From the Sector

Textiles functionalized with antiviral agents are intended to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens, particularly in a medical environment. These antiviral properties must be carefully tested and verified in laboratory tests. The biological testing laboratory of the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) has examined antiviral activities with coronaviruses as part of an interdisciplinary research project on textiles for infection control.

Viruses can survive on plastic surfaces or textiles for several hours to days. These surfaces therefore play an important role in the transmission of viruses as pathogens. Numerous studies were done on this topic during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Textiles treated with antiviral agents can help to reduce this risk of transmission. This offers added value, especially for textiles used in medical environments.

In order to confirm these antiviral properties, laboratory tests are the state of the art and help to minimize trials in a medical environment. However, working with viruses is very complex and elaborate, as viruses cannot be proliferated on culture media like bacteria. By definition, viruses are not living organisms because they are dependent on host cells to replicate. For laboratory tests, this means that both technical expertise in microbiology and in cell culture technology must be combined for successful work. For laboratory activities involving human and animal pathogens, official authorization is required. The DITF biological testing laboratory is authorized for work with pathogens in accordance with the German Infection Protection Act and the Animal Pathogens Ordinance up to risk group 2. These are microorganisms that can cause disease in humans or animals which can be well controlled generally.

Usually test laboratories carry out antiviral tests with so-called bacteriophages because they are easier to handle. These viruses use bacteria as host cells to replicate. A different, more realistic approach was taken at the DITF as part of a research project. Here, antiviral activity was determined against a coronavirus. With the MHV virus, a corona virus was chosen that is genetically very closely related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and uses eukaryotic cells as a host. Eukaryotic cells are cells with a nucleus such as those found in humans and animals. The test procedure for determining the antiviral efficacy against coronaviruses had to be adapted to both the viruses and the host cells. In case the host cells are infected by the viruses and used as a “replication machine”, these cells show damages, so-called cytopathic effects, which are clearly visible under the light microscope. The visible damages to the host cells are used to determine the number of viruses indirectly as they are not visible under the light microscope due to their very small size.

As part of the joint research project with Heraeus Precious Metals GmbH & Co. KG to develop antimicrobial protective clothing for infection control based on AGXX® technology, a test protocol was developed at the DITF biological laboratory to determine the antiviral activity against a coronavirus. A significant inactivation of MHV coronaviruses of more than 99 percent was demonstrated in textiles finished with AGXX®. The tests on the antiviral properties of textiles against a coronavirus make an important contribution to the development and quality control of antiviral textiles.

Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (İHKİB) and Bilişim Vadisi -Technology Development Zone (Informatics Valley) have signed a Cooperation Protocol to enhance the competitiveness of the Turkish apparel industry in global markets. Under this protocol, the parties will develop projects and work packages that add value to the sector, focusing primarily on twin transformation, sustainability, the circular economy, and design. 

Speaking at the signing ceremony, İHKİB Vice President Mustafa Paşahan noted that Türkiye is the world’s seventh-largest apparel supplier and the third-largest supplier to the European Union (EU). He stated that Türkiye accounts for 3.2% of global apparel exports, and continued: 

“We are a leading country in apparel production. Thanks to our high quality, rapid and flexible manufacturing capabilities, and geographical advantages, we stand out from our competitors. We already comply with European standards in areas such as recycling, carbon footprint reduction, digitalization, and social compliance. To further strengthen our position in global markets, we aim to build on these existing strengths and turn digital and green transformation into key opportunities. In this process, we are making effective use of EU funds through projects developed under the IPA (Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance). So far, we have secured €37 million in EU funding. In February, we successfully completed our METAMORPHOSIS project under IPA II, one of the key outcomes of which was the establishment of the Digital Transformation Center, which now serves the industry. Last month, we launched our MIDAS project, also with EU funding, to provide the necessary infrastructure for twin transformation among SMEs. Later this year, we will initiate our 'Carbon Footprint Tracking and Reduction' project, again supported by EU funds. With our new partnership with Bilişim Vadisi, we believe we will launch many innovative projects that will further enhance the global competitiveness of our fashion industry, especially in digitalization and green transformation.” 

ERKAM TUZGEN: CONNECTING STAKEHOLDERS WITHIN THE SAME ECOSYSTEM 
General Manager of Bilişim Vadisi Erkam Tüzgen also shared his thoughts: “Next-generation textile technologies are being driven not only by major players but also by creative startups. Through this program, we are bringing together young entrepreneurs, designers, and technology developers within a shared ecosystem. Bilişim Vadisi will continue to act as a catalyst at this intersection of technology and design.”

Under the protocol, the two parties will apply for national and international support programs focused on digitalization, green transformation, sustainability, the circular economy, and creative industries. They will jointly develop projects and work packages aligned with strategic goals in the technology and design sectors. By collaborating with their affiliates and stakeholders, they will form solution-oriented partnerships in digital transformation and design processes. They will also engage in joint efforts through structures such as digitalization and design clustering centers. Entrepreneurs based in Bilişim Vadisi will be given opportunities to grow through partnerships with İHKİB members.

Volunteers at Salvation Army charity shops from across the UK, were invited to a photoshoot with top celebrity photographer and glam team at Holborn Studios to feature in a new Volunteers’ Week campaign.

The photoshoot saw hundreds of second-hand items, that were donated to Salvation Army clothing banks and charity shops, selected to style the volunteers for a photoshoot which aims to celebrate the important role volunteers and charity shops play in their community and promoting sustainable fashion.

There are over 10,2001 charity shops in the UK, supported by around 233,0002 volunteers. Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) operates over 250 stores on behalf of its parent charity, supported by more than 5,5003 volunteers.

Kelly Castelete, Head of Communications at Salvation Army Trading Company, said:
“Our charity shops are all about community, affordability and sustainability. We have over 5,500 volunteers who help us sort through donations and help our customers to find amazing second-hand fashion. With our volunteers’ help, we raise millions of pounds every year to support The Salvation Army’s important work. Our volunteers are true advocates for sustainable fashion, and they continue the long legacy of our charity to turn donated items into valuable resources to help others and help protect our planet. We were honoured to invite volunteers to take centre stage for our latest campaign. They shone in front of the camera on the day, and they are shining examples to us every day.”

The fashion shoot was art directed and photographed by Catherine Harbour, with styling by Rebekah Roy, and hair and make-up by Lan Nguyen-Grealis.

As part of Volunteers’ Week 2025 which is running from 2nd to 8th June, shops will celebrate their volunteers and host tea parties. A special edition of SATCoL’s internal magazine was also produced which shares volunteer stories and all the benefits of volunteering.

The green fashion community is looking forward to the forthcoming INNATEX, which takes places from 19 to 21 July 2025. A unique variety of fashion labels will present styles for all generations, occasions and tastes at the international trade fair for sustainable textiles in Hofheim-Wallau, near Frankfurt am Main.

One highlight of the fair will be the trade association’s expert panel on the topic of shoplifting, provided by MUVEO GmbH and the Hessen Retail Federation in response to feedback from retailers. As well as the latest facts and figures, leading experts on the panel will discuss preventive strategies and solutions.

“The issue of shoplifting has been brought to us by various representatives from the retail sector,” says Alexander Hitzel, Project Manager of INNATEX. “There is a growing sense of insecurity among retailers. Our panel not only explores the current challenges, but also provides concrete preventive measures, legal frameworks and strategic approaches. The emotional aspect is another important factor: How do you keep your cool when the situation escalates?”

On the Saturday and Sunday, a presentation from Nina Lorenzen (Fashion Changers Berlin) and the Community Talks with moderator Miriam Smend (Greenstyle Munich) will take place. These smaller-scale panels will focus primarily on the DESIGN DISCOVERIES and their stories – curated labels, exhibiting for the first time, still at their new location in the foyer.

The regular exhibitor portfolio includes exciting brands such as Dawn Denim, Jan’n’June and Mela. Näz Fashion, Bask in the Sun and Two Thirds will be representing the international contingent. Babies and young children are catered for by brands such as Koel, with their barefoot shoes, and Sense Organics. Zamt Berlin celebrates INNATEX premiere. Zamt Berlin celebrates INNATEX's premiere, while VAUDE, Knowledge Cotton Apparel and Recolution are established regulars. Similarly, there is plenty for friends of the footwear sector with brands such as Grand Step Shoes, Genesis Sustainable Footwear and Ethletic.

From 11 to 13 June 2025, the China National Garment Association (CNGA) invites to the BIRD Fashion Fair 2025 at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center (Futian) - China's first international trade fair with an exclusive focus on innovation and progress. More than 800 exhibitors from the country's most important womenswear hotspots, including Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Zhengzhou, will present themselves on over 34,000 square metres in parallel with Intertextile Shenzhen apparel fabrics and Yarn Expo.

The Greater Bay Area (GBA) is one of the most dynamic economic regions in China and plays a key role in the development of the domestic women's fashion industry. With fashion metropolises such as Shenzhen and Guangzhou, the GBA combines creative excellence, highly developed manufacturing structures and international trade expertise in a very small area. The region is home to numerous leading womenswear brands, innovative designers and specialised suppliers - and is considered a significant growth driver for the integration of Chinese womenswear into global markets.

As a strategic platform for exchange between Chinese brands and international markets, the trade fair brings together forward-looking design, sustainable fashion, smart production technologies and global industry trends. The focus is on promoting international cooperation and creative synergies - all under the banner of BOLD / INTELLIGENT / RELENTLESS / DESIGN.

In four halls, BIRD provides a comprehensive overview of the entire spectrum of womenswear: from blouses, dresses, trousers, jackets and knitwear to activewear, loungewear and sun protection clothing through to accessories, bags, shoes, scarves, hats and belts.

CHIC 2025 (September) will open its doors at the National Convention and Exhibition Centre in Shanghai from 2 to 4 September 2025. As the most important trade fair platform for the apparel industry in China, the event will once again bring together leading fashion companies and brands along the entire textile value chain with professional buyers from home and abroad. The focus is on innovative product presentations, precise business matchmaking and the development of dynamic future markets - this time under the motto ‘Fashion Picnic in Autumn’ in a relaxed atmosphere. More than 800 exhibitors and 60,000 visitors are once again expected to attend the autumn event on more than 50,000 sqm at the National Exhibition& Convention Center in Shanghai showcasing Spring / Summer collections 2026 of the entire fashion range: womenswear, menswear, kids wear, accessories / shoes / bags collections.

Structured trade fair concept with nine clear theme areas
With nine curated exhibition areas, CHIC 2025 (September) offers a comprehensive overview of current trends and developments in the fashion industry in the North Entrance Hall, Hall 2.1 and 3 of the National Exhibition & Convention Center Shanghai: CHIC SELECTED (market leader with a focus on quality and innovation), CHIC Impulses (designer), Denim World, Sports Outdoor, Tailoring Journey, Fashion Tech, The Wardrobe, Unique Specialties, and Accessories/Footwear/Bags.

Efficient matchmaking and focusing on new markets
As an established platform for business initiation and trade, CHIC held over 1,000 matchmaking sessions and successfully networked more than 600,000 trade visitors till today. The spring 2025 edition attracted 165,000 trade buyers, 55% of whom were at CHIC for the first time. In autumn, the trade fair will once again hold targeted matchmaking meetings for various channels and markets and tap into new buyer potential.

On May 23 and 24 an Open Day will be held in Rome at the Centro Apostolato Liturgico Largo Brancaccio 57, run by the Sister Disciples of the Divine Master. The event will unveil the first collection of chasubles (vestments worn to celebrate Holy Mass) made with Bemberg™ by Asahi Kasei.

The POPOLO IN CAMMINO – ON THE OCCASION OF THE JUBILEE 2025 – PELLEGRINI DI SPERANZA collection features liturgical vestments including chasubles, dalmatics and copes. During the event, Ettore Pellegrini, Marketing & Sales Manager of Asahi Kasei Fibers Italia, and Junshu Furusawa, Sales Manager & Board Member of Asahi Kasei Fibers Italia, will be present and will welcome all guests.

The choice of Bemberg™ - the brand of cupro fiber by Asahi Kasei, a regenerated cellulose fiber obtained from the closed-loop process using cotton linters -  was the result of a journey that began with a visit to Milano Unica (Italy’s premier textile trade fair) and continued with several presentations of the material in Rome. Bemberg™ stood out for its uniqueness and circular economy footprint. Thanks to its transparent and traceable supply chaih, it offers certified sustainability credentials and premium quality. The fiber respects form and drape, with a truly unique and precious feel: cool in summer, with excellent moisture control, offering superior comfort and a soft, impalpable touch on the skin.

The collection is a testimony to the Church’s commitment to sustainable conversion, made possible thanks to the work of the Sister Disciples of the Divine Master, a religious congregation of nuns who, with experience, skill, and creativity, design and craft liturgical vestments and a variety of  handcrafted items, including iconography, sculptures and ceramics. Their work is dedicated to serving the Church’s liturgy, guided by the principles of liturgical renewal: noble simplicity, dignity, and beauty in sobriety (cf. Sacrosanctum Concilium 34; 122; 124).

The fabric used for the vestments in this collection was designed by the Sister Disciples themselves and produced with textiles supplied by Brunello.

The Sister Disciples of the Divine Master present their creations through the Apostolato Liturgico, a retail point with an online shop offering religious articles—from sacred vestments to other liturgical items. Following the launch on May 23, the Apostolato Liturgico stores in Milan, Bari, Palermo, Florence, Cagliari, Rome, and others will feature window displays dedicated to the collection for the next three months.

Industry people at the 18th Bangladesh Denim Expo thinks that the country will continue to be an indispensable global sourcing destination even during the times of tariff and trade wars. Capacity building and innovation will be the building stone for the industry to sail through the uncertain times.

The 2-day expo kicks off today where 57 exhibitors from 13 countries are participating includes Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, China, Turkey, Spain, Italy, Vietnam. UAE, Germany, Switzerland & USA.

“Bangladesh has emerged as the fastest-growing apparel exporter to the United States in the first quarter of 2025, posting the highest year-on-year growth of 26.64%. This performance placed Bangladesh ahead of other major exporters such as India with a 24.04% rise, while Pakistan, Vietnam, and China with the rise of 17.49%, 13.96%, and 4.18% respectively at a time when US market is volatile because of imposing worldwide reciprocal tariff by the Trump’s Administration recently. I think even on the negotiation table of the trade issues our card should be the industry’s steady progress towards skill development, sustainability and innovation. As we need our trade partners as much as their consumers need us’’ said Mostafiz Uddin, Founder & CEO of Bangladesh Denim Expo.

Bangladesh is the largest denim exporter both to the USA and Europe. The country is enjoying duty-free market access to the EU under the Everything But Arms (EBA) and Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) as an least developed country (LDC); but the status to be changed to a developing nation next year.

If Bangladesh could not attain GSP Plus, the country from 2029 could not export duty free to the EU, the region accounts for 50.15% of Bangladesh’s total apparel export.

“In the last edition of Bangladesh Denim Expo, we had experts panel sessions on the LDC graduation where all the speakers unanimously stressed on the capacity building of the industry to cope up with the changing tariff regimes.  So, in this edition of the expo, all the panel sessions we designed are solely meant for capacity building of both the professionals and the industry. You may also say that from this edition we shifted from plans to actions to prepare Bangladesh’s denim industry for 2029 and beyond,’’ added Mostafiz Uddin.

There are two panel sessions scheduled for the two-day event on the topics “The growth of the Bangladesh denim industry, through the perspective of denim washing” and “Stretch-ability of Bangladesh denim traceability”.

Abdus Samad, Director, Well of Washing, Arief Labu, Co-founder & Creative Director, Ruhrose RBT Ltd. Julie Davies, GM - Processing Innovation, and Education Extension, The Woolmark Company, Kamal Uddin Mia, Chief Operation Officer (Washing), Bitopi Group, Marco Volpi, Head of Sales for the Europe and Africa region, Bluesign Technologies AG, Md. Forhad Hossain, Owner, Pure Chemicals, Raquib Imtiaz, Business manager, LC WAIKIKI, Reza e Rabbi, Head of Operation, Vertex Wear Limited,  Shohel Rana, CEO, Designer Fashion LTD and Designer Wash LTD, are sharing their expert insights in the panel sessions.

There will be also one special presentation on ‘The denim business beside sewing and wash production’ by Mohammad Jahangir Alam, Head of Operation, Square Denims Ltd, Garment Unit.  

At the expo also a fashion trend-zone is set up to showcase cutting-edge denim innovations and unique fabrics from Bangladesh.

The responsible Sourcing show, Source Fashion returns from the 8th -10th July 2025, is moving into a larger venue, The Grand Hall, Olympia London to accommodate its season-on-season growth. The show has grown by 30% each season, and now in its 3rd year, is showing no signs of slowing down.  Registration for the event is live from the 29th April 2025.    

Source Fashion is a global platform with exhibitors from over 25 countries including manufacturing power houses China, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Turkey as well as a growing focus on the UK and emerging African markets.

As the gateway to the UK fashion industry, Source Fashion connects audited, international manufacturers and suppliers with UK retailers, brands, wholesalers and corporates who want to make better. It has become a must-attend event for decision-makers in buying, sourcing, and procurement. Visitors can explore everything from white-label products to bespoke creation opportunities, all on the show floor.

February 2025 saw a 32% increase in visitors, its biggest increase to date with buyers, sourcing managers, product developers, technologists, and designers from some of retail’s biggest names, brands and retailers including John Lewis, Harrods, NEXT, Reiss, Fortum & Mason, QVC, Sophia Webster, Joseph, Lulu Guinness, ASOS, Pretty Lavish, Birkenstock, Chanel, Lucy & Yak, Oxford Shirt Company, French Connection, Aspinall’s, River Island, West Ham United, Sahara London, ME+EM and many more, attending.

Source Fashion has become renowned for its exceptional content program, designed to inspire, educate, and challenge visitors. This season’s programme will feature a variety of thought-provoking sessions and discussions, focused on driving growth and innovation in the fashion industry. The popular Source Debates stage, which facilitates conversations on the industry’s most pressing and provocative topics, will return, alongside the Catwalk Stage, showcasing live catwalks, case studies, panels, and interviews with top leaders in fashion retail, ensuring a dynamic and inspiring experience for all.

London’s boutique curated showroom event Scoop returns for the Spring/Summer ’26 edition, opening at Olympia National Kensington 13-15 July 2025.  Under the discerning eye of Founder and Managing Director Karen Radley, this season promises a mix of fresh talent, with an exciting blend of emerging names and established international designers and lifestyle brands—all thoughtfully chosen to inspire and engage buyers in a dynamic yet intimate setting.
 
Karen Radley said, “I have always had a passion for discovering new and emerging talent and presenting them to top buyers from across the country and internationally. This July, we're creating a wonderful showcase celebrating originality and forward-thinking design with each collection offering something uniquely captivating for the market. Moving to our new home at Olympia National Kensington gives us more opportunities to surprise and delight Scoop visitors and we’re thrilled to reveal a few of the exciting designers joining the showcase. Watch this space for more to come!”
 
In womenswear, IVORY PARIS is the definition of accessible luxury, designed in Italy and crafted from premium materials including pure cashmere, silk and merino wool. The collection of sophisticated and elegant separates is lightly tailored with a tonal colour palette. IVORY PARIS creates a fashion collection which blends premium style with sustainability, perfectly capturing the desire of the modern consumer.
 
Launched in 2015 the Korean fashion collection NORININE, is named for ‘A mixture of colours that makes fashion complete.’ Designed to outlast the seasons, NORININE features a capsule wardrobe of separates in a relaxed style with oversized tailoring and cropped waists created in a mix of textiles.   A favourite for Korean celebrities, the collection brings a fresh look to the UK market.
 
In footwear, Marseille born REQUINS, is a collection with beautiful heritage. A must-have in France the elegant shoe brand is expanding its appeal internationally being recognised for its perfect blend of French style, quality leathers and craftmanship. Currently selling to department stores and boutiques across France the collection is perfectly positioned to appeal to a UK customer.
 
In accessories, Maison Boinet belts combine a rich heritage going back to 1858 when it was founded in Château-Renault in the Centre Val de Loire, France. More than a just a belt accessory, it is the symbol of discreet luxury and timeless style that emphasises the waist. Since conception the collection has expanded to include bracelets and animal accessories designed to echo the style of the belts offering retailers something unique.
 
In jewellery, designed in the heart of Paris the established ZAG Bijoux collection is popular across France and sells to Harvey Nichols and Fenwick in the UK.  Launching at Scoop this July is their new and not to be missed premium line ZAG STUDIO which is destined to become the new cult favourite.
 
Recognised as a must-see on the international trade show circuit and Europe’s most innovative lifestyle event, Scoop will open its doors at Olympia National Kensington, this July with an edited line up of premium women’s fashion as well as luxury home, beauty and lifestyle collections. Visitors will discover over 200 designer labels in a beautiful space designed to make the buying process seamless.