From the Sector

OC Oerlikon Corporation AG, Pfäffikon announced the successful placement of two series of senior unsecured bonds: CHF 150 million due in September 2027 and CHF 200 million due in September 2030 (together, the “Bonds”). The proceeds of the Bonds will be used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of outstanding debt. The Bonds have attracted broad investor demand.

The coupons have been set at 1.375% per annum for the Bonds due 2027 and 2.000% per annum for the Bonds due 2030. The coupons for both tranches are payable annually on September 3 with the first coupon payable on September 3, 2026, on both tranches.

An application for the Bonds to be admitted for listing and trading on the SIX Swiss Exchange will be filed, with provisional trading expected to commence on or around September 1, 2025. Settlement date of the Bonds is expected on September 3, 2025.

Commerzbank, Bank J. Safra Sarasin, UBS Investment Bank and Zürcher Kantonalbank acted as the Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners, and DBS Bank Ltd acted as a Co-Manager on the offering.

• A branded, circular polyester resin made entirely from textile waste and completely traceable from feedstock to final product.
• Virgin-quality resin for high-performance applications including fashion, sportswear, and home textiles.
• Low environmental footprint with significant reduction of CO₂ emissions.

Loop Industries, Inc. a clean technology company accelerating circularity in plastic and fiber markets, announced the launch of Twist™, a branded circular polyester resin made entirely from textile waste. Loop is currently advancing its discussions with apparel brands for offtake from its planned India JV and will supply Twist™ as its branded product offering. Originally developed as Loop’s fiber-grade PET resin, the product has now been rebranded to reflect its role in helping the textile industry transition from linear to circular systems, shifting away from virgin materials and from bottle-to-textile recycling, to give global brands a high-performance solution that embodies both sustainability and next-gen material innovation.

Utilizing Loop’s globally patented depolymerization technology, Twist™ is produced by breaking down polyester textile waste into its base monomers, DMT and MEG, which are then purified back to their initial purity, before being polymerized into Twist™ resin. This process removes all dyes, colorants, contaminants, and blends, delivering a resin that is chemically identical to virgin polyester. Textile-to-textile recycling allows apparel companies to mitigate the increasing environment impact of textile waste.  

Twist™ achieves the highest purity, color and dyability consistency and increases production efficiency, making it fully compatible with existing spinning and manufacturing infrastructure. 

The production of Twist™ saves up to 418,600 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually1 and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 81%2 when compared to fossil fuel-based resin. This has been independently validated by Franklin Associates, a division of ERG who completed an LCA study of Loop’s technology. 418,600 tonnes of CO₂ emissions are the equivalent of more than 1 billion miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle.

Twist™ is set to transform textile recycling as the first textile-to-textile polyester resin offering complete traceability. Embedded chemical tracers allow customers to track finished products directly back to their original waste textile inputs. This transparency meticulously verifies every step of the recycling and manufacturing process, building crucial trust in the circular economy and setting a new standard for accountability in sustainable textile production. With full traceability from waste input to finished product, Twist™ empowers brands to confidently meet growing regulatory, and consumer demands for transparency and circularity.

Twist™ will be expanded from Loop’s Terrebonne facility and produced at the Infinite Loop™ India facility, a strategically located manufacturing platform designed to serve global textile and apparel brands. The facility will provide Twist™ at competitive pricing levels. This combination of performance, price, traceability and sustainability positions Twist™ as a key material for brands seeking to lead on circularity and meet evolving sustainability targets.

Gaming boomt – und die Textil- und Bekleidungsindustrie in Baden-Württemberg spielt mit. Mit der „texhub.world“ verbindet Südwesttextil Branchenwelten in einer interaktiven Open-World, die textile Vielfalt spielerisch erlebbar macht.

In dieser Woche trifft sich die Gaming-Welt auf der gamescom 2025 in Köln, wo hunderttausende Besucherinnen und Besucher sowie führende Akteure der Branche zusammenkommen. Laut dem Verband der deutschen Games-Branche wächst der Markt stetig – und verändert sich spürbar: Das Publikum wird vielfältiger und mobile Endgeräte machen Spiele jederzeit zugänglich.

Der Wirtschafts- und Arbeitgeberverband Südwesttextil greift diese Trends auf und lädt in die „texhub.world“ ein – interaktiv, generationsübergreifend, kostenfrei, direkt im Browser und mobil verfügbar. Mit über 30.000 Aufrufen und 2,5 Millionen Social-Media-Impressionen in den ersten zwei Monaten verzeichnet die neue Online-Plattform bereits positive Resonanz. Das Spiel lädt dazu ein, textile Produkte und Berufsbilder in einer interaktiven Open-World zu entdecken. Die virtuelle Karte, die Baden-Württemberg nachempfunden ist, führt durch zehn Stationen der textilen Wertschöpfungskette. Spielerinnen und Spieler erleben die Branche durch acht Quests, 80 Charaktere und eine intuitive Navigation.

Die Plattform integriert über 60 Unternehmen mit mehr als 250 Stellenangeboten – von der Ausbildung bis zur Management-Position. So macht die texhub.world nicht nur Spaß, sondern bietet auch Berufsorientierung und Karrierechancen.

Games made in Baden-Württemberg: Brücke zwischen Branchen
Bei der Entwicklung setzt Südwesttextil auf die in Baden-Württemberg gut vernetzte Gaming-Industrie, die sich am „Games BW“-Gemeinschaftsstand ebenfalls in Köln trifft. „Mit der texhub.world möchten wir die Textil- und Bekleidungsindustrie, als eine der traditionsreichsten Industrien Baden-Württembergs mit einer der jüngsten Industriezweige in Baden-Württemberg zusammenbringen“, so Hauptgeschäftsführerin Edina Brenner. Die Plattform hat Südwesttextil mit SOLID WHITE aus Stuttgart umgesetzt.

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced that experienced policy expert Kevin Conroy has joined the association’s government and regulatory affairs staff as Senior Manager of Government and Regulatory Affairs.

Conroy brings extensive experience in government, politics, and public service to his new role at INDA. He most recently served on the staff of former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, where he held multiple senior positions over the course of Hogan’s eight years in office, including Director, Chief of Staff, and Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for the State of Maryland.

“We are excited to welcome Kevin to the INDA team,” said INDA President Tony Fragnito, “his wealth of experience will expand our government and regulatory affairs impact at the state and federal levels while positioning INDA for even more proactive advocacy for the nonwovens sector.”

Conroy began his career on Capitol Hill in the office of Congressman Chris Shays before working for Congressman David Dreier and the House Rules Committee. He has managed numerous political campaigns at both the state and federal levels, building coalitions and executing successful strategies in competitive races.

“Kevin’s wealth of experience will allow us to hit the ground running on several issues important to the industry, including EPA rulemaking, state and federal PFAS and chemical regulations, and plastics,” added Wes Fisher, INDA Director of Government Affairs.

With a career spanning legislative, executive, and electoral arenas, Conroy brings a deep understanding of public policy, intergovernmental affairs, and political strategy to his new position at INDA. He will be working on the INDA team out of the greater Washington, D.C. area.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition is set to return from 20 – 22 August 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), once again positioning itself as Asia’s preeminent platform for the global home and contract textile industry. With nearly 900 exhibitors representing 20 countries and regions, including eight new countries, the event will span 100,000 sqm across four halls, showcasing the latest cutting-edge products, market trends, and design concepts. The fair will offer a comprehensive fringe programme that aims to inspire, inform, and connect industry professionals. Focusing on sustainability and innovation that will shape the future of home textiles, the 2025 edition promises a vibrant exchange of ideas and opportunities to forge meaningful business partnerships in an increasingly competitive landscape.

To enhance sourcing efficiency and cultivate meaningful business connections, the fair will present 15+ dedicated product zones encompassing upholstery and sofa fabrics, bedding, curtains, sun protection, and more. These zones will be organised across four halls – 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, and 6.2 – with each hall spotlighting a particular category: Brand Fabrics Hall (5.1), Trendy Fabrics Hall (5.2), International Brands & Household Hall (6.1), and Furniture Fabrics Hall (6.2). Additionally, visitors will benefit from contract business services offered by exhibitors, providing access to specialised expertise and tailored solutions that can enhance their sourcing and operational efficiency.

The Editors Zone is a prominent area featuring a curated lineup of design-focused exhibitors presenting both domestic and international brands. 20 exhibitors will represent 53 high-end brands from 16 countries and regions – 23 of which are new. These brands primarily originate from Western Europe, the US, South Asia, and East Asia. Among the new exhibitors in the Editors Zone are Art Home Korea (Korea) (5.1H C18), Kaeen Sdn Bhd (Malaysia) (5.1H C08), and more. Notable names such as Beijing Ya Da (China), Rioma (Spain), and Raffinato (USA) will be present.

Home textile industry represented by global players 
This year, the fair will welcome international exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, including Australia, Belgium, China, Germany, Hong Kong, Iran, Japan, Korea, Portugal, Spain, Türkiye, the UK, and the US. Notably, eight new countries – Bulgaria, Egypt, Finland, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Vietnam – are joining this diverse lineup.

On the domestic front, six major Chinese home textile pavilions – representing Haining, Huzhou, Linping Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Wujiang Suzhou, and Tongxiang – will showcase regional strengths and innovations.

To date, buyers from 63 countries and regions have pre-registered, with 19 buyer delegations (up 73% from the 2024 edition) confirmed from 23 countries including China, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Central Asia, Uganda, Ethiopia, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, El Salvador and more. 

Fringe programme: four new themes guiding the future of home textiles
Collectively emphasising the dynamic nature of the home textiles industry – NextGen, Palette, Connector and Go-Green – will focus on creativity and aesthetics in design, fostering collaboration through shared business strategies and market insights, showcasing innovations and advancements in textiles, and addressing sustainability trends and technological needs to align with market demands. Key highlights include:

• Future & Textile Zone (NextGen): where participants can discover future-focused materials, and AI trends lead by Ms Anja Bisgaard Gaede, CEO of SPOTT trends & business.
• Designer Tour and Guided Tour (Palette): Ms Camilla Rudnicki (Founder of Camilla Rudnicki Home & Interior, Denmark), offering curated walkthroughs of standout exhibits with visitor.
• Econogy [1] Forum (Go-Green): will address the dual challenges of sustainability and technological advancement. Leading experts from China, Hong Kong, Italy, and the US will share cross-disciplinary insights and case studies, focusing on how integrated advancements in technology, design, and business models can support a more sustainable textile industry.

Additional highlights include The Home Textiles x Interior Decoration Summit (Connector), will gather thought leaders to explore the transformation of the industry and its future direction. A series of market strategy seminars will provide valuable insights into regional developments, with featured sessions from Colombia, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. 

Furthermore, the 2026 / 27 China Home Textile Trend Area (Palette) will offer an exclusive preview of upcoming domestic design and consumer trends. Rednote: Weaving the Ideal Home, Home Textile Trend Insights (Connector), and From Cross-Boundary to Boundless: The 11th Home Furniture & Textile TOP Business Matching (Connector) will also be taking place. 

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association (CHTA).

Australia’s war on waste has a powerful new ally, Deakin University’s Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH). 

REACH has joined forces with Samsara Eco to fast-track world-first technology that could recycle plastics and textiles, previously considered unrecyclable, that would take centuries to eliminate from the environment.   

Textile waste is one of the world’s most persistent environmental issues, driven by fast fashion, high consumption and poor disposal practices. In Australia, synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester make up almost 60 per cent of the materials used in clothing, yet with less than one per cent of discarded garments recycled into new clothes, most end up in landfill or are incinerated, adding to pollution and harmful emissions. 

Samsara Eco’s AI-designed enzymes break down fossil-fuel derived materials like synthetic fibres, including nylon 6,6 and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into their original building blocks or monomers – allowing them to be rebuilt into new products with virgin-quality performance.  

The collaboration will see Samsara Eco lean into Deakin’s advanced chemical analysis and polymer processing expertise to better understand and find recycling solutions for specific additives like dyes, finishes and coatings present in textile waste. 

‘We are laser-focused on creating true circularity and that means finding a solve for all plastics,’ said Founder and CEO at Samsara Eco Paul Riley. ‘This research supports our efforts to make this a reality. We’ve already come a long way with our enzymatic recycling technology, which can infinitely recycle PET and nylon 6,6 plastics used for clothing and other textiles, including mixed fibres and plastics. Our research collaboration with Deakin will support our efforts to recycle more waste at speed, scale and with precision.’  

Unlike mechanical recycling, which degrades the quality of materials and limits recyclability, Samsara Eco’s enzymatic depolymerisation technology is making it possible to rebuild worn or contaminated textiles into virgin-equivalent materials.  

Distinguished Professor Colin Barrow, Chair in Biotechnology at Deakin’s School of Life and Environmental Sciences said:  

‘Our research tackles a critical challenge in textile recycling – understanding how dyes, textile finishes, coatings and other chemical treatments affect the breakdown and rebuilding of synthetic fibres, including other types of polyester and nylon to repurpose into new products.  

‘We are exploring solutions by analysing these contaminants and determining their impact on textile recycling processes, to make it possible to produce high-performance recycled materials from all types of waste feedstock.’  

Associate Professor Chris Hurren from Deakin’s Institute for Frontier Materials is also collaborating on the project and said:  

‘By testing how these materials perform in real-world polymerisation and processing, we’re helping to refine the recycling pipeline and bring closed-loop textile recycling closer to commercial reality.’  

With growing global pressure on the textile industry to cut emissions and reduce waste, Associate Professor Hurren says this technology could revolutionise the sector – delivering both environmental and economic benefits.  

‘We’re working to unlock a scalable, circular future for fashion – one that reduces reliance on harmful inputs and keeps textiles out of landfill.’  

Samsara Eco has a 10-year agreement with global activewear brand lululemon to support approximately 20 per cent of its overall fibre portfolio with its recycled materials. This builds on previous collaborations between the two, launching the world’s first enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6 garment, recreating their iconic Swiftly top, and a limited-edition Packable Anorak jacket – the first retail garment made from enzymatically recycled polyester.  

With their first commercial facility set to open in Jerrabomberra later this year, Samsara Eco’s 2030 vision is to recycle half a billion clothing items and 10 billion plastic bottles annually, avoiding hundreds of thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions. 

‘We’re uniquely positioned to recycle mixed plastics and fibres,’ said Mr Riley. ‘We’re taking post-industrial and post-consumer waste to create new products and are already working with helping brands to swap virgin inputs for our low carbon, enzymatically recycled materials, which plug directly into existing supply chains. 

‘Together with Deakin’s researchers, we can find further recycling solves to keep more out of landfill and in circulation.’ 

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL), a global sustainable chemical producer, posted a as management continues to execute its three-year IVL 2.0 transformation strategy, maintaining steadfast focus on fortifying the company against a prolonged downturn in global chemical markets. 

In 1H25, Indorama Ventures’ Adjusted EBITDA1 fell 21% on a year-on-year (YoY) basis to $606 million. Sales volumes dropped 8% YoY as scheduled maintenance at several plants and a winter freeze in the U.S temporarily disrupted operations. The first six months of the year reflected a continuation of the macro-economic pressures that have beset the industry for more than two years, including new Chinese supply and the impact of geopolitical conflicts in Europe and the Middle East on global supply chains, input costs, and consumer demand. 

Throughout this period of profound industry change, Indorama Ventures’ management has continued to drive forward ‘self-help’ actions under IVL 2.0 to optimize operations, reduce fixed costs, and generate cash. Operating cash flow in the first half was strong at $618 million, with 111% Reported EBITDA conversion, while overall fixed costs were reduced by $51 million, net of inflation. These reflect a methodical approach to financial management and commercial excellence as well as the inherent resilience of Indorama Ventures’ unique leadership model across diverse markets. 

In the most recent quarter, operations continued to normalize after the winter freeze and planned turnarounds, which was reflected in a 2% rise QoQ in revenue in 2Q25, although the 11% drop on a year-on-year basis reflected the broader industry challenges. In 2Q25, Adjusted EBITDA climbed 20% QoQ to $330 million, led by an improvement in the company’s largest Combined PET (CPET) business, while down 11% YoY. 

Business Segments 
In 1H25, the Integrated PET portfolio benefited from the asset optimization actions taken over the past year under IVL 2.0, driving a 12% increase in Adjusted EBITDA despite persistent overcapacity in the industry. Overall, CPET segment recorded a 31% YoY decline in Adjusted EBITDA, on a 10% drop in sales volumes, amid multiple planned turnarounds, weaker integrated MEG market conditions in the U.S, and lower NDC production due to the timing of campaign. MTBE profitability normalized in 1H25 with gasoline markets more balanced than in 2024.  

Fibers segment posted a 21% YoY gain in Adjusted EBITDA, and a 3% rise in sales volumes, in 1H25, reflecting an improved business environment in Lifestyle and management’s ongoing actions to streamline operations across the segment. Indovida packaging segment was steady across the half, supported by demand in Egypt and the Philippines. Indovinya segment recorded a 6% decrease in Adjusted EBITDA, on a 3% drop in volumes, on weaker performance in its Essentials business driven by higher palm input costs. The Surfactants business was resilient at 17% margin, flat YoY. 

Mr. Aloke Lohia, Group CEO of Indorama Ventures, said, “Since we launched IVL 2.0 more than a year ago, we have consistently focused on disciplined self-help actions that are building resilience and helping us to emerge stronger and agile to pursue our growth objectives post weathering this historic downturn. One of the final pegs to hammer down is our Integrated EO/EG business in the U.S Gulf Coast. The Board would like to undertake a strategic review of this business to assess its value to our CPET segment. On the growth front, we continue to fund our Surfactants portfolio, our Packaging business, and our leadership of Recycled Polymers from internal cashflows, as well as remain focused on our deleveraging exercise for longer term financial security.” 

Mid-Year Update on IVL 2.0 
Since launching IVL 2.0 in March 2024, Indorama Ventures’ experienced management has continued to focus on bolstering resilience and repositioning the company for long-term sustainable growth. Now, more than 1 year into  the 3-year strategy (2024-2026), leaders are building a leaner, more agile, and financially disciplined enterprise through a program of footprint optimization, operational excellence, innovation, and digital acceleration. 

In the last 12 months, the company rationalized sites in Portugal, Netherlands, Australia and Canada, realizing $116 million in fixed-cost savings. It expects annualized savings of $130–150 million by 2025 and $170–190 million by 2027. Furthermore, the company expects cash proceeds of $190–200 million from the proposed sale of rationalized property from 2H25 through to 2026. 

Indorama Ventures has reorganized its four business segments with empowered, accountable leadership structures and clear mandates to deliver industry-leading performance across the cycle. A similar reorganization of Corporate functions is currently underway. The segments are already benefiting from a comprehensive digital transformation program following the successful rollout of SAP S/4HANA, which is providing the foundation for additional tools including Salesforce and Workday, and AI-driven solutions for manufacturing and maintenance. 

The company continues to maintain a strong liquidity position, with $1.8 billion as of June 2025, and a focus on financial discipline and driving sustainable free cash flow to further strengthen the balance sheet towards a longterm target of Debt/EBITDA at 3x. In the first half, Indorama Ventures raised $1.5 billion through long-term refinancing at improved spreads, which helped reduce costs and ensure liquidity through to 2027. 

As part of its renewed growth strategy to invest in high-value segments and select growth markets, in the first half the company completed the acquisition of a 24.9% equity stake in EPL. An expanded pipeline of innovative highvalue-added (HVA) products includes new offerings such as PEN polymers and PET-G, which generate better margins than traditional PET; and two leading brands in the energy extraction sector, Kemelix and Flowsolve. The Mocksville hygiene fibers facility in the U.S commenced operations during the half, benefiting from the U.S tariffs, while a strategic partnership with PolySource to distribute specialty polymers for advanced applications is broadening the company’s presence in performance materials. 

In 2Q25, Indorama Ventures—one of the world’s leading PET recyclers—marked a significant milestone in recycling 150 billion bottles since operations began in 2011. The company is accelerating its ambition to recycle 50 billion bottles a year, having recycled the last 50 billion bottles in 2.5 years.

OETI is partnering with Austrian designer Julia Deiger, founder of the sustainable label DeLin. INSPECTED QUALITY is a quality label from OETI for textile and leather businesses. Based on OETI’s 60 years of market experience and current standards, the label is supported by a transparent labelling guideline and independent verification processes.

The initiative is part of TEX-DAN, an EU-funded project led by the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, which aims to develop innovative, market-ready concepts promoting circular economy models for small and medium-sized enterprises in the textile sector across the Danube region.

As an accredited and independent testing institute, OETI – Institute for Ecology, Technology and Innovation GmbH brings its extensive expertise to this project partnership. Together with designer Julia Deiger, OETI has developed the new INSPECTED QUALITY "Regionally Produced" label.

This label confirms the strong regional focus and sustainable philosophy of the DeLin brand: the entire value chain is based exclusively in Austria, using only natural, durable materials. The label enhances transparency for consumers and highlights the brand’s commitment to resource-efficient textile production.

Through this project, OETI and Julia Deiger are making a valuable contribution to promoting future-oriented, locally rooted production models within the European textile industry.

A Model for Market Transformation
“The TEX-DAN project generates new, marketable ideas for advancing circular economy models across the Danube region. Our collaboration with Julia Deiger demonstrates how natural materials, short supply chains, and regional production – supported by a structured quality assurance system and visible label – can collectively drive transformation in the textile sector,” concludes Helene Melnitzky, Head of Department Ecology / OEKO-TEX® Products, at OETI, who is responsible for developing the INSPECTED QUALITY “Regionally Produced” label.

Machine learning and AI are now entering the field of textile technology and at this year’s ITMA Asia + CITME exhibition from October 28-31 in Singapore, UK-based Shelton Vision will demonstrate how these advanced new disciplines are informing its latest machine vision technology.

The company is one of a 20-strong delegation of members of the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) who will be present at the Singapore exhibition, showcasing advances in technologies for new high performance fibres and fabrics, as well as testing, instrumentation and control in processing.

The ability to detect and classify even the tiniest faults in both plain or fully patterned fabrics which are moving at industrial speeds is significant breakthrough. In Singapore, Shelton Vision will demonstrate its latest machine vision inspection technology which incorporates machine learning to provide a defect detection level of above 98%, and Deep Learning AI to provide up to 100% defect classification and grading accuracy.

Third party adoption
Shelton will also demonstrate a stand-alone AI Classifier in multiple applications used within the Shelton suite of vision system components. This is can be adapted for use with existing third party inspection systems that do not have defect classification (naming) or grading functionality – eliminating subjective manual decisions in day to day operation and vastly increasing the efficiency and throughput of the album review process

Additionally Shelton will optimised cut plan capability for the Shelton AI Review station or use in the fabric production plants, based on the automated classifier and grading system output which forms a key component in the ROI of the entire system.

“At the show, we will focus on the output data from our vision systems and how this can generate benefit for the whole value chain, including brand, by providing to everyone a reliable source of fabric quality data immediately the fabric is inspected,” explains CEO Mark Shelton. “This results in reduced lead times, reduced fabric waste and increased productivity and efficiency and our patterned fabric inspection system is now already entering new markets such as outdoor upholstery and one piece woven (OPW) airbags, even as the original market of camouflage printing continues to grow.”

Umsatzrückgang und Beschäftigtenverlust prägen das erste Halbjahr der Textilindustrie in Baden-Württemberg. Nach 100 Tagen Bundesregierung stehen erste Schritte der Wirtschaftswende neuen Bürokratiebelastungen und einem nicht gegenfinanzierten Rentenpaket 2025 gegenüber. Südwesttextil fordert eine konsequente Entbürokratisierung des Arbeitsmarkts und ein klares Bekenntnis zu einer zukunftsfesten Sozialpolitik, die den demografischen Wandel und die Generationengerechtigkeit berücksichtigt.

Im ersten Halbjahr hat die baden-württembergische Textilindustrie einen Umsatzrückgang von 4,1 Prozent verzeichnet. Die Anzahl der Beschäftigten ist in der gesamten Branche im Vergleich zum Vorjahr um 2,4 Prozent gesunken. Der Wirtschafts- und Arbeitgeberverband Südwesttextil sieht den Wirtschaftsstandort unter großer Belastung durch Bürokratie, Strukturveränderungen und demografischen Wandel. 

100 Tage Bundesregierung: Wirtschaftspolitische Konsequenz gefordert
In dieser Woche ist die schwarz-rote Bundesregierung seit 100 Tagen im Amt und sieht die Umsetzung der Wirtschaftswende eingeleitet. Südwesttextil bewertet positiv, dass zentrale Vorhaben aus dem Koalitionsvertrag, wie das steuerliche Investitionssofortprogramm, die Abschaffung der Gasspeicherumlage oder das neue Vergabebeschleunigungsgesetz, bereits umgesetzt wurden. Dies ist aber nicht ausreichend, um eine wirtschaftspolitische Trendwende einzuleiten, wenn gleichzeitig US-Zölle den Handel erschweren und Gesetzesvorhaben wie das Tariftreuegesetz und das Rentenpaket für neue Bürokratie und Belastungen sorgen. 

Rentenpaket 2025: Südwesttextil kritisiert fehlende Gegenfinanzierung, Reformen und Generationengerechtigkeit
Das Rentenpaket wurden in der letzten Woche im Bundeskabinett mit drei zentralen Gesetzesvorhaben beschlossen. Aus Perspektive des Wirtschafts- und Arbeitgeberverbands Südwesttextil gehen sowohl die Mütterrente III als auch die Stabilisierung des Rentenniveaus auf 48 Prozent des jeweils geltenden Durchschnittslohns bis 2031 an der Realität vorbei. Südwesttextil-Hauptgeschäftsführerin Edina Brenner: „Diese Rentenpolitik entbehrt jeglicher Gegenfinanzierung und belastet jüngere Generationen mit einer enormen Hypothek. Wir benötigen dringend Reformen, die das Renten- und Sozialsystem zukunftssicher machen und dabei nicht ausblenden, dass Beitragszahlende einer immer größeren Gruppe von Leistungsbeziehenden gegenüberstehen.“ Mit der Entwicklung von Reformen erst ab dem nächsten Jahr zu beginnen, ist viel zu spät. Um das Rentensystem langfristig zu sichern und generationengerecht zu finanzieren, bedarf es vielfältiger Ansätze. Andere Länder in Europa zeigen bereits, wie eine Kombination aus progressiver Anpassung des Rentenalters an die Lebenserwartung, einer ergänzenden Kapitaldeckung durch Aktien und mehr privater Vorsorge funktionieren. Darüber hinaus ist entscheidend, dass die Anreize für Arbeit über das gesetzliche Renteneintrittsalter hinaus erhöht werden. 

Forderung nach Reformen: Bürokratieabbau und attraktive Beschäftigung als Schlüssel zur Zukunft
Die Aufhebung des Anschlussverbots bei sachgrundlosen Befristungen für Personen, die die Regelaltersgrenze bereits erreicht bzw. überschritten haben, begrüßt Südwesttextil dagegen ausdrücklich. Dies hatte bisher die freiwillige Weiterarbeit nach Renteneintritt deutlich erschwert. 

Aus Perspektive des Wirtschafts- und Arbeitgeberverbands Südwesttextil gelte es vielfältige Stellschrauben zu bewegen: „Um Wirtschaftskrise und demografischen Wandel zu bewältigen, bedarf es der Entbürokratisierung im Bereich von Beschäftigung und der Mobilisierung von Potenzialen. Dazu zählt die Verlängerung der Lebensarbeitszeit ebenso wie die erleichterte Zuwanderung von Fachkräften aus Drittstaaten. Nach wie vor muss der vollständige Zugang zum deutschen Arbeitsmarkt deutlich beschleunigt und digitalisiert werden.“ 

Auch den Sozialversicherungsbeiträgen droht in den nächsten Jahren ein starker Anstieg. Eine Prognose des IGES Institut berechnet selbst bei einem Basis-Szenario einen Anstieg des Gesamtsozialversicherungsbeitrags auf 48,6 Prozent des Bruttolohns für 2035. Damit sinkt die Attraktivität des deutschen Arbeitsmarktes im Verhältnis zu europäischen Nachbarländern nicht nur aus Arbeitgeber-, sondern gerade auch aus Arbeitnehmersicht. Die Sozialabgaben müssen daher dringend begrenzt und langfristig unter 40 Prozent gesenkt werden.