Okhla Garment & Textile Cluster ICAHT – 2023
held on 23rd September 2023
Theme- Futuristic Apparel Business: A Paradigm Shift
Conference Background and Highlights
The textile and apparel industry worldwide is currently at a critical juncture, experiencing significant geo-political shifts and changing trends. These transformations create a dual landscape of both opportunities and challenges for the apparel sector. On one hand, the evolving dynamics present new avenues for growth and expansion while on the other, they introduce complexities that demand strategic adaptation. In the midst of this global shift, the Indian textile and apparel industry has made significant strides over the past decade, solidifying its position as a major player in both export and domestic consumption. This accomplishment is commendable and demonstrates India’s potential to thrive in the international market. However, to harness the full potential for increasing exports on a global scale and to meet predetermined targets, the Indian industry needs to take a proactive approach. This involves not merely capitalizing on existing strengths but also responding swiftly and effectively to the evolving landscape.
In order to provide a common platform to industry experts and Government bodies to focus on deliberating the changing landscape witnessed by the industry, Okhla Garment Textile Cluster in collaboration with AEPC hosted a conference on 23rd September, 2023 at Gurugram with the theme “Futuristic Apparel Business: A Paradigm Shift”. The conference highlighted the core trends that have emerged from the shift and the way forward for the Indian textile and apparel industry.
The event was attended by leading industrialists, manufacturers, industry experts, government representatives, etc. During the event, the speakers and delegates shared their views on the emerging opportunities, strategic approach for the Indian textile industry to capture them and support needed for future growth.
Inaugural Session
| Chief Guest | Mr. Sudhir Sekhri, Vice Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council |
| Conference
Chairman |
Colonel S. Kapoor, Director General, Okhla Garment Textile Cluster |
| President
OGTC |
Mr. PMS Uppal, President, Okhla Garment Textile Cluster |
| Knowledge Partner | Mr. Prashant Agarwal, Co-founder & Joint Managing Director, Wazir
Advisors |
Colonel S. Kapoor gave the opening address in which he welcomed the dignitaries and set the context of the conference. Thereafter, he talked about the present state and future potential of the apparel industry.
This was followed by an inaugural speech by Mr. PMS Uppal. He extended a warm welcome to everyone and highlighted the fact that that textiles forms the foundation of leading nations globally. He further emphasized the potential for India to foster its growth in this industry.
Following the speech, Mr. PMS Uppal formally welcomed
Mr. Sudhir Sekhri by presenting a planter.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Sudhir Sekhri in his speech, shed light on the objective of the conference which was to highlight the discussion of various subjects relevant to the industry today. He lauded OGTC for various initiatives taken from time to time for the benefit of the industry.
Theme Presentation: Futuristic Apparel Business: A Paradigm Shift
The conference started with the theme presentation titled ‘’Futuristic Apparel Business: A Paradigm Shift’’ delivered by Mr. Prashant Agarwal. He highlighted on the ongoing transformation toward futuristic business models in the garment industry, providing a glimpse of how these concepts are reshaping the industry’s traditional norms. This shift is driven by a mix of technological progress, including automated planning and design, virtual sampling, digitally advanced factories, warehouse automation, and the growing
importance of sustainability. He underscored the need of strategic partnership to grow in this industry.
Fireside Chat: Pre-requisites for Profitability in Apparel Business
| Moderator | Mr. Prashant Agarwal, Co-founder & Joint Managing Director, Wazir Advisors |
| Speakers | Speaker 1: Mr. Sivaramakrishnan Ganapathi, VC & MD, Gokaldas Exports
Speaker 2: Mr. Pallab Banerjee, JMD, Pearl Global Industries Ltd. Speaker 3: Mr. Gaurav Bhargava, President, LPH Apparel Inc., USA |
The panel discussion deliberated on the factors contributing to apparel sector profitability, and how India can leverage the opportunities it presents. It was moderated by Mr. Prashant Agarwal.
Mr. Sivaramakrishnan Ganapathi urged the importance of maintaining consistent manufacturing practices in the apparel business world. He explained the day-to-day challenges that businesses encounter and the need for effective supply chain management to overcome these obstacles. Mr. Ganapathi highlighted the significance of finding a balance between micromanaging daily operations and keeping an eye on the larger strategic objectives. He further stated that companies should prioritize safeguarding their niche within the market before setting ambitious targets. In doing so, businesses can establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth and success in their respective industries.
Mr. Pallab Banerjee addressed the importance of fostering strong buyer-supplier relationships in the context of the Indian textile and apparel industry. He underlined India’s performance in the On Time In Full (OTIF) metric in comparison to other countries and underscored the potential for growth in this aspect. Then Mr. Banerjee focused the role played of sustainable business models in ensuring long-term success.
Mr. Gaurav Bhargava delved into several critical aspects of the textile and apparel industry. He notably discussed the potential for e-commerce to drive growth in this sector. In addition, Mr. Bhargava shed light on the intricacies of conducting business in the United States, particularly the associated costs. Understanding the financial considerations of operating in the US market is essential for companies aiming to establish a foothold in this competitive environment. Thereafter, he highlighted the strategic imperative for companies to identify and cultivate their niche. By focusing on a distinctive market
segment or product specialization, businesses can differentiate themselves from competitors, attract a loyal customer base, and lay the groundwork for sustained growth in the long run.
Concluding the session, Mr. Prashant Agarwal said that a strong commitment to one’s goals, coupled with a well-defined vision, serves as the foundation for success in any endeavor, particularly within the context of the textile and apparel industry.
Presentation: Sustainability as a Driver of Future Fashion Trends and Materials
Ms. Srishti Srivastava, Business Development Associate, Fashion Snoops, USA gave a presentation on ‘Sustainability as a Driver of Future Fashion Trends and Materials’. In her presentation, Ms. Srivastava highlighted the impact that sustainability will have in the fashion landscape over the next 3-5 years.
She discussed key movements that will inspire new pathways for productive and meaningful
growth in fashion trends & materials by keeping sustainability as the single most important component of all future design thinking. She further commented on why it is crucial for industry players to embrace and adapt this shift while working on incorporating sustainable innovations into their manufacturing processe
Presentation: Fostering Business Sustainability: Nurturing Young Minds for Future
Ms. Amandeep Randhawa, Founder Director, Beyond Basics Learning Pvt. Ltd. delivered a presentation on ‘Fostering Business Sustainability: Nurturing Young Minds for Future’ where she talked about the critical role of individuals in driving sustainability within an organization. She elaborated on the importance of retaining a skilled and committed workforce.
Ms. Randhawa emphasized that achieving sustainability in the long term necessitates the development of a comprehensive and well-thought- out strategy. To illustrate her points, she presented a video that showcased initiatives taken by apparel companies towards achieving sustainability. This video served as a visual example of how businesses in the textile and apparel industry are actively working to incorporate sustainable practices into their operations.
Panel Discussion: Transitioning to a Circular Supply Chain: Opportunities of waste management and recycling across entire value chain
| Moderator | Ms. Vibhuti Sharma, Consultant, Wazir Advisors |
| Panelists | Panelist 1: Ms. Khushbu Maheshwari, Innovation Associate, Fashion for Good
Panelist 2: Mr. Ranjit Sasi, Director: Business and Operations, Reverse Resources Panelist 3: Mr. Garvit Sahdev, Co-Founder, Infinite X Panelist 4: Mr. Vivek Mehra, Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer, Onlygood |
The panel discussion delved into the key drivers of circularity, explored available recycling technologies, discussed the challenges faced in adopting sustainable practices and how embracing circular practices can lead to effective waste management and recycling within the industry. It was moderated by Ms. Vibhuti Sharma.
Ms. Khushbu Maheshwari talked about the pressing issue of textile waste within India’s textile and apparel industry. She pointed out that major manufacturing hubs in India are contributing substantially to the post-consumer waste problem. Moreover, she stressed the urgent need for the adoption of advanced technology and improved traceability within the Indian Textile & Apparel Industry. These advancements are crucial not only for reducing waste but also for enhancing overall sustainability and accountability within the industry.
Mr. Ranjit Sasi provided valuable insights into the significant drivers of change within the textile and apparel industry. He addressed the critical role of policies in shaping the industry’s landscape, highlighting how government regulations and incentives can influence manufacturing and sourcing practices. Mr. Sasi also discussed the tools employed by manufacturers to enhance traceability in the supply chain. Furthermore, he shed light on the rapid advancements in technology as a driving force behind industry transformation.
Lastly, he touched upon the growing global awareness and emphasis on circularity and sustainability in the industry. Collectively, these key drivers of change are reshaping the textile and apparel sector, making it imperative for businesses to adapt and innovate to remain competitive and environmentally responsible.
Mr. Garvit Sahdev provided an overview of the transitional strategies that have guided the shift from a linear economy to a circular economy within the textile and apparel industry. He particularly emphasized the pivotal role that consumers play as drivers of circularity in the textile value chain. Their choices and behaviors have the potential to influence the industry’s practices significantly, whether through purchasing decisions, demand for eco-friendly products, or support for recycling and upcycling initiatives. Then, Mr. Sahdev stressed that consumer knowledge is a critical element in advancing circularity. He noted that a lack of
awareness and understanding among consumers can hinder progress in this direction. Therefore, education and information-sharing are vital to empower consumers to make more sustainable choices.
Mr. Vivek Mehra addressed the textile industry’s standing in terms of waste management compared to other
industries. He also discussed strategies for reducing carbon emissions within the textile sector. He further elaborated the importance of sustainable practices and technology adoption, which can lead to a reduction in the industry’s carbon footprint. Thereafter, Mr. Mehra
highlighted the growing significance of carbon neutrality in shaping the future of circularity in India’s textile industry.
Overall, he underscored the industry’s current position in waste management and the imperative for reducing
carbon emissions, while emphasizing the pivotal role of carbon neutrality in shaping the future of circularity within India’s textile sector.
Presentation: Global Influence on Apparel Manufacturing and Sourcing Decisions – Insights from the Stakeholders
Mr. Varun Vaid, Business Director, Wazir Advisors, delivered an insightful presentation titled ‘Apparel Sourcing – past, present, and future.’ In his presentation, Mr. Vaid delved into the evolution of sourcing decision parameters in the apparel industry over the years. He discussed on the results of interactions with prominent buyers, where they discussed the factors that significantly impact their global sourcing choices. These factors encompassed cost considerations, compliance with regulations, maintaining quality standards, and delivering excellent service. Furthermore, he talked
about the perception of India as a sourcing destination among the global buyer community, challenges faced by buyers and how suppliers can align themselves to increase their market share.
Panel Discussion 2: The Changing Trends: Winners and Losers
| Moderator | Mr. Varun Vaid, Business Director, Wazir Advisors |
| Panelists | Panelist 1: Mr. Amod Tripathi, Director- Strategy and International Marketing, SGPL (an OfBusiness Company)
Panelist 2: Mr. Sanjay Shukla, Team Leader, Triburg Panelist 3: Ms. Sonali Pal, Country Head, UV Stacks Logistics Pvt Ltd Panelist 4: Mr. Raman Dutta, Founder & National General Secretary, Brands & Sourcing Leaders Association & CEO Alliders |
The panel discussion deliberated on the changing trends of the industry ranging across fashion preferences, technological demands, supply chain shifts, etc. The corresponding need to evolve at the manufacturers’ end as well as the way out of the constraints faced by the industry on the path of this change, were also notable points of discussion. It was moderated by Mr. Varun Vaid
Mr. Sanjay Shukla commented on the importance of a solution-driven approach, encouraging the industry to focus on building solutions rather than dwelling on problems. He advocated diversifying product offerings and enhancing resilience in the manufacturing value chain. Mr. Shukla stated that India possesses the capabilities, but innovation is essential to attract buyers and establish India as a premier sourcing destination.
Mr. Raman Dutta talked about the need for heating a supply chain that meets the worlds expectation. He stated the importance of sustainability certifications within India, as they can instill trust in buyers. Mr. Dutta underscored the significance of manufacturing excellence with sustainability as a core consideration.
Ms. Sonali Pal addressed that sustainability will take center stage in the future of the Indian textile and apparel industry. She stressed the importance of sustainability certifications as an integral part of the industry’s direction. With buyer demands increasingly aligned with sustainability, substantial investments in sustainable practices are deemed essential.
Mr. Amod Tripathi pointed out the need for a collaborative approach within the industry, leveraging technological innovations to bridge gaps in the manufacturing process. He also talked about the importance of government support in this journey toward industry innovation and enhancement. These diverse perspectives collectively pointed toward a future where innovation, sustainability, and collaboration will be the driving forces shaping the Indian textile and apparel industry.
Presentation: Case Study on Fashion and Digitalization: Leveraging Technology for Sustainable and Profitable Manufacturing
Mr. Gunish Jain, CEO, BlueKaktus in his presentation titled ‘Fashion and Digitalization: Leveraging Technology for Sustainable and Profitable Manufacturing’ addressed the key aspects of the garment industry’s future. He discussed the imperative need of establishing digitally enabled manufacturing facilities, which are essential for optimizing operations, reducing costs, and staying competitive in the modern apparel landscape. Furthermore, he delved into the significant role millennials play in shaping the garment industry’s trajectory.
Mr. Jain also highlighted the critical importance of reaction time within manufacturing strategies. He concluded the session with a compelling case study. Which highlighted the role of digital tools for design collaboration, seamless integration with the supply chain and the application of AI for analyzing sales and fashion trends.
Closing Remarks and Vote of Thanks
In his closing remarks, Mr. PMS Uppal acknowledged the significant progress India has made in the textile and apparel manufacturing sector since its inception. He also stressed that while India has come a long way, it must continue to evolve in response to changing industry trends and evolving buyer requirements, particularly with a strong focus on sustainability. Mr. Uppal said that India is heading in the right direction by embracing automation, advanced technologies, carbon neutrality, and circularity as key pillars of its growth strategy. In conclusion, he expressed hope that the valuable insights gained from the day’s discussions would be applied in practical ways across the industry, leading to excellence in textile and apparel manufacturing. These insights will be instrumental in helping India navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-changing landscape of the T&A industry.
Finally, Col. S. Kapoor concluded the session with a vote of thanks to the speakers for sharing their invaluable insights and initiating a much-require dialogue which will ignite a spark of change in the industry. He also thanked Apparel Export Promotion Council for collaborating and Lady Irwin College for being actively associated with the conference.
