencies into applications in the luxury market and stated: “The combined expertise, cutting-edge technology and luxury market know-how make Oerlikon a market leader in this sector. We look forward to partnering with our luxury brand customers and helping them to become more sustainable.”
CEO of Riri Renato Usoni will lead the newly formed luxury business unit of Oerlikon as President Oerlikon Luxury. Riri will operate as a separate business within the Surface Solutions division. Its zippers and buttons will continue to use the Riri and Cobrax brands on individual products.
EIB Export-Up Mentoring Programme begins
The courses within the scope of ‘EIB Export-Up Mentoring Programme’ organised in cooperation with Aegean Exporters’ Associations (EIB), EMCC (European Mentoring & Coaching Council) and TurkishWin have begun. The 6-month programme aims to help women and young participants who want to start exporting or improve their export potential, improve their communication networks, raise awareness of their potential and achieve a sustainable increase in exports. The programme, which is organised with the theme of ‘Sustainability and Green Growth’, envisages an average of 6 sessions between the mentor/mentee, to be held once a month.
Navis TubeTex receives Governor’s Award for Excellence
The Governor of North Carolina, Roy Cooper, has recognized Navis TubeTex, one of the leading suppliers of finishing machinery, with the Governor’s Award for Excellence. The Award was presented at the Governor’s Mansion in Raleigh. President and CEO William Motchar and Senior Director – International Sales Jeffrey Dixon were present to receive the award on behalf of Navis TubeTex.
This award is given each year to recognize one North Carolina company that has made significant contributions in the effort to increase North Carolina exports. Navis TubeTex has worked with Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina for over 10 years with exhibition cooperation in many of the world’s textile centers with Senior International Trade Manager, Glenn Jackman.
DeFacto Design Centre receives ministry approval
Türkiye-based fashion and retail brand DeFacto took the first step towards becoming a Design Centre approved by the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Industry and Technology by preparing an application file with 24 ongoing projects. Following the application, the physical conditions, infrastructure, personnel competencies, collaborations and projects of the DeFacto Design Centre were examined in detail as a result of the site visits of the experts assigned and approved by the ministry. Certified by the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Industry and Technology, DeFacto’s Design Centre’s 99-person design team focuses mainly on sustainable, eco-friendly, digitalisation and customer-oriented innovative projects.
Change of senior management at Rieter
Rieter’s Board of Directors has appointed Thomas Oetterli as the successor of Norbert Klapper, who has served the company for nine years, as CEO. Oetterli (53) has made a significant contribution to the successful development of the world-leading Schindler Group, starting in 2006 as CEO Switzerland, later as a member of the Group Executive Committee responsible for Europe and China, and from 2016 until 2022 as CEO of the Group. Oetterli will take office on March 13, 2023 and following his departure as CEO, Klapper will be available to the Chairman of the Board of Directors as Senior Advisor until the end of September 2023.
The Board of Directors explained that “they consider a dual function of Thomas Oetterli as CEO and member of the Board of Directors to be advantageous and in the interest of all stakeholders, in view of the current challenges Rieter is facing in the current economic and market situation, which require close cooperation between the Board of Directors and the Group Executive Committee. Therefore, it is stated that Oetterli will be purposed for election as a member of the Board of Directors at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on April 20, 2023.
adidas becomes the target of activists
The big sportswear brand adidas became on the fashion world’s agenda with a ‘fake’ announcement, detailing their bold new plan to prioritise and protect workers’ rights including the appointment of a Cambodian worker to Co-CEO, and the fashion show, Realitywear, at Berlin Fashion Week on January 16. While activists group The Yes Men, working with Clean Clothes Campaign took responsibility for the incident, in the statement of Clean Clothes Campaing’s website, it is said “The alleged plan was to replace adidas’ motto ‘Own the Game’ with one that proactively addresses injustice in the garment industry: ‘Own the Reality.’”
It began with a surprise announcement from ‘adidas’, detailing their bold new plan to prioritise and protect workers’ rights. The press release sent from a fake adidas domain on January 16 morning, outlined ground-breaking plans to appoint a Cambodian former garment worker and union leader, ‘Vay Ya Nak Phoan’ (‘textile’ in Khmer), to be Co-CEO, alongside Bjørn Gulden, who took charge of the company on 1st January. Following the fake press release, the fashion world has witnessed an ‘adidas’ fashion show, to launch their new clothing line ‘suffering-forward Realitywear.
Mike Bonanno of The Yes Men, who collaborated with garment workers and campaigners on the prank said that the news of their game-changing ethics programme is sadly fake, but the suffering of adidas workers is all too real. Bonanno stated: “Adidas can fix it by paying their garment workers what they are owed, signing the Pay Your Workers agreement, and finally owning the reality of the people who make their profits possible.”
Granz Tekstil, the famous brand of retailers, requests concordat
Granz Tekstil San. ve Tic A.Ş., which has been operating in Turkey and abroad since 2014 and producing for famous supermarket chains, and company owner Hüseyin Yolcu requested concordat. Upon this request, according to the announcement on the Official Announcement Portal of the Press Advertising Agency, a 3-month temporary respite was granted as of 15:00 on 13 December 2022. According to the information in the exclusive news of Dinçer Gökçe from Artı Gerçek; Granz Tekstil, whose financial balance deteriorated when it came under a great financial burden to deliver the orders of companies with many stores such as A101, BİM, Şok and Migros, has a debt of 72 million liras. It is reported that the petition signed by Nuray Albayrak, the company’s lawyer, inludes that “the rise in exchange rates, the problems created by banks in providing loans and the failure of some manufacturing companies to deliver products on time” put the company in trouble.
Sasa establishes a company worth one million euros in the Netherlands
SASA Polyester Sanayi A.Ş., one of the world’s leading producers of polyester, fibre, filament yarn, polyester-based polymers, special polymers and intermediate products, announced that it has established a new company named Sasa Trading BV in the Netherlands with a capital of one million euro. The company made the following statement to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP): “In order to ensure faster and more efficient execution of the investments and partnerships that may be made abroad and the transactions that may be carried out in the global credit and capital markets in the coming period, a new company named Sasa Trading BV was established in the Netherlands with a capital of 1,000,000 euros, all of which belongs to Sasa Uluslararası Finansal Yatırım A.Ş., our 100% subsidiary.”
The strike at Yeşim Tekstil factory ended successfully
The strike, which started with the participation of 4500 workers on 29 November 2022 after an agreement could not be reached in the collective bargaining negotiations between the Turkish Textile, Knitting, Clothing and Leather Industry Workers’ Union (Teksif) and Almaxtex A.Ş. (Yeşim Tekstil), the deal was concluded on the second day.
According to the news in media, as a result of the meeting of Teksif and Almaxtex officials and signing the collective bargaining agreement, a 15 percent increase was made on top of the 27 percent inflation difference, and a 42 percent increase was agreed for the first six months. It was reported that inflation would be given for the second six months. In addition, it was stated in the contract that an increase of 55 liras would be for seniority. It was also stated that there would be no improvement in the provisions and bonuses.
4500 workers at Yeşim Tekstil go on strike
A strike began with the participation of 4500 workers in the factory in the Yıldırım district of Bursa on November 29, 2022, as a result of the failure to reach an agreement in the collective bargaining negotiations between the Textile, Knitting, Clothing, and Leather Industry Workers’ Union (Teksif) and Almaxtex (Yeşim Tekstil).
In his statement to Bursada Bugün, Teksif Union Branch Secretary Rauf Yılmaz said: “The agreements our union made with the factories in Istanbul included a 48 percent increase. Most of those factories are smaller than Yeşil Tekstil and they accepted the agreement. We had negotiations for the last time yesterday. The negotiations continued until 5:30 in the morning. We were faced with a 5 percent increase insistence despite our demand for a 25 percent increase. As has been the case for 7 months, no conclusion could be reached in these last negotiations, and we started our declared strike.”
Inditex employees strike for rise in salary
While it is stated that 57 percent of Inditex employees, which have Zara, Pull&Bear, Oysho, Stradivarius, Massimo Dutti and Bershka brands, are employed with salaries frozen with short-term contracts, the employees in the Galicia region, where the company’s headquarters are located, went on strike demanding a salary increase. Inditex employees, who chose the most intense shopping days called ‘Black Friday’ for the strike, organized a protest in the city of Coruna due to the work stoppages. Employees in Coruna, where Inditex-affiliated stores are closed, went to the streets and demanded that their salaries be increased and their employment contracts revised for a long time. The company’s stores in Madrid also decided to go on strike on January 7, when the winter discounts will begin.
Inditex, one of the world’s largest textile groups, recently signed a new protocol with IndustriALL designed to further the Global Framework Agreement, which was first signed by the two organizations in 2007 and provides better working conditions in the textile supply chain.
Textile industry’s qualified personnel gap is closing in Bolu
Organized Industrial Zone Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School, starting to admit students in Bolu this year, will train qualified personnel needed in the textile sector as well as the industry and machinery sectors. The vocational high school built in Bolu Organized Industrial Zone (OIZ) started to serve 102 students with the departments of ‘Machinery and Design Technology’, ‘Industrial Automation Technologies’ and ‘Fashion Design Technologies’. Students who prefer the school will have an advantage in starting their business life by graduating better equipped with the opportunities offered by both the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the sectors.
Some of the workshop courses are held in the enterprises at the OIZ, while successful students who will gain experience by doing their internships in factories and businesses will also receive scholarships.
After graduating from school, students will have the opportunity to immediately start working in the factories and businesses within the OIZ, and the food and transportation needs of the students will be met by the Governorship of Bolu this year.
A new 7 million dollar investment from Kordsa
Kordsa announced to the Public Disclosure Platform that it will make an investment of 7 million USD for a single cord production line at its Kordsa Türkiye Izmit Plant in order to respond to the increase in the global demand for single-cord used in high-performance tires. The statement explained: “In line with our growth strategies in the construction reinforcement industry, it has been decided to invest in a Polypropylene Monofilament Fiber Reinforcement (Kratos PP) production line in the amount of 5 million USD as an additional line to the existing line, in order to continue the domestic growth and seize the opportunities in our export markets.” These investments to be made at Kordsa Turkey’s Izmit facilities are planned to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2024.
The company also announced that it has decided to increase the cord fabric finishing capacity at its facilities in North America in order to meet the increasing demands of tire manufacturers regionally, in its latest statement to the Public Disclosure Platform. The additional line project, which will be carried out with an investment of 20 million USD, is planned to be commissioned in 2024. It is stated that with the new investment, the cord fabric production capacity of the company will increase by 19 kilotons per year.
H&M Move calls the world to move
H&M has joined forces with actress, activist and fitness expert Jane Fonda and renowned choreographer, creative and movement director JaQuel Knight to get the whole world and every body moving with its new movement brand H&M Move, creating stylish and functional movewear in a more sustainable way. Officially launching its new brand, H&M said: “We celebrate this launch as we embark on a bold mission to democratise sportswear, to get the whole world and everybody moving, however they move. Thank you to our teams for making this amazing launch possible and to our London Oxford Circus and Stratford stores for sharing these fantastic pictures!” in a statement on its social media account.
Traditional kutnu fabric in the latest collection of famous fashion house Dior
The Kutnia brand achieved international success by bringing the kutnu fabric, a forgotten value of Gaziantep, back to life. The world-famous fashion house Dior used kutnu fabric (Kutnia Crafted Fabric) produced by Kutnia in its Men’s Spring/Summer 2023 collection. Dior also shared a video shot in Gaziantep about the kutnu fabric’s technique, importance and history on its social media channels.
The kutnu fabric, which was used in Ottoman palaces in the 16th century, is known as one of the brightest fabrics of all time. Kutnu fabric, usually used in striped and colourful designs, is produced as a result of hand-woven silk and cotton and is distinguished from other woven fabrics in the region due to the historical importance of Gaziantep. The city, which is located on the Silk Road, paved the way for a brand new fabric to be produced by blending the local cotton and the silk carried by the merchants passing through the region throughout history.
Kutnia brand, which started its journey as a social responsibility project, aims to introduce kutnu fabric to the world by making it suitable for this era and developing it without changing the weaving style, with the initiative of its founder Julide Konukoğlu. Kutnia set out by expanding this fabric, which had a limited usage area due to its narrow width, and making it suitable for sewing. The brand attaches great importance to the craft of Kutnu production and the fabrics produced by them have the personal signature of each crafter.
Unexpected passing is announced at Xerox
It was announced that Xerox Holdings Corporation Vice Chairman and CEO John Visentin passed away unexpectedly on June 28, due to complications from an ongoing illness. It was stated that Visentin, who joined Xerox in May 2018, played a very important role in ensuring the company’s pioneering position as a visionary leader. Steve Bandrowczak, who has served as Xerox President and Chief Operating Officer since 2018, has been appointed as interim CEO following Visent’s unexpected passing.
Xerox Chairman of Board of Directors James Nelson said; “Since joining the company in May 2018, John drove Xerox forward. As a champion for innovation, he embraced and enhanced Xerox’s legacy as a print and services provider and embarked on a transformative journey that broadened the company’s expertise and offerings to digital and IT services, financial services and disruptive technologies. John’s drive, energy and commitment to the business and its customers, partners and employees will be greatly missed.” Nelson also added that Steve Bandrowczak has the active and full support of the Board of Directors and the entire management team in carrying out his duties.
Steve Bandrowczak underlined that they are all greatly saddened by this tragic news and are keeping his family at the forefront of their thoughts in this difficult time. He disclosed; “John’s vision was clear, and the Xerox team will continue fulfilling it – not only to deliver on our commitments to our shareholders, customers and partners – but also to pursue John’s legacy.”
Collaboration from Label Array and Vegan Fashion Week
Label Array is collaborating with Vegan Fashion Week to present a selection of ethical and sustainable brands during LA Market Week this season, on June 13-15. In this context, California Market Center will host VEGAN WORLD™ by Vegan Fashion Week, the only professional vegan fashion trade show in the world, at the 10C Loft Event Space on the 10C Floor. Collections of new generation sustainable materials including apple leather, cactus leather, wine leather, mulberry leather and more will be presented to the visitors on the platform that combines the ethical and sustainable worlds of fashion, beauty and lifestyle. The event will also provide participants with an important opportunity to establish new collaborations in the fashion industry.
Famous swimwear manufacturer Zeki Triko is sold by execution
It has been stated that the brands of the famous swimwear manufacturer Zeki Triko, which has experienced economic problems in recent years, have been sold after foreclosure. The company, founded in 1958 by businessperson Zeki Başeskioğlu, has appeared on the cover of 50 international magazines over the years. Zeki Triko, working with world-famous models, played an important role in the promotion of Turkey with its success. It was stated that the last developments of the company were independent of the negativities caused by the pandemic and the bad course of events could not be overcome in the last 5-6 years. Zeki Triko, which closed its doors in Nişantaşı store, the last point of sale in Istanbul, ended its activities last year and the brands belonging to the company were put up for sale by the creditors. It has been found out that the sale of Zeki Triko brands was realized by the Istanbul 13th Enforcement Office in December 2021. It was stated that a tourism company based in Antalya bought the brand and started production again.
Zeki Triko, working with top models in swimwear production, organized shootings and fashion shows with the world’s most famous models, including Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer, Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Doutzen Kroes and today’s famous models Gigi and Bella Hadid’s mother Yolanda Hadid.
Orta Anadolu’s latest metaverse move: Blueskyer NFT
Orta Anadolu, one of Turkey’s well-established denim manufacturers, launched Blueskyer NFT, the world’s first 100% regenerative cotton denim NFT (non-fungible token). Blueskyer NFT, developed in collaboration with Muse VR, represents the ‘bluesky’ vision of conscious consumption and a regenerative system to create the future that people want to live in today. It is also the first NFT to represent Orta Anadolu’s commitment to create and support the #iamablueskyer movement that captures the spirit of the new generation of designers, artists, creators, climate advocates and more who aim to cancel climate change, eliminate waste, rewild biodiversity and improve social equity.
Orta Anadolu Director Dr Sedef Uncu Aki said; “If we are to move away from the culture of waste and carbon-intense processes and move our industry forward, we need to adapt to a bluesky mindset.” Aki stated that at ORTA, they want to build a regenerative platform, a systems transformation of the denim industry through provocative innovation, open-source technology and collective action, disclosing; “Only then will we truly achieve a more optimistic and regenerative denim industry of tomorrow.”
The bell rings for Sun Tekstil at Borsa İstanbul
Sun Tekstil, one of the leading companies in the sector with its integrated activities in fashion and textile, opened its doors to the public with the bell-ringing ceremony held in Borsa Istanbul. Borsa İstanbul A.Ş. General Manager Korkmaz Ergun announced that Sun Tekstil had a very successful public listing with an amount of approximately 730 million TL. The public listing process, led by QNB Finansinvest Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş., was completed with a total offer of 2.5 times. A total of 33 thousand 230 offerings were made during the offer collecting process for the public listing, where the price was determined as 26 TL a share. The company’s shares began to be traded at Borsa Istanbul with the code SUNT as of May 20.
New denim collection from ISKO and Paolo Gnutti
ISKO Denim, one of the world’s leading denim manufacturers under Sanko Holding, and the founder of PG Denim, an Italian premium denim fabric manufacturer, Paolo Gnutti partner up to bring a breath of fresh air to the world of premium luxury denim. Both will respectively bring together their expertise in advanced responsible denim technologies and refined fabrics’ elevation, to bring to life special ISKO™ Luxury collections by PG. ISKO Denim will present these and many more new developments at the Denim Première Vision to be held in Berlin on May 17-18.
ISKO Director of Strategic Projects Marco Lucietti said that they are thrilled to collaborate with Paolo Gnutti, one of the most respected personalities among the denim community. Lucietti continued his words as follows; “It is a wonderful moment for us to inspire the whole industry with the most revolutionary technological innovations, highly profiled to the unique needs of the luxury segment and we know that Paolo’s creative touch will bring out the very best of ISKO denim’s qualities.”
PG founder Paolo Gnutti expressed that the collaboration with ISKO is exciting on so many levels and stated; “The company pioneers game-changing technologies in quality, performance and sustainability for the world of denim which is extremely interesting for me to explore for the luxury aesthetic. We will be working with new and exclusive fabrics that will bring a unique twist to the world of fashionable luxury denim. Together, we will really energize the premium sector.”
Iconic LC Waikiki Monkey now in NFT world
Turkey’s global fashion retail brand LC Waikiki is making the vintage designs of LC Waikiki Monkey, one of Turkey’s most popular brand characters for years, a collector’s item for NFT (Non-Fungible Token) investors. All incomes from the collection offered for sale on OpenSea, one of the most popular NFT marketplaces, will be donated to TEGV to bring quality education to children. LC Waikiki Vintage Monkey Collecting was put up for sale on April 22, 2022 on the NFT market, whose total sales volume exceeds 12 billion dollars.
NGL targets a 25 percent increase in textile transportation
While fast and safe delivery of textile and apparel products, which have been one of the most important export items of Türkiye for many years, is of great importance, their international transportation also provides Türkiye with a significant amount of foreign currency. Norther Global Logistics (NGL)’s 30 percent of total export shipments consist of textile products and makes significant investments for fast delivery. They announced that they aim to increase their textile export shipments by 25 percent this year.
NGL Co-Founder Ferhat Emanetoğlu explained that change and speed are continuous in the textile industry and safe delivery is prioritised, underlining that due to the season-based sales policies in the industry, the products should be delivered undamaged and ready for retail sale. He said that they also make significant investments to meet these needs.
Emanetoğlu expressed that they provide express truck transportation for bulky cargoes and minivan services for low-volume cargoes in the textile sector and reminded that they increased the number of minivan vehicles to 22 with the investment they made in the third quarter of last year. He disclosed; “We can deliver to the final destination in 2-3 days on average with the minivan option in our deliveries to Europe. We can safely transport parcels, hangers and rolls of textile products in partial or complete form. We ensure the uninterrupted continuation of both production and sales with express deliveries.
Capacity increases in spinning mills, raw material consumption decreases
ITMF (International Textile Manufacturers Federation) has published the International Textile Industry Statistics (ITIS) for 2020 on productive capacity and raw material consumption in staple organized (spinning mill) sector in virtually all textile-producing countries in the world. The global number of installed short-staple spindles remained stable in 2020 at 221 million units, while the number of installed open-end rotors slightly decreased from 7.4 million in 2019 to 7.2 million in 2020, according to the report. It was observed that the decreasing trends in both segments in previous years, mainly due to the scrapping of outdated machinery in China, seem to have come to an end. While the tendencies observed in other regions are stable, the number of installed air-jet spindles increased in 2020 in all regions except in Europe, East and Europe, West.
The substitution between the shuttle and shuttleless looms continued in 2020 but the number of installed shuttleless looms has shrunk for the first time from 1.68 million in 2019 to 1.64 in 2020. Total raw material consumption in the short-staple organized sector has sharply decreased from 46 million tons in 2019 to 41 million tons in 2020. Consumption of raw cotton, synthetic, and cellulosic short-staple fibres decreased by 12%, 14%, and 9%, respectively. The report states that this effect mainly reflects the reduced levels of production during the COVID-19 pandemic.
İTHİB and İHKİB presidents restore trust
There was the excitement of the Elective Ordinary General Assembly in the exporters’ associations of the textile and apparel industries. In some unions, there was a race between the candidates, while in others, elections were held with a single candidate. There were no surprises in the elections held for the administrations that will serve for the next four years. The current president Ahmet Öksüz was re-elected as the president in the election of the Istanbul Textile Raw Materials Exporters’ Association (İTHİB) as a single candidate. On the other hand, Özkan Karaca appeared as a rival to the current President Mustafa Gültepe in the presidential election of Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (İHKİB). Gültepe managed to finish the race ahead with 1055 votes.
Öksüz, speaking after the election, underlined that as management, they will continue their work in order to reach the export target of 15 billion dollars by the end of the year for the textile industry. Öksüz stated that their most important goal in the new period is to represent the sector in the best way with its powerful projects and continued his words as follows; “We will be one of the top 3 exporters of the world in the medium term with our delegations and exhibitions that will provide market diversity in exports, our projects that will increase added value and our promotional activities. On the way to establishing this success together; we have a great responsibility, yet our excitement remains the same and we have full confidence! We are not worried about the future, we are hopeful. Because we exported together with the association, we are proud together”.
Gültepe, the President of İHKİB, who will continue his duty for one more term, said the following about the election results; “I would like to thank our esteemed members who deemed us worthy of the honour of serving İHKİB for four more years, and our TİM President, İsmail Gülle, who did not leave us alone today on behalf of myself and the Board of Directors! We will continue to break new ground and wave the ‘Apparel’ flag at the top in order to bring our industry to a stronger position in global competition”.
While Öksüz and Gültepe were re-elected as presidents, they decided to continue with different names in the board of directors.
EDMIB says to continue with Erkan Zandar
The elective general assembly of the Aegean Leather and Leather Products Exporters’ Association (EDMİB) for 2021 was held in the Aegean Exporters’ Associations Conference Hall. Erkan Zandar was re-elected as the Chairman of the Board of Directors, restoring trust at the EDMIB General Assembly. Güven Tuzcu was the Chairman of the Council and Yerdal Gürten and Kadir Tuncer were the clerks during the session, and the list prepared by Zandar won the election with 47 votes in the general assembly. Zandar made 5 changes to his new list. In addition, the ‘Stars of Leather Export Award Ceremony’ was held for 22 companies that realized 52 percent of EDMIB’s exports of 170 million dollars in 2021 at the general assembly.
EDMİB Chairman of the Board Erkan Zandar explained that they took office with an election marathon 4 years ago, and stated that this time they are progressing in unity and solidarity. Zandar continued his words as follows; “We have had two difficult years of pandemic. We managed to increase our exports despite this. While the number of companies qualified to be elected to the board of directors was 25 four years ago, we have reached 60 companies today. We expanded the export base. Eliminating the losses we have experienced in leather garments and tanneries in the 4-year period will be our priority work in the next 4-year period”.
Zandar stated that they will focus on the South Korean and North American markets with the younger board of directors in the upcoming period, saying that another focus will be to meet the qualified personnel needs of the sector.
Zandar remarked that the metaverse is the reality of today and explained that they will work on how to build a virtual showroom and establish a virtual shopping mall in the leather industry. He added that they are in talks with a company from Izmir that carries out successful projects regarding the establishment of a virtual showroom.
Janpeter Horn era begins at VDMA
The new president of the VDMA, the umbrella organization of German machinery manufacturers, has been announced. August Herzog Maschinenfabrik’s Managing Director Dr Janpeter Horn was chosen as the new chairperson of VDMA Textile Machinery at the VDMA member meeting held in Leonberg. The new Executive Board is completed with Regina Brückner, Managing Associate of Brückner Trockentechnik and Verena Thies, Managing Shareholder of Thies Textilmaschinen, who were elected as Vice-Chairpersons.
Dr Horn made a statement about his election as the new chairperson and expressed that he is pleased to have Regina Brückner and Verena Thies by his side. He said that both have been serving on the Executive Board of the VDMA Textile Machinery as well as the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers CEMATEX for numerous years and disclosed; “With this team, we are well prepared to effectively represent the interests of the industry at national and international level”.
The new Executive Board of the VDMA Textile Machinery for the legislative period until 2026 is composed of:
Dr. Janpeter Horn (Chairperson), August Herzog Maschinenfabrik
Regina Brückner (Vice Chairperson), BRÜCKNER Trockentechnik
Verena Thies (Vice Chairperson), THIES
Peter D. Dornier, Lindauer DORNIER
Stefan Flöth, A. Monforts Textilmaschinen
Arno Gärtner, KARL MAYER STOLL Textilmaschinenfabrik
Markus Kleindorp, MEMMINGER-IRO
Andreas Lukas, ANDRITZ Küsters
Benjamin Mayer, Mayer & Cie.
Dr. Jörg Morgner, Temafa Maschinenfabrik
Benjamin Reiners, Reiners + Fürst
Dr. Uwe Rondé, Saurer Group
Eric Schöller, Groz-Beckert
Georg Stausberg, Oerlikon Textile
Heinrich Trützschler, Trützschler Group
İbrahim Özgür Yıldırım becomes the CEO of Kordsa
Ali Çalışkan, who had been the CEO of Kordsa since 2017, one of the global actors in the tire reinforcement and composite materials markets, handed the reins to İbrahim Özgür Yıldırım, who is still the Deputy General Manager responsible for the Asia Pacific region, as of April 1. Çalışkan, appointed as the General Secretary of Sabancı University on the same date, will also serve as a member of the Kordsa Board of Directors.
Kordsa Chairman of the Board Cevdet Alemdar, wishing Ali Çalışkan and İbrahim Özgür Yıldırım success in their new duties, expressed the following regarding the change of duty:
“Ali Çalışkan, who has held numerous positions at Kordsa for more than 36 years, has played an effective leadership role in making Kordsa the world leader in tire reinforcement and opening up in new business areas. İbrahim Özgür Yıldırım will lead our company to become a world-leading advanced materials company with its success and experience in operations, innovation and market development. I would like to thank both of our directors for all their contributions. I sincerely believe that they will continue to increase their success in their new duties with their vision and experience”.
New CEO of Uster, Davide Maccabruni takes office
The expected CEO change has taken place at Uster Technologies. In a statement made by Uster Technologies in November, it was shared that CEO Thomas Nasiou has decided to step down and will be succeeded by Davide Maccabruni, former CEO of SSM Schärer Schweiter Mettler AG and General Manager of Savio Group Components. Davide Maccabruni took over as CEO of Uster Technologies on April 1. Maccabruni, gaining experience working in both innovation and management roles at Sultex (ITEMA weaving), SSM and Savio, has extensive experience with customers and markets in the textile industry.
Maccabruni stated that he is glad and honoured to join in Uster, an organization that offered so much to our textile industry, saying; “I commit to serve with my knowledge and experience to the efforts of all Uster colleagues to stay focused on ‘Think Quality’ and remain successful developing solutions that create value for the entire textile chain. But more importantly, to work together and make sure that the Uster spirit of a great organization remains and thrives”.
Global textile machinery market to continue to grow
The global textile machinery market, estimated at 5.9 million units in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of 10.9 Million units by 2027 according to Research and Markets report. Besides, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% over the analysis period 2020-2027.
Spinning machines, one of the segments in the report, is projected to record a 7.6% CAGR and reach 8.8 million units by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Texturizing Machines segment is readjusted to a revised 18.6% CAGR for the next 7-year period.
Textile Machinery market in the U.S. is estimated at 35.9 thousand units in the year 2020. China is forecast to reach a projected market size of 5.9 million Units by the year 2027, trailing a CAGR of 9% over the analysis period 2020 to 2027. Japan and Europe are each forecast to grow at 6.6% and 8% respectively over the 2020-2027 period.
Metaverse move from LC Waikiki
LC Waikiki took action with the aim of opening a new page in online and offline shopping habits with the impressive potential of experience brought by the metaverse. The brand shared with the public the first images of the meta-store/beyond-store work developed by the meta team it established inside, in this context.
LC Waikiki Digital Transformation and Information Technologies General Manager Şerafettin Özer gave information about LC Waikiki’s metaverse works and said that they will discuss metaverse studies under three branches: physical environments, digital channels and integrated multi-channels with the help of developing technologies. Özer announced that they will manage this exciting change both with the meta team within the company and with external resources.
While a clear statement has not been made about the timing yet, the brand stated that it will continue to share information about the developments.
Yeşim Tekstil continues to honour its founder Şükrü Şankaya
The corporate kindness movement that was started with donations after the death of Şükrü Şankaya, the founder of Yeşim Tekstil, grows with support for education. The movement, which turned into the Turkish Education Foundation Şükrü Şankaya Scholarship Fund in time, reached a new stage on March 9, the birthday of the late Şankaya. All income from the sale of the book titled ‘İçindeki Yıldızı Keşfet’ prepared by Özlem Şenkoyuncu, a former employee of Yeşim Tekstil, will be transferred to the Turkish Education Foundation Şükrü Şankaya Scholarship Fund for the girls’ education.
The special launch program, hosted by Yeşim Group CEO Şenol Şankaya, was held on March 9 at the Yeşim Great Conference Hall and was attended by TEV General Manager Banu Taşkın, TEV Bursa Branch Executive Board Chairman Mehmet Çalışkan, Executive Board Members and Yeşim Tekstil executives as well as the leading names of the Bursa business world.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Yeşim Corporate Communications Director Dilek Cesur stated that they have been in cooperation with the Turkish Education Foundation (TEV) for a long time and said that the donations made after Şükrü Şankaya’s death turned into the Turkish Education Foundation Şükrü Şankaya Scholarship Fund. Cesur continued her words as follows:
“We set out to keep her philanthropic understanding alive in this field and to support students, especially girls, by developing it every year. Today, we have reached a new turning point in these studies. Our former employee Özlem Şenkoyuncu witnessed all the works involving kindness movements under the roof of Yeşim Tekstil during her time in the Corporate Communication and Human Resources departments. She wanted to donate the income from the sale of the book to girls after she left our company. This made us very happy. That is why we see today as a very meaningful day where a new kindness movement began”.
Founder of Biancalani, Fiorenzo Biancalani passes away at 91
Italy-based textile machinery manufacturer Biancalani announced that the founder of the company, Fiorenzo Biancalani, passed away on Tuesday, February 22, at the age of 91. Fiorenzo Biancalani opened the first prototype of the company’s factory as it stands today, in 1957, when the textile industry in Prato was growing.
Biancalani made the following statement; “He based his whole existence on honesty, hard labour, and trust, and he always enjoyed the good things of life: tasty food, cheerful company, good humour, and sincere friendships. Fiorenzo has been an inspiration and a father to more people than he could ever have imagined. With his positive attitude, good mood, and strong belief in the value of human relationships he was a point of reference not only for his friends but also for the extended family of co-workers and employees who work in the company. His children, managing the company for many years, fulfilled Fiorenzo’s aspiration of giving all of us a solid legacy, made of innovations and opportunities. With this awareness, Fiorenzo left this world serenely and peacefully, knowing that the purpose of his life was achieved”.
We commemorate Fiorenzo Biancalani with respect for the value and vision he added to the textile industry, and extend our condolences to all his relatives and loved ones, as Textilegence.
Yataş is selected as Turkey’s most technological mattress brand
Yataş Bedding, one of Turkey’s leading mattress brands, was selected as the most technological brand in the mattress category in Tech Brands Turkey, Turkey’s first and only technology-based award program. The winner of the award was determined by consumer votes as a result of the meetings held throughout Turkey. Yataş Bedding Marketing Director Selmin Gündoğdu received the award on behalf of Yataş at the award ceremony at IF Performance Hall Beşiktaş on the evening of February 22.
Selmin Gündoğdu underlined that Yataş is constantly investing in R&D and innovation to bring consumers the best, new and high-quality products, and continued her words as follows; “We are aware of the importance of good and healthy sleep and we closely follow the developments in the world, cooperate with global manufacturers and develop products with the latest sleep technologies in our R&D laboratory. We respond to the needs of consumers and contribute to sleep health with these innovative products. This important award we have received is an indication that our efforts have paid off. We would like to thank all our consumers who deemed us worthy of this award”.
Suwen applied to CMB for public offering
Suwen, operating in the women’s underwear, home wear and beachwear sector in Turkey since 2003, announced that it has applied to the Capital Markets Board (CMB) for the approval of the prospectus within the scope of the public offering of the company shares. The draft prospectus submitted to the CMB was published on the company’s www.suwencompany.com, the Industrial Development Bank of Turkey www.tskb.com.tr and Gedik Yatırım’s www.gedik.com websites.
Suwen operates in the women’s underwear, home wear and beachwear sector in Turkey, with a total of 138 stores and 684 employees in 38 of Turkey’s 81 provinces as of the end of 2021. Suwen is the fastest-growing brand among the top 5 brands in the sector, according to the increase in the number of stores, and has the second most extensive store network in Turkey among the Modern Private Chain Stores according to the Deloitte 2020 Sector Report.
Home textile collections of young designers at Skyland HOM
The winning three designs in the ‘Home Textile Design Competition’ organized by Uludag Textile Exporters’ Association (UTIB) with the theme of ‘Creating a Sustainable Lifestyle’ this year will meet the visitors at Skyland HOM, the first and largest decoration centre of Turkey. The exhibition will include three collections with different themes and will be open to visitors on the ground floor between 10:00 and 19:30, seven days a week until February 28.
UTİB Chairperson of the Board Pınar Taşdelen stated that the UTİB Turkey Home Textile Design Competition is a support program that has no duration, and disclosed that by giving intensive training to the students participating in the contest from the beginning, they made them stronger and more equipped in this field. Engin said that they provided extensive support to introduce them to the sector, to produce their designs, bring them into the economy, and export them and continued her words as follows; “We take our young people to international exhibitions and exhibit their designs there. It is great that this year’s winning designs are also exhibited at Skyland HOM. I believe that this will increase the courage of our young people towards their future, and will provide them with morale and motivation”.
Response to metaverse store claims from H&M
H&M made a statement to Textilegence regarding the claims that they opened a 3D store in the metaverse in the media recently. In the official statement made by the H&M Communications and Sustainability Department, it was stated the following; “The news in the media about the subject is not a statement made by H&M. H&M has announced that they are not involved in this project in terms of opening a 3D store in the metaverse”.
In recent weeks, CEEK announced on their official Twitter account that they presented a 3D concept store to H&M. Thereupon, there was a perception that the brand opened a virtual store in CEEK City in the metaverse. Then, the response from H&M brought clarity to the subject and put an end to the claims.
You can find the main news on the subject at this link.
Vintage and retro winds blew in Izmir Arena
Two Cowboys, one of the representatives of the vintage and retro trend in fashion, brought their new season collections together with fashion lovers at the ‘Vintage Fashion Show’ held in Izmir Arena. The new time-defying collection, shaped around the concepts of uniqueness and genderlessness, represented the transformation and took fashion lovers on a journey through time in classic cars. Held with the contributions of Esra Alkan’s Zeo Bus Life and İZKOD (İzmir Classic Automobile Association), 24 models with different concepts were exhibited on the stage designed with ethnic carpets and antique items at the show.
Two Cowboys Co-founder Tuncay Çetin said that they introduced the latest trends, reflecting the spirit of the vintage and retro trend, to the fashion world with their entrepreneurial models, accompanied by classic cars over 60 years old. Two Cowboys Co-Founder Anıl Çetin stated that the vintage and retro trend is becoming more and more widespread in fashion, and made the following statement:
“We are focusing on the sustainable future with the time-defying aspect of our collection, which we define with the titles of a unique product, genderlessness, transformation, non-marginalized models, inexhaustible burnout, roof model. We save the clothes that witnessed the lives of different people in the past from burnout with the transformation we started in fashion by eliminating factors such as age, gender, and uniformity”.
Heimtextil postponed due to increasing cases
Highly anticipated Heimtextil, the leading international trade fair for home and contract textiles, has been canceled due to the worsening pandemic situation in Germany for the last two weeks and related restrictions. While no explanation was given about the date of the fair, which was planned to take place in the second week of January, the organizer Messe Frankfurt announced that they are working with all industry partners to find out whether this fair can be held in the summer of 2022 in parallel with Techtextil and Texprocess.
In the statement, it was stated that Frankfurt Fashion Week, which has a lower international profile compared to Heimtextil, the trade fair that hosts the most international visitors in the Frankfurt location, is still feasible at the moment. Messe Frankfurt explained that this highly volatile situation is continuously reviewed and evaluated in close exchange with the relevant authorities and industry partners, and said that future events such as Ambiente, Christmasworld, Creativeworld, Paperworld and Frankfurt Fashion Week are planned to take place on time.
Fetih Tekstil received I-REC Renewable Energy Certificate from CK Energy
Certificating their energy consumption with the international renewable energy certificate (I-REC), Fetih Tekstil demonstrated their support for environmental sustainability policies. Fetih Tekstil, headquartered in Istanbul, exports to many countries globally. Commercial Sales and Pricing Manager of CK Energy Gürkan Sarıgül stated that this step taken by Fetih Tekstil also provided an important advantage in their trade and cooperation with developed countries.
EVTEKS postponed at the last minute
The 26th Istanbul International Home Textiles Fair, which was planned to be held at CNR Expo Istanbul Expo Center on September, 20-24 this year, has been postponed. Organized by Istanbul Fuarcılık A.Ş. in cooperation with the Association of Turkish Home Textile Industrialists and Business (TETSİAD), Evteks was postponed last year due to the pandemic. According to the statement made on the social media account of EVTEKS Fuarı today (September 3), it was announced that it was postponed to May 2022 in order to make the most efficient contribution to the sector. After this last-minute statement made days before the fair, TETSİAD stated that the decision to postpone was unilateral and not within their knowledge or approval.
The statement shared by President Hasan Hüseyin Bayram on behalf of the TETSİAD Board of Directors on TETSİAD’s social media account is as follows:
“The announcement that EVTEKS, which we announced to be held on September 20-24, 2021, has been postponed to May is unilateral and is not within the knowledge/approval of TETSİAD. TETSİAD management continues their discussions to organize our fair in a way that will fully meet the needs of the sector. We will keep you informed about the developments regarding the fair as soon as possible. We kindly ask you to follow the notifications to be made by TETSİAD about the developments and not to take into account the announcements made by institutions and organizations other than our Association”.
Considering the organizations and planning of the exhibitors and visitors, it is stated that this postponement decision, which was taken a short time before the fair, will be seriously discussed in the sector.
New statement from partners
CNR Holding General Manager Alkan Usta announced that they decided to postpone the EVTEKS fair due to the worsening pandemic conditions all over the world and especially the fact that European countries put Turkey on the red list. Relaying that this postponement decision was taken in line with the demands of numerous participants and solution partners abroad, Usta also stated that several participating countries also decided not to attend the fair for this reason.
TETSİAD, which has been supporting the fair for several years, in the statement published on their website; “We are all well aware of the grievance caused by this wrong decision, which the company has taken without the knowledge and approval of our association, to our industry and our country’s economy,” they announced that the management of the association will initiate all necessary legal processes regarding this grievance.
Moroccan textile industry becomes a new member of ITMF
AMITH (Moroccan Association of the Textile and Apparel Industries), representing the entire textile and apparel value chain of Morocco, joined ITMF as a new member in May 2021. Exporting goods with a value of around 3.5 billion Euros in 2019, the Moroccan textile and apparel industry includes almost 1,200 companies employing about 195,000 people.
Moroccan textile industry increases its access to the global platform with ITMF membership
General Manager of AMITH Fatima-Zohra Alaoui said that joining ITMF provides them and their members with unique access to a platform of the global textile value chain. Underlining that the world is becoming more and more integrated, Alaoui stated that therefore, cooperation along the textile value chain and understanding its complexity is paramount.
ITMF Director-General Dr Christian Schindler noted that a win-win situation is created with AMITH joining ITMF; “An important player and voice of North Africa’s textile and apparel industry will make use of the international network and platform that in return will be benefited from AMITH’s perspective and input”.
While ITMF (International Textile Manufacturers Federation) has been serving as the international forum of the global textile value chain since 1904; Its members are from textile and apparel production countries that represent around 90% of the global production.
HUGO BOSS opens first flagship store in Japan at Ginza
HUGO BOSS, one of the important brands of the global apparel market, will begin to serve customers in its flagship store to be opened in the capital Tokyo’s famous shopping district and the most high-fashion hub, Ginza. Spanning two floors and a total retail space of 480 square meters, the store was specially designed according to the brand’s latest interior concept. This will offer customized service and an exclusive shopping experience, and it will be a full-line up of BOSS products and collections, from womenswear and menswear to the exclusive BOSS Made To Measure tailoring offer in the store.
HUGO BOSS offers different shopping experiences with its new store concept
One of the prominent elements in the interior concept of the store is the white suspended back wall panels that give the impression of a ‘floating ’wall. First introduced in the Soho, NY store in 2020, these panels create the ideal backdrop for product presentation.
HUGO BOSS will share branded content alongside the latest videos and campaign footage on the integrated digital media walls on the façade and in the store. Customers will be inspired by these posts, which aim to enrich the brand experience and customer journey.
Offering a modern and welcoming atmosphere with the combination of marble, wood and polished chrome materials, the store creates a warm and homely feeling with additional colour elements in white, beige and black, mainly featured in textiles and wall treatments.
A special collection will be available for a limited time at the store opening
A dedicated capsule collection with a unique print will be available exclusively at the HUGO BOSS store opening in Japan. The collection, including hoodies, shirts, shorts and slides will be available to customers for a limited time only.
Offering menswear and womenswear lines in business, casual and athleisure areas, the brand also continues to serve customers with its wide product portfolio consisting of shoes, accessories, eyewear, watches and fragrances.
Gap closes stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland
American fashion retail giant Gap began a strategic review of its operations in Europe last year intending to find new, more cost-effective ways as part of its 2023 Power Plan. The company set a different course for each market as a result of the evaluations made in order to maintain its presence and serve customers in Europe. In this context, Gap has decided to continue the service it has been offering to customers in the UK since 1987 and in the Republic of Ireland since 2006, online only.
Gap has been in the fashion world for more than 50 years and will gradually close all Gap Specialty and Gap Outlet stores they operate, from the end of August to the end of September 2021, due to the market dynamics in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, in line with its decision. While this strategic move does not mean that the company has left this market, on the contrary, the company has announced that they want to maintain their presence in these markets by continuing their online sales in the country. In addition, moving through the consultation process with their European team, Gap said that they will provide support and transition assistance to their colleagues while ending their retailing activities.
Gap also drew a new roadmap for France and Italy
Gap has implemented its plans for other countries in Europe as well. Explaining that they have identified a potential partner for France, the company shared the information that they are in negotiations with Hermione People & Brands, the retail branch of FIB Group, to take over the Gap stores in France. In Italy, Gap announced that they are in discussion with a partner for the potential acquisition of their stores and will share as new information becomes available.
Founded in San Francisco in 1969, Gap brings Modern American style to customers in more than 40 countries around the world through a combination of company-operated and franchise stores and e-commerce sites. Forming franchise partnerships as a powerful and cost-effective way to grow the brand in international markets, Gap reaches its customers in 35 countries with more than 460 stores, 14 standalone e-commerce sites and more than 160 multi-channel or pureplay e-commerce sites.
Painful loss at Durak Tekstil
One of Turkey’s leading textile businesses Bursa-based Durak Tekstil’s Chairman of the Board Ömer Durak lost his life at age 72. Buried in the family cemetery in Emir Sultan Cemetery on February 5, Durak was the father of two children. After his chemical engineering education in Istanbul, Ömer Durak, who completed his chemical engineering msc. education in Germany and Switzerland, joined the management in 1975 of the company established in 1971. Reaching a serious market power in sewing and embroidery thread sectors, the company has reached the capacity to export 50% of its production to 70 countries. As Textilegence, we wish mercy from Allah to the esteemed businessperson Ömer Durak, and condolences to his family and loved ones.
TAREKS entry into force was postponed to March 2021
The effective date of the Risk Based Control System in Foreign Trade (TAREKS) regarding the control of health-hazardous azo dyes used in imported textiles, apparel, leather products and shoes has been postponed to March 1, 2021. TAREKS, aiming to protect human health, life and property safety, environment, and consumer protection in imports, will be an important security factor.
On November 7, 2020, the “Communiqué on the Inspection of Some Textiles, Garments and Leather Products” was published by the Ministry of Commerce. Later, amendments were made on this communiqué, which started the inspection of azo dyestuffs harmful to health in imported textiles, apparel, leather products and shoes as of January 1, 2020. With this change published in the Official Gazette, it was announced that the inspections were postponed until March 1, 2021.
In case of detection of the test report uploaded to TAREKS but revealed not to be prepared by the relevant person, the actual audit will be concluded negatively even if the other conditions are appropriate. The result will be announced in TAREKS. The unit that will carry out the said inspections will be the trade inspectors branch directorates and trade inspectors’ services responsible for product safety inspections under the regional directorates of the Ministry of Trade.
Italian Machinery Manufacturers present their innovations at the digital fair
21 Italian textile machinery manufacturers are participating in Innovate Textile & Apparel Virtual Trade Show on October 15-30. The companies take part in the Italian Pavilion organized by ACIMIT, the umbrella organization of Italian machinery, and Houston (USA) office of the Italian Trade Agency. Each participating company has a virtual booth to meet visitors who register for the event.
Alessandro Zucchi, president of ACIMIT, explained that the health emergency due to Covid-19 has had obvious negative effects on the promotional initiatives of ACIMIT. Zucchi said; “At a time when international travel to trade shows is being restricted, ACIMIT has experienced this new digital formula, organizing an Italian Pavilion together with Italian Trade Agency at the INNOVATE Textile & Apparel Virtual Trade Show”.
Zucchi continued his words saying; “Waiting for resuming face-to-face gatherings with all of our customers we should thank the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Italian Trade Agency, adds Zucchi, for the support they have provided to the Italian textile machinery industry even in this difficult moment, accepting the main challenge launched by the pandemic: that of being ready for change”.
Among the 21 exhibiting companies in the Italian Pavilion 19 are ACIMIT member companies: A.Piovan, Dell’Orco&Villani, Efi Reggiani, Erhardt+Leimer, Ferraro, Guarneri Technology, I.C.S, Lawer, Loptex, Macchine Carù, Mcs, Mesdan, Monti Antonio, Officina Master, Ramallumin, Ratti Luino, Stalam, Tonello, Unitech.
Representing nearly 300 machinery manufacturers, ACIMIT contributes to the works of the Italian textile machinery industry in the global market. This sector exports 82% of its production and achieves a value of 2.3 billion Euros. The Italian textile machinery industry employs nearly 12 thousand people.
EFI announces withdrawal from drupa 2021
Electronics For Imaging, Inc. (EFI) revised its calendar of events for 2021 due to the ongoing Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. In order to protect its employees, existing and potential customers and partners, EFI cancelled its participation in the drupa 2021 to be held in Düsseldorf, Germany in April next year.
EFI™ Chairman and CEO Jeff Jacobson said in a statement that they have a long and positive history with drupa. “The show has always represented some of the best of what can be accomplished at an in-person event for the global print industry,” commented Jacobson and continued his word saying;
“But, with the limited amount of knowledge anyone can have right now about what conditions will be for public gatherings early next year, withdrawing from drupa 2021 is an unfortunate albeit prudent decision. All of us at EFI look forward to future drupa events beyond 2021 – and to other industry tradeshows – once the world has clearly moved past the current pandemic”.
In light of the significant disruptions COVID-19 has caused for in-person events and for EFI’s own sales operations, EFI has been hosting and will continue to host remote events and demonstrations for customers and prospects. The company is equipped to hold remote demos every day of the week from its facilities across the globe, covering the entire portfolio of EFI display graphics, industrial inkjet, Fiery® digital front end and MIS/ERP workflow solutions.
While EFI is committed to participating in in-person events when the pandemic subsides, in the meantime, the company has also established activities such as EFI Engage – a virtual event for customers being held in place of annual EFI Connect users conference. EFI Engage will feature training, education, new technology news and partner developments for EFI customers from January 25 to February 5.
A 4,000-year-old textile loom was unearthed in Denizli
Denizli is known as one of the traditional textile production centers in Turkey. This is not only limited to the Republic and Ottoman Empire period. There is an even older textile tradition. Recent archaeological excavations show that this textile tradition goes back 4,000 years ago. During the excavation and restoration works in Behicesultan Tumulus located in Çivril district of Denizli, weaving loom parts, textile products and accessories dating back 4 thousand years were found.
It is estimated that the mound, which was unearthed during the studies under the direction of Ege University Faculty of Arts, Department of Archaeology Professor Dr. Eşref Abay, was founded 5 thousand years ago. Speaking to the Anadolu Agency, Abay said that they identified a total of 40 cultural layers that continued uninterrupted until the end of the Late Bronze Age. Stating that they have been carrying out excavation and restoration works in the region for 12 years, Abay disclosed that they have reached results that will shed light on Denizli’s textile history.
Abay said that during the excavations, they reached pieces of looms and textile materials, which they estimated to be 3,600 years old. Abay stated that in their studies, they identified a building that was dated to 1700 BC, which is thought to belong to a wealthy family with its size and rich equipment. Abay noted that thousands of spindle whorls used in textile production, seashells used in decoration and burnt textile pieces were unearthed in the building.
Abay said the following about the finds; “Last year, the findings for textile production excited us. The remaining parts of the house were also revealed during our excavations this year. As a result of these studies, we have determined that there is a textile workshop dating back 4 thousand years from today. There are pieces of burnt wood handlooms in the house”. Stating that there was a great fire in this structure, Abay stated that it is a great chance that the remaining equipment survived. Noting that the findings obtained prove that the region is a major textile production centre, Abay added that the excavations will continue.
Occupancy rate in Textile Engineering departments exceeded 86%
The scholarship application to students who chose Textile and Leather Engineering, which was initiated last year and continues this year, has succeeded in increasing the interest in this department. Launched last year through the cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce, the Higher Education Council (YÖK), IHKIB, İTHİB and IDMIB exporters’ unions and Turkey Textile Industry Employers Union (TTSİS), the ‘My Preference is Textile Engineering’ scholarship project offers scholarships to students up to minimum wage. Occupancy in the textile engineering departments of 15 universities reached a serious level with 86.1%. Departments’ scores have also increased this year due to the increase in applications. This means the application of more qualified students.
While the number of students filling the quota of 460 people was 396, the occupancy rate in leading universities was 100%. Occupancy reached 100% in textile engineering departments at ITU, Gaziantep, Erciyes, Ege, Dokuz Eylül, Bursa Uludağ, Süleyman Demirel, Pamukkale, Marmara (M.K.O.K.) and Marmara Universities.
In the fight against Coronavirus
Students who are in the first 80 thousand in the university exam and one of their first 5 choices is Textile Engineering, can benefit from scholarships up to the minimum wage. The first 20 thousand students will receive scholarships equal to the minimum wage, between 20 and 50 thousand students will receive 70% of the minimum wage, and 50 to 80 thousand students will receive 50% of the minimum wage. In addition, students have the opportunity of internships while studying and the guarantee of finding a job after graduation.
Stating that the interest in textile engineering education has reached record levels with the scholarships and promotional activities, the sector representatives emphasized that this is a promising development for the future of the sector and the country. Before the scholarship project started last year, the enrolment rate in textile engineering departments was 42%. With the effect of the scholarship, the department occupancy rate broke a record with 92% last year. Contributing to the qualified manpower of the Turkish textile industry, the scholarship project created a general satisfaction with its successful results in its second year.
Coronavirus precautions: Protective Textile Test Center to be established in Gebze
With the coronavirus pandemic era, a new one has been added to the enterprises for technical textiles. The Protective Textile Test Center (KOTTEM) will be established in TUBITAK MAM in Gebze with the support of the MARKA
Protective Textile Test Center (KOTTEM) will be realized in cooperation with TUBITAK Marmara Research Center (TUBITAK MAM), Eastern Marmara Development Agency (MARKA) and Gebze University. Protocol signing ceremony was held with the participation of Kocaeli Governor Seddar Yavuz, Head of TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center. Dr. İbrahim Kılıçaslan, Vice President Assoc. Dr. Murat Makaracı, Vice President Mehmet Sait Karaca, Gebze Technical University Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammed Hasan Aslan the General Secretary of the Eastern Marmara Development Agency, Mustafa Çöpoğlu and the accompanying delegation.
At his speech at the signing ceremony, Kocaeli Governor Mr. Seddar Yavuz drew attention to the importance of Turkey becoming a country that can compete with the world. Yavuz; “This is primarily due to its scientific capacity, the ability to follow technological developments and produce technology. During the pandemic, especially the events that took place between the states gave us very important lessons. We must come to a level that can do everything ourselves now”. In his speech, Governor Yavuz thanked everyone who contributed to the process, especially President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Necessary technical infrastructure and staff will be constituted in KOTTEM to carry out functional textiles tests. The center will also encourage the industry to develop new technical textiles.
Altınyıldız Classics opens its second store in Germany
Altınyıldız Classics, one of the leading brands in the men’s clothing sector, continues its breakthroughs abroad as with the mitigation of the effect of the pandemic process, which affects the whole world. the With its first store in Frankfurt, Germany, Altınyıldız Classics opened its second store in the city of Dortmund.
Altınyıldız Classics started to serve on a 170 square meter area with its new concept in Thier Galerie Shopping Mall in Dortmund, which is one of the most important industrial cities of Germany and known as the city of culture and technology.
In addition to its versatile designs, Altınyıldız Classics offers stylish products, suitable for every moment of the day, from suits to shirts and accessories, as well as its versatile designs in Dortmund Thier Galerie Shopping Mall.
Altınyıldız Classics opened its 22nd store abroad and plans to open its third store in Germany towards the end of the year, and aims to continue to be the pioneer of men’s fashion among the fastest growing retail brands abroad.
A Boyner Holding company, Altınyıldız Mensucat ve Konfeksiyon Fabrikaları A.Ş. started operating in 1952. The brand introduced the Turkish fabric to the world and made its first export in 1956.
New dates announced for Denim Show’s New Delhi and Mumbai editions
Two denim events organized in India were postponed due to the increase in Covid-19 (coronavirus) cases. New dates for the New Delhi and Mumbai editions of the Denim Show organized by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India and MEX Exhibitions have been announced. The new date of Denim Show New Delhi, which is planned to be held on August 21-23, 2020, has been postponed to December 17-19, 2020. The new date of the Mumbai edition of the event was announced as March 19-21, 2021.
Denim Show serves as a unique platform where the entire denim fraternity converges to showcase latest products, technologies; and set future trends. Held in association with Denim Manufacturers’ Association (DMA); the show helps in furthering the potential of the Indian denim industry; by creating a stage through which suppliers and buyers under the denim manufacturing supply chain could avail the benefits of targeted business opportunities. India’s position in manufacturing denim is very strong and the Denim Show will act as a catalyst taking it a notch-above to make it more competitive.
The Denim Show encompasses some specially-designed key highlights
Denim is one of the most versatile fabrics known to mankind and its application has moved far beyond just clothing. Keeping this in view, the organisers have crafted this show to meet both contemporary and future needs of this industry. In every edition, exhibitors put forth innovations that add value to this sector, with themes such as circularity of the economy and sustainability driving the show. The Denim Show encompasses some specially-designed key highlights such as Denim Applications – highlighting rapidly increasing applications of Denim fabrics and textiles; Denim Talks – comprising a series of talks bringing forth innovation, education & sustainability; Denim Trends – aimed at defining future denim trends; and Denim Walks – showcasing latest fashion trends in denim through a fashion show. The highlights aim to enrich the experience of both exhibitors and visitors by giving them more avenues for participation.
The New Delhi edition of Denim Show will be held at India Expo Mart Ltd in Greater Noida, from 17 – 19 December 2020, while the Mumbai edition has been scheduled from 19 – 21 March 2021 at Bombay Exhibition Center, Mumbai.
59th Dornbirn-GFC cancelled due to ongoing COVID-19
The 59th edition of Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (Dornbirn-GFC), which is planned to be held on September 16-18, 2020, has been cancelled due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). In the statement made by the event organization, it was stated that this was a very difficult decision and they regret it very much. It was noted that due to the impact of COVID-19, it will not be possible to hold this year’s congress as usual, and travel restrictions and extraordinary economic situation made it difficult to plan the event. The protection of the health and safety of the visitors came to the fore in taking this decision.
60th Dornbirn-GFC will be held on September 15-17, 2021 in Dornbirn. Dornbirn-GFC Asia, the Asian version of the Congress, will be held on March 2-3, 2021. With its expanding scope, 58th Dornbirn-GFC hosted the presentations of more than 100 international speakers and researchers in 2019. The event managed to attract over 700 professionals from the global market.
Dornbirn-GFC 2020 Webinar Week
As an alternative the organization will offer some lectures and discussions in the form of webinars. From 16 – 18 September 2020 with a focus on the following topics:
Opening with keynote on “Green Deal – Implications for the textile Industry” and the awarding of the “Paul Schlack/Wilhelm Albrecht Prize”.
Lectures and discussions on the topics; “Leading Polymer Recycling Technologies”, “Smart, integrated, digital textile production chain”, “Lessons learned from packaging – EPR schemes for Textiles” and “Circular Economy”.
Further they are planning lectures and discussions on the burning issue on “PPE Production – a challenge for the industry”.
Organization owners will hold these digital meetings to keep the “Dornbirn-GFC Innovation Community” up-to-date. Registration links will be free to follow these events and will be sent on time to those who wish. Those who wonder more about the subject can find it at their website.
E-fair and e-commerce support for companies
The dimensions of digital commerce increased even more during the coronavirus pandemic. The possibilities of the digital world have become more prominent due to the cancelled or postponed exhibitions and B2B events. Therefore, support has been provided for Turkish companies’ digital promotion and marketing activities towards foreign markets. The President’s Decision “Supporting Digital Activities at Market Entry” was published in the Official Gazette and entered into effect on May 27. With this decision, expenses of business associations and industrial and / or commercial establishments located in Turkey, related to digital marketing activities for market entry will be met from the Support and Price Stabilization Fund.
In this context, company activities such as virtual fairs, trade delegation events and e-commerce memberships through sector associations such as TIM, TOBB, DEİK, Exporters’ Associations etc. were included in the scope of trade support. 50% of the companies’ expenses on this issue will be covered by the Support and Price Stability Fund. Maximum 50 thousand dollars of the virtual fair and virtual commercial delegation expenses of the companies will be supported in cash. At the same time, virtual fair organizations will be supported by 50% and up to a maximum of 100,000 dollars per activity.
Support and Price Stability Fund
With this new decision under the control of the Ministry of Commerce, 80% of the membership expenses of companies; that are members of e-commerce sites will be covered; by the Support and Price Stability Fund this year and 60% in the coming years. The support will last 2 years. Companies that will receive 8 thousand liras in cash support for each membership; will be supported for membership of up to 3 commercial websites.
Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan said in a statement on twitter; “With the Covid-19 pandemic, we have developed a new support mechanism that will encourage export-oriented digital activities in this era when business practices have changed radically and digitalization has gained importance. With the President’s decision published in the Official Gazette, we include the membership of our companies in e-commerce sites, participation in virtual commerce committees and virtual fairs, and organizing virtual fairs”.
DOMOTEX Turkey Postponed to 2021
DOMOTEX Turkey, the carpet and floor coverings fair planned to be held in Gaziantep on July 13-16, 2020; was postponed to 2021 due to the developments regarding the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak. In a statement made by Deutsche Messe subsidiary Hannover Fairs Turkey; it was specified that this decision intense due to the demands from exhibitors and visitors of and as a result of interviews taken.
The official statement underlines that the priority is health and safety, and this decision is taken for the best results for the participants. The statement included the following statements; “We sincerely thank for the support and cooperation shown by our business partners, associations, exhibitors and visitors who supported our fair in these challenging days both in our country and the world, especially in the past few weeks, and we would like to state that we believe that we will get over this period shoulder to shoulder with you”.
The fair’s owner, Hannover Fair Turkey, said in a statement that Domotex Turkey will be announced to the public as soon as possible when it will be held next year.
203 companies from 14 countries participated in DOMOTEX Turkey held last year, and the fair hosted 14309 sector professionals from 89 countries.
Coronavirus postpone at INDIA ITME and CAITME
The Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak continues to reschedule the fair calendar. Important announcements about the fair calendar came from two important fairs of the Asian region. While the INDIA ITME 2020 was postponed to a year later, the CAITME 2020 was planned for October instead of September.
The most important textile machinery fair of India and South Asia market, which was planned on December 10-15, 2020, has been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus outbreak and its effects. The new date of the fair was announced as December 8-13, 2021. The fair will be held next year at the Greater Noida IEML.
The organizer of the fair, ITME Society, said in a statement that the Covid19 outbreak caused disruptions and troubles in general life, industry and economy, especially in the textile and textile engineering industry all over the world. In the statement, it was noted that INDA Society supports the industry, which is experiencing hard times and will double the efforts of making customers reach the participants.
As of May 4, 2020, 42670 cases and 1395 deaths have been recorded in India regarding the Covid 19 outbreak.
CAITME will take place on the scheduled date
CAITME, the leading textile machinery fair of Uzbekistan and Central Asian market, was planned to be held on September 9-11. With the announcement made from the fair company, it was announced that the fair will be held within the scope of “Global Textile Days Tashkent 2020” on October 28-30, 2020.
The fair has been an important event in the textile machinery sector for 13 years, and manages to attract attention from both exhibitors and visitors as a platform where new products and advanced technologies are displayed for the textile and knitwear industries. The fair will be held at Uzexpocentre NEC.
As of May 4, 2020, the number of coronavirus outbreak cases in Uzbekistan was announced as 2160 and the death was 10.
H&M Turkey has donated 30 thousand outfits to hospitals
Swedish-based fashion and retail giant H&M supported healthcare professionals to prevent coronavirus epidemics. In cooperation with the Ministry of Health, H&M Turkey delivered 30 thousand units of clean clothes consisting of shirts, socks and underwear to 18 hospitals.
The brand provided support for healthcare professionals of 18 hospitals, particularly Şişli Etfal, Okmeydanı Public Hospital, Cerrahpaşa and Çapa Medical Faculty Hospital. H&M Turkey Country Manager Müge Arpacıoğlu said in a statement that as H&M Group, they started producing personal protective equipment for the hospital and healthcare workers through the supply chain last month. Arpacıoğlu; “In this process, we have seen that healthcare professionals in our country also need clean clothes during their busy working tempo. We, as H&M Turkey, are grateful for the extraordinary work that our health workers put out”.
ITMA ASIA + CITME Postponed to Next Year
The biggest textile machinery fair of the Asian market, ITMA ASIA + CITME, which is planned to be held on October 15-19, 2020, has been re-planned due to concerns caused by the coronavirus outbreak despite receiving strong feedback from the participants. The fair will be held at the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) from 12 to 16 June 2021.
The fair owner, CEMATEX and its Chinese partners, the Textile Industry Sub-Council CCPIT (CCPIT-Tex), China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA) and China Exhibition Center Group Company (CIEC) found this decision necessary due to the coronavirus pandemic. CEMATEX President Fritz P. Mayer said:
“We seek your understanding as this decision has been made with the safety and health concerns of our participants and partners in mind. The global economy has been severely affected by the pandemic. On a positive note, the International Monetary Fund has predicted that there would be global economic growth at 5.8 per cent next year. Hence, it is more prudent to look at a date around mid of next year.”
Taking place 2 years ago, ITMA ASIA + CITME 2018 hosted more than 100 thousand registered visitors from 116 countries with 1733 exhibitors from 28 countries and economies.
Support to stakeholders in the DeFacto supply chain
Textile, ready-to-wear and retail giant DeFacto decided not to leave its stakeholders alone in the textile supply chain, which had difficulties due to the coronavirus outbreak. DeFacto CEO İhsan Ateş said that they will pay 400 million liras within a month for nearly 19 million pieces of products they produce for the summer season. At the same time, Ateş noted that they will order 500 million liras for the 2020-21 winter season, and will allow suppliers to breathe with a total of 900 million liras. Ateş; “We have put our hand under the stone so that the system does not stop and the machines continue to work”.
ITM2020 postponed for the second time, new date is June 2021
Turkey’s and the region’s largest textile machinery and technology exhibition ITM2020 was postponed for the second time due to coronavirus outbreak. Planned to be held on June2-6, the exhibition was postponed to July 14-18, 2020 with a previous announcement. The organization company Teknik Fuarcılık announced that the exhibition is postponed to 2021 in the light of coronavirus outbreak speed of spread and the developments related to it. Accordingly, the new date of the exhibiton was announced as June 22-26, 2021. The Hightex 2020, which will be held simultaneously with ITM, has been postponed to June 22-26, 2021 as well.
Previously postponed, JEC World 2020 is cancelled
The uncertainties and fluctuations in the fair dates continue due to the coronavirus outbreak. JEC World 2020 in Paris, one of the most important composite fair of the world, was postponed to May 12-14, 2020 instead of March 3-5 with a previous statement. However, with a new announcement, it was announced that this year’s edition was cancelled and the fair will be held on March 9-11 next year.
Ready-to-wear manufacturers halt production due to coronavirus
The ready-to-wear industry decided to halt production until the end of April. Hüseyin Öztürk, the Chairman of the Board of Fashion and Apparel Federation (MHGF); announced that they had decided to advise their memberd to halt the production; until the end of April due to the coronavirus outbreak. Öztürk stated in a written statement that MHGF represent 30 sectoral associations and 9 thousand 300 firms; in textile, ready-to-wear, fashion, leather, leather garments and footwear in Turkey.
Uncertainty in global clothing supply chain
GlobalData emphasized that the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak caused great uncertainty and chaos; in the global clothing supply chain in a statement they have published. With the outbreak reaching retailers and manufacturers; it is stated that there has been a rapid disintegration in the entire clothing supply chain. It is noted that there is chaos in the entire supply chain due to disruptions in clothes deliveries; especially in China.
On the other hand, retailers suffered serious losses due to travel restrictions and falling shopping figures to slow the outbreak. For this reason, they reduced their payments, or are postponing them. Order cancellations occur quite frequently in this process.
Coronavirus outbreak stops production and sales
In order to control the new type of coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak; home quarantine measures have begun to exert their narrowing effects on the economy. The word on the street was that this outbreak may be an opportunity for the Turkish textile and ready-to-wear industry in the export markets a month ago; but it has brought a different outcome today. Temporary closures, restrictions began to take place also in Turkey due to outbreak in both production and sales points.
The effects of the outbreak in daily life are clearly seen, with the curfew imposed on patients over 65 years old and chronic. In the past weeks, many important ready-to-wear and retail brand had announced that they had closed their stores temporarily. Following these statements of the brands, many shopping malls shared with the public that they were temporarily closed.
Coronavirus measures in textiles
In the Denizli region, Gökhan Tekstil, Durul Havlu, Şikel Tekstil and Denizli İpek Tekstil also stopped their production temporarily. However, a textile company in Bolu Yeniçağ; which decided to take a break from production for a month due to the outbreak; started production again to meet the increasing demand for masks. Çak Tekstil; which is located in Sakarya Akyazı and employs 1200 people; was among the manufacturers that temporarily stopped its production.
One of Turkey’s largest textile companies, Sanko Tekstil has announced that they are going to pay an extra 1.000 TL to all of its employees. This payment made from the zakat fund of the Holding was defined as Food Aid to the employees. Sanko Holding also announced that the terms of all sales made from Sanko companies until March 31, 2020; were ‘postponed for 60 days without adding any maturity difference’.
So what is being done in Turkey about this coronavirus outbreak that affects the whole world?
The Ministry of Health, Culture and Tourism and Commerce acted jointly and organized and implemented a comprehensive set of measures. First, travel restrictions were imposed on the countries where the virus was seen. Turkish citizens in these countries were brought in private flights and were observed in quarantine. As the whole world, Turkey began to make more stringent monitoring and health testing at its borders. Cases are tried to be detected by measuring body temperatures at airports and borders. Turkey has not yet closed its borders to apply quarantine in the whole country like Italy.
Meltblown fabric exports are subject to preliminary permit
Turkey took an important business decision in part of the fight of the new type of coronavirus (Covid-19). In order to meet the domestic demand; besides the meltblown fabric (GTIP: 56.03) used in making masks; the export of ethyl alcohol, cologne, disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide was attached to a preliminary permit. The Communiqué on Commodity-Related Goods by the Ministry of Trade entered into force; after being published in the Official Gazette as of 18 March.
With the temporary articles added to the Communiqué; customs declarations for these goods will be recorded by the general secretariat of the relevant export associations; following the preliminary approval of the Ministry of Trade General Directorate of Exports. The provisions of the communiqué will not apply to goods approved by the Customs Declaration General Secretariat of the Exporters’ Associations prior to the publication of the regulation.
Events are postponed or cancelled
Urgent measures for activities were announced due to the coronavirus transmission being from person to person through contact and respiration. Fairs, exhibitions, concerts, sports activities and many other collective events constitute the first topics that come to mind. Many fairs and events were postponed to the second half of the year or were completely cancelled in Turkey; as in many parts of the world. At the concluding meeting of the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Sciences Board; to be effective from March 9, international organizations attended were advised to postpone until the end of Covid-19 outbreak.
New Date of FESPA 2020 Announced
Planned to be held on March 24-27 but postponed due to the new type of coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak; FESPA Global Print Expo’s new date has been announced. FESPA announced that the European Sign Expo and Sportswear Pro will take place on October 6-8, 2020 at IFEMA – Feria de Madrid together with the flagship event FESPA Global Print Expo.
FESPA CEO Neil Felton disclosed in a statement that the global community is making a strong demand for a FESPA event; although the coronavirus’ impact on the speciality printing sector continues. Noting that they were very impressed by this; Felton stated that the 3 event will organized on the new date and they were grateful to the IFEMA team who supported them in this process.
FESPA 2020 had been postponed
With two weeks remaining FESPA Global Print Expo 2020 (March 24-27, 2020); and the simultaneously organized European Sign Expo 2020 and Sportswear Pro 2020 had been postponed. The announcement made by FESPA had disclosed that in light of the rapidly evolving situation regarding COVID-19 in mainland Europe; and in close dialogue with their national Associations and exhibitors, they had taken the decision to postpone. Read more following the link below.
Expectation becomes reality! FESPA 2020 postponed
INDA organizes a survey for the necessary protective equipment
The US nonwovens industry umbrella organization INDA has launched a survey; to fight the country’s new type of coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. They organized a survey among their members to determine the amount of protective and hygienic nonwoven materials; and to reveal the production and stock status of the industry.
Industry and other segments of the textile industry have been contacted by officials; at the highest levels of the White House and on Capitol Hill; for their help meeting the country’s needs for personal protective equipment and medical supplies required to combat the COVID-19 crisis. They are specifically seeking insight on the products that your companies make; as well as the ability to provide needed supply. INDA defines this need as immediate.
ITM 2020 has been postponed to July 14 – 18, 2020
Turkey and the region’s largest textile machinery and technologies exhibition ITM 2020 had a date revision. As a result of the statements and precautionary decisions of the World Health Organization and the Turkish Ministry of Health; it was announced that the exhibition was postponed to July 14 – 18, 2020 instead of June 2-6, 2020. The exhibition will be held in Istanbul TÜYAP Fair Centre.
Drupa joined the fairs postponed due to coronavirus outbreak
The drupa trade fair scheduled for 16-26 June 2020 will be postponed to 20-30 April 2021. In doing so, Messe Düsseldorf is following the recommendation of the crisis management team of the German Federal Government; to take into account the principles of the Robert Koch Institute when assessing the risk of major events. Based on this recommendation and the recent significant increase in the number of people infected with the new corona virus (SARS-CoV-2); including in Europe, Messe Düsseldorf has reassessed the situation. In addition, there is the general ruling issued by the city of Düsseldorf on 11 March 2020; in which major events with more than 1,000 participants present at the same time are generally prohibited.
National Textile Congress and II. R&D Days, Academy – Industry Meeting
National Textile Congress and II. R&D Days, Academy – Industry Meeting to be held at ITU Gümüşsuyu Campus on April 02-03, 2020 has been postponed to JUNE due to the 3-week holiday and the postponement of all meetings at the universities by the decree of Higher Education Council and the academic calendar being indefinite. It is stated that the information about the exact date will be announced in the coming days.
Announcement from Mars Fuarcılık
Mars Fuarcılık announced that it was decided to postpone the various fairs it represented due to the corona virus outbreak. It was emphasized that this decision was taken by the main organizers so that the exhibitors; visitors or staff are not exposed to a potential risk of infection. It is noted that if the fairs are postponed due to force majeure; the contracts of the participants will be automatically valid for the new date and the billed; and/or paid deposits will be transferred to the new date. You can get detailed information about the postponed fairs from Mars Fuarcılık website.
Turkish Airlines and Pegasus announced flight and passenger measures
Major Turkish airlines companies, such as Turkish Airlines (THY) and Pegasus; have announced that they are doing similar work and taking measures. Companies have cancelled their flights to several destinations, primarily in China, where the virus is common.
Explaining the measures taken at a press conference at the end of February, THY Chairman İlker Aycı then sent an e-mail to Miles & Smiles members and informed them. Aycı underlined that they attach importance to travel safety and passenger health. Pointing out that the virus is also seen in the European region, Aycı stated that they are working with international organizations and ministries regarding the issue. As part of these measures, flights to China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, Iraq and Nakhichevan were cancelled. In all aircraft, including flights to countries in the risk group, disinfecting steaming and cleaning is carried out with proven scientific methods.
High Efficiency Particulate Air Filters (HEPA) systems
In this cleaning, frequently touched surfaces such as toilets in the cabin and sinks; folding tables, armrests, seatbelt buckles and in-flight entertainment screens and controls are wiped with disinfectants; all blankets, cloths, headrest covers, sheets and headphones are replaced with new ones every flight. Aycı stated that during the flight, the air inside the cabin is constantly cleaned with hospital-standard High Efficiency Particulate Air Filters (HEPA) systems.
In a statement made by Pegasus, which cancelled flights to Iran, Italy and Iraq; it was announced that the frequency of disinfection in the aircrafts of the company fleet was increased; and made in an international nature. It was stated that the headrest covers were changed regularly; while Pegasus teams were informed in-depth about the measures and the procedure. Public health passenger promotion forms were started to be distributed and filled in on international flights. These forms are forwarded to the relevant units with the landing of the aircraft. In addition, protective masks for cabin crews and passengers are now available on board.
Prevention of exorbitant price hike in the market
Following the announcement of the first case of coronavirus in Turkey on 11 March; increases were seen in the prices for products such as mask and other medical supplies, and hygiene products such as disinfectants and cologne. There were products that went up to 10 times the normal price. There were serious difficulties in accessing products such as masks and colognes. Due to a possible quarantine, people consumed toilet paper and dry food products very quickly on market shelves.
Minister of Commerce Ruhsar Pekcan announced that simultaneous inspections were initiated in 81 provinces on masks; and other health products and foods. Minister Pekcan explained that as a result of the inspections; the shelves were full and there was no unusual increase in food prices. Noting that 13 companies have been examined and 9 have been fined; in the inspections carried out for the increase in mask prices; Pekcan underlined that necessary action will be taken regarding unfair price increases.
Measures increased at customs regarding coronavirus
The Ministry of Commerce has also implemented a number of measures against coronavirus at the customs. In this context, while some customs gates were closed, in others health checks were implemented. Customs officers began to use plastic gloves, masks and disinfectants. In general, Turkish citizens are allowed to pass through our border gates in the east and south; but they are not allowed to exit. The citizens of other countries were allowed to exit, but there is a ban on entry to Turkey. First interventions and controls are carried out with field hospitals established at various customs gates.
Another fair postponed due to coronavirus outbreak
Dozens of fairs and events in China have been cancelled; since the new type of coronavirus outbreak occurred in December 2019. Due to the unavoidable increase in cases and deaths; almost all activities planned for the first half of the year are either cancelled; or postponed to the second half of the year. The 21st Zhejiang International Trade Fair for Textile and Garment Industry; which is planned to be held on May 14-16, has been postponed to July 22-24 2020.
Another fair postponed due to coronavirus outbreak
INDEX 20 postponed due to coronavirus threat
Several important fairs has been announcing the decision to postpone or cancel for the last two months; due to the new type of coronavirus outbreak. INDEX 20, which is the biggest fair of the nonwoven sector, has also joined among the postponed fairs. The fair, which is planned to be held in Geneva from March 31st to April 3rd; was postponed to October 20-23, 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak that increased its impact. By ordinance entering into force on 28 February 2020 at 10:00 am; the Swiss Federal Council has prohibited all events bringing together more than 1’000 people.
INDEX 20 postponed due to coronavirus threat
Primark alter course to Turkey for clothing supplies
Against potential problems in the textile supply chain due to the outbreak of coronavirus; apparel and retail companies began serious negotiations in order to purchase from Turkey. John Bason, head of the finance unit of Associated British (AB) Foods; owner of the UK-based clothing retail brand Primark, made a statement to Reuters in this direction. Accordingly the brand is in discussions with existing suppliers from; Turkey, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Eastern Europe; in the unlikely event of disruption at the clothing ites supplied from China. Bason said in a statement that China had more than 40% share of Primark’s total clothing imports.
Primark alter course to Turkey for clothing supplies
Global buyers move their orders to Turkey
Textile orders move to Turkey due to coronavirus outbreak. Serious changes may occur in global markets due to the Coronavirus outbreak; that started and spread rapidly in December in Wuan, China. Many brands and retail companies supplying from the biggest production power of the global textile industry China; have reshaped the supply process due to the coronavirus. Coronavirus concern has affected important regional textile producer countries; such as Pakistan and Bangladesh alongside China. While purchasing offices do not travel to China; production has come to a halt in many companies in China. Therefore, the outbreak seriously affected both the Chinese economy and the global supply chain. Textile and ready-to-wear sectors where collection-based and uninterrupted product flow is required; are among the first sectors affected by this process.
Global buyers move their orders to Turkey
Several fairs in China postponed due to coronavirus outbreak
The coronavirus outbreak, which began in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, is spreading at an unexpected rate. It is stated that more than a thousand people died and 35 thousand cases were detected in two months. The virus was transmitted to hundreds of people in 27 countries other than China; and it has brought daily life to a standstill in a wide area in China, especially Wuhan. On January 30, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global emergency for the coronavirus outbreak.
Several fairs in China postponed due to coronavirus outbreak