March 4, 2024
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5min

Bill McRaith and Shrihan Perera fortify top textile manufacturer’s corporate leadership

Teejay Lanka PLC has announced the appointment of two eminent apparel industry personalities, Messrs. Bill McRaith and Shrihan B. Perera as independent, non-executive directors, effective 1st March 2024.

Recently retired after an illustrious career of more than three decades in the global apparel and retail industries, Mr Bill McRaith was, in his last appointment, Chief Supply Chain Officer at PVH Corp., the American clothing company that owns brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein.

 



 

Based at the company’s New York headquarters, he oversaw PVH’s global supply chain operations and was responsible for developing the global production structure, processes, manufacturing footprint and logistics network that serviced the needs of the company’s global retail and wholesale divisions.

A native of Scotland and an Honorary Professor of Glasgow Caledonian University, Mr McRaith has also served as Senior Vice President of Global Sourcing at Wal-Mart, managing electronic, hardware, toys, and home furnishings supply chains; as Executive Vice President of Manufacturing, Sourcing and Product Development for Victoria’s Secret; and as Chief Supply Chain Officer – Intimates at Limited Brands.

He was previously a member of the Board of Directors of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) and currently serves on the F.I.T. International Trade & Marketing Advisory Board as well as an Industry advisor to O9 Solutions. Since his retirement from the corporate world, Mr McRaith has leveraged his manufacturing, supply chain and brand retail knowledge to support industry efforts on Climate and Environmental Impact while enabling profitable growth, preparing for future legislation.  As such, he acts as an advisor on Future-Proof Fashion.

Mr Shrihan Perera was the CEO of Teejay Lanka PLC from April 2018 to December 2019 and retired four years ago. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants/CGMA, UK., and has a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering 2nd Class Upper Honors, from the University of Moratuwa.

He served as CEO of Brandix Apparel Solutions Limited from January 2010 to March 2018, and as National Finance Director of Unilever Sri Lanka Limited from April 2007 to December 2009.

Mr Perera currently serves as an independent director on the boards of Teejay Lanka Prints (Private) Limited, Teejay India Private Limited and Fintrex Finance Limited. He is also a consultant to and undertakes coaching assignments for Iceman Technologies Limited and Elegant Knitting International Limited.

The Teejay Group owns manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka and India, along with a state-of-the-art printing facility in Sri Lanka. An ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and OHSAS 18001:2007 compliant company and the first in the industry to develop green fabric, Teejay Lanka was also the first textile manufacturer in Sri Lanka to receive membership of the US Cotton Trust Protocol. Teejay is a public quoted company with 40 per cent public ownership and the backing of Sri Lanka’s largest apparel exporter Brandix Lanka which has a 33 per cent stake in the Company. Pacific Textiles of Hong Kong, whose key shareholder is the Tokyo Stock Exchange listed Toray Industries Inc., owns 27 per cent of Teejay Lanka.

Teejay Lanka was ranked the No 1 corporate entity among 100 public listed companies in Sri Lanka for Transparency in Corporate Reporting in the TRAC 2022 assessment carried out by Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL), the local arm of the international corruption watchdog. The TISL assessment was carried out on three areas crucial to fighting and preventing corruption: reporting on anti-corruption programmes, transparency in company holdings and the disclosure of key financial information in domestic operations.

 



 


February 5, 2024
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5min

Industry veteran Saifudeen Jafferjee was elected Chairman of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), which is the apex body that guides Sri Lanka apparel towards its ultimate goal of being the world’s number one apparel sourcing destination.  At the 20th Annual General Meeting held recently, the Executive Committee including Deputy Chairmen Felix Fernando and Aroon Hirdaramani were re-elected.

 



 

Delivering the inaugural Chairman’s address, Jafferjee highlighted six key policy areas that the industry is seeking government support to propel the apparel sector to meet its ultimate objective of becoming the world’s number one apparel sourcing destination.

“The economic crisis has been a clear and visible indicator that the export driven model is the panacea to add fillip to Sri Lanka’s economic growth agenda.  However, the macroeconomic programme of the IMF has affected the business model of our industry. Therefore, it is important for JAAF to engage with the current leadership on the vital need to return to an export-led business model.”  Jafferjee urged the apparel industry to expand its exports, propelling not only the industry but the country’s economy as a whole.

The adherence to cost-reflective electricity prices, as prescribed by the IMF programme, has resulted in a 50% increase in Sri Lanka apparel’s operational costs, compared to competing countries. Jafferjee deemed this path unsustainable and urged the government to instigate change.

Mandatory conversions, initially introduced as a short-term measure, were questioned by Jafferjee, in light of the exchange rate appreciation and excess liquidity in the banking system. He urged the Central Bank to reconsider the policy of compulsory conversions.

The implications of VAT regulations, especially regarding food and transport services for employees, were highlighted by Jafferjee as “burdensome and illogical” calling for a prompt solution by the state. On the SVAT, he stated that empirical evidence suggests refund mechanisms do not work and advocated a more permanent arrangement.

Expressing hope for success with the ISFTA, Jafferjee emphasized the significance of market access, currently hindered by the lack of an institutional structure. “Market access is an important aspect JAAF has been working on. Despite policy intention, lack of an institutional structure has hampered the process,” The newly elected Chairman urged relevant authorities to expedite the process as market access is vital for industry growth and in turn the country’s economic revival.

Jafferjee also called on authorities to expedite the operationalization of airport scanners to enhance the industry’s speed and capacity.

In conclusion, he expressed optimism about the promising indicators of improved orders for the industry in the second half of 2024.

The Sri Lanka Apparel Sourcing Association (SLASA) presented the conceptual framework of ‘Sourced Sri Lanka’, a roadshow planned in the UK this year bringing together buyers, brands, retailers and importers.  With the collaboration of JAAF, SLASA and the EDB, the roadshow will showcase Sri Lanka’s export capabilities with the objective of increasing visibility, generating leads and sales and building key industry relations.

Deputy Chairman Aroon Hirdaramani presented ‘Sri Lanka Apparel: Ambition 2030’, a roadmap that places Sri Lanka apparel as a premier engine of export growth for the country. The presentation underscored the imperative for the apparel sector to enhance its competitiveness aligned with regional counterparts, emphasizing the necessity to showcase Sri Lanka apparel’s innovation and technological capabilities and the significance of leveraging a highly skilled workforce.


October 11, 2023
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5min

 



 

 

The 2022-23 Annual Report of Teejay Lanka PLC won two awards including the award for ‘Best Annual Report in the Apparel Sector’ at the CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards 2023, presented by the Institute of Certified Management Accountants of Sri Lanka (CMA).

The Annual Report titled ‘Interknitted’ also won one of 10 Certificates of Merit awarded by the country’s national professional management accounting institute in acknowledgement of the quality of Teejay’s disclosure of vital information to stakeholders and conformity with local and international financial reporting standards for accounting and financial as well as non-financial information.

The 12th Integrated Annual Report published by Teejay Lanka PLC provides an overview of the Company’s environmental stewardship, social responsibility, governance and risk management, future-focused sustainability-driven innovation, and insights on material topics pertaining to its commitment to sustainability initiatives as a responsible corporate citizen. The Report also communicates Teejay’s approach to directing corporate strategies in an integrated manner while cautiously balancing the often-competing interests of diverse stakeholders. The Company states its dedicated investment in GRI reporting and establishment of a strong ESG framework exemplify Teejay’s commitment to sustainable business practices and long-term value creation.

Commenting on the Company’s award-winning achievement in financial reporting, Teejay CEO Mr Pubudu De Silva said: “These awards underscore our commitment to excellence across all facets of our business, encompassing the environment, communities, society, and global responsibility. Our report is a testament to our strategic focus, forward-looking approach, commitment to value creation, and dedication to relevance, reliability, and completeness in reporting. We have embraced complete transparency in conveying our performance and impact during the past fiscal year, encapsulating the essence of our remarkable journey.”

The assessment for the CMA awards for integrated reports is based on the Guiding Principles, Content Elements and Fundamental Concepts which appear in the International Framework issued by the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC), with special emphasis on strategic focus and future orientation; connectivity of information; value creation and reliability and completeness.

The Teejay Group owns manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka and in India, along with a state-of-the-art printing facility in Sri Lanka. An ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and OHSAS 18001:2007 compliant company and the first in the industry to develop green fabric, Teejay Lanka was also the first textile manufacturer in Sri Lanka to receive membership of the US Cotton Trust Protocol. Teejay is a public quoted company with 40 per cent public ownership and the backing of Sri Lanka’s largest apparel exporter Brandix Lanka which has a 32 per cent stake in the Company. Pacific Textiles of Hong Kong, whose key shareholder is the Tokyo Stock Exchange listed Toray Industries Inc., owns 27 per cent of Teejay Lanka.

Teejay Lanka was ranked the No 1 corporate entity among 100 public listed companies in Sri Lanka for Transparency in Corporate Reporting in the TRAC 2022 assessment carried out by Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL), the local arm of the international corruption watchdog. The TISL assessment was carried out on three areas crucial to fighting and preventing corruption: reporting on anti-corruption programmes, transparency in company holdings and the disclosure of key financial information in domestic operations.

 



 

 


October 3, 2023
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9min

 



 

 

  • Envisages Sri Lankan operation to double in size by 2026 to $200M
  • Expresses confidence in Sri Lanka’s ability to deliver amidst economic headwinds
  • Recognizes Sri Lanka’s workforce and innovative sustainable manufacturing processes as key strengths

 

Earlier this year, global fashion infrastructure platform PDS Limited announced the unveiling of a centralized cutting plant in its Sri Lankan subsidiary Norlanka, located in Malwana. With a fully digitalized and integrated system, starting from mill inspection to warehouse operations, fabric inspection and the cutting process, this initiative is a testament to how multinational companies can collaborate effectively with local manufacturers, by leveraging technology.

Founded over 24 years ago in Hong Kong, PDS has been growing steadily, creating a network that oversees the end-to-end manufacturing process of apparel. Despite global economic challenges that have impacted apparel manufacturers worldwide, the Company generated USD 2 Bn in Gross Merchandise Value and is poised to more than double its revenue in the next 4-5 years.

Priding itself as a global collaborative platform catering to over 300+ brands, the Company has expanded to over 22 countries, providing a global plug-and-play platform for entrepreneurs in the areas of designing, sourcing, manufacturing and brand management, serving leading global brands and retailers. This unique business model not only operates in an asset-light manner, infusing scalability and robustness into the business, but also promotes a large entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout its entire value chain.

Executive Vice Chairman of PDS Pallak Seth says, “We are looking to further expand our manufacturing footprint to include Egypt and India, while also exploring other strategic locations. Establishing a green field manufacturing plant is challenging, time-consuming and costly in the current context due to the challenges in finding manpower. Therefore, our models involve acquiring businesses by taking the majority stake and integrating them into the PDS Platform, allowing manufacturers access to our global network of designers and vendors.”

Manpower and Innovation – Sri Lanka’s Strength

Reflecting on the PDS journey when it established a presence in Sri Lanka over ten years ago to set up Norlanka, Seth observed that the country possessed the strength of a knowledgeable workforce and a rich vendor base.

“Sri Lanka is a great manufacturing destination that offers excellent quality and commendable health and safety standards, particularly for baby products and intimate wear,” he explained.  “In just a few years, we generated a revenue of USD 100 Mn by adopting a customised model designed specifically to meet consumer needs. We are now regarded as the preferred vendor for retailers who would otherwise find it challenging to manage and collaborate with smaller factories. PDS is the conduit that ensures designs and financing are provided to factories. This leaves room for the factories to focus on manufacturing.”

In the world of global manufacturing, PDS views its subsidiary Norlanka as a thriving success story, poised for remarkable growth. The Company aspires to achieve a staggering revenue of USD 120 Mn this year, with ambitions to double its business within the next 3-4 years.

In order to reach this target, PDS has several initiatives in the pipeline. The Company recently invested in a manufacturing base in Trincomalee for babywear and partnered with a further 2 to 3 factories to enhance its capacity.

The Company also established a centralized cutting plant in close proximity to the commercial capital Colombo, opening up capacity, adding value and creating further investment opportunities for vendors and customers.

“There are good apparel manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka that are USD 10 to 50 Mn in size, which have demonstrated governance, compliance and are future-ready,” stressed Seth.  “PDS is interested in investing in such companies so we could help them grow to become USD 100 Mn businesses. With our extensive financing resources and global network and collaborating with 350 retailers worldwide, we also seek to bring these opportunities to Sri Lanka, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with local stakeholders.”

Embracing Solar Technology to Drive Sustainable Manufacturing

As the only global apparel manufacturer in the world with a structured corporate venture capital arm ‘PDS Ventures’, the Company strategically invests in the sustainability and circular economy space. Set up six years ago, it has already invested over USD 25 Mn into founders that have emerged from prestigious universities like Stanford, Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial. PDS has made 60+ such investments over the years in a host of selected companies bringing innovation in material science, traceability, manufacturing technology or post-consumer waste and has taken a strategic stake in these investments.

Seth noted that when it comes to sustainability, Sri Lanka has shown great commitment towards sustainable manufacturing practices.  Norlanka is the first facility to install a solar power plant generating over 70,000 kilowatts (kWh) among its 45 companies across the globe.[1]

“Also, the human capital in Sri Lanka is so evolved and developed,” commends Seth. “It is because of this that we see the industry moving forward speedily. Our Global Head of ESG and Director of Sustainability & Innovation drives this global agenda, while compared to other countries, our Sri Lankan team possesses the unique ability to understand and drive this sustainability agenda.”

According to the PDS Group Sustainability Report 2023, Norlanka Manufacturing has adopted several sustainable practices, aligning itself with ESG goals and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The Company hopes to become a net-zero landfilling organisation by 2024 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2025.[2]

Seeing Opportunity in Crisis

Despite a decline in orders across the globe due to rising inflation and a slowdown in the growth of developed economies, PDS saw Norlanka emerging as a reliable partner for both retailers and customers. “From a national perspective, as long as GSP+ remains in place and Sri Lanka continues to nurture relationships, the country should be well-equipped to navigate these challenges. While focusing on doubling business, Sri Lanka must also ensure it can keep up with increased production demands. Wherever there is a crisis, we should be able to see an opportunity. As the middle market is gradually disappearing, pricing is a challenge – retail must become more agile.”

Seth added that while the main operations of PDS are based in the UK, the Company is exploring means of leveraging the US and UK clientele that frequent those markets.  “For this, we have representatives from Sri Lanka to showcase the country’s manufacturing capabilities. What truly sustains the country is its workforce and human capital. Given that Sri Lanka is a small country with limited human capital, worker efficiency becomes crucial.”

[1] https://www.indiantextilemagazine.in/pds-embraces-solar-energy-to-drive-sustainable-manufacturing/

[2] https://pdsltd.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/PDS-SR-2023-07-09-23.pdf

 



 

 


September 19, 2023
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6min

 



 

 

18th September 2023: The newly appointed Chairman of the Fabric Apparel Accessory Manufacturers Association (FAAMA), Sahan Rajapakse, highlighted the importance of strengthening vertical integration and import substitution of textiles as the way forward for the industry.

Speaking at the 16th Annual General Meeting of the Association, the Chairman of FAAMA noted that the country currently imports most of its fabric requirements and raw materials, amounting to USD 2 billion annually.

“We have tremendous potential in the country. Most of our fabric requirements are imported, which include 10% synthetic fabrics and approximately 50% cotton. Only roughly 10% are produced domestically. When we look at it from a numerical perspective, there’s a significant market share we can capture. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about how we redefine the industry, position our country, and introduce innovation. It’s about creating true vertical integration, encompassing lead times, pricing, and industry flexibility. At FAAMA, we can seize this potential, establish true vertical integration, and expand into the global market and supply chain,” Rajapaksa stressed.

FAAMA also highlighted the sector’s risk brought about by the removal of SVAT, citing that it will lead to apparel manufacturers seeking to import more raw materials rather than purchasing them locally from FAAMA membership. This could result in 15% of their purchase costs becoming entangled in a lengthy refund process.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Chairman of FAAMA, Pubudu De Silva, thanked the membership for their commitment and resilience showcased amidst the economic crisis and COVID pandemic. He noted that the country has immense potential to strengthen its ability to source materials closer to home.

“I believe that we can contribute even greater value to addressing the challenges within the industry. At FAAMA, we aspire to go beyond simply promoting Sri Lanka as a destination. We aim to position the apparel industry as a comprehensive vertical solution. In every solution we offer, we must emphasize our country’s identity as a hub for this industry.”

Chairman of the Joint Apparel Association Forum, the apex body of the apparel sector, Sharad Amalean, noted that while the industry is facing a drop in orders, the importance of vertical integration cannot be overlooked. Strengthening Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with neighbouring countries like India is essential if the sector is to develop and compete with the likes of Bangladesh.

“We mustn’t overlook the opportunity to engage in trade with our close neighbour, India. There’s a substantial market right there, and we need to strategize on how to become an integral part of it. Currently, we import a significant amount of Indian yarn and fabric, yet our access to duty-free trade with India is severely restricted. This is a challenge that we at JAAF have taken head-on, engaging directly with the President and the Chief Negotiator to strengthen our Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India.”

As part of FAAMA’s commitment towards sustainability, the AGM also saw the signing of an MOU with MAS Foundation for Change to work collaboratively on the “Ocean Strainer Project.”

Established in 2003, FAAMA is the governing body of Fabric & Apparel Accessory Manufacturers and a member of the Joint Apparel Association Forum. With 39 member companies in its fellowship, FAAMA is the unified voice of Sri Lankan fabric and apparel accessory manufacturers. It helps the industry identify opportunities and work towards improving logistics, policies, and infrastructure, enabling standardized regulation that avoids policy uncertainty within the industry, facilitating high infrastructure and trade assistance through innovation, promoting local investment, and attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

The Association for 2023/2024 will be led by a newly appointed executive committee, with Sahan Rajapakse, the newly appointed Chairman (CEO, Trischel Fabric Pvt. Limited) at its helm.

Other key appointments include Vice Chairmen of FAAMA Ashiq Lafir (CEO, Noyon Lanka Pvt Ltd) and Niroshan Samarasingha (CEO, Stretchline Pvt Ltd), Secretary of FAAMA Shahid Sangani (MD, Dynawash Ltd), Treasurer of FAAMA Samal Dissanaike (CEO, T&S Buttons Lanka Pvt Ltd) and Immediate Past Chairman Pubudu De Silva (CEO, Teejay Lanka).

The board also includes executive committee members Beauno Fernando (Chairman/MD, Shore to Shore Pvt Ltd), Rohan Goonetilleke (MD/CEO, Hayleys Fabric Plc & South Asia Textiles Ltd), Sanjay Chandraratne (Director, A & E Thread Pvt Ltd), Suranga Gallage (Group COO, Antler Fabric Printers Pvt Ltd) and Vasu Wijegoonawardena (CEO of PRYM Intimates Lanka Pvt Ltd).

 



 

 


September 18, 2023
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8min

 



 

 

The journey towards ‘green jeans’ and sustainable fashion has made significant strides worldwide, and at its heart is Hirdaramani Apparel, a pioneer and trailblazer in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. Since joining the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s ‘The Jeans Redesign’ project in 2019, the Company’s continued commitment to sustainably manufactured jeans has been focused, committed, and authentic.

In an industry where trends are evolutionary, jeans remain timeless, versatile and a wardrobe staple for most. Jeans have a history dating over 160 years, originating as ‘work wear’ clothing for mining and industrial wear before capturing the love of the fashion-conscious. Today, the global jeans market is valued at over USD 75 billion and is poised for further growth[1]. However, this comes amid heightened environmental concerns, prompting the industry to rethink its manufacturing practices.

Hirdaramani Apparel is leading the charge by reimagining denim manufacturing through a sustainability lens. The partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s ‘The Jeans Redesign’ project underscores its commitment to transformation. With input from 80 experts across industry, academia and NGOs, the project is actively encouraging leading brands, mills, and manufacturers to revolutionize the way jeans are designed and made.

The Head of Design (Woven) at Hirdaramani Apparel, Piyumi Perera highlights the evolution of its approach. “In our industry, we work in a design environment where the focus is on selling more, selling fast, and selling at competitive rates, which impacts the industry as a whole,” she notes. “Our customers, brands, and our leadership influenced us to be more cognizant of this and make necessary changes to our manufacturing processes. Here, our steadfast journey towards eco-friendly or green jean production began over 15 years ago.”

A Path to Responsible Manufacturing

The three primary areas that cause most harm to the environment in denim manufacturing are water use, chemical and dye use, and energy consumption. Leveraging technology and innovation, the Sustainability and Design team at Hirdaramani Apparel work together to ensure that the average water consumption per garment since 2019 was reduced by 23 percent and energy consumption in Mega Joules per garment was reduced by 9 percent. These statistics relate to apparel across Hirdaramani – among which 50-70 percent of its production is attributed to denim.

“When we initiated the concept of the Hirdaramani Discovery Lab in 2017, we realized that from the outset, product design needed an additional dimension of sustainability in intentional material choices and making of processes,” says Piyumi.  “It’s not just about a sustainable fabric but considering the end-to-end process and the garment’s lifecycle. Since we can’t scrutinize every aspect, we have brought in sustainability controls through the highest certifications that abide by global sustainability standards. Our Sustainability team sits alongside the Design team at Discovery Lab. The two teams work together to ensure our designers are aligned with the Hirdaramani sustainability commitments from a product perspective. This specialised knowledge base is readily available for our designers.”

Understanding the harmful impact of chemicals, including the use of synthetic indigo dyes and finishing agents, Hirdaramani Apparel utilizes three-in-one chemicals (wetting, levelling, and pre-wash) to streamline chemical usage. Extensive sample testing at the company’s denim laundries guided by EIM (Environmental Impact Measure) software aims to minimize energy, chemical, water, and labour requirements per garment.

The Company has also adopted laser technology for the denim with its distinctive whiskers and washed-out appearance, effectively reducing the demand for chemicals and water in the dry process of denim creation.

Aligned with circular principles, the commitment to sustainability manifests in minimized reliance on processes like Potassium Permanganate spray, pumice stone washing, and sandblasting, while some processes have been fully eliminated. Furthermore, rigorous lab testing on dyes and chemicals is conducted before production to identify and mitigate the use of hazardous chemicals in addition to optimizing overall efficiency.

The Group has also invested in state-of-the-art sustainable washing machines that enable precise measurement and management of chemical usage. Committed to responsible practices, there is adherence to ZDHC 3.0 guidelines (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) and meeting of RSL (Restricted Substance List) requirements throughout the chemical management processes, spanning from input to output.

Achieving True Circularity

Since joining the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s ‘The Jeans Redesign’ project in 2019, Hirdaramani Apparel has successfully produced over 200,000 jeans for a prominent American brand. The commitment to pioneering guidelines in recycled denim production reflects the Company’s sincere vision to become one of the most sustainable apparel manufacturers.

Piyumi emphasizes that the four crucial parameters in eco-friendly jean manufacturing are durability, traceability, recyclability, and material health. “Each of these elements holds significance at every stage of the jean value chain. We are witnessing a growing number of startup brands embracing sustainable jean design and production, and we are happy to actively support these emerging brands to enter the market and contribute towards making a real difference.”

Since 2019, the criteria for circular denim has evolved and become more inclusive and easier to adapt to. Initially, the project began with the agreement to use 10 percent post-consumer waste cotton, with the remaining components being organic cotton, allowing 2 percent to be synthetic. Today, the initiative has progressed to a refined standard with 5 percent post-consumer waste cotton and the remaining 95 percent sourced from natural fibres. An overall 2 percent by weight of synthetic components is accepted.

“As we envision the future of sustainable fashion, we must prioritize three key criteria: making circular design the norm, ensuring the economics work, and shifting product design as well as systems redesign,” concludes Piyumi. “With learning from ‘The Jeans Redesign’ project, we are at the forefront of a fashion revolution and are actively contributing to a transformation in an industry often criticized for its negative environmental impact.”

[1] https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/denim-jeans-market#:~:text=Report%20Overview,5.8%25%20from%202023%20to%202030.

 



 

 


September 13, 2023
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2min

 



 

 

12th September 2023: The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) welcomes the recent cabinet approval for the deferment of the Simplified Value-Added Tax (SVAT) scheme, set to now take effect from April 1st, 2025. JAAF is particularly appreciative of the decision to ensure that a “strong tax repaying mechanism” is in place before proceeding with the removal of SVAT. This decision reflects the dedicated efforts of various stakeholders to protect the industry, for which JAAF is appreciative.

This deferment comes at a critical time for apparel exporters who have been grappling with declining exports and therefore, risk of cash flow disruption if SVAT was removed without a viable refund system being in place.

Exporters pointed out that as an appropriate measure towards repealing the SVAT system, a step-by-step approach is required until a strong tax repaying mechanism is established.

The statement from JAAF said, “The deferment offers a lifeline to our sector, ensuring a smoother transition towards a revamped tax framework. We remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure the industry’s continued growth and prosperity.”

 



 

 


August 28, 2023
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3min

 



 

 

C-Four Industries Private Limited (www.cfour.lk), an award-winning mosquito net manufacturer, bagged the gold award in the textile, apparel and fashion category at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Awards (SMEDA) 2022 organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM). The Managing Director of the C-Four Industries, Chinthaka Silva received the Gold Award at a grand event held at the Grand Monarch Hotel in Colombo. C-Four Industries Private Limited (0352050255) with 15 years of experience in mosquito net manufacturing is the only mosquito net manufacturing company in the country that successfully maintains a sales network covering all parts of the country. Using the highest quality imported raw materials to manufacture mosquito nets, C-Four Industries offers its products in various sizes including small, double and family friendly, with round and square-shaped frames.

A special mosquito net called ‘Pooja’ to be offered to Buddhist clergy is a notable product among a wide range of products of the company. Beautifully made in yellow colour, ‘Pooja’ mosquito nets are available at ‘Atapirikara’ shops all over the island. C-Four industries is located on Batawala Road, Higula, Mawanella, and its representatives are present in many major cities. “Having been started as a very small business, C-Four Industries has now achieved great success. Our company was honoured with many local and international awards in the past. This time, receiving a national level SLIM award is a special achievement for us. I express my gratitude to all the employees of C-Four Industries who have worked tirelessly for all these achievements.” said the Managing Director of C-Four Industries Chinthaka Silva.

 



 

 


August 18, 2023
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5min




 

amanté, Sri Lanka’s leading intimate apparel brand, has unveiled its newest independent boutique in Negombo – the 5th in the label’s growing portfolio of stores across the country.

The grand opening, held on Thursday the 10th of August, was officially inaugurated by Chief Guest Darshi Keerthisena – of Buddhi Batiks fame- in the presence of other prominent personalities, influencers, and amanté management.

Darshi Keerthisena, fashion powerhouse and Founder of well-known ethical fashion business, Buddhi Batiks, was also the first to make a purchase at the swanky new boutique. “I’ve always been a fan of amanté’s offering, and also deeply respect the brand’s vision of empowering women,” she commented. “Having witnessed first-hand amanté’s impressive growth since its inception, it is indeed an honour to have been chosen to open their newest store.”

With a presence in over 200 retail outlets across Sri Lanka, amanté’s Negombo boutique will be the label’s second independent store outside of Colombo; giving patrons access to the exclusive amanté shopping experience as well as designs which seamlessly blend quality, style, and comfort. Customers in the vicinity will now be able to shop their favorite brand’s newest collections as they are released, which include intimate wear, athleisure, sleepwear, swimwear, and their newly launched teen range.

“We’re incredibly excited to have been able to open our newest outlet here in Negombo, further bolstering our exclusive store network to make our superior collection of comfortable and fashionable womenswear more accessible,” said Mr. Padmal Silva, Business Head at amanté. “Having only launched our 4th store just two months ago, our expansion plan is well on track for positioning amante’ as Sri Lanka’s most popular intimate wear destination.”

What sets amanté apart however, is that each product is made to undergo a rigorous 12-month development cycle, where every garment is tested, fitted, and manufactured to excellence at world class manufacturing facilities. Despite this slower and more responsible approach to fashion, amanté works to ensure affordable prices for its customers without ever compromising on quality. With a finger on the pulse of emerging global trends, amanté’s patrons can also rest assured that they’re always wearing the latest styles.

First launched in India in 2007 from humble beginnings, and then having entered the Sri Lankan market in 2012, amanté has now established itself as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted intimate wear labels. The brand now boasts five independent boutiques (Racecourse Mall in Colombo 07, Marino Mall in Colombo 03, Kandy City Centre, Cool Planet Shopping Centre in Nugegoda, and now Negombo), a retail presence at over 230 stores across the island, and an e-commerce store (www.amante.lk); making the products even more accessible to customers across the country. In 2021 amanté was acquired by India’s largest retailer Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd., further bolstering its mission of creating designs that perfectly blend comfort, fashion, and thoughtful design for the confident woman.

For more information email reachus@amante.lk, or call the amanté hotline: 0114534707




 


May 15, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

15th May 2023: In 2020, the Hirdaramani Group announced their Future First initiative, a truly ambitious and comprehensive Sustainability Roadmap for 2025. As part of their commitment to transparency and accountability, the Group has released their second annual Sustainability Report with detailed data-driven updates on Hirdaramani’s progress in 2022 towards achieving the 28 targets they have committed to.

“When we released our 2021 Sustainability Report, we also promised continuous improvement and transparency in our reporting – and with this latest report we have delivered. In 2022, we aligned with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and committed to additional best practices such as the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), which have enabled us to set new standards in data collection, reporting and most importantly verification,” said Siddarth Hirdaramani, Director, Hirdaramani Group. “Measuring actual impact is a core priority for us and we will continue to invest in this.”

Hirdaramani has a longstanding commitment to sustainability, and the Future First 2025 roadmap builds on this foundation with a focus on four key areas; conserving the environment, empowering associates, supporting communities, and building trust in their products and brand.

The company reports that they are on track to achieve the targets set, showing impressive results in reducing carbon emissions, water manage­ment and control of waste across all facilities and locations. The Group has also been successful in meeting and often exceeding their targets for employee training & development as well as the reach of their community projects.

This year has seen continued investments in renewable energy via the expansion of their rooftop solar projects as well as investments in stand alone wind and solar projects. The product development teams have made significant strides in promoting sustainable fashion by launching multiple circular apparel programs for stra­tegic customers and have also started detailed tracking on the volume of “Certified Sustainable” materials that are sourced and used for production.

2022 being a difficult year for the Sri Lankan economy, Hirdaramani directed their focus to supporting communities with food donation programs as well as donating much needed medication to hospitals across the island. They also launched a landmark program ‘Hirdaramani Waga Sangramaya’ starting with model vegetable gardens in factories an initiative which  also aimed to promote home gardening amongst employees, with a larger goal to set up gardens in communities. By  the end of 2022, the company had established 11 community gardens. This project received the Best Project Award at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2022 organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

The Group is also more focused than ever on promoting Wonders of Wellbeing (WOW), their in-house developed, globally recognised, wellbeing pro­gram that drives diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization, supporting the concept of every employee living “healthy, wealthy, happy and meaningful lives”.

Read the Full report on the Hirdaramani website www.hirdaramani.com/sustainability

 



 

 



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