Euratex says textiles a strategic sector in Europe

15 Jun '16

4 min read

Europe is a number one destination for millions of tourists every year. The European identity is attracting visitors and making them buy goods 'made in Europe'. The quality and style are at the heart of European products. Can players within the tourism industry and local manufacturers join forces in the common interest? Sophie Blondel,a General Manager of Sofitel Brussels Le Louise and the president of Brussels Hotel Association, discussed it with Adam Hainsworth, a Director at AW Hainsworth & Sons LTD,UK-based company producing exquisite woolen cloth and high performing textiles. Local production can attract more visitors in the regions of Europe, but more cooperation between different sectors and regions is needed–concluded the speakers.

Armando Branchini, a Vice-Chairman of Fondazione Altagamma, the Foundation representing Italian Luxury Companies and Brands, and Felix Rohn, apprenticeships and vocational education and training expert from DG Employment of the European Commission, discussed the education and skills challenges in Europe. Nearly 600.000 job openings are anticipated in the textile and fashion sector in the EU-28 up to 2025. With the currently high unemployment rate in Europe, it is however difficult to attract skilled employees to fill these vacancies. Thus, it was announced that the European Commission chose textiles and clothing to be included in its Blue Print Strategy which will propose new solutions for companies to find skilled employees.

The conference also discussed international trade. Trade patterns are changing in the world – a shift from global to regional and bilateral trade agreements is observed. Companies are changing their trade models and re-orientate to increase exports. This was the topic of discussion between Jean-Paul Depraetere, a Managing Director of Escolys Textiles – Belgian leading producer of Jacquard interior fabrics, and Pierre Conrath who leads the Sustainability and Public Affairs activities of EDANA, the international association serving the nonwovens. The speakers concluded that trading internationally is still a challenge for small companies, so cooperation with large, more experienced partners may facilitate their exports.

Textile and fashion companies are already working hand-in-hand with the other industries, service providers and research centres. The opportunities for making profitable partnerships are not exhausted which was confirmed by the participants of Euratex's Industrial Dialogues. (SH)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India

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