What’s on the horizon for the textile sector? During their recent horizon scan event, Centexbel, explored emerging trends and innovations that are shaping the industry’s future. Below is a concise summary of the most striking insights.
🔍 Clothing remains patent champion
In 2024, over 90% of all published patent applications related to clothing came from Asia, especially China. The volume is back at pre-COVID levels, similar to the 2019 face mask boom. Interestingly, many of these applications are filed by individuals. While the clothing manufacturing sector is still awaiting a digital transformation, recycling and waste processing remain hot topics. However, significant breakthroughs in material innovation remain limited. For more insights or support: contact Sander Devrieze, Adviser, Patent Cel, Centexbel svr@centexbel.be
🤖 AI as a game-changer
At Decathlon, AI is playing an increasingly vital role in enhancing customer experience and sustainability. Machine learning is used for customer segmentation and churn prediction, computer vision for footfall and queue management, and generative AI for product discovery and ecodesign. Their vision? AI-driven stores where automation handles backend tasks and staff are empowered to focus on high-value, personalised customer interactions.
⚖️ Regulatory shifts ahead
The transition from GPSD to GPSR introduces stricter rules for product safety—applying not only to new items but also to second-hand, refurbished, and repaired products. Manufacturers carry the primary responsibility, with a strong focus on “safety by design”, internal risk assessments, and product traceability. Important: CE-marking is strictly prohibited for products that fall solely under the GPSR. More informaton on the GPSR: FOD Economie, link
🧵 Fibre innovation in action
Spinnova, a Finnish company, has developed a mechanically recycled fibre (technology) made from wood pulp or waste materials. The result? A premium, cellulose-like fibre with a low environmental footprint. Their joint venture with ECCO gives tannery leather waste a second life as a textile fibre. For more information on Spinnova, click here.
🛠 Practical tools for circular fashion
As part of the Size Zero Waste project, Thomas More and Flanders DC have created hands-on tools for circular fashion companies, including a fashion monitor, communication guide, ROI calculator, and a case study e-book analysing 50 circular business models. For more information visit Flanders DC or Thomas More.
📚 New standards in the making
Several new standards around circularity are under development: from design principles and KPIs per R-strategy to guidelines for sorting post-consumer textiles. A digital product passport is also on the way, offering clear protocols for traceability, transparency, and data validation in line with the latest ESPR regulation. For more insights or support: contact Edwin Maes, Consultant Clothing Textiles, Edwin.Maes@centexbel.be
The common thread?
The future of textiles is digital, circular, and regulated. But it’s also complex. By collaborating, learning from frontrunners, and leveraging existing tools, we can move step by step towards a more sustainable textile system.
