History of textiles in India dates back to 3000 B.C. The
diversity of fibers available in India and the state of the art looms, and
organic dyes have always attracted buyers from all over the world. India is perceived as a country with the biggest growth potential after China with an estimated
growth of 7% per annum. Export revenue generation from the Indian apparel
industry is expected to reach $34 billion USD by 2010. End user's tastes and
preferences, and relative manufacturing costs are the two main driving factors
manipulating the garment sector. The level of operational efficiency, and its
ability to capture deals with more clothing marketers, both at the national,
and international level also are the key factors for the success of the
industry.
Enhanced with skilled manpower, variety of fabrics, and
resources, Indian apparel industry is now undergoing a rapid metamorphosis,
shaping out to become an integral part of the global supply chain. The share of
the Indian textile economy in the global market is around 5.9%. India is one among the handful of countries that owns the entire supply chain in proximity
from diverse fibers to a large market. The supply chain provides around 70% of
its production to the domestic market, and is capable to offer a mix and match
of variety of products and applications.
During the past decade, the textile industry was infected
with low productivity at both ends of the supply chain; low farm yields, and
inefficiency in the garment sector. Lead times across the sector were also
affected by variations in the supply chain. Currently, the supply chains
compete on low cost, accurate delivery, good quality, and flexibility in
quantity and diversity.
Fibre2fashion
had an exclusive interview with Mr Amit Ladsaria, Director, Turtle Ltd, a
guiding force behind the Turtle brand. He spoke about the current situation in
the sector, elaborating the core competencies of their brand and export
markets.
- Highlight the major changes which you have seen in the
Indian textile industry.
"The domestic market is witnessing a perceptible shift
by a large segment of customers shifting from high end brands to middle level
and value for money brands. The upbeat mood of the customers seen in the past
few years is definitely missing and purchases have been downsized. The current
scenario represents the major opportunity for brands like us in the medium
price range. We are able to expand our market by addressing the needs of new
entrants in the branded wear market and also customers moving down from high
end brands".
- What are the core competencies of your product, and how
do you maintain the market in a fiercely competitive segment?
"Our core competencies can be classified as cost
conscious procurement and production and a lean, focused sales team is
addressing the needs of our target customers and our customers get quality
products at affordable prices and thus we contribute in a small way to our
customer's personality and confidence".
