The garment industry, also known as the apparel or textile industry, is a significant sector in the global economy. It encompasses the production, manufacturing, and distribution of clothing and textiles.
Market Analysis of the Garment Industry
The global apparel market, valued at approximately $1.5 trillion in 2020, is expected to grow to $2.25 trillion by 2025 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during the period from 2021 to 2025.
The garment industry is characterized by intense competition and fragmentation, housing a wide range of players from small-scale local manufacturers to large multinational corporations. It serves as a significant source of employment globally, particularly in developing countries, where approximately 75 million people were employed in the garment industry in 2020. Around 80% of the industry's workforce comprises women, especially in developing nations. The garment sector heavily relies on international trade and complex global supply chains, with Asia, including China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India, dominating garment production and serving as major exporters. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, posing production and distribution challenges. The rise of e-commerce has had a profound impact on the industry, altering consumer behavior and the retail landscape, with online sales experiencing significant growth.
Traditional retailers are expanding their online presence, while e-commerce brands are gaining market share. The pandemic further accelerated the shift to online shopping as physical stores faced closures and restrictions. Technological advancements play a vital role in the garment industry, with automation, robotics, 3D prototyping, virtual reality, AI, data analytics, and supply chain management systems being adopted to enhance efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Fashion trends and consumer preferences, influenced by social media and influencers, shape garment demand and production. Increasingly, consumers seek personalized and unique products, driving the rise of customization and made-to-order services. Additionally, sustainable and eco-friendly fashion choices are gaining popularity among environmentally conscious individuals.
Fabric Shrinkage and its Impact on Garment Factory
Fabric shrinkage refers to the phenomenon of fabric shrinking in size during the process of water washing or humidity changes. This is caused by the alteration of the internal structure and characteristics of fabric fibers. Fabrics are usually composed of interwoven fibers with certain gaps and elasticity. During the processing, fabrics undergo stretching, combing, and shaping treatments, creating tension and alignment among the fibers. However, when fabrics are exposed to water or high humidity, moisture infiltrates the gaps between the fibers, leading to fiber expansion and relaxation.
There are 2 main principles behind fabric shrinkage:
Fiber contraction: Fibers contract after absorbing moisture in water. This is because the intrusion of moisture enhances the intermolecular forces within the fibers, causing the fibers to rearrange and decrease in volume. As fibers contract, the entire fabric also shrinks, resulting in a smaller size.
Fiber elasticity recovery: During the fabric manufacturing process, fibers experience stretching and pressure, giving them a certain level of elasticity. However, when fabrics encounter moisture, the fiber's elasticity is affected, and it cannot fully return to its original state, leading to a reduction in fabric size.
The latest iteration of the SUNTECH Roll to Roll Fabric Relaxing Machine, the ST-FRM-VI, offers a range of advanced features and functionalities. Designed to optimize fabric handling and relaxation, this upgraded model surpasses industry standards. Here are the key highlights:
Tension-Free Fabric Feeding: The machine unwinds fabric from two separate motor-driven rollers and inverters, ensuring a smooth feed without creating tension.
Photocell-Controlled Lazy Loop: As the fabric progresses, it passes through a lazy loop that is precisely controlled by photocells. This mechanism facilitates the fabric's return to its original state, minimizing any residual tension.
SUNTECH Textile Machinery deeply understand and appreciate the transformative influence of digitization and technology in various fields, including healthcare, education, and workplaces. This recognition drives our unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and staying at the forefront of technological advancements. By seamlessly integrating these breakthroughs into our textile machinery, we guarantee the provision of exceptional value and forward-looking solutions that proactively meet future demands.
