On the fast track

Those involved in fibres and fabrics are involved in one of the most rapidly changing sectors of the TCF industry. Tracey Porter  talks to four key players to uncover how they stay ahead of the game.

What has been the most innovative change to hit the fibres and fabrics sector over the past year?

Stretchtex national sales manager Raymond Fuchs
The most innovative changes in fibres has been the use of environmentally friendly and recyclable fibres. The use of bamboo, organic cotton, liquid titanium polyesters and fibres made from recycled plastic bottles are starting to come to the fore, replacing the more conventional synthetic fibres.

Davisha spokesman Josh Elias
There has been an increased demand for functional fibres. Increasingly, customers want an explanation as to how fibres affect the fabric. As a result designers are more aware of the desirable attributes of fibres, for example the fact that wool/cotton allow heat exchange (breathe), polyester provides stability/structure and cashmere provides a soft handle.

Levana marketing manager Verne Atmore
Increasing availability of blended yarns from renewable resources - such as cotton/modal, milk fibre/cotton tencel/cotton, silk/cotton - that result in softer fabrics, improved drape and interesting textural finishes due to different dye take-up on blended yarns. Increasing commitment to eco-friendly practices among suppliers and manufacturers.

D & M Fabrics manager Nicholas Leitch
Bio and nano technology for the health care industry is probably the biggest innovation but it hasn't filtered into fashion as yet.

What is the most significant trend likely to affect fibres and fabric providers over the next 12 months?

Stretchtex national sales manager Raymond Fuchs
In the next 12 months you will see more of these performance fibres used in everyday fashion. The cost of the production of these fibres will decrease as the usage increases.

Davisha spokesman Josh Elias
The demand for functional fibres will continue and we predict that consumers will also begin to search for functional fibres. We believe this will start in coasting/suiting and shift into other garments.

Levana marketing manager Verne Atmore
The impact of higher oil prices on nylons and polyesters which may fast track current developments where nylon and polyester yarns are manufactured from recycled materials. Growing consumer demand for eco-friendly items.

D & M Fabrics manager Nicholas Leitch
Increasing minimums per colour and orders from China and Korea put the most pressure on suppliers and manufacturers as too much of anything can hurt profitability.

What role do fabrics play in ensuring the commercial success of fashion brands?

Stretchtex national sales manager Raymond Fuchs
While Stretchtex is not in the fashion side of fabrics anymore, I think the function of these fabrics has been marketed in such a manner as to ensure their commercial viability.

Davisha spokesman Josh Elias
The quality of fabric is pivotal to the success of fashion brands. Fashion operates just like any craft. The best chef relies on the best ingredients. Designers should operate in the same way. It will make their job easier.

Levana marketing manager Verne Atmore
Fabric suppliers need to understand the end use/targeted consumer and method of garment manufacturer to ensure the fabric is fit for purpose and is compatible with the brand values.

D & M Fabrics manager Nicholas Leitch
Fashion brands become successful offering a point of difference to the consumer. The fabrications they use play a large part in that through design, composition and construction.

What is the biggest mistake fashion businesses make in regards to selecting fabric options?

Stretchtex national sales manager Raymond Fuchs
The biggest mistake fashion businesses make in regards to selecting fabric options is that they select fabrics based on price instead of the benefits of the actual fibre.

Davisha spokesman Josh Elias
Keeping an open mind. Forming a vision is essential but a vision should not be cast in iron. There are so many fibres, so many compositions and so many colours. Creating beauty is easier than you think.

Levana marketing manager Verne Atmore
Look at fabric in isolation rather than the total cost of doing business with a supplier - ie the impact of longer lead times, bigger minimums, payment terms and the impact on cash flow. Sometimes trade off 'quality' with price with a potential detrimental impact on the brand.

D & M Fabrics manager Nicholas Leitch
Playing safe with colour, running something has already been on the market and/or choosing product on price alone.

By Tracey Porter