#Industry 4.0 / Digitalization

2023-12-13

Smartex releases its first comprehensive report on "The modern textile factory: Charting the impact of a shifting textile supply chain landscape".

Smartex is at the forefront of transforming the textile industry through the integration of Artificial Intelligence, focusing specifically on achieving zero waste and traceability in Tier 2, the most impactful step of the textile supply chain.

They are part of a larger movement involving dynamic technology companies, forward-thinking factories, pioneering brands, and influential policy-makers all actively addressing challenges within the supply chain.

Currently, we are all witnessing a transformative shift in the textile industry, with a growing focus on commercial focuses (greater speed, more reliable quality & data-led pricing) and sustainability goals. The unregulated era of low-cost dominance is evolving, and the key to this transformation lies in the emergence of the Modern Textile Factory (MTF). Recognizing the power of collaboration, Smartex has established the first focus group dedicated to "The Modern Textile Factory." This global team of experts brings diverse perspectives to reshape the production landscape in response to the urgent need for change. This year, the focus group had four in-depth sessions convened by Smartex, delving into crucial topics that serve as the foundation for this comprehensive report. "The Modern Textile Factory" report is a synthesis of key findings that outline the transformative journey of the textile industry.

Smartex proudly introduces the members of "The Modern Textile Factory" for 2023, a collective force shaping the future of textile production.

As regulations are being set in motion, from restricting excess stock destruction to supply chain product tracking, the MTF is positioned as a critical factor, since textile production accounts for 80% of the industry's environmental impact. The urgency for the supply chain to adapt to new reporting standards and invest in sustainable technology is evident.

At the same time, commercial advantages are emerging for factories that embrace modernization, including the greater speed to market that aid brand revenue & deadstocks, improved quality control for greater factory control of their profits, and the ability to compete globally with data-led pricing strategies. The market is demanding competitive prices, increased speed, better quality, and rock-solid compliance at the same time, necessitating factories to accelerate their modernization efforts.

While challenges such as financing, macro trends susceptibility, and traditional mindsets exist, overcoming them is possible with collective support. Brands play a crucial role in providing financial assistance, technology companies must ensure a clear return on investment, and the industry must spotlight exemplary factories and their success stories. While sustainability is a powerful force, financial incentives are more developed and immediately compelling for factories and brands alike. By showcasing upcoming changes and illustrating the benefits for those adopting modernization, the Modern Textile Factory can emerge as the new standard, bringing about a win-win scenario for all stakeholders.

The report, authored by Max Easton, Global Innovation Director at Smartex, showcases a wealth of insights from this global team of experts. Easton, reflecting on the report, states, "After experiencing firsthand the benefits of collaboration during my time at Fashion for Good, an organization focused on sustainable innovation in textiles, I was excited to continue this at Smartex. The focus group has brought together a wide range of experts to delve into a vital topic: the modernization of the textile chain."

The report addresses critical questions surrounding supply chain modernization, factory data collection, communication systems between brands and their suppliers, and the need to elevate exemplary factories without penalizing their razor-thin margins. Easton expresses gratitude to the ten MTF group members, emphasizing the privilege of discussing their insights, concerns, and hopes. The report organizes key takeaways into a clear narrative, balancing member experience and real-life examples. While acknowledging that the report doesn't have all the answers, Easton believes it presents compelling ideas as economic and logical arguments for change in the textile supply chain.

The full report can be downloaded here:

https://www.smartex.ai/the-modern-textile-factory-report-2023

textile.4U publishes special edition “Top 100 Textile Recycling Companies 2025”

With a comprehensive 176-page special edition, textile.4U is dedicating its latest issue entirely to one of the most dynamic and influential topics in today’s textile industry: textile recycling. The new issue, published exclusively in high-quality print, presents the Top 100 textile recycling companies researched and selected by TexData – organizations that already play a key role in the transition to circular textiles or are expected to have a significant impact in the near future.

Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024 signed by Governor

Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) is proud to announce that Senate Bill 707 (SB 707), the Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024, has been signed into law by the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom. This groundbreaking legislation establishes the country’s first Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) textile recycling program, marking a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to combat waste and promote sustainability.

Modtissimo promotes sustainability with 28 coordinates in the Green Circle

Modtissimo is proving more and more to be a textile and clothing show that delivers the latest innovations in the area of sustainability, with the iTechStyle Green Circle being the main showcase for companies' creations. In this 60+4 edition, taking place on 12 and 13 September, 28 coordinates will be exhibited in a section organised by CITEVE and curated by Paulo Gomes.

The EU and Egypt team up to mobilise private sector investments at Investment Conference and sign a Memorandum of Understanding underpinning €1 billion in macro-financial assistance for Egypt

At the EU-Egypt Investment Conference, co-organised by the EU and the Government of Egypt on 29-30 June, the EU and Egypt are teaming up to intensify private sector investments in Egypt. They are also signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the disbursement to Egypt of up to €1 billion in Macro-Financial Assistance.

Suzhou Tianyuan boosts costing accuracy to 98% with Coats Digital’s GSDCost

Coats Digital is delighted to announce that Suzhou Tianyuan Garments Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer of high-quality sportswear and functional apparel for global brands such as Adidas, FILA, ANTA, and The North Face, has achieved remarkable productivity and cost management improvements following the implementation of Coats Digital’s award-winning method-time-cost optimisation solution, GSDCost.

Lenze receives IEC 62443-4-1 certification: TÜV Rheinland confirms cyber-secure development process

Lenze SE has been certified according to IEC 62443-4-1 since November 2025. TÜV Rheinland thus confirms that Lenze meets the requirements of this internationally recognized standard for a secure development process for industrial automation and drive products. The certification is an important milestone on the way to implementing the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), which will become mandatory for machine manufacturers and their suppliers from December 2027.

Mango joins TextileGenesis pioneering traceability solution, a Lectra company, for a transparent value chain

Mango, one of the leading international fashion groups, has joined TextileGenesis, the pioneering traceability solution for the fashion and textile industries, to trace their natural and animal fibers, synthetics, man-made cellulosic fibers and leather. TextileGenesis, a Lectra company, offers a complete and secure cutting-edge technology with its six-dimensional (6D) offering and unique “fiber forwards” approach. Mango, has long been committed to maintaining a fully transparent supply chain, and TextileGenesis will reinforce this commitment.

Artificial Intelligence in focus: Heimtextil 2026 prepares global textile industry for the future with strong content programme

Artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the textile industry - from creation and production to pricing, distribution and communication. But how can AI be applied successfully, and where does it truly add value? Heimtextil addresses these questions from 13 to 16 January 2026: The comprehensive programme dedicated to the key future field AI strengthens the global industry and opens up new business opportunities as well as practical applications for design, retail, industry, architecture, interior design and contract furnishing.

Texpertise Focus AI: Messe Frankfurt puts Artificial Intelligence centre stage at its international textile and apparel trade fairs

Under the banner 'Texpertise Focus AI, Messe Frankfurt will place a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its international textile and apparel trade fairs from 2026 onwards, setting a future-shaping signal for the industry. The initiative highlights the responsible use of AI along the entire textile value chain, from fibre production to the point of sale. The programme will launch at Heimtextil in Frankfurt in January 2026.