Bluezone
Advancements and Innovation: Who is Busy Solving a $4.6 Billion Problem?
Advancements and Innovation:
Who is Busy Solving a $4.6 Billion Problem?
Guest article by Muchaneta Ten Napel, Founding Editor-in-Chief FashNerd
A ubiquitous wardrobe staple, denim is one of the most prevalent fabrics of our time. Developed through the ages, those behind the widely used material are on a mission to transform the global apparel business into a cleaner, more ethical and more sustainable industry.
It is no secret that denim production is negatively impacting the environment.
Still, the good news is that more and more manufacturers, brands, retailers, and consumers are making an immense effort to undertake the issues related to the production of denim. Furthermore, driven by buzz words like ‘sustainability’ and ‘recycling’, many denim businesses are turning to new technologies to help them attain the most sustainable system possible.
When the denim industry becomes more sustainable, we need a new approach. The good news is that the technology has advanced to the point where we can make a big difference in reducing the environmental footprint of denim. Here are some great examples of some of the revolutionary approaches that have been introduced to the denim industry in the past few years.
Picture credit: Ecotextile News
Smart Factory 4.0: Denim’s Greenest Ecosystem
Crescent Bahuman is taking the denim industry on a journey. Understanding the need for the industry to digitise, Zaki Saleemi, vice president of Crescent Bahuman, believes that one of the ways of doing this is through intelligent decisions supported by data.
Saleemi explained to Sourcing Journal that the intelligent factory is designed to give on-site managers real-time information on shop floor activity and other vital sustainability-related metrics like water measurements. The upgrade is a digitization plan that can help a denim company “get organised, get connected, get insights, and get optimised”.
Another exciting development is that Crescent Bahuman is also implementing the blockchain-enabled PaperTale, which shows the entire map of the supply chain – where the cotton came from, where it was manufactured, and where it got converted into fabric.
Picture credit: Levi
Picture credit: Levi Strauss
Levi’s Earth Conscious Robotic Technology
The majority of jeans are washed for hours to achieve that perfect blue colour, and the result is that the dyes end up polluting the groundwater. Looking back to a time when new innovation was leaving its mark on the denim industry, Levi came up with laser technology that made creating ripped and washed jeans easier and more efficient.
Looking to reduce the man-hours put in by designers trying to figure out the perfect fade and the time factory workers spend sandpapering the jeans, Levi’s is also determined to lessen the harsh chemicals that give jeans that much sought after faded look.
Picture credit: The Spin Off
Probing the use of Alternative Raw Materials
Exploring alternative raw materials such as hemp or orange pulp in textile production, Lenzing and denim manufacturer Candiani partnered to push the traditional boundaries of fibre production.
With similar environmental goals, Candiani’s biodegradable stretch denim made from Tencel Limited Edition yarns to the game contains 20% hemp fibre.
Again, Lenzing’s closed-loop manufacturing process has provided an excellent alternative to many classics – a new Tencel Limited Edition hemp soft fibre is an excellent alternative to many classics.
G-Star Raw: Pioneering New Means of Production
When it comes to sustainability, G-Star RAW is not only talking the talk; they are proving their commitment by continuously challenging the conventions of denim design.
Pioneering new means of production while maintaining an uncompromising dedication to quality and style, a few years ago, G-Star came up with a step-by-step process of how the Elwood RFTPi Jean came about. It was a process that pioneered a radical new dyeing method which is hydro and salt-free. They called the process Crystal Clear.
Considered to be the most radical change at the time when it comes to indigo dyeing process, the formula, even in its infancy, showed off its potential to play a part in saving the environment.
Picture credit: Fast Company
Picture credit: Science News for Students
Helping the Denim Industry Go Green
Combining economy and ecology, Sedo Engineering’s innovation is helping the denim industry go green. The Swiss innovation specialists have developed smart-INDIGO to help denim brands quickly move towards this sustainable production structure with more benefits at lower costs. Instead of toxic chemicals, Sedo Engineering uses only electricity and caustic soda to dissolve indigo dyes.
Giving out oxygen instead of toxic wastewater, smart-INDIGO reduces water use by 70 per cent, energy consumption by six times and carbon emission by ten times. The innovation is a “win-win solution for our clients”, says Werner Volkaert, managing director of Sedo Engineering.
With 17 smart-INDIGO machines operating worldwide, Sedo Engineering hopes to bring a revolutionary change to the denim industry.
About the author
Founding editor-in-chief of FashNerd.com, Muchaneta has worked in the fashion industry for over 14 years. She is currently one of the leading influencers speaking and writing about the merger of fashion with technology and wearable technology.
Muchaneta Ten Napel | editor@fashnerd.com
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Don’t miss to explore more sustainable fabrics and trims
from international suppliers in our ReSOURCE area!
Also discover further industry-disrupting innovations at our upcoming shows in Munich this summer:
Accessories, ribbons, zippers and more Made in Germany
4 additionals manufacturers from the DACH region
Piping, cords, ribbons, waistbands and fringes to complete your collection. There are no such manufacturers in the DACH region?
We will prove the opposite to you and present four of our exhibitors of the upcoming MUNICH FABRIC START who produce accessories MADE IN GERMANY and MADE IN AUSTRIA: FRIEBA, GEBE, INDUSTRY PERFECT and INSIDE Textil.
FRIEBA
FRIEBA Textilwerk Carl Friedrich: Production
Textilwerk Carl Friedrich – FRIEBA
The medium-sized family company FRIEBA has been producing in Wuppertal (DE) for over 100 years – now with around 25 employees. The location of the company is no coincidence, Wuppertal has always been an important textile location.
The product portfolio includes piping, cords, braids, ribbons, braids and fringes made from a wide variety of materials: viscose, cotton – GOTS certified, linen, merino wool, metallic yarns, effect yarns, polyester etc. Extensive color charts are available for every material. Only certified yarns are processed.
Owners and descendants of the company founder Mrs. Annegret Jarminowski and Mrs. Ingeborg Markowski with the managing director Mr. Uwe Hein.
“FRIEBA has been producing in Wuppertal for over 100 years and is therefore firmly rooted in the beautiful Bergisches Land. Our products reflect the skill, love and time that our employees give the products. That is why FRIEBA quality is inextricably linked with the people who are involved in the creation of our articles. The skills of our employees and the production on site not only correspond to the understanding of our social and ecological responsibility, but ultimately also bring the decisive quality advantage.”
Anja Albrecht, product development and design
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GEBE Textil Technik GmbH
Quality from the Black Forest
Since 1988, GEBE has been producing high-quality “labels and more” with conviction and reliability. Exclusively in Pfalzgrafenweiler, the manufactory cuts, embosses, punches, lasers, sews and finishes products made of microfiber, leather and imitation leather qualities. Great importance is attached to the choice of materials: REACH-compliant and certified with the Öko-Tex Standard 100.
The product portfolio includes high-quality labels, piping and ribbons, zippers and accessories, technical embossed and stamped parts, promotional items, products for home textiles.
“Pfalzgrafenweiler: A location for many industrial and handicraft businesses for generations. The proximity to innovative machine manufacturers, etc. is also very important to us and ultimately ensures high product quality standards, short distances, fast delivery times and this all at fair prices. A healthy climate and the attractive surroundings in the Black Forest, good transport connections and the high level of motivation of our long-standing employees – all this contributes to the overall structure that we appreciate at our long-standing location and think that all of this is also suitable for our grandchildren.”
Michael Beichel, Managing Director
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INDUSTRY PERFECT
As a specialist for ribbons, waistbands, pocket and body linings, Industry Perfect has been a reliable partner to the fashion industry for years. Founded in 1997 as a bandmaker, owner-managed and from the heart of Munich.
Industry Perfect accompanies textile processes from the initial brainstorming to punctual delivery, from the briefing to the sewn-on label. Industry Perfect stands for product and service quality from Germany. Partnership, creativity, perfect.
“Industry Perfect was founded in the heart of Munich. Producing locally corresponds to our quality standards. Precision, speed, short distances, accessibility, quality you can touch – you can only find all of that together here.”
Holger Amende, managing director and owner
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INSIDE TEXTIL
Inside Textil GmbH with its subsidiary Emig GmbH & Co. KG based in Großostheim is an internationally successful company in the textile industry of special products, linings and ribbons. Customers include internationally active customers from the fields of clothing, home textiles and the automotive industry as well as medical and environmental technology.
At the site in Großostheim, trouser waistbands, perfo tapes, edging tapes and tapes with print are produced and other services are offered in the following process technologies: cutting processes in various technologies, punching and endless punching, sewing and packaging (endless), laminating of narrow textiles (endless), hose production, bias tape production etc.
“By keeping the production in Großostheim, we can offer our customers the best possible service, i.e. flexibility, transparency, speed and short distances.”
Leander Hein, Managing Director
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Agency WILDE TRADITION
At the upcoming MUNICH FABRIC START you can also meet the WILDE TRADITION agency, which represents partners who produce exclusively in Germany and Austria:
- FRIEDRICH SEIBT from Kaufbeuren (DE): Glass buttons
- Ribbon factory Gebr. Stuhr from Wuppertal (DE): ribbons and trimmings
- Gmundner Metallwaren Schrabacher from Gmunden am Traunsee (AT): metal buttons and accessories
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We invite you:
Network, get inspiration and establish long-term and professional partnerships.
Discover national and international exhibitors at the upcoming VIEW Premium Selection as well as at MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE. We look forward to seeing you in Munich!
Production location Germany: MADE IN GERMANY par excellence
6 textile manufacturers that produce 100% in Germany
It really still exists: the German local textile industry. The manufacturers who produce 100% in Germany. We present six of our exhibitors of the upcoming MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE, who embody MADE IN GERMANY down to the smallest detail.
Onshoring – Nearshoring – Off-/Farshoring?
The answer to this question depends of course on the location of the sourcing partner company. If both your fashion brand and your production partner are based in Germany, this stands for Onshoring par excellence. Because Onshoring describes the choice of a domestic production partner. Short value chains, short distances. While Nearshoring stands for relocation to nearby countries and Offshoring describes outsourcing to more distant areas, mostly outside of Europe.
Let’s look at these six exhibitors from German textile production: Dresdner Spitzen, Frohn HighTex Group, Handel & Diller, Kindermann, Maibom and Mehler Tuchfabrik.
DRESDNER SPITZEN
DRESDNER SPITZEN has stood for quality and elegance from Saxony since 1884.
As a traditional family business with an innovative spirit, the German company develops sophisticated and sustainable lace and lace fabrics, as well as functional knitwear. At the fully integrated production site in Dresden, all production steps are combined under one roof, from design to raw material production, dyeing, finishing and finishing.
With a well-trained team, DRESDNER SPITZEN guarantees the highest quality in all areas. With the Standard 100 by OEKO TEX® and STeP by OEKO TEX® certificates, the top expert proves the long-term implementation of human-ecological product requirements, sustainable and ecological processes and compliance with social working conditions.
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FROHN HighTex Group
FROHN HighTex Group produces fashionable and innovative textiles exclusively at the company’s location in Northern Bavaria, one of the most well-known German textile regions. The third-generation owner-managed company has a network of regional partner companies with first-class trained textile specialists.
Sustainability and resource reduction have been anchored in the corporate philosophy of the FROHN HighTex Group for much longer than this became a core topic of corporate strategies in general. FROHN is well positioned for the future and the fourth generation is in the starting blocks to continue the company with foresight, flexibility and a focus on innovative, functional textiles.
“Our aim is to be one of the best in our industry and we can only do this through our network and a qualitatively optimal supply chain with short distances to partner companies located around our northern Bavarian production site.”
— Wolfgang Frohn, General Manager
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HÄNDEL & DILLER
QUALITY BEFORE QUANTITY
As a family-run company, Händel & Diller produces on the most modern large circular knitting machines at its own location in Balingen-Frommern on the Swabian Alb.
Subject to ecological and social responsibility, fabrics are created here for manufacturers of underwear, home and sportswear or for technical applications. The foundations of success are innovative and creative products, a pronounced customer orientation, good team spirit and a quality awareness that exists across all departments.
“We remain loyal to the southern German production site because local production corresponds to our social understanding and our ecological responsibility. With the know-how of our employees, the existing infrastructure offers quality advantages, the possibility of economical production and the supply of our customers with the highest possible process reliability. We want to guarantee our customers reliable supplies even in times of more complex supply chains.”
— Helmut Diller, General Manager
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KINDERMANN
The Kindermann company, founded in 1885, is one of the last companies in Europe to refine corduroy fabrics at the Leutersdorf production site, making them stable and stretchable lengthwise and crosswise. Knitwear, technical fabrics and traditional workwear fabrics are also finished. Since 2007, one of the most modern processing locations in Germany has been built here and continuously developed.
The woven and knitted fabrics are sourced from sister company Cord & Velveton, also in Leutersdorf.
Kindermann has also been selling fabrics made from certified organic cotton for over 30 years. The company has also been certified according to the GOTS standard for several years.
With on-site production, Kindermann ensures fast and flexible deliveries and short supply chains.
“If we are faster, better and more reliable than the competition, then Germany is definitely justified as a location.”
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MAIBOM
Innovation, ability to deliver, quality and sustainability are the four pillars of the Maibom family business. The daily work is based on these pillars, as is the company’s future direction. The Maibom weaving mill refines cotton outer fabrics in blends for trousers at its Germany location, since cotton outer fabrics can be finished here under the highest quality and most sustainable conditions. Over the last few years, the company has positioned itself much more flexibly and can therefore compensate for seasonal fluctuations more easily.
Digital printing makes it possible to produce “on demand” flexibly and at short notice according to Eco Design standards and to react to certain market trends. Furthermore, the capsule “Made in Germany – woven and finished in Germany” sets new standards – a mixture of organic cotton from Turkey and Tencel is used.
“Only the finishing gives the fabric its special character.”
— Fabian Maibom, Management
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Tuchfabrik Gebrüder MEHLER
As the oldest textile factory in Germany, Gebrüder MEHLER has been focusing on quality since 1644. The family business is now being run by the 11th generation.
From the fiber to the finished fabric and all with a great deal of passion and dedication.
The yarn for loden / cloth is produced in the spinning mill in Forst (Brandenburg) and the fabric is woven and finished in Tirschenreuth (Bavaria).
The clothing and interior fabrics made of pure wool are individual, customer-oriented and certified according to OEKO-TEX, GOTS and IVN.
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We invite you:
Network, get inspiration and establish long-term and professional partnerships.
Discover national and international exhibitors at the upcoming VIEW Premium Selection as well as at MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE. We look forward to seeing you in Munich!
BLUEZONE: The urban jungle vibes
BLUEZONE Spring.Summer 23 #3
Although MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE couldn’t be realised physically in the end of January, we want to give our beloved exhibitors and long-term partners the chance to present their collections for Spring.Summer 23 online. We are presenting the most inspiring developments, prints and innovations in all our areas: FABRICS, ADDITIONALS, BLUEZONE, DESIGN STUDIOS, SOURCING & KEYHOUSE.
Our BLUEZONE experts ADA DENIM, Bregla Denim, Denim House, Denim Team and Dera Giyim present high-quality SS23 collections, that will bring sustainability into a fast paced city-life.
ADA DENIM
ADA Denim presents four core themes: Active Angles, a creative approach to casual wear through multipurpose fabrics that can easily shift between different environments and needs. Core Guides, tech-enhanced structures that encourage an innovative approach to versatile outdoor wear. Light Souls, that offer blended qualities which enable fluid shapes, mood-boosting weaves and purposeful designs. As well as Urban Visions that deliver an array of smart-casual looks that refreshes classic silhouettes.
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Bregla Denim
Bregla Denim introduces “The New Modern” concept, a sophisticated collection based on a circular approach with the features of soft feeling and easy-comfort city vibe. The collection includes key elements in between 5oz – 13,5oz, onesize super stretch, 80’s Vintage, Dobby and Undyed fabrics made with sustainable cellulosic fibers such as Lyocell, Hemp and Organic Cotton.
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Denim House by Sartex Group
Denim House by Sartex Group is among the leaders in Sportswear and Jeanswear products : bottoms, garments, chino, cargo, jackets and overalls.
Their new Spring.Summer23 colelction, reflects a large use of sustainable fabrics in composition and materials, washed with the latest technologies of lazer, Ozone, certified chemicals and the minimum use of Water and energy.
With the come back to the 90 ‘s, they highlighted the return to denim roots: with comfortable, rigid and slobby construction, more straight and regular styles, it reflects also a wide range of RFD Materials that has been treated in the smartest dye processes. All of that combined with different kind of embroidery and print effects of sublimation, lamination and foils.
Most of this collection has been constructed with entirely digital process from the choice of the materials, designs and washes. It was created virtually first, and then produced physically.
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Denim Team
For Spring.Summer 23, Denim Team has mostly focused on climate change and mother nature. The fabric selections include sustainable yarns such as organic cotton, linen, hemp, lyocell etc. Additionally, sustainable washing and dying processes have been developed while being inspired by the new trends regarding shapes and styles.
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Dera Giyim
DERA GİYİM, which was established in Izmir in 2013, is an international textile company focused on trousers, shorts, denim and skirts for men and women. With its innovative approach, Dera Giyim continues to focus on the vision of quality production and timely delivery in the domestic and foreign markets. Therefore, the latest technologies are used as automation and special machines.
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Discover more Spring.Summer 23 developments from the BLUEZONE manufacturers in the following blog articles:
BLUEZONE manufacturers convince with the latest finishing solutions
BLUEZONE’s denim trends bring back memories of 90s parties
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No BLUEZONE in May, but big visions for Autumn.Winter 23/24 shows
See you in Munich in June and August 2022
BLUEZONE in May does not take place
With the postponement of our International Denim Trade Show BLUEZONE from January to May 2022, we reacted to the situation caused by the pandemic in an early, responsible and far-sighted manner. The postponement of the date has shown the opportunity to realise a denim show for the textile industry at an important time, despite the cancellation of the January events.
“The short-notice announcement of a further and thus third denim trade show within 20 days and within a radius of 1000 km has caused great unrest and a lack of understanding from the industry and also from us. Since we do not want to get involved in a battle of show dates. In the interest of the entire textile industry and our exhibitors, we have decided to avoid the oversupply of shows and to focus all our positive energy on our core date at the end of August.”
Sebastian Klinder, Managing Director MUNICH FABRIC START
Our basic philosophy is and remains to realise all events according to the well-known high level of our family-run and stable company. Despite the good booking situation and the great support from the industry, this is no longer the case for the coming May with regards to the current trade show calendar. Consequently, the BLUEZONE will not taking place on 3 & 4 May 2022. The next BLUEZONE will take place on August 30th and 31st, 2022 at the same time as MUNICH FABRIC START on the Zenith site in Munich.
Buyers and product managers do not have to wait much longer for the physical exchange in the industry: The next show will be the VIEW Premium Selection on 21 & 22 June 2022. As part of the Preview Textile Show, the first developments for Autumn.Winter 23/24 will be presented in the uniquely personal and professional atmosphere of the MVG Museum.
MUNICH FABRIC START launches independent show concept for SOURCING
And we warmly invite the textile and fashion industry: to the next MUNICH FABRIC START Autumn.Winter 23/24 from 30 August – 1 September 2022 at the MOC Munich and to the BLUEZONE on 30 & 31 August 2022 at the Zenith grounds. For two or three days of international reunion, physical exchange and the establishment of new cooperations. To valuable information and an incomparable spirit of innovation.
The trade show will surprise with an additional hall and a fantastically developed infrastructure – hopefully accompanied by best summer weather. In addition to the areas Fabrics, Additionals, Design Studios, ReSOURCE, Sustainable Innovations, BLUEZONE and Keyhouse, which have been tried and established for years, SOURCING is taking place as a stand-alone show-in-show concept in an independent, larger hall.
This expansion perfectly rounds off the holistic portfolio of MUNICH FABRIC START for you: European all-in-one providers with a focus on Nearshoring present complete solutions for brands, labels and the retail sector in a brand-new ambience. Because on the Motorworld site, directly opposite the MOC, the spectacular event hall of around 2500m² will be used exclusively for Prime Manufacturing Solutions.
WE CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME YOU AGAIN IN MUNICH – LIVE & IN PERSON!
For more info:
BLUEZONE manufacturers convince with the latest finishing solutions
These denim experts show how innovative finishes contribute to a low environmental impact
BLUEZONE #2
Although our MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE shows unfortunately could not take place physically at the end of January, we would like to give our long-standing partners and exhibitors the chance to present their latest collections to you online. That’s why we’re presenting the inspiring developments, innovations and prints in all of our areas: FABRICS, ADDITIONALS, BLUEZONE, DESIGN STUDIOS, SOURCING & KEYHOUSE.
The most innovative technologies of the moment? Are coming from the BLUEZONE denim experts CALIK Denim, ISKUR Denim, KILIM Denim and TEJIDOS ROYO! The goal of the high-tech finishing solutions is a low environmental impact – thanks to sustainable dyeing methods, 0% water and chemicals usage and the use of renewable energy sources.
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CALIK DENIM
Calik Denim presents its Spring.Summer 23 collection by prioritizing sustainability with many innovative concepts and technologies:
- Dyepro – Eco-conscious dyeing method which is water-free and leads to zero chemical waste.
- Blue-H – Fabrics which include 20% cottonized hemp.
- Denethic – Fabrics produced at the mill with rinse, rinse+enzyme and bleach wash effects.
- E-Denim – Increased recycled content with innovative yarn technology.
- Re/J – 100% recycled content with both pre- and post-consumer recycled cotton.
- E-Last – One of a kind power stretch product group as weft shrinkage values stabilised for rigid articles’ standard (0/-3,5%).
- Selfsized – One size fits most technology.
- D-Leisure – Very comfortable and loose articles ideal for daily and home office life.
- Fix-Fit – Power stretch articles with high level recovery.
- Denovated – Authentic look combined with the advantages of today’s technologies.
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ISKUR DENIM
Iskur Denim is owned by the Iskur Group which produces its own cotton yarn with the best possible sustainable methods – it uses its own recycling facility and renewable energy sources for pre- and post-consumption to run all its machines to achieve its zero waste target.
Using Iskur’s knitting manufacturing expertise, Iskur Denim has developed the softest denim ever, called ‘’Soft&Breeze’’, with a vintage look that is both rigid and stretchy. To achieve this 100% stretch denim, Iskur uses the newest yarn and weaving technology. Another concept called ‘’Marble Concept‘’ reflects the denim heritage with its soft-touch comfort flexibility.
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KILIM DENIM
At Kilim Denim, environmentally friendly production is made with less water, dye and chemical use. In order to create environmentally friendly denim, zero caustic consumption is ensured without sacrificing quality. In addition to these chemical savings, more than 90% water savings are also provided. By applying the Cactus Waterless dyeing process and Eco Flat finishing process, significant savings are achieved regarding pollution, water and chemicals consumption.
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TEJIDOS ROYO
TEJIDOS ROYO’s motto is: MANUFACTURE BETTER WITH LESS.
Its Spring.Summer 23 collection consists of eco-designed fabrics, oriented to environmental improvement, from the conceptual stage to delivery. Low impact raw materials have been used like: TENCEL, Refibra, BCI cotton, recycled cotton and also linen. The entire denim collection is dyed with DRYINDIGO and DRYBLACK. This means: ZERO WATER, reduction of chemicals and energy. The collection conveys optimism and joy. Colourful, versatile, timeless and comfortable fabrics for everyday wear.
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These BLUEZONE developments bring back memories of 90s parties! Discover the denim collections that are bursting with optimism and 90s nostalgia:
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Interview on the importance and philosophy of physical trade shows
The Turn Over of the Year - An Outlook
MUNICH FABRIC START about the importance of physical trade shows, company philosophy and the show experience
In the interview with the organisers of the Munich Fabric Start trade shows, Sebastian Klinder and Frank Junker give an insight into the past year, challenging times and new projects to come. The planning for MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE in January 2022 was almost complete, the response from the industry extremely positive – but then the physical trade shows had to be canceled at the end of last year.
What is the current plan for 2022?
SK: The last few months have been extraordinarily dynamic for us and incredibly tough! Having to cancel so close to the finish line with over 700 registered international exhibitors has probably been the most difficult decision in our company’s history. Now we are looking ahead and concentrating fully on the organisation and alignment of the next shows in the first half of 2022. The first independent BLUEZONE X KEYHOUSE is planned for May 2022 with an innovative concept. In addition, after a forced two-year break due to Covid-19, VIEW will finally take place again from 21 – 22 June 2022 in the MVG Museum. Followed by, of course and as usual, the combined trade show format of MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE at the end of August 2022.
The cancellation came as a surprise, especially given the enormous support from the industry and the great need for a physical platform. How do you look back on the last few weeks?
FJ: With very mixed feelings. The last few weeks have been a roller coaster ride. At a time characterised by a great deal of uncertainty and rapidly increasing infection numbers in Germany and across Europe, we saw it as our responsibility to offer a certain degree of predictability. And also to make a contribution to society, to take on responsibility. The cancellation of a trade show is an absolute nightmare for every organiser. This is unimaginably bitter for the industry as well as for us, our team and our service providers, because we all put a lot of heart and passion into the planning and preparations.
SK: Despite many question marks and uncertainties, we are convinced that we made the right decision. The current situation in Germany and Europe confirms this. The situation simply does not offer a basis on which we can and want to welcome people from 36 countries in Munich or allow trade shows to take place at the level we are familiar with. We bear an enormous economical, but also societal responsibility. And we are not one of those organisers who realise a show at any price. We see ourselves as a trustworthy and reliable industry partner who represents certain values and a certain event philosophy. And we would like to keep them in the long term.
What is this philosophy?
FJ: Basically, we strive to maintain a consistently high level at all our shows, which we are constantly developing and optimising. This starts with the selection of the exhibitor portfolio, continues with the choice of materials or decorative elements and extends to our numerous trade show services on site. At heart, we are a service provider with high standards for our shows and the associated experience. This is a total package. So if we have to cancel certain services due to a pandemic, this overall concept changes and thus also affects our company philosophy. Then we weigh up how high the price is that we have to pay: not only in monetary terms, but especially in terms of image. We have continuously worked on our credibility and esteem as a service provider in the industry in recent years. It is very important to us to keep this position and the associated values.
How do you see the importance of trade shows against the background of the ongoing pandemic and what will the future look like?
“Physical trade shows in the textile industry are irreplaceable and are gaining in importance, especially in the current situation – the pandemic requires a rethink and the ability to adapt quickly with sensible hybrid add-ons.”
Sebastian Klinder, Managing Director of Munich Fabric Start
SK: However, the personal exchange as well as the feeling and seeing of the fabrics and materials are essential for the textile industry without equivalent digital alternative so far. We are convinced that in the course of this year, we will be able to implement the planned shows as physical events without having to make major cuts in our overall concept and the associated hosting philosophy. Because this is the only way we can meet the needs of the industry: a physical platform for your business in an ideal atmosphere and in real life!
“In concrete terms, this means: We will be back! Sooner rather than later and as soon as it is possible again in a responsible manner: with the firm goal of organising our trade shows in the usual variety and with our unique range of services for the industry. This is only possible with cohesion, trust and a lot of flexibility, which is still in demand from all of us.”
Frank Junker, Creative Director MUNICH FABRIC START
Now we are looking ahead and concentrate on the organisation of the next trade shows in the coming months.
The first independent BLUEZONE X KEYHOUSE is planned for spring 2022, followed by VIEW Premium Selection from 21 – 22 June 2022 and MUNICH FABRIC START & BLUEZONE at the usual show date from 30 August – 01 September 2022.
We can hardly wait to welcome EVERY.BODY again soon. Until then, we wish you a successful season – and stay healthy.
A Sneak Peak into the E-Magazine content:
BLUEZONE's denim trends bring back memories of 90s parties
The next denim season stands for optimism and 90s nostalgia
BLUEZONE #1
Although MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE couldn’t be realised physically in the end of January, we want to give our beloved exhibitors and long-term partners the chance to present their collections for Spring.Summer 23 online. We are presenting the most inspiring developments, prints and innovations in all our areas: FABRICS, ADDITIONALS, BLUEZONE, DESIGN STUDIOS, SOURCING & KEYHOUSE.
It’s the memories of parties in the 90s, vibrancy, lightheartedness and optimism that make these BLUEZONE collections so special: The denim experts BOSSA, Close to Clothes, Realteks, Sharabati Denim and Tonello rely on the latest washes and the most modern finish paired with retro vibes.
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BOSSA
This season Bossa divided the collection in 3 concepts. The first theme is 90’s Nostalgia – the rebirth of street style cool again. The second theme is Future Healing – a new era of protection for the fast-developing new world. The third theme is Nomad Tourist – a color palette of neutrals inspired by exotic destinations with desert landscapes. All breathable fibers like hemp, flex or linen that compose the perfect suitcase of a nomadic soul.
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Close to Clothes SAS
With the core values creativity and innovation in mind, Close to Clothes try to renew themselves every year with new collections. This year, the goal is to base the collection on a more environmentally friendly approach with eco-friendly products, while keeping the designs trendy.
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Realteks
Realteks’ motto “Lets MINIMIZE while MAXIMIZING” includes its MINIMAL BLUE CONCEPT with increasing ENERGY AND STRETCHABILITY. It’s all about caring for the people and their lives, increasing values and flexibility: reducing the chemicals while creating new methods and saving energy while breathing more in this great blue space. Denim stands for FREEDOM – because humans are free souls and deserve MORE.
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Sharabati Denim
Sharabati Denim’s Spring.Summer 23 collection brings optimism, hope and joy. Everyone wants to leave behind the days spent at home, full of uncertainty and anxiety, and look into the future with hope. Sharabati Denim therefore designed 4 new concepts to support this idea: Old is New – 70’s & 80’s look; Smooth Operator – soft, comfortable and loose fabrics; Sweat Escape – fabrics that will change your mood; Green Screen – a summary of the Sustainability Vision.
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Tonello
The Laundry (R)evolution is Tonello’s concept in the finishing process. Waste avoidance and resource optimisation are the goals of the company’s refinement cycle. In the finishing process, a laser is used to replace manual abrasion, as well as an all-in-one system that carries out all washing processes by integrating four sustainable technologies. Finally, Tonello uses the Metro software, which processes data in real time to check consumption during the washing process, optimise times and improve performance.
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Discover the first Spring.Summer 23 developments of ADDITIONALS, DESIGN STUDIOS, SOURCING and FABRICS in the following blog articles:
– The newest certificated bio materials & Co. of the ADDITIONALS –
– The flowery, colourful and loud prints of the DESIGN STUDIOS –
– The natural FABRICS that determine the season: hemp, linen, nature jersey & Co. –
– The optimistic SOURCING collections using newest techniques –
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The MUNIQUE E-Magazine is online: Your Information & Inspiration for Spring.Summer 23
We miss you - let's stay in contact!
Under “normal” circumstances, we would welcome the buyers and product managers of international fashion brands personally at MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE today and look forward to 3 inspiring days at the show in Munich.
However, we are unfortunately still quite far from “normal” at the moment. The last months have been extraordinarily dynamic and incredibly challenging! Having to announce a cancellation so close to our goal with over 700 registered international exhibitors has been the most difficult decision in the history of our company.
Despite many question marks and uncertainties, we are convinced that we have made the right decision. The current situation in Germany and Europe confirms this since it doesn’t provide a basis on which we can receive people from 36 countries in Munich or organise trade shows at the level we are known for.
Now online:
The MUNIQUE E-Magazine Spring.Summer 23
Especially now, we want to offer the fashion and textile industry a comprehensive basis of inspiration and information for Spring.Summer 23 – with our MUNIQUE Magazine. You normally receive this as a basis for your trade show visit on site and later online for follow-up work. This time, as a pure e-magazine, we are offering you even more editorial content and news from the industry – enjoy reading!
The new MUNIQUE E-Magazine is online now and offers insights into the new season with interviews and guest articles, innovative new materials and the latest product developments from our international exhibitor brands:
What can you expect?
- An interview with the trade show organisers
- News & novelties of the season of the FABRICS, ADDITONALS, DESIGN STUDIOS, SOURCING and BLUEZONE suppliers
- The latest news about the online sourcing platform ReSOURCE – your opportunity to source sustainable materials online at any time
- A landmark article by FashNerd’s Muchaneta Kapfunde on the 2022 technical innovations
- The SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS that will shape our industry
A Sneak Peak into the E-Magazine content:
Now we are looking ahead and concentrate on the organisation of the next trade shows in the coming months.
The first independent BLUEZONE X KEYHOUSE is planned for spring 2022, followed by VIEW Premium Selection from 21 – 22 June 2022 and MUNICH FABRIC START & BLUEZONE at the usual show date from 30 August – 01 September 2022.
We can hardly wait to welcome EVERY.BODY again soon. Until then, we wish you a successful season – and stay healthy.
Get your Spring.Summer 23 Trend Forecast now
Now available: EVERY.BODY Trend Book & Colour Code
TREND FORECAST Spring.Summer 23
The Spring.Summer 23 season is all about EVERY.BODY – a new definition of individuality and community. In the search for optimism and balance, there is a longing for personal exchange and the haptic experience of textiles – exactly what is missing without trade shows.
Please find the detailed forecast for EVERY.BODY with 4 specific trend themes as well as the BLUEZONE trends based on the main theme THE NEW BALANCE in our detailed TREND BOOK.
Our COLOR CODE supports you with a high-quality yarn selection in key seasonal colours when designing the colour palette for your next collection.
You can purchase the TREND BOOK and COLOR CODE individually, or together as a TREND PACKAGE for full information and inspiration to support your collection development.
Don't miss:
Inspiration & Information for your Collection Development - Colours, Moods, Shapes & Styles
TREND BOOK
MUNICH FABRIC START & BLUEZONE MOODS AND TRENDS
75 EUR
COLOUR CODE
MUNICH FABRIC START & BLUEZONE TREND COLOURS
95 EUR
TREND PACKAGE
TREND BOOK AND COLOUR CODE SPRING.SUMMER 23
135 EUR
TREND PACKAGE AUTUMN.WINTER 22/23
TREND BOOK & COLOUR CODE
135 EUR