Euratex, the European Apparel and Textile Confederation, has come up with a strategy for the future that is supposed to turn the current coronavirus crisis into an opportunity. Part of the strategy, which was endorsed by the last general assembly, is for the industry to become “more digital, sustainable and agile†and five flagship initiatives have been identified in critical areas. The general assembly also re-elected Alberto Paccanelli as president and appointed Jean-François Gribomont, Gregory Marchant, Hadi Karasu and Bodo Bölzle as vice presidents.
While European textiles and clothing companies have been crucial in providing short-term relief in the crisis, such as converting their production or an increased production of PPE, now long-term goals need to be tackled that involve a renewal process of the sector and its value chain and a more competitive and greener future.
Europe should endorse the strategic importance of the European textile and apparel sector, promote the development of an integrated ecosystem with the EU and its neighboring countries, invest in innovation and skills, and turn circularity into a source of competitiveness. The deployment of these durable measures must be now.