From the Sector

Source Fashion, a leading destination for responsible sourcing and fashion innovation, has launched a landmark report tackling one of the fashion industry’s most pressing but least addressed issues: overproduction.

Titled “Do We Really Need to Produce So Much?”, the report—developed in collaboration with retail futures consultancy Insider Trends—offers a data-rich exploration of the scale, causes, and consequences of overproduction. It presents forward-thinking solutions for brands looking to remain competitive while reducing waste and environmental impact. The full report is now available for download at Source Fashion – Overproduction Report 2025.

Overproduction: A Costly and Widespread Issue
The report reveals that the global fashion industry produces between 80 and 150 billion garments annually—yet up to 40% remain unsold, frequently ending up in landfill, incineration, or markdown bins. Despite the environmental and financial toll, only 1% of fashion brands are actively working to reduce production volumes. 

A New Blueprint for Fashion
Rather than simply highlighting the problem, the report presents actionable models already being piloted by leading brands and retailers:

• On-Demand Production – Producing only what is needed, when it’s needed, to eliminate excess stock.
• Circular Design – Creating garments designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled, thereby extending their lifecycle.
• Retail-as-a-Service – Shifting from ownership to access models such as rental, resale, and subscription.
• Collaborative Creation – Co-designing with consumers to ensure relevancy and reduce waste.

As the report states, “Brands can reduce production without reducing profit. In fact, in many cases, it increases margins and strengthens consumer trust.” The publication includes case studies from brands already implementing these approaches, demonstrating commercial viability alongside sustainability gains.

A Turning Point for Retail
The report arrives at a pivotal moment for fashion, as the industry faces shifting consumer expectations, economic uncertainty, and growing pressure from both regulators and investors.

Suzanne Ellingham, Sourcing Director at Source said, “This report highlights the uncomfortable truth behind retails success — that excess production is built into the model with volume is the only way to increase profits. As we approach 2025, companies must question not only how they produce, but how much, and how they deal with . There are real over production and excess. Opportunities for those willing to embrace a leaner, smarter, more circular future.”

The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), National Chamber of the Textile Industry (CANAINTEX), and Canadian Textile Industry Association (CTIA) issued a joint statement urging President Donald Trump to reach a deal with Mexico and Canada to avoid imposing 25 percent tariffs on imports from these countries and to close the de minimis loophole immediately.

“All three of our countries are partners in a vital textile and apparel coproduction chain that generates $20 billion in two-way trade and helps support over 1.6 million jobs under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) — a trade deal that was negotiated during President Trump’s first term in office,” the associations said.

The U.S. textile industry ships $12.3 billion, or 53 percent, of its total global textile exports to Mexico and Canada. Those inputs come back as finished products to the United States under the USMCA.

Mexico exports $9 billion in textile and apparel to the United States. Mexico is the 4th largest exporter of textiles and the 6th largest exporter of apparel to the United States.

Canada exports approximately $1.8 billion in textiles and apparel to the United States and Mexico, with the United States being the destination for 64 percent of its total global textile export, including high-quality flame-resistant materials and medical equipment including PPE.

“While we fully support President Trump’s efforts to stem illegal migration and to address the fentanyl crisis as quickly as possible, we urge the administration to refrain from imposing penalty tariffs on imports from USMCA partners. We are focused on ensuring a normalized trading relationship between our countries,” said NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas. “Imposing penalty tariffs on imports from critical U.S. free trade agreement (FTA) partners will only serve to benefit China and other Asian countries that don’t play by the rules and to harm the U.S. textile industry and manufacturers in our Western Hemisphere supply chains.”

“As part of any deal with Mexico, Canada—and China—we also call on the Trump administration to end the de minimis tariff exemption immediately for imports from all countries. This loophole in U.S. trade law, which allows imports valued at $800 or less to enter the United States duty-free hurts our textile and apparel industries, rewards countries like China, and helps facilitate the flow of illegal and toxic products, such as fentanyl and fentanyl precursors into the U.S. market,” Glas added.

“Despite steps taken by our countries to prevent the importation of goods that are undervalued, made with forced labor or transshipped, we have seen firsthand how the Asian market has gained an unfair advantage through predatory trade practices, displacing companies and workers in our industries and undermining our critical coproduction chain,” said Rafael Zaga Saba President of CANAINTEX.

“Canada is seeking to preserve our strong coproduction chain with Mexico and the United States which spurs investment, trade and employment in our three countries,” said Jeff Ayoub, Chairman of the Board of CTIA. “These additional tariffs would harm our industries and workers, and we urge President Trump stop these expected tariffs from being imposed.”

“We look forward to working closely with the Trump administration and continuing to educate officials about the adverse impact of penalty tariffs on imports from Western Hemisphere countries and de minimis on our industries and workers, while highlighting the critical nature of our strong coproduction chain, which contributes to our overall investment, job growth, and economic stability,” the associations jointly added.

NCTO is a Washington, DC-based trade association that represents domestic textile manufacturers.

• U.S. employment in the textile and apparel supply chain was 501,755 in 2023.
• The value of shipments for U.S. textiles and apparel was $64.8 billion in 2023.
• U.S. exports of fiber, textiles and apparel were $29.7 billion in 2023.
• Capital expenditures for textiles and apparel production totaled $2.27 billion in 2021, the last year for which data is available.

CANAINTEX is a Mexico City-based trade association representing Mexican textile producers.

• The textile industry in Mexico provides over 1.1 million jobs.
• Mexican textile exports are projected to reach 9 billion USD in 2024.
• Mexico is the 4th largest exporter of textiles and the 6th largest exporter of apparel to the United States.
• One out of every three pairs of pants sold in the U.S. is made in Mexico.
• With 36% domestic content in its exports, the textile industry generates the highest value-added of any manufacturing sector in the country.

CTIA represents domestic textile manufacturers across Canada, advocating for policies that support innovation, sustainability, and growth in the sector.

• The Canadian textile industry employs approximately 30,000 textile and apparel workers.
• The total value of shipments for Canadian textiles and apparel was approximately C$7.5 billion in 2023.
• Canada exported approximately US$2.66 billion in textiles in 2023, with 64% (US$1.71 billion) going to the United States.

Recent shifts in consumer attitudes in China show a willingness to invest more in quality and a growing emphasis on product functionality. This has been well noted by forward-thinking companies across the home textile supply chain. In addition to the latest related offerings in upholstery, towels, carpets, rugs, curtains and many more, smart bedding is set to emerge as a key trend at the upcoming Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition. From 11 to 13 March 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, visitors can explore these trends and discover the latest innovations, alongside specialised pavilions and a diverse fringe programme centred on sustainability, and smart bedding aiding sleep quality.

Driven by global population growth, rising disposable incomes, and evolving lifestyles, the smart bedding market, encompassing products such as smart mattresses and sleep tracking technology, is projected for substantial growth. The global market for smart mattresses is expected to reach USD 3.3 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.1%, with innovative bedding also increasingly sought after at Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles.  

Comprehensive sourcing experience awaits buyers
Notable suppliers are set to gather to showcase diversified products that meet modern market requirements. Highlighted exhibitors include:

• Bedding: 3M China Limited, Coolist Life Technology Co Ltd, Jihua 3542 Textile Co Ltd, Yantai North Home Textile Co Ltd
• Down: Shanghai Donglong Home Textile Products Co Ltd, Liuqiao Group Co Ltd
• Mattress: Fujian Generous Sleeping Technology Co Ltd, Hui Zhou Wah Shing Company Ltd
• Towelling: Nantong No.3 Towel Factory Co Ltd, Sunvim Group Co Ltd
• Others: Tela’s Design Lda (Textile design), Shinwon Felt Co Ltd (wall)

With a strong domestic contingent, the show will welcome eight major Chinese home textile pavilions, representing various sectors within the industry. These pavilions include the Nantong and Huzhou Pavilions showcasing bedding fabrics and textile design; Qingdao Pavilion and Zhejiang Quilting Craft Association, specialising in bedding and pet products; Zhejiang Down Association Pavilion, focusing on down comforter products; Gaoyang Pavilion, presenting towelling and home products; Wool Spinning Association, showcasing coral fleece, flannels and other blankets; and Zhenze Pavilion, exhibiting silk bedding.

Fringe programme highlighting innovations in bedding and other home textiles
In addition to a robust lineup of exhibitors, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles will host various fringe events to keep attendees informed about emerging developments, trends, and key insights, including Sleeping Aid Summit 2025 and Green and Low Carbon Forum. Other notable events at the show include the award presentations and launch ceremonies for ‘Zhenze Silk Cup’ and ‘Zhang Jian Cup’.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition 2025 will be held concurrently with Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition, Yarn Expo Spring, CHIC and PH Value at the National Exhibition and Convention Center. The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association (CHTA).

From 14 to 16 August, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles hosted 946 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions, who engaged with more than 35,000 visitors from 108 countries and regions across the four-hall, 100,000 sqm exhibition space. Visitor numbers increased by 10% overall compared to the previous edition, with 13% of the total made up of overseas buyers, further highlighting the show’s internationality. Global industry players across the event, from suppliers and buyers to fringe speakers, noted their satisfaction relating to positive business exchange, the prevalence of sustainable products and design inspiration, and more.

With the support of Messe Frankfurt’s network across the global industry, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles has become a business platform that connects industry players from the East and West. Comprising the Türkiye Pavilion, Uzbekistan Pavilion, Belgium Zone and various individual overseas exhibitors, the stage was set for suppliers seeking business connections in the leading textile production hub.

International and domestic exhibitors covering sub-sectors such as bedding, editors, curtains, and carpets, presented their latest designs and innovations in Halls 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, and 6.2. Highlighted exhibitors included 3M China Limited, HAINING QIANBAIHUI WEAVING CO LTD, Weavers Tekstil San Ve Tic A S, Zhejiang Maya Fabric Co Ltd, Zhejiang Xiaoxuanchuang Household Co Ltd and more.

17 buyer delegations from 16 countries and regions pre-registered and visited the sourcing platform, including manufacturers, designers, buying houses, distributors, chain stores and retailers from Algeria, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Moldova, Morocco, Myanmar, Philippines, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam and more. Not to mention, VIP buyers from all over the world utilised the platform to meet annual sourcing targets.

Every year, the platform aims to reflect market trends, and has identified green progress as one of its major focuses going forward. As such, this edition’s comprehensive fringe programme highlighted a series of sustainablity events: Bridging Borders: A Designer x Producer Talk on Sustainability; About Healing; Sustainable Fibre Forum in Home Textiles; product presentations from fibre producers such as 3M , Advansa, and Indorama; as well as a special session to explain the Econogy concept that represents sustainability activities in the company’s Texpertise Network. The show welcomed designers and guest speakers from Europe and the Middle East to add overseas perspectives to the discussions.

Flos and B&B Italia, furniture brands of Made in Italy design, take part in the Casa Italia Paris 2024 project, the hospitality house that will host the athletes and guests during the XXXIII Olympic Games, to be held in the French capital from 26 July to 11 August 2024.

Along with other design brands and contemporary Italian artists, the two companies participate for the first time at Casa Italia Paris 2024 showcasing their most iconic creations, both classic and contemporary, in the venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces, taking guests on a spectacular and evocative journey that epitomizes Italian elegance and beauty.

As Official Partner of Casa Italia Paris 2024, B&B Italia is furnishing the living, lounge and outdoor areas with some of its most recognisable products that combine unique design, quality, comfort and function as well as sustainability, an increasingly crucial element intrinsic to furniture designed to last over time. The UP Series by Gaetano Pesce, the Camaleonda sofa and Le Bambole seating by Mario Bellini, the Planck tables by Piero Lissoni, and the Allure O’ table and Flair O’ chairs by Monica Armani will furnish Casa Italia, highlighting a dialogue with the context through the choice of distinctive shapes, colours and materials.

The ongoing dialogue created by the brand’s products continues through to the outdoor lounge areas, where Casa Italia’s green spaces are dotted with products from the B&B Italia Outdoor collection, the brand’s outdoor furniture line launched in 2007. The Ribes sofas by Antonio Citterio, the Crinoline chairs by Patricia Urquiola and the Borea tables by Piero Lissoni will welcome athletes and guests creating stylish aesthetic synergies with the Le Pré Catelan gardens.

Flos has worked at the lighting project for Casa Italia Paris 2024 as Official Supplier, with the aim of making light a precious element for highlighting the works of art and the objects that enrich the setup of the Italian hospitality house, so that the exhibition and its narrative itinerary can be enjoyed both during daytime and nighttime hours. Light is used to shape the space in such a way as to create visual hierarchies among the superb items on display, without forgetting the ambient lighting needed for the celebratory events that will take place in the venue. The Flos lighting display includes some of the brand’s most recognisable suspension creations, such as cocoon models Taraxacum and Viscontea by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni and Zeppelin by Marcel Wanders. These interact with more recent and timeless collections, such as Glo-Ball by Jasper Morrison, Arrangements by Michael Anastassiades, IC and Captain Flint floor lamps, also by Anastassiades, and Bellhop Floor by Barber Osgerby.

For the exterior green spaces, Flos has chosen stylish outdoor floor lamps that create a harmonious dialogue with the surrounding architecture. These include Captain Flint Outdoor and IC Outdoor, designed by Michael Anastassiades, featuring bases in precious materials such as Tuscan imperial travertine and volcanic stone from the slopes of Mount Etna. Finally, Flos Architectural, the brand’s professional lighting division for large-scale projects, has equipped Casa Italia with innovative tech solutions that include The Tracking Magnet, an ingenious patented system with magnetic fastening LED lights in spot or linear versions for functional, efficient lighting that is also comfortable and non-invasive.

At the end of last year, KARL MAYER launched the TM 4 EL – a new, highly flexible machine for the mid-range segment in the four-bar tricot machine sector. The machine produces fabrics for upholstery, automotive interiors and outerwear, as well as sportswear items and home textiles.

Featuring KARL MAYER’s proven CFRP technology, the TM 4 EL is up to 30% faster than the previous four-bar tricot machine designed for the commodity sector.

The new TM 4 EL is offered in gauges E 28 and E 32. The available working widths are 210” and 280”, with a working width extension also available. Further width varieties are also planned. Equipment highlights include an integrated Laser Stop to detect yarn breakages early, and functional LED lighting, which illuminates the warp knitting area for easy handling and signals unplanned machine stops using the corresponding colour. The machine can be networked with KM.ON’s secure cloud via the k.ey device to utilise the KARL MAYER GROUP’s digital solutions. This includes, for example, the web-based lapping editor CORE LITE.