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Inside Fashion Confidence Index
47 / 100 ↓
Direction: Softening, prior month 50 → 47.
Rising ↑
Ocean rates up low double digits MoM; Air: China–N. EU +6.3%, China–N. Am -15.3% MoM
By shifting from retail to ecosystem, Zalando is turning logistics, data, and services into a scalable growth engine.
Polyester is still structurally expensive and supply‑risked, but spot and near‑term prices are starting to
Faster, more precise planning is forcing brands and suppliers to rethink how they operate.
New, wide‑ranging Section 301 investigations into “excess capacity” and other unfair trade practices threaten sourcing
Fuel surcharges have driven up air freight, while ocean rates still remain well below last
Manufacturers are facing energy shortages, while materials soar.
Materials Prices
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Sourcing Spectrum
Sri Lanka’s appeal lies in stronger compliance systems, reliable quality, better governance, and the capability to handle more complex, higher-value
A country report with a table including key comparative data
MATERIALS INNOVATION
Linen combines the sustainability aspect of being a natural fiber with a unique texture and
R&D is adding or enhancing performance properties in traditional natural materials
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A fragile revenue recovery is facing pressure from tariffs, higher operating costs, and the cost
Asia and South America are driving retail expansion, but success will depend on precise positioning
A snapshot of key metrics impacting the apparel industry
Winning retailers are abandoning expansion for expansion’s sake, focusing instead on tightly defined assortments built
Earnings reports are showing a clear line between brands that stayed close to their core
Performance, durability, and comfort are turning basics into a higher-value, repeat-purchase category.
Brand Analysis
By shifting from retail to ecosystem, Zalando is turning logistics, data, and services into a scalable growth engine.
More Resources
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