Timeline – How coronavirus is impacting the global apparel industry – FREE TO READ4 Aug 2020
Since the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak began in China at the end of 2019, its impact has been felt across the global apparel and textile sector. just-style’s timeline shows how the pandemic is evolving – and will be updated as developments unfold.
Pandemic could shrink US apparel sales by 50% in 20205 Aug 2020
US textiles and apparel sales could shrink by more than 50% this year due to US textiles and apparel sales could shrink by more than 50% this year due to the coronavirus outbreak, top executives say, but fabric makers are set to fare better than retailers amid a booming personal protective equipment (PPE) shift.
Major brands linked to “union-busting” factories5 Aug 2020
A number of factories producing garments for several major apparel brands have been accused of exploiting the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to sack workers affiliated to unions.
Pandemic and trade war top concerns for US fashion firms4 Aug 2020
The economic and personal impact of the Covid-19 global pandemic, and the protectionist trade policy agenda in the US are the biggest concerns facing today’s US fashion industry executives. Unsurprisingly, they are contributing to a more conservative outlook for the future.
Operational planning for an online fashion retail future3 Aug 2020
The new fashion retail landscape emerging in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic is already leading to dramatic and permanent changes in the way brands and fashion retailers plan and work. Here, Malcolm Newbery shares his views on some of the practical steps that surviving businesses should consider as online becomes the dominant way of doing business.
Apparel suppliers face new cost pressures as orders resume31 Jul 2020
High pressure tactics used by apparel and footwear brands and retailers during cost negotiations are not only impacting suppliers’ profitability but also threaten their social and environmental sustainability too, a new survey has found.
Primark to pay for all outstanding finished goods and fabric31 Jul 2020
Primark is to pay its suppliers in full for all outstanding finished goods and to utilise or pay for any finished fabric liabilities incurred before it closed all its stores in mid-March amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Antiviral fabric developments accelerate amid safety concerns30 Jul 2020
Research is ramping up around the world to develop new technologies that tap into growing demand for antimicrobial, virus and bacteria killing fibres and fabrics generated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Apparel events postponed and cancelled by coronavirus – Update30 Jul 2020
Organisers of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) have transitioned this year’s physical show to an online only virtual event.
Nike shelves plans for Arizona facility on Covid woes29 Jul 2020
US sporting goods giant Nike Inc has backtracked on plans to invest in its Goodyear, Arizona, footwear-making facility.
Fashion industry efforts to address global PPE shortages – Update27 Jul 2020
Texollini, Chargeurs*PCC Fashion Technologies, and Crystal International are among the latest fashion firms to mobilise their production facilities and supply chains to help address the global shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), including face masks and hospital gowns, amid the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Does the clothing supply chain need to push the reset button?22 Jul 2020
The global apparel and textile industry supply chain is in need of a complete reset if it is to survive beyond the Covid-19 pandemic, and this could mean changing to a demand driven calendar, embracing ‘smartification’, and distributing margin differently, industry experts have said.
Covid-19 pandemic accelerates existing sourcing trends17 Jul 2020
Rather than redrawing global sourcing maps, the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated and deepened a number of pre-existing trends – including a diversification of supplier portfolios – new research suggests.
Brazil’s Santista developing Covid-free denim treatment17 Jul 2020
Brazilian textile major Santista Textil is set to launch a new fabric treatment that protects workwear, denim and other apparel from SARS-CoV-2, the strain that causes the novel coronavirus – and sees it as a potential game-changer for its business.
UK fashion industry to be hit “twice as hard” in Covid-19 recession16 Jul 2020
The UK government has been called upon to roll out support measures for the fashion industry with experts suggesting the sector could be hit “twice as hard” by the Covid-19 recession compared to others.
H&M Foundation to support female garment workers in Bangladesh10 Jul 2020
H&M Foundation is to donate SEK12m (US$1.3m) to help young women and their families in and around Dhaka with emergency relief from the Covid-19 pandemic as part of a long-term project to support female garment workers in Bangladesh.
From Field to Shelf – How the apparel industry can become exceptional9 Jul 2020
As disheartened members of this supply chain, and as optimistic consumers, we commit to being part of the 20% – the minority demanding and developing, launching, and implementing new and sustainable innovations and standards up and down the supply chain. By Robert Antoshak, managing director of Olah Inc, and April Kappler, consultant to the cotton and textile supply chain.
BGMEA Covid-19 field hospital to treat garment workers9 Jul 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has opened a 50-bed Covid-19 field hospital in Chattogram to provide free medical treatment to garment workers infected with coronavirus.
Bangladesh highlights Covid’s “devastating” impact on RMG sector8 Jul 2020
The Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has said the Covid-19 pandemic has had a “devastating impact” on the country’s readymade garment (RMG) sector and expressed concern over the growing level of job losses on the economy.
Technology key to navigating post-Covid fashion system7 Jul 2020
Technology is at the heart of the apparel and textile industry’s emergence from post-Covid lockdown, with digitalisation now key to helping brands navigate the fragile system the pandemic has exposed.
China apparel exporters hit hard by Covid-19 demand shocks6 Jul 2020
China’s apparel and footwear exporters have been hit the hardest by coronavirus-led demand shocks, a new report has found, with the two sectors having shown no signs of recovery.
Covid-19 adds to pressure to move supply out of China6 Jul 2020
Around 33% of supply chain leaders have moved sourcing and manufacturing out of China, or plan to do so in the next two to three years, a new survey has found.
US apparel imports tumble by more than one-fifth in May3 Jul 2020
US apparel imports were down by more than a fifth month-on-month in May as the global garment industry continued to crumble under the destructive weight of Covid-19. However, there appears to have been a resurgence from Central American and Mexican suppliers during the month as retailers appear to have turned to those closest to home amid the reopening of stores.
China manufacturing activity rises to six-month high3 Jul 2020
Manufacturing activity in China surged to a six-month high in June as the country continued to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic – but overseas demand remained subdued due to ongoing uncertainty in export markets.
India manufacturers see coronavirus as catalyst for good3 Jul 2020
Sustainability, innovation and digitalisation are all seen as key to helping the Indian textile and clothing industry build back better from the Covid-19 pandemic. The South Asian manufacturing hub could also benefit from its indigenous environmentally friendly processes and models of textile production, executives believe.
Covid safety hub launched for Bangladesh RMG sector2 Jul 2020
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has partnered with the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters’ Association (BGMEA) and the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters’ Association (BKMEA) to launch a virtual training package aimed at preparing and maintaining safer working conditions for garment workers in the South Asian country both during and post-pandemic.
Retail forecasting helps planners to navigate pandemic1 Jul 2020
Retail planners need an agile approach to see them through a pandemic, with artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques among the tools to help make the best decisions at every stage from initial response to recovery.
Virtual trade shows unlikely to replace physical post Covid-1930 Jun 2020
Digital apparel and textile trade shows are unlikely to replace physical shows post-pandemic, but rather complement them, experts have agreed.
El Salvador eyes 25,000 apparel job losses as exports falter29 Jun 2020
El Salvador lost 20,000 apparel industry jobs this year and could lose another 5,000 as production plummets 35% due to Covid-19.
Mounting calls for US fashion trade insurance support26 Jun 2020
Momentum is gathering on calls for “an emergency, temporary federal commercial trade credit insurance backstop,” with 22 trade organisations now urging the US government to take action ahead of the upcoming holiday season.
Morocco resumes production as fashion markets re-open24 Jun 2020
Morocco’s clothing manufacturing sector has pivoted to making personal protective equipment to cope with the flood of cancelled orders that marked the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic – and in doing so is developing textile backward linkages that could strengthen the industry for the future.
Tunisia garment sector explores post-Covid recovery plan23 Jun 2020
Tunisia’s garment industry is exploring a post-Covid near-shoring strategy as part of a recovery plan to rethink the country’s positioning as a sourcing centre.
Kenya’s sourcing sector reels from Covid-19 pandemic19 Jun 2020
Kenya’s clothing manufacturing industry has been punched hard by Covid-19’s devastation of its main export market, the United States.
Covid-19 has taken its toll on Sri Lanka clothing sector18 Jun 2020
Covid-19 has taken its toll on Sri Lanka’s textile and clothing sector, with exports forecast to plummet 30% in fiscal 2021.
Unions take action as Ethiopia factories slow to react to Covid18 Jun 2020
IndustriAll Global Union affiliate the Industrial Federation of Textile Leather Garment Workers Trade Union (IFTLGWTU) is carrying out Covid-19 awareness campaigns aimed at its members in garment and textile factories in Ethiopia, where it is concerned by the slow pace at which some factories are reacting to the pandemic.
Philippines seeks garment sector recovery plan18 Jun 2020
Unions say over 20,000 workers in Philippines’ textile, garment and leather goods sector have been laid-off due to the Covid-19 pandemic and are calling for tripartite social partners to come up with a “coherent and realistic” recovery plan.
Indonesia clothing hub will take time to recover from pandemic17 Jun 2020
Indonesia’s clothing industry is another sourcing hub that has been struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic, with overseas buyers cancelling orders and the domestic market in the doldrums
Retailers begin to outline store reopening plans – Update16 Jun 2020
Debenhams, Brooks Brothers, and J.Crew Group are among the latest apparel brands and retailers to outline reopening plans after stores and online operations were closed temporarily worldwide as part of efforts to help limit the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Almost one-fifth of under-45s upped lockdown clothing spend15 Jun 2020
Almost a fifth of under-45s have increased clothing spend to treat themselves during Covid-19 lockdown, a new survey shows.
Global economy to hit deepest recession since WWII15 Jun 2020
Europe’s economy is expected to shrink by over 9% this year, and the US’ by over 6%, new data shows, as shutdown measures related to the coronavirus pandemic plunge the global economy into contraction.
Covid-19 pandemic could push millions into child labour12 Jun 2020
The Covid-19 crisis could lead to the first rise in child labour for 20 years, according to a new brief from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund.
US trade deficit in goods jumps nearly 17% in April12 Jun 2020
The US trade deficit in goods and services jumped 16.8% in April from a month earlier as the Covid-19 pandemic meant many businesses were operating on a limited capacity or none at all.
Looming credit crisis threatens US apparel supply chains11 Jun 2020
Concerns that a commercial credit crisis is seizing up retail supply chains have prompted a group representing hundreds of US apparel and footwear brands and importers to call on the government for help.
Better Factories Cambodia launches Covid-19 worker helpline11 Jun 2020
Better Factories Cambodia (BFC) has launched a Covid-19 worker safety hotline aimed at giving workers more information about the disease and how to prevent it.
From Field to Shelf – Selling garments should never be the same10 Jun 2020
As an industry we keep repeating ourselves: making the same mistakes over and over again. Twenty-five years ago, the pain was felt in America. Today it’s suffered in Bangladesh. We must acknowledge that it’s time for a change. The old model has overstayed its welcome and outlived its usefulness. It should be scrapped for something better. By Robert Antoshak, managing director of Olah Inc.
Clothes top the list for UK consumers returning to shops10 Jun 2020
Just over half of UK consumers are ready to visit non-essential stores once lockdown restrictions are lifted – with clothing top of their shopping lists, and 16-24s the most eager to return to shops – a new survey suggests.
Three more Debenhams stores will remain closed after lockdown10 Jun 2020
Department store group Debenhams has confirmed a further three stores will not repoen after lockdown restrictions are lifted in the UK next week after it failed to agree terms with landlord Intu.
A case study in crisis management – What next for PDS Group?9 Jun 2020
Trust, people and partnerships – key tenets underpinning fashion supplier and sourcing powerhouse PDS Group – have been tested to the limit during the coronavirus pandemic. But they’ve also stood the business in good stead, helping to not only weather the storm but reposition it to emerge even stronger from the crisis, as founder and vice chairman Pallak Seth explains.
US apparel imports from Central America fall off a cliff in April9 Jun 2020
As the global garment industry continued to collapse under the weight of the Covid-19 pandemic throughout April, US apparel imports tumbled by more than a quarter on the previous month – with Central American suppliers Honduras and El Salvador recording the sharpest declines in shipments at more than 90% each.
Pandemic’s impact on US retail imports easing9 Jun 2020
The impact of Covid-19 at major US retail container ports appears to be easing slightly, with projected imports remaining below last year’s levels but not as much as previously forecast.
New guidance issued on garment factory safety during Covid-199 Jun 2020
The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) has partnered with the Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) to publish new guidance material for members on how to implement occupational health and safety measures to protect garment workers during Covid-19.
BGMEA sets up coronavirus testing labs8 Jun 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has set up a testing lab for workers to be tested for coronavirus in Chandra.
UK lockdown continues to weaken online clothing sales8 Jun 2020
The UK’s second month under lockdown saw online retail sales swell to a twelve-year high in May but clothing sales continued to feel the pressure of weak demand, with both womens and menswear hit.
Egypt’s clothing sector suffers but expects post-pandemic uplift5 Jun 2020
Egypt’s garment and textile manufacturing sector has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, even though factories have largely remained open.
Tonello technologies tap new need for garment disinfecting 5 Jun 2020
Finishing machinery maker Tonello has launched a range of technologies that can sanitise and disinfect garments and accessories, both during production and in the retail store.
Guatemala garment workers on the frontline of the pandemic4 Jun 2020
Reports of a Covid-19 outbreak in a Guatemalan garment factory last week have sent shockwaves across the region, fuelling calls for tougher action to ensure garment workers are provided with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE).
China to overtake US as largest apparel market4 Jun 2020
China is expected to overtake the US as the largest apparel market by 2023, according to industry experts.
Apparel supply chain financing is vital to aid recovery4 Jun 2020
When a crisis such as the Covid-19 pandemic hits a supply chain as complex as that of clothing, financing problems can gum up commercial relationships – meaning governments, regional and international organisations all need to step in.
Mauritius makers need technology revamp to recover from virus4 Jun 2020
A government minister has urged the textile and apparel manufacturing industry in Mauritius to embrace advanced Industry 4.0 technology if it is to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic successfully, after being brought to its knees by the outbreak.
Global online fashion sales up but spend down amid Covid-194 Jun 2020
Fashion retailers globally are driving nearly 40% more orders online as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, but consumers are cutting back on the amount they are spending, new data shows.
Reshoring possible as US firms look to shorter, faster supply chains post-pandemic2 Jun 2020
US clothing brands and suppliers are likely exploring ways to make their supply chains faster and more nimble as a result of the coronavirus pandemic – which could involve many looking to shift parts of their production to the US, Central America and Mexico.
Suppliers must lead in reshaping post-virus payment practices2 Jun 2020
Apparel suppliers are being urged to take the lead in setting up a group to shape new payment and terms practices for the industry as it emerges from the coronavirus crisis.
Apparel brands urged to guarantee garment worker wages2 Jun 2020
Labour rights groups are calling for clothing brands and retailers to guarantee that all workers in their supply chains will receive wage and benefit payments during the Covid-19 crisis.
EU’s Myanmar garment support fund pays out MMK1 billion2 Jun 2020
Myanmar’s garment workers have received the first MMK1.04bn (US$753,512) in payments through the EU funded Myan Ku ‘Quick Assistance Fund’.
Garment sector suffers biggest economic hit amid Covid-191 Jun 2020
The garment industry has suffered the biggest economic hit during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a new report, with supply chain disruption the top challenge.
Markdowns not part of the plan as Primark to reopen in UK1 Jun 2020
Primark-owner Associated British Foods (ABF) says the value fashion retailer has begun placing “substantial” orders for autumn/winter stock and will seek to avoid markdowns on excess inventory as it prepares to reopen stores in England on 15 June.
China factory output surges in May but exports subdued1 Jun 2020
Chinese manufacturing output in May expanded at the fastest rate since January 2011 – but demand remained subdued as the spread of the coronavirus continued in export markets.
Brands urged to make supply-chain relief payment29 May 2020
A one-off payment from fashion brands and retailers could be a way of mitigating the impact of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis on supply chain workers.
New Inventory Quarantine tool to help automate returns29 May 2020
As the apparel retail industry prepares to open its doors again, new technology has been released to aid retailers with inventory quarantine.
Clothing sales surge seen when UK lockdown ends29 May 2020
While the majority of UK consumers plan to prioritise spending time with friends and family when lockdown restrictions are lifted, 16% aim to spend time shopping for non-food items – with over two-thirds looking forward to purchasing clothing items.
Survey finds 40% of fashion brands have not paid suppliers29 May 2020
A new survey of 35 fashion brands and retailers has found that despite mounting public pressure, 40% have made no public commitment to pay in full for completed orders.
Reopening will be no mean feat for UK retailers28 May 2020
While clothing stores in the UK will be allowed to reopen from the middle of next month, one analyst says shops will not “spring back to life” on 15 June and notes there will be a number of teething problems as retailers begin to reopen their doors.
China apparel market could see US$60bn contraction in 202027 May 2020
The Chinese apparel market could contract by US$60bn in 2020, according to a new study.
More brands named for failing on order commitments27 May 2020
An online tracker launched last month to monitor the response of leading apparel and footwear brands and retailers to their suppliers and workers during the coronavirus crisis, has been updated to show some are still refusing to make no commitment to pay in full for orders completed and in production.
Manufacturers must future-proof as fashion gets faster26 May 2020
If there’s one thing the coronavirus pandemic has exposed, it’s that successful retailers and brands are the ones who are nimble, agile and flexible to meet customers’ rapidly changing needs. Here, Roit Kathiala sets out steps for manufacturers to realign with this fast-shifting fashion business if they want to stay relevant in the coming decades.
UK fashion retailers get green light to open from 15 June26 May 2020
Clothing stores in the UK will be allowed to reopen from 15 June in newly announced plans from the government.
10-point checklist for creating a safe return to work26 May 2020
As many businesses globally are being given the green light by governments to reopen their doors following the coronavirus pandemic, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has created a checklist to ensure the safe return of workers.
Lost Stock venture sells cancelled Bangladesh clothing orders26 May 2020
A new initiative is offering consumers the chance to purchase clothing from cancelled apparel orders from Bangladesh in a move aimed at helping support the industry and its workers through the coronavirus pandemic.
Guatemala’s Startex says demand spike will now keep it open – Update22 May 2020
Sportswear and knitwear manufacturer Startex is to close for up to two months as US clients owe it $10m in unpaid orders and new restrictions to contain surging Covid-19 cases hamper workers’ ability to reach its 1,400-strong site in Guatemala City.
Call for global fashion industry to “slow down” and reset21 May 2020
The British Fashion Council (BFC) and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have joined hands in a call to the global fashion industry to “slow down” and rethink the way in which it operates amid Covid-19.
Covid-19 set to reshuffle fashion’s sustainability focus21 May 2020
The coronavirus pandemic is seen as triggering a set-back for labour rights in apparel supply chains, with workers left vulnerable as brands and retailers cancelled orders. But it could also lead to re-thinking on the sustainability front, industry executives say.
VF Corp aligns with post-pandemic health and wellness shift20 May 2020
Apparel powerhouse VF Corp believes it is well-positioned to emerge as a winner from the coronavirus crisis – with an increased consumer focus on the outdoors, health and wellbeing set to boost its activity-based lifestyle brands.
H&M, Inditex in UN push to governments for climate change action20 May 2020
More than 150 companies including the likes of H&M, Burberry, Inditex, and zipper manufacturer YKK Corp, have backed a UN statement urging governments to align their Covid-19 economic aid and recovery efforts with the latest climate science.
Sustainability key to resilient post-Covid fashion industry19 May 2020
Fashion executives are being urged to place sustainability at the core of their business models to help rebuild resilient and sustainable businesses post-Covid-19.
Bangladesh Bank increases export fund to $30m19 May 2020
Bangladesh garment factories will now have access to more funding after the country’s main bank increased the loan threshold for its export fund to US$30m.
Bangladesh seeks EU help to curb garment order cancellations18 May 2020
The Bangladesh government has taken the unusual step of asking the European Parliament to use its influence to try to persuade European clothing brands to be more sensitive about the impact of cancelling orders with Bangladesh-based suppliers during the Covid-19 crisis.
Brands commit to paying for orders under new Myanmar support scheme18 May 2020
H&M, Inditex and Next are among the global brands that have backed an initiative to protect garment workers and factories in Myanmar from the economic impact linked to the coronavirus outbreak.
US clothing retail sales plummet in April15 May 2020
US retail sales dropped almost twice as much during April as they did in March as the nation’s economy saw its first full month when most businesses were closed because of Covid-19, with clothing retailers particularly hard hit.
Esquel pivots production to build private brand mask sales15 May 2020
The Covid-19 pandemic has proved a mixed blessing for Hong Kong-based garment supplier Esquel. While export earnings have plummeted, the company has pivoted by adding non-medical use face masks to its product line, which it will sell under the company’s own label Determinant.
Unions seek support for 80,000 Central America garment workers15 May 2020
Nearly 50,000 in El Salvador, 26,000 in Honduras and 6,000 in Nicaragua: that’s how many workers Central American garment factories are laying off with no paycheck, trade union officials say. They are stepping up calls for governments and fashion brands to help compensate and provide a livelihood for impoverished sewers until the pandemic recedes.
Cotton, textile sectors call for collaborative action amid Covid-1915 May 2020
Five associations representing the cotton and textile industry have joined hands on a call for fair and equitable trade practices across global supply chains amid the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Fast fashion faces shake-up in post-Covid-19 world14 May 2020
The Covid-19 pandemic will not just threaten business failure for many clothing brands and manufacturers, it may herald the end of the current high production, fast fashion model and result in fewer, smaller collections from more sustainable supply chains.
Clothing firms told to consider safety steps for factory worker returns14 May 2020
The coronavirus pandemic is going to force many changes in the way clothing factories have operated for hundreds of years and companies must start to consider the steps they can take to safeguard workers as facilities begin to come back online.
Covid-19 to cut global apparel market by US$297bn in 2020 13 May 2020
Covid-19 will wipe off US$297bn from the global apparel market in 2020 – a 15.2% decline on 2019 – according to a new forecast from GlobalData.
Bangladesh workers to access well-being platform13 May 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has partnered with Maya Digital Health to offer workers access to the anonymous platform through which they can ask questions relating to health and well-being.
From Field to Shelf – Now is the time for NGOs to up their game12 May 2020
If non-governmental organisations (NGOs) wish to remain relevant – and productive – they need to press their case now. Otherwise the fashion industry will go back to its old ways of doing business in a post-Covid world, says Robert Antoshak, managing director of Olah Inc.
UK firms with “vulnerable supply chains” could get support12 May 2020
The UK government has rolled out financial support for garment businesses with “vulnerable supply chains” in developing countries as part of its response to the coronavirus outbreak and its wider economic impact.
Reopening factories safely is the next challenge – Here’s how fashion brands can help11 May 2020
Western retailers must not turn their backs on their suppliers and the millions of workers who make the goods they sell, say Dorothée Baumann-Pauly and Natasja Sheriff from the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights. Here they set out three ways fashion brands can offer practical assistance their suppliers during the Covid-19 crisis.
Financial support and worker safety top industry concerns11 May 2020
A survey carried out by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition to determine areas that the industry most needs support and guidance in the wake of Covid-19 has found the biggest areas of concern are financial support to prevent or alleviate facility layoffs and how to protect workers once factories reopen.
US apparel imports from China down 53% in March7 May 2020
With the global apparel industry starting to feel the effects of factory shutdowns and retail store closures in March due to the outbreak of coronavirus, US apparel imports saw a double-digit drop on the month prior, with its largest supplier China recording the steepest fall at 53%.
Covid-19 – Seeking the opportunity amid a disaster7 May 2020
The coronavirus outbreak has battered the global fashion industry, creating mass upheaval for both buyers and suppliers. But it is also giving companies a much-needed opportunity to look closely at their supply chain relationships and business models for the future.
HanesBrands sees US$300m sales opportunity in PPE7 May 2020
T-shirt and activewear maker HanesBrands is ramping up the production of masks and protective garments in response to the global coronavirus pandemic – and says the business could become a permanent part of its portfolio.
Social compliance auditing during and after Covid-197 May 2020
Potential risks in the post-coronavirus environment are likely to make social compliance audits more important than ever, according to Randy Rankin, global client development director in the Consumer Products Testing Assurance Services practice at Eurofins.
Covid-19 inventory glut adds to garment industry grief6 May 2020
With spring/summer now a write-off for most fashion retailers, the resulting flood of excess inventory – and the subsequent discounting and margin erosion – will likely lead to widespread administrations for companies in the UK, Europe and the US.
Pakistan’s Punjab allows reopening of textile mills6 May 2020
Pakistan’s Punjab Government has allowed the reopening of textile mills across the region in a move that will help lift exports hit by the lockdown resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.
Export collapse weighs on China factory activity in April5 May 2020
A sharp fall in export orders as the Covid-19 pandemic caused global demand to slump meant factory activity in China contracted in April.
Distressed US apparel retailers face surge in defaults 5 May 2020
The US retail and apparel sector faces surging defaults over the next 12 months as companies succumb to pressures mounting from the lengthy shutdown and potentially slow recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, a new forecast suggests.
BGMEA carries out health and safety checks as factories reopen5 May 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) says 96% of factories it audited for health and safety measures have been found to be “satisfactory”.
Turkey garment suppliers call on brands to “reinforce dialogue”5 May 2020
Turkey’s clothing manufacturers are calling on global brands and retailers to reinforce dialogue with their suppliers over orders to maintain a “healthy and sustainable” supply chain.
EU’s Myanmar garment support fund makes first payments4 May 2020
The first payments have been made to some of Myanmar’s garment sector workers through the European Union’s EUR5m (US$5.5m) ‘Rapid Response’ support fund.
Australia’s wool industry battles the Covid-19 storm4 May 2020
Wool producers in Australia are stockpiling wool and avoiding auction sales as they battle a downturn in prices and demand.
Year-end cotton prices seen falling to decade low4 May 2020
Global cotton consumption in 2019/20 is set to suffer a 12% decline as demand plummets due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with year-end prices seen falling to their lowest levels in more than a decade.
US fashion industry wish-list to tackle corona crisis1 May 2020
Three associations representing the US fashion, apparel, footwear, and travel goods industries have set out recommendations for future tariff relief and stimulus aid to help retailers and importers emerge from the coronavirus crisis.
Egypt makers take a hit on cancellations and capacity1 May 2020
Garment factories in Egypt have indicated that order cancellations linked to the global Covid-19 crisis are reaching millions of dollars, and that many manufacturers have been forced to reduce their production capacity as a result.
Tunisia unions back salary pact for private workers1 May 2020
Private sector clothing and footwear workers in Tunisia are among those who will continue to be paid during Covid-19-related closures thanks to an agreement between the government and unions.
Global retail staff and salary reductions amid Covid-19 – Update1 May 2020
As the impact of the coronavirus pandemic spreads across the apparel and footwear industry, brands and retailers are moving from store closures to worker lay-offs or furloughs, as well as executive pay cuts. Here are the latest:
Trust and purpose will be key purchase drivers post-Covid, fashion industry told30 Apr 2020
A new report has warned companies that fail to demonstrate transparency and sustainable practices in their business operations will struggle to gain consumer trust in a post-Covid world.
Sweden tells Bangladesh it will not cancel orders30 Apr 2020
Sweden has assured Bangladesh it will not be cancelling garment orders from the country.
Bangladesh factory sees US$10m worth of orders cancelled29 Apr 2020
A Bangladesh factory has said it alone has had US$10m worth of orders cancelled since the coronavirus outbreak.
800 Bangladesh garment factories resume operations29 Apr 2020
Around 800 garment factories in Bangladesh have resumed operations, just weeks after the country’s apparel industry body advised facilities to remain closed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Next “better placed” than others to weather Covid-19 storm29 Apr 2020
UK retailer Next Plc issued a bleak trading update this morning (29 April) demonstrating how the coronavirus outbreak has impacted its business so far. Product full-price sales for the period from 26 January to 25 April fell 41% and it is now anticipating a steep fall of up to 40% in full-year full-price sales, while cancelling stock it no longer needs and moving other inventory into future seasons.
Virus seen halving Central American garment exports29 Apr 2020
Central America’s apparel exports will likely hover at $4bn to $5bn this year as the coronavirus pandemic slashes the impoverished region’s shipments by 50%, observers say.
Baptist World Aid sets six Covid Fashion Commitments29 Apr 2020
Baptist World Aid Australia (BWAA) is calling on fashion companies to commit to six commitments designed to support workers in global supply chains.
Safeguarding measures crucial for returning workers28 Apr 2020
Safeguarding measures need to be put into place for employees returning to work after the lockdown, the International Labour Organization (ILO) says, as it urges governments to take action to minimise risk.
Pandemic puts East European garment workers at risk too28 Apr 2020
Garment workers in Serbia, Ukraine, Croatia and Bulgaria are said to be earning less than a living wage producing clothes for German fashion brands – with many having to carry on despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
US cotton farmers to benefit from $19bn aid package27 Apr 2020
The Trump Administration has set out details of a $19bn aid package to support American farmers and ranchers – including cotton farmers – hurt by the ongoing Covid-19 emergency.
Labour rights unravel across Asia’s garment sector27 Apr 2020
Labour rights are set to worsen in Asia’s garment sector as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the region – with knock-on implications for fashion companies trying to maintain supply chains from these locations.
BGMEA advises garment factories to remain closed27 Apr 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Export Association (BGMEA) has advised factories in the country to continue to remain closed during the Covid-19 pandemic until it instructs them otherwise.
Brands have “wrecked” Turkey garment making sector27 Apr 2020
The president of Turkish Clothing Manufacturers’ Association TGSD (Türkiye Giyim Sanayicileri Dernegi) has complained about the treatment his members have experienced at the hands of international brands and retailers during the Covid-19 crisis.
Fabric mills limit collection size for online meetings27 Apr 2020
Fabric developers will need to reposition their collections to have fewer fabrics in order to keep buyers engaged, as the coronavirus outbreak has forced them to showcase collections differently.
UK clothing sales “obliterated” in March24 Apr 2020
UK retail sales slumped to new record lows in March, official data showed today (24 April), with the volume of sales at clothing and footwear stores down a whopping 34.8% on the previous month.
Covid-19 threatens labour achievements since Rana Plaza24 Apr 2020
Seven years on from Bangladesh’s Rana Plaza factory collapse, a worker rights group warns the current Covid-19 pandemic is undermining ongoing struggles in social protection, living wages, freedom to organise and factory safety.
Industry groups urge action on supply chain liquidity squeeze23 Apr 2020
Textile, apparel, footwear and travel goods associations from around the globe are adding to calls for governments to address the liquidity squeeze caused by Covid-19 across the supply chain.
Asda honours “vast majority” of George clothing orders23 Apr 2020
The Walmart-owned Asda supermarket chain says it will continue to honour commitments to suppliers of its George clothing range, even though it is reducing payments for finished products.
Brands join ILO push for emergency funding for suppliers23 Apr 2020
Apparel brands and retailers – including Adidas, C&A, H&M Group, Inditex, M&S and Primark – have joined employer organisations, unions and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to push for emergency funding to support garment factories and workers through the Covid-19 pandemic.
Sustainable development must continue – even in times of crisis22 Apr 2020
On the 50th anniversary of World Earth Day, Ken Burton, executive director of the new US Cotton Trust Protocol, explains why it is so important that sustainability activity is not left behind as companies are impacted by coronavirus.
Labour rights groups set priorities to protect garment workers22 Apr 2020
A coalition of groups helping around 2,000 apparel brands and retailers to improve labour conditions in garment factories around the world is calling for urgent action during the Covid-19 crisis to safeguard worker income and health and future-proof supply chains.
Bangladesh pressures factories over unpaid wages22 Apr 2020
The Bangladesh government has warned it will take action against garment factories that do not pay their staff during the coronavirus (Covid-19) lockdown.
Korean textile firms criticise Kohl’s order cancellations21 Apr 2020
Representatives from the Korean textile and apparel industry are calling on US department store retailer Kohl’s to reconsider its recent decision to unilaterally cancel orders – which it says puts at risk the livelihoods of nearly 200,000 workers around the world.
Technology opens new channels for supply chain communication21 Apr 2020
With Covid-19 putting a stop to all non-essential travel, global supply chains are being put to the test as brands and retailers have to rethink how they work, how they communicate with their manufacturers on placing orders and product design, and with business associates globally. Technology is now taking a front seat and software companies are stepping in to help bridge the gap.
India stands to lose $3bn in apparel shipments21 Apr 2020
India’s apparel industry stands to lose shipments worth more than US$3bn due to order cancellations and delays during the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey of garment exporters across the country.
Primark owner takes GBP284m unsold stock hit21 Apr 2020
Primark-owner, Associated British Foods (ABF) has written down the value of its clothing stock by GBP284m (US$349.3m) as the fashion retailer has gone from making sales of GBP650m each month to nothing following the closure of all stores in March amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Apparel industry payment terms no longer fit for purpose20 Apr 2020
The current global Covid-19 crisis has placed severe strain upon the apparel industry supply chain, with garment manufacturers and related ancillary industries feeling the financial effects of the global collapse in clothing retail. The crisis has also thrown into sharp focus the inadequacies of the existing system of supplier payment terms.
Primark extends supplier support by GBP370m20 Apr 2020
Value fashion retailer Primark has extended support to its suppliers by committing to pay for GBP370m (US$461m) worth of additional orders, over and above the GBP1.5bn of stock already in stores, depots and in transit.
Strategic plan needed for European textile and clothing sector20 Apr 2020
The European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex) has urged the European Commission to come up with measures to help the sector get through the Covid-19 pandemic, after a survey suggested one in four companies is considering closing down.
UK fashion spend set to decline by 26.1% in 202017 Apr 2020
The three-week extension of the Covid-19 lockdown across the UK is expected to push down UK fashion spend by a further GBP1.4bn (US$1.75bn), according to GlobalData.
Online tracker lists apparel brands’ response to Covid-1917 Apr 2020
A new tracker aims to name and shame apparel and footwear brands and retailers who have made no commitment to pay their suppliers for orders that are in production or already completed during the coronavirus pandemic – as well as flagging those who are upholding their obligations.
Cambodia unions urge brands to contribute to worker wages17 Apr 2020
Garment unions in Cambodia are proposing brands and manufacturers contribute 40% of the minimum wage for workers in factories that have suspended operations due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Invoking a force majeure comes with a high human cost16 Apr 2020
Concern is mounting at the use of force majeure clauses in contracts to enable apparel brands and retailers to stop shipments and avoid paying for the goods they ordered.
Haiti textile production to restart despite virus fears16 Apr 2020
Haiti plans to reopen its key textile industry next week, Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe has declared, as the initial term of the country’s state of emergency comes to an end.
Uzbek government seeks end to cotton boycott16 Apr 2020
Uzbekistan is urging a coalition of human rights groups to end their boycott of cotton and textiles sourced from the country to allow it to grow exports and recover amid the impact of the coronavirus crisis.
Sales at US clothing retailers free-fall in March16 Apr 2020
US retail sales saw their biggest monthly drop on record during March, with clothing stores recording the largest decline at sector level with sales tumbling by more than 50% from February as the Covid-19 pandemic saw consumers prioritise spending on essential goods such as groceries and health products.
EU alliance calls for “green recovery” from Covid-1916 Apr 2020
Fashion giant H&M is one of a number of businesses teaming up with EU ministers and NGOs to back a new informal alliance launched in the European Parliament this week calling for a “green recovery” from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Pandemic could slash global apparel brand value by 20%16 Apr 2020
The global apparel sector is likely to be one of the most heavily impacted by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, new figures show, with brand value likely to tumble by around 20%.
3D virtual design and fit tools keep fashion on track15 Apr 2020
With fashion supply chains around the world fracturing in the face of travel bans, factory shutdowns and remote working, tools such as 3D virtual design, fit and prototyping software are helping businesses to stay on track.
Peru scrambles to save 140,000 textile jobs amid virus fallout15 Apr 2020
Peru’s textile and apparel industry is scrambling to save hundreds of thousands of jobs as the coronavirus lockdown, newly extended until 26 April, wreaks havoc in the industry.
Brands urge EU to delay withdrawal of Cambodia trade benefits15 Apr 2020
Europe’s major clothing retailers and brands have called upon the EU Commission to consider delaying the withdrawal of the Everything But Arms (EBA) trade benefits received by Cambodia, as they feel the impact of the coronavirus outbreak throughout their clothing supply chains.
From Field to Shelf – The apparel industry is about to change15 Apr 2020
Pondering the future of the apparel industry, Robert Antoshak, managing director of Olah Inc notes: We can take one path which points us toward a more promising future, or we can choose a second path that simply repeats the mistakes of the past.
Global retail closures as coronavirus spreads – Update15 Apr 2020
A raft of apparel and footwear brands and retailers including Next Plc, Primark, H&M, Nike and Gap Inc, are temporarily closing stores and suspending online operations as part of efforts to help limit the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Turkey makers advised to halt production until end April15 Apr 2020
A textile industry trade body in Turkey is advising its members to halt production until the end of April in a bid to curb the spread of coronavirus in the country.
Is the Covid crisis the catalyst for more sustainable supply chains?14 Apr 2020
The apparel and footwear industry must respond to the coronavirus crisis by doubling-down on efforts to create more stable, sustainable and humane supply chains for the future, writes Doug Cahn.
India buyer appeal calls for “commerce with compassion”10 Apr 2020
India’s Textile Minister and the country’s apparel export body have become the latest to appeal to global apparel buyers to “do commerce with compassion” and not cancel orders.
EU launches Myanmar support fund for garment sector9 Apr 2020
The European Commission has launched a ‘Rapid Response’ support fund for Myanmar’s textile and garment sector in light of the Covid-19 crisis, with the aim of assisting around 70,000 workers.
Asia supplier nations in joint plea to fashion buyers9 Apr 2020
Nine representatives from six major garment sourcing nations have issued a joint call to global brands and retailers to consider the potential impacts on workers and small business enterprises in their supply chains when making purchasing decisions.
There’s no playbook for navigating a pandemic – “How we act now will show the world what we stand for”While there are there are no playbooks to guide the apparel industry through the coronavirus crisis and beyond, Edwin Keh, CEO of the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), believes two things are clear: the entire supply chain must work as an ecosystem to survive intact, and it should use the crisis as an opportunity to reset for the future.
Covid-19 an opportunity to “reset and reshape” the fashion industry9 Apr 2020
The coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic will provide the global fashion industry with an opportunity to “reset and reshape”, a new report says, with digital acceleration, discounting, consolidation and innovation all expected to feature.
China factory shutdowns hit US imports in February9 Apr 2020
February is historically the slowest month when it comes to US apparel imports due to annual shutdowns in China for Lunar New Year celebrations. This year saw overall shipments down double-digits, but factory shutdowns lasted longer, continuing into March due to the outbreak of coronavirus where the epicentre was the Hubei province in China.
World merchandise trade may fall by up to 32% in 20209 Apr 2020
World merchandise trade could fall by up to 32% this year, new figures show, as the Covid-19 pandemic disrupts economic activity, with estimates of a recovery uncertain.
Buyers warned axed orders are “devastating” for textile workers8 Apr 2020
A UK body that campaigns for fairness in trade is urging retailers not to cancel orders or require factories to delay payment terms, decisions it says, will have “devastating consequences for textile workers”.
BGMEA backs government factory holiday guidelines8 Apr 2020
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has backed the government’s general holiday for factories, except for those producing personal protective equipment, in a bid to help slow the Covid-19 outbreak.
What’s the future for fashion retail after coronavirus?8 Apr 2020
In just a few short weeks our industry has been turned upside down by the global spread of coronavirus. The question now is what will fashion retail be like when the pandemic is over? Here, Malcolm Newbery shares his thoughts on life after Covid-19.
ETI issues guidance for brands over supplier payments7 Apr 2020
The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is calling on its members to ensure workers in its supply chain receive payment for completed work during the Covid-19 pandemic and is urging dialogue over ongoing orders as it releases guidelines for brands.
PVH Corp redeploying and repurposing inventories7 Apr 2020
Apparel giant PVH Corp, owner of the Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger brands, is trying to offset the fallout from store closures across North America and Europe by reducing and redeploying its inventory commitments.
Cambodia garment makers call on buyers to honour contracts7 Apr 2020
A trade body representing garment manufacturers in Cambodia has appealed to buyers asking them to commit to orders already fulfilled.
Mekong governments urged to protect migrant workers7 Apr 2020
The vulnerable situation of migrant workers in the coronavirus crisis is being highlighted by the Mekong Migration Network (MMN), which is calling on the governments in the Greater Mekong Subregion – including Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar – to protect and support these workers, including those employed in factories.
Can the fractured supplier-buyer relationship be repaired?6 Apr 2020
Clothing retailers and brands around the world face dwindling sales, store closures and mounting stock inventory due to the coronavirus pandemic. In Bangladesh, millions of dollars worth of clothing orders have been cancelled and some factories are just a step away from shutting down their operations. But what happens when it all blows over? Can the fractured buyer-supplier relationship – until now based significantly on trust – be repaired?
New Look halts supplier payments and new orders 6 Apr 2020
New Look has suspended payments to its suppliers indefinitely as it works to navigate the Covid-19 crisis.
Five actions retail supply chains can take to navigate Covid-196 Apr 2020
As the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak has spread and its humanitarian impact has grown, challenges have arisen in the global supply chain. As a result, retailers are taking actions to resolve the immediate challenges the pandemic presents to supply-chain workers, business partners, and operations.
UK manufacturers take stock of Covid-19 fallout6 Apr 2020
UK-based clothing manufacturers are taking steps to shore up their businesses as orders slump amid the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic – including repurposing production, working from home where possible, and embracing digital technologies. But they are also optimistic the crisis might also lead to lasting change.
Covid-19 pandemic could put sustainability progress on hold6 Apr 2020
Sustainability was the buzzword of 2019 – but could be another of the casualties of the global outbreak of coronavirus (Covid-19).
How Better Work is helping factories respond to Covid-193 Apr 2020
The Better Work initiative is ramping up its response to the global Covid-19 pandemic by offering advice and assistance to governments, garment factories and workers in the countries where it operates – including Vietnam, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Nicaragua and Jordan.
World Bank fast-tracks $1.9bn coronavirus funds3 Apr 2020
The World Bank Group has fast-tracked $1.9bn in emergency funds to help 25 developing countries respond to the Covid-19 pandemic – including key garment producers Ethiopia, Kenya, Cambodia, Haiti, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Morocco.
Levi Strauss commits support to supply chain workers3 Apr 2020
Jeans giant Levi Strauss & Co (LS&Co) is moving to help support workers in its apparel supply chains as part of a US$3m commitment to Covid-19 relief efforts.
Guidelines for better buying amidst the coronavirus crisis3 Apr 2020
Amidst the chaos of order cancellations and payment delays experienced by clothing manufacturers around the world due to the coronavirus crisis, the good news is that some brands and retailers are continuing to offer support to their suppliers.
Covid-19 – The worst-case scenarios for apparel sourcing2 Apr 2020
The fast spread of the coronavirus around the globe has created an unprecedented situation for the world economy. But how might Covid-19 affect apparel sourcing and trade? Dr Sheng Lu, associate professor in the Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University of Delaware, has analysed the worst case scenarios.
China factory activity rebounds in March but orders fall2 Apr 2020
After deteriorating at the quickest pace on record in February, factory activity in China rebounded in March – but orders fell as the pandemic worsened across the rest of the world.
US footwear industry sees demand “totally evaporate”2 Apr 2020
US footwear brands are seeing dampened consumer demand as the fallout from the coronavirus outbreak continues.
Help for brands and suppliers on coping with corona crisis2 Apr 2020
A new resource has been launched to help garment brands and their supply chains navigate the Covid-19 crisis – with advice on its impact on factory workers and guidance on specific production countries.
Europe’s textile & apparel sector facing 50% drop in sales1 Apr 2020
The European textile and clothing manufacturing industry is expecting a drop of more than 50% in sales and production this year as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, with the majority already laying off workers and suffering financial constraints, new figures show.
China exports hit as coronavirus spreads across the globe1 Apr 2020
A textile trade body in China has said the number of firms cancelling export orders is growing by the day, leading to increasing pressure on upstream firms’ supply chains.
International Apparel Federation urges supply chain solidarity1 Apr 2020
The International Apparel Federation (IAF) is adding to calls for solidarity and collaboration by the apparel supply chain and its stakeholders – including governments and consumers – to reduce the damage to suppliers in the face of the coronavirus crisis.
US planning three-month duty deferral for some apparel?1 Apr 2020
US apparel and footwear retailers and importers are cautiously optimistic at reports the Trump Administration is planning to stop collecting duties on imports for at least three months to help ease the economic fallout of the coronavirus.
Bangladesh could see US$6bn hit from order losses1 Apr 2020
Bangladesh could stand to lose around US$6bn in export revenues as brands and retailers continue to cancel orders from the apparel sourcing major.
Tunisia garment sector adds concerns over Covid-19 impact31 Mar 2020
Tunisia’s textile and garment sector is warning of major commercial and humanitarian damage because of production stoppages and order cancellations resulting from the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Covid-19 highlights need for apparel purchasing practices reform31 Mar 2020
The fashion industry needs to re-think how it does business, in light of the impact of Covid-19, and purchasing practices must be reformed for social and environmental sustainability, a new academic paper has suggested.
Vietnam textile sector anticipates $467m hit from coronavirus31 Mar 2020
The Vietnamese textile and garment sector could see a VND11trn (US$467m) hit from the fallout of coronavirus, one of the country’s main textile groups has said.
H&M agrees payment to suppliers for cancelled orders31 Mar 2020
Swedish apparel retailer Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) has said it will pay and take delivery of goods already manufactured by its suppliers, as well as those in production.
Apparel industry in crisis – Why we need to work as a team30 Mar 2020
At this time of crisis it’s critically important that apparel brands and retailers avoid taking any drastic action that could sink the entire supply chain, writes Rick Helfenbein.
HSBC rolls out support for Bangladesh factories hit by Covid-1930 Mar 2020
The Bangladesh arm of HSBC bank has said it will roll out measures to provide “immediate assistance” to the suffering textile and garments sector that has been hit by Covid-19 and the related economic impact.
WTO forecasts sharp decline in global trade30 Mar 2020
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is predicting a “very sharp” decline in global trade, with the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic expected to have an “enormous impact” on the economy and on jobs.
India lockdown of little impact as orders already cancelled27 Mar 2020
The three-week lockdown ordered by the Indian government from Wednesday (25 March) to contain the spread of the coronavirus will have a limited impact on apparel exporters because production is already largely halted by a wave of order cancellations.
Bangladesh factories told to operate despite lockdown27 Mar 2020
Bangladesh has ordered thousands of clothing factories to continue production throughout a 10-day countrywide lockdown in force since Thursday (26 March) aimed at slowing the spread of new coronavirus that causes Covid-19.
Covid-19 daily update 27 March 2020 – Governments and commentators – FREE TO READ27 Mar 2020
A daily update of major developments in the evolving Covid-19 coronavirus crisis and its global implications – with emphasis on major national government developments, forecasts and commentaries.
Full pay for South Africa clothing workers during virus lockdown27 Mar 2020
80,000 clothing and textile workers in South Africa are set to receive full pay for the next six weeks as part of a landmark package agreed as the country goes into lockdown to try to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Retailers will be remembered for their coronavirus response27 Mar 2020
Retailers that have made bold commitments to their staff, customers and the wider community during the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak are most likely to be in favour with shoppers when normality returns – including fashion brands that are harnessing their production capacity to produce equipment to help fight the pandemic.
Covid-19 daily update 26 March 2020 – Governments and commentators – FREE TO READ26 Mar 2020
A daily update of major developments in the evolving Covid-19 coronavirus crisis and its global implications – with emphasis on major national government developments, forecasts and commentaries.
How Asia supplier countries are responding to coronavirus26 Mar 2020
Garment workers in global supply chains are especially exposed to risks linked to the global Covid-19 crisis, but how are the governments in key production countries in Asia responding?
ASTM International grants public access to PPE standards26 Mar 2020
Global standards organisation ASTM International is providing no-cost public access to a suite of 24 standards used in the production and testing of personal protective equipment (PPE) to help combat the Covid-19 public health emergency.
SEAMS programme aligns PPE sourcing agents with supply chains26 Mar 2020
SEAMS – the National Association for the US Sewn Products Industry – has launched a community programme to help tackle the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) by aligning sourcing agents with PPE supply chains.
Central America factories shutter as virus dents demand26 Mar 2020
Mexican and Central American garment factories are shutting down as regional governments respond to the coronavirus outbreak and US demand slumps as retailers face widespread shutdowns to contain the global health emergency.
Stretchline elastics meet demand for medical face masks26 Mar 2020
Best-known as one of the world’s leading suppliers of narrow fabrics and elastics for end-uses including lingerie, intimate apparel, sports and activewear, Stretchline is joining the fight against coronavirus by switching its production to elastics that can be used in medical face masks.
Myanmar Covid-19 fund unlikely to cushion garment jobs25 Mar 2020
The government of Myanmar has unveiled an initial US$70m stimulus package to cushion the blow of the coronavirus outbreak on the country’s economy, but sources suggest it might not be enough to save “tens of thousands” of garment workers who are likely to find themselves out of a job in the near future.
Gerber Technology task force to help shift to PPE production25 Mar 2020
Apparel software maker Gerber Technology has launched a dedicated task force to help manufacturers convert their production to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) amid the Covid-19 pandemic which has led to a shortage of items such as masks and gowns.
Nike deploys Covid-19 “playbook” to US and Europe25 Mar 2020
Sportswear giant Nike Inc says it has a “playbook” to tackle the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including leveraging its diverse sourcing base and digital capabilities to manage the business with flexibility, and shifting inventory to serve consumer digital demand.
Why Bangladesh garment sector needs global support25 Mar 2020
Bangladesh’s apparel industry is in gridlock, with millions of jobs at risk as orders are frozen or cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic. Brands do not want to lose their supply chains and factories do not want to lay off workers – but without short-term financial support, that is likely to be the next step.
New Look pauses production as coronavirus impacts business25 Mar 2020
Clothing retailer New Look has halted all production alongside closing all of its UK stores as the coronavirus impact continues to affect its business.
Kering luxury labels prepare to produce surgical masks25 Mar 2020
Kering is to provide the French health service with 3m surgical masks, which the luxury goods group will purchase and import from China, as part of efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic in France.
Bangladesh Accord suspends inspections amid pandemic25 Mar 2020
The Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh says it has suspended all inspections and educational activities in its factories in order to protect the health of its employees amid the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Huntsman to make hand sanitiser in fight against Covid-1925 Mar 2020
Chemicals manufacturer Huntsman Corporation will begin making hydro alcoholic solution to produce hand sanitiser at its manufacturing site in Monthey, Switzerland, in response to an urgent appeal by Swiss authorities.
Covid-19 boosts demand for virtual sourcing shows24 Mar 2020
The coronavirus pandemic is encouraging textile trade shows to consider virtual and other digital alternatives as it forces the cancellation of myriad events around the world.
Gildan Activewear suspends production on Covid-19 fallout24 Mar 2020
Gildan Activewear is temporarily suspending production at all of its manufacturing facilities until mid-April amid the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
BGMEA chief warns of unrest if Bangladesh orders cancelled24 Mar 2020
The president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged international apparel brands not to delay shipments or cancel orders, warning that to do so could result in factories failing to pay workers and subsequently create social unrest across the country.
European sporting goods industry calls for liquidity support24 Mar 2020
The European sporting goods industry is calling on the EU and its member states to provide “swift and bold” liquidity support to its sector to help soften the impact from the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
UK clothing and footwear sales to be hardest hit by Covid-1924 Mar 2020
Clothing and footwear is the UK retail sector likely to be worst hit by the coronavirus (Covid-19) this year, with spending expected to decline by one-fifth, according to preliminary forecasts.
Brands again urged to support global garment workers24 Mar 2020
Another rallying call has been made to global brands and retailers asking them to take steps to protect global garment workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.
H&M moves to supply protective equipment for hospitals23 Mar 2020
Swedish fashion retailer H&M Group is mobilising its supply chain to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) to be delivered to hospitals and health care workers to help tackle widespread shortages during the Covid-19 pandemic.
US apparel & footwear firms urge support for virus impact23 Mar 2020
US industry representatives have called on the Treasury to offer more support for clothing and footwear brands to manage their operations during the coronavirus crisis.
Amazon blocks “non-essential” goods from warehouses23 Mar 2020
Clothing suppliers selling via online retailer Amazon will see their shipments temporarily blocked as the group makes room in its warehouses for the most-needed items during the coronavirus outbreak.
US apparel supply chain switches to face mask production23 Mar 2020
A coalition of US apparel and textile firms has joined forces to build a supply chain to fast-track the manufacturing of medical face masks for hospitals, health care workers and citizens battling the spread of Covid-19.
Primark cancels all orders as UK stores close23 Mar 2020
UK value fashion retailer Primark has cancelled all orders with its suppliers and closed all of its stores – including the 189 it operates in the UK – as countries around the world go into lockdown to try to halt the spread of coronavirus.
US retail sector calls for swift move on stimulus efforts23 Mar 2020
A coalition of retail industry groups has called on the US government to ensure stimulus efforts to curb the economic impact of the coronavirus are “swift and flexible” enough to keep businesses afloat.
Frasers Group warns of coronavirus hit to FY profit20 Mar 2020
Frasers Group, formerly known as Sports Direct International, has become the latest to warn on profits amid the fallout from the global Covid-19 pandemic.
US textile groups say factories essential to tackle coronavirus20 Mar 2020
US textile and nonwoven associations are urging federal, state and local governments to deem textile and nonwoven manufacturing facilities as “essential” to ensure workers are exempted from orders to stay at home during the Covid-19 crisis.
M&S cuts clothing orders by GBP100m as Covid-19 hits sales20 Mar 2020
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has warned trading over the next nine to 12 months in its clothing and homewares business is likely to be severely impacted by the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak and that it is “taking all possible steps” to defer supply ahead of what it expects to be a prolonged downturn in demand.
Joules sales hit as coronavirus dampens customer confidence19 Mar 2020
British retailer Joules has warned the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak will impact the group’s sales as it witnesses a decline in store footfall.
Brands urged to shield global garment workers from Covid-1919 Mar 2020
Labour rights groups are urging clothing brands and retailers to take steps to minimise the impact of the coronavirus on garment workers’ health and livelihoods.
Next fears virus sales hit more than supply issues19 Mar 2020
UK fashion and homeware retailer Next Plc has warned it could lose up to GBP1bn (US$1.15bn) in sales as the coronavirus impacts demand – but says it is armed with various measures that could help control costs and conserve cash.
Coronavirus disruption – How will fashion companies emerge?18 Mar 2020
How retail and fashion companies and their supply chains might fare coming out of the coronavirus crisis – and possible longer-term impacts on social trends and behaviour.
US firms report supply chain disruption as coronavirus continues18 Mar 2020
Three-quarters of US companies polled in a recent survey say they are experiencing supply chain disruption in some shape or form due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Superdry warns it will miss 2020 profit target18 Mar 2020
UK retailer Superdry has warned it will miss its 2020 targets as it has come up against “unprecedented challenges” from the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Coronavirus adds to testing times for India apparel exporters18 Mar 2020
Subdued demand in key markets due to the rapid spread of the Covid-19 virus is weighing on Indian apparel and cotton exporters, with concerns over working capital and liquidity as orders are postponed.
Inditex writes down inventory as virus impacts sales18 Mar 2020
Inditex, the owner of brands including Zara and Bershka, has recorded a EUR287m (US$316m) inventory charge on the back of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak which it says has hit its sales in the first two weeks of March.
Supply chains face liquidity crunch as transactions tank17 Mar 2020
A slump in global trade transactions across the Tradeshift platform reveals the scale of disruption to supply chains globally as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak – and points to significant pressures on liquidity.
Rise in payment delays weighs on Bangladesh factories17 Mar 2020
Garment manufacturers in Bangladesh are seeing an influx of requests for payment delays from buyers as a result of the ongoing global coronavirus outbreak.
Vietnam makers fear production hit from raw material shortage17 Mar 2020
Concerns are rising among Vietnamese garment producers about whether they have enough raw materials to be able to continue production into the second quarter.
Italy’s clothing sector grapples fallout from Covid-1916 Mar 2020
While clothing manufacturers in Italy have not been told to close outright in the country’s bid to fight the Covid-19 virus, many have been subject to major disruption during this health emergency.
Myanmar’s garment SMEs feeling Covid-19 impact16 Mar 2020
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Myanmar’s garment sector are feeling the impact of the coronavirus outbreak as a result of raw material shortages but concern over a fall in orders is now spreading across the sector as the US teeters on the brink of recession.
Primark sounds warning over H1 sales on Covid-19 fallout16 Mar 2020
Primark-owner, Associated British Foods (ABF) has sounded a warning on its half-year sales as traffic in its stores slows with the impact of the coronavirus outbreak intensifying.
Colombia eyes US export boost as virus shuffles supply chains 13 Mar 2020
Colombia’s textiles and apparel industry is hoping its exports to the US will rise this year as brands rush to find sourcing alternatives away from China amid the fast-spreading coronavirus.
Gap expects coronavirus to hurt Q1 sales by $100m13 Mar 2020
Specialty clothing retailer Gap Inc expects to take a first-quarter sales hit of about US$100m due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak – and says it is working on contingency plans to tackle falling demand and supply chain disruption.
Bangladesh Denim Expo cancelled amid coronavirus fears13 Mar 2020
The twelfth edition the Bangladesh Denim Expo, which had been due to take place next month, has been cancelled on the back of health and travel concerns linked to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Urban Outfitters sales fall in Covid-19 hotspots11 Mar 2020
US clothing retailer Urban Outfitters says it has seen a decline in store traffic and sales in areas heavily impacted by Covid-19 over the course of the past week, such as Milan, Italy and Seattle, Washington, as well as a few additional locations.
Sourcing in an epidemic requires resilience not re-shoring11 Mar 2020
The media is currently awash with predictions that the Covid-19 outbreak marks the end of multinational sourcing. Professional clothing buyers certainly need to review how they source – but it’s resilience, not re-shoring, they should be seeking.
Coronavirus impacting Puma sales not supply chain11 Mar 2020
Puma says its global supply chain is in the clear with regard to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, adding it is not currently at risk apart from minor delays.
Adidas warns of $1bn coronavirus sales hit in China11 Mar 2020
German sportswear giant Adidas is expecting sales to drop by up to EUR1bn (US$1.13bn) in Greater China in the first quarter, due to coronavirus, with a negative impact also now being felt in Japan and South Korea.
Coronavirus pressures Central America garment exports9 Mar 2020
The growing coronavirus epidemic continues to cast a shadow on Central America’s garment export and deliveries, with Nicaragua now forecasting a full-year export decline and Guatemala also acknowledging its apparel shipments face delays.
Supply chains in China see huge disruptions on coronavirus9 Mar 2020
Supply chains in China have seen significant disruption over the last month as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, according to the latest data from supply chain tech company Tradeshift.
Kontoor hits pause on Wrangler China launch9 Mar 2020
Kontoor Brands is to delay the launch of the Wrangler brand in China as a result of the coronavirus outbreak (Covid-19), which originated in the country at the end of 2019.
Kingpins axes Amsterdam show on coronavirus concerns9 Mar 2020
Denim trade show Kingpins has confirmed it will be cancelling its upcoming Amsterdam event on the back of health concerns and travel restrictions linked to the coronavirus outbreak (Covid-19).
Coronavirus to cause stock gaps and delays at fashion retailers9 Mar 2020
UK clothing sales are set for further disruption over the coming months, with stock issues expected to appear, as China accounts for over one-fifth of the country’s apparel imports.
Copenhagen Fashion Summit postponed amid coronavirus6 Mar 2020
Copenhagen Fashion Summit has been pushed back to October following the growing public health concerns around the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Sri Lanka sees orders slow as coronavirus hits main export markets5 Mar 2020
Sri Lanka is dealing with a fall in apparel order volumes as the coronavirus outbreak causes uncertainty among retailers and consumers.
Hugo Boss expects “significant” Q1 impact from coronavirus fallout5 Mar 2020
German luxury fashion brand Hugo Boss expects the economic consequences of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak to have a “significant” impact on the group’s sales and profit development in 2020, particularly in the first quarter.
Abercrombie & Fitch assesses Covid-19 supply chain impact5 Mar 2020
Abercrombie & Fitch says there is “significant uncertainty” across the industry resulting from coronavirus (Covid-19) as the US teen fashion retailer assesses the potential impact to its global supply chain.
UK retailers report supply chain disruption as Covid-19 continues4 Mar 2020
New research has revealed a number of UK retailers are experiencing supply chain disruption as a result of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, which began in China at the tail end of 2019.
US firms in China facing “significant” impact from Covid-193 Mar 2020
A survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham China) has found the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak on its members has been “significant”, with travel disruptions and reduced staff productivity presenting the biggest challenges.
Central America makers face delays due to coronavirus28 Feb 2020
Central American garment suppliers are fretting over delays of up to a month in essential Chinese fabric supplies as a result of the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Coronavirus prompts UK buyers look closer to home28 Feb 2020
UK fashion and textiles manufacturers are reporting an increase in new business enquiries linked to the ongoing impact of coronavirus, a new survey suggests.
Coronavirus impacts Columbia Sportswear supply chain28 Feb 2020
Outdoor apparel and footwear company Columbia Sportswear says the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak is impacting its suppliers’ ability to source certain raw materials and fulfil finished goods orders.
China garment factories slowly resume production27 Feb 2020
A shortage of workers and higher costs and shortfalls on the raw material side are among the top challenges facing China’s garment industry as the coronavirus disrupts their supply chains, according to a survey of almost 300 apparel companies.
Coronavirus presents challenge for Myanmar’s garment sector25 Feb 2020
The coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak is presenting a challenge for Myanmar’s garment sector, an industry body for the country has said, as its garment factories tackle supply issues, logistical challenges, and the possibility of factory closures.
Coronavirus could risk supply shortages at Primark24 Feb 2020
The owner of value fashion retailer Primark has warned that prolonged delays to factory production in China increase the risk of supply shortages on some lines later in its financial year.
Coronavirus puts question mark over Phase One trade deal21 Feb 2020
The novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak is slowing economic activity in China and raising concerns about potential US supply chain vulnerabilities in a range of sectors, including strategic raw materials, a new report has warned – and also casts a question mark over the Phase One trade deal between the two countries.
Adidas China sales tumble 85% due to coronavirus20 Feb 2020
Sportswear firm Adidas says its sales in Greater China have slumped 85% since Chinese New Year amid the coronavirus outbreak, with a significant number of stores closed and a reduction in footfall at its locations that do remain open.
China clothing factories struggling to get back on track20 Feb 2020
China’s clothing and textile makers are struggling to get back on track amid the continuing novel coronavirus epidemic – telling just-style that quarantined workers, travel restrictions and material delays are disrupting production and causing ongoing uncertainty.
Puma warns coronavirus likely to impact Q1 numbers19 Feb 2020
Puma has warned its first-quarter results will likely be affected by the impact of the coronavirus outbreak in China but remains optimistic about hitting its full-year targets.
Coronavirus brings new uncertainties to cotton outlook18 Feb 2020
The potential impacts of the coronavirus represent a significant wildcard in the outlook for the world cotton market in the 2020 crop year, new data shows.
Ralph Lauren warns coronavirus could cut sales by $70m14 Feb 2020
Fashion company Ralph Lauren Corporation expects to take a hit of up to US$70m on its fourth-quarter sales due to the coronavirus outbreak – and has warned of supply chain disruptions in China on a “small portion” of the company’s orders globally.
PVH closes majority of China stores on coronavirus13 Feb 2020
Apparel giant PVH Corp has temporarily closed the majority of its Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger stores in China amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Protecting workers’ rights key during coronavirus outbreak12 Feb 2020
Brands and retailers need to be aware of the financial strain on suppliers and the delays from manufacturing as a result of the coronavirus, a labour rights group has said, with communication key to mitigating the challenges the outbreak has presented.
Under Armour monitors supply chain amid coronavirus fallout12 Feb 2020
Under Armour is assessing the potential impact of the coronavirus outbreak on its supply chain as the US sportswear brand expects a hit of up to US$60m on first-quarter sales in the APAC region – and says it is looking at a potential 2020 restructuring plan.
Coronavirus shaking up China’s apparel supply chain11 Feb 2020
China based analysts are raising concerns that the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak will disrupt supplies of apparel to major international fashion brands.
US February retail imports seen falling on coronavirus11 Feb 2020
With the coronavirus causing longer Lunar New Year factory shut-downs in China, imports at major US retail container ports are expected to see a sharper-than-usual drop in February, a new forecast suggests.
Coronavirus to cost Michael Kors owner US$100m in lost sales6 Feb 2020
Capri Holdings, owner of the Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo brands, has sounded a warning on its full-year results in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Coronavirus to have “material impact” on Nike in Greater China5 Feb 2020
US sporting goods giant Nike expects the novel coronavirus outbreak to have a “material impact” on its operations in Greater China in the short term as the company has shuttered half of its stores in the region.
Ralph Lauren higher pricing boosts Q3 earnings5 Feb 2020
Ralph Lauren booked higher earnings and sales in its third-quarter, proving the fashion retailer’s turnaround plan is taking hold, but said it is continuing to monitor the impact of closing half its store base in China amid the Coronavirus outbreak.
China clothing buyers turning to Turkey on coronavirus concerns?5 Feb 2020
Turkish clothing factories can expect a jump in orders as Chinese production declines as a result of the China coronavirus outbreak, according to Turkey’s apparel trade body.
Cargo capacity and delays add to coronavirus concerns4 Feb 2020
Latest concerns around the impact of China’s coronavirus outbreak on global supply chains suggests the continued production stoppage will create a backlog of shipments and cargo delays once restrictions lift.
What does the coronavirus mean for US apparel and retail?3 Feb 2020
In this China update for just-style, Rick Helfenbein looks at some of the concerns surrounding the ongoing novel coronavirus outbreak, and asks: “What does Wuhan mean for our industry?”
Coronavirus could impact China polyester production3 Feb 2020
China’s polyester, textile and apparel industries could be under pressure as a result of the new coronavirus outbreak and resulting economic disruption, new comments suggest.
Levi Strauss closes half China stores over coronavirus31 Jan 2020
Denim giant Levi Strauss & Co expects the coronavirus outbreak in China to knock revenues in the first quarter of 2020 and is understood to have shut about half of its stores in the country amid the epidemic.
Is coronavirus a threat to the clothing industry?30 Jan 2020
Concerns are rising over the coronavirus outbreak in China – but what is its potential impact on global fashion retailers and their supply chains?
Are commentators overreacting to coronavirus?30 Jan 2020
The world economy in general, and the apparel industry in particular, depend on hugely complex, globalised, supply chains. Here Mike Flanagan, CEO of apparel industry consultancy Clothesource, considers some of the consequences of the new ‘Wuhan novel coronavirus’.
