Industry faces domestic and external pressures
In Germany, weak consumption coincides with increased requirements for the industry. New responsibilities are expected for footwear and textile manufacturers and brands under the German Textile Act, which would regulate the collection and handling of used products and their waste. The industry is calling for simplified implementation while maintaining its support for growing circularity.
Externally, higher freight costs and longer shipping routes are affecting supply chains, alongside rising production costs in Asia. The industry is also affected by geopolitical tensions, with consequences for transportation, raw materials and energy, according to HDS/L.