In an insightful interview, Mr. Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX (Committee of European Textile Machinery Manufacturers), discussed the potential for restoring textile production in Europe through advancements in technology, automation, and AI.
Zucchi noted that the conversation around reshoring textiles has been ongoing for five to six years. However, he pointed out that while many companies continue to invest in China, the number returning to Europe remains low. “Even with higher automation, we cannot compete with the garment costs in countries like Bangladesh and Indonesia,” he explained.
He emphasized that the only segments likely to return are medium and high-quality productions. As European consumption decreases, the need for drastic changes in sourcing is becoming more apparent. Last year, Europe imported an average of 14.5 million tonnes of garments, with approximately 2 million tonnes burned to keep high-quality items off the market, and less than 1 million recycled.
Zucchi cautioned against a sudden cut in imports, warning that it could destabilize producing nations. He stressed the importance of integrating new technologies and AI into the production process, stating, “We need to focus on high-quality machinery to maintain our competitive edge.”
The interview highlighted CEMATEX’s commitment to fostering innovation within the textile industry. Zucchi believes that Europe has the capability to lead in technology and R&D, which is crucial for adapting to future market demands. “While production volumes may decrease, the focus will be on higher quality and advanced technology,” he concluded.
As the industry evolves, Zucchi’s insights suggest that the future of textile production in Europe hinges on embracing innovation and optimizing quality over quantity.
