BRIEFING: New innovations in fibres and fabrics

Thanks to technology, creative applications and high consumer expectations, the percentage of clothing on the market with performance attributes is set to increase from 25% to 50% over the next few years. With increasing amounts of information available, consumers are more knowledgeable about, and more interested in, fabric technology and performance benefits than ever before. Style and comfort will no longer be sacrificed for function, nor are consumers willing to trade one feature for another - fibres and fabrics must do it all. Beyond consumer pressures, resource is of major concern for textile producers - experts say that within the next century we may run out of oil and other non-renewable resources. This month’s briefing offers some of the most important innovations in a variety of categories from smart and intelligent textiles to recreational and sports performance offerings. We also pin-point future products, concerns and expectations for this growing sector.