Despite the current Covid-19 pandemic, Swiss textile manufacturer Ventile is taking steps to expand its operation into new territories. The performance fabric specialist has recently earmarked a number of countries as part of their plans for growth.

After the launch of its recycled fabric in 2019, the brand has gone from strength to strength; with a quarter of all Ventile sales now coming from sustainable fabrics. Now, Ventile look to replicate its European success in Australia, Singapore and New Zealand, markets estimated to be worth a combined industry total of $9.26 billion. Having started the trademark process in 2019, the fabric specialists will look to launch its full fabric range to the markets, which includes the best-selling Ventile Original, Recycled and all new, award winning, Hemp fabric.

Ventile, in spite of the current climate, plans to continue its investment in new countries such as Australia, which is known globally for outdoor brands Billabong, Quicksilver, Seafolly and Rip Curl. From its British military origins in WW2, Ventile has become a popular choice for outdoor clothing manufacturers across Europe, the company says.  Spun from 100% long-staple cotton yarn, the tightly woven fabric provides a waterproof, breathable textile, which it says is great for those living in warmer and humid climates such as Australia and Singapore.

The brand also looks set to tap into the Australian sustainable clothing market with its Ventile Eco fabric, made from 100% recycled cotton. According to Ventile, in recent times, with the rise of social media, the Australian fashion scene has become synonymous with the sustainability message; giving rise to brands like Pip Edwards’ athleisure venture, P.E Nation, and the launch Fashion Revolution Australian branch which aims to bring ethically produced fashion to the public. Alongside this, Mindful Fashion New Zealand has recently launched its Love Local campaign, aiming to raise $30,000 to support the future growth of garment making industry in the country. Both of these are said to represent great opportunities for the fabric manufacturer.

Commenting on the expansion, Ventile Production Manager Daniel Odermatt said: “In times such as these, it is important to plan for the future. Expanding to Australia, New Zealand and Singapore is something which we have worked on for a number of years. With a strong sustainable fashion movement in Australia, and the Mindful Fashion campaign in New Zealand, now feels like the right time to move into these new markets.”

“As a brand, Ventile is focused on providing designers with quality fabrics, connecting social and environmental awareness with innovative fabric options. It will be interesting to take what we have learned with our European partners and apply this in these new territories.”

https://ventile.co.uk