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The textile industry is currently undergoing major restructuring and transformation, rapid economic growth and urbanisation, coupled with a growing middle class, have already tripled the domestic demand for textiles and will grow threefold yet again over the next decade. Urban citizens are accelerating the shift towards fast fashion, while more affluent citizens are increasing the demand for quality and branded luxury goods. Such trends are, however, negatively impacting water reserves, water and air quality, and public health. This unprecedented growth, combined with the traditional, linear ‘take-make-dispose’ approach to production and consumption, could be mitigated by embedding circular principles within the industry. Textiles that have been designed for quality
and can withstand multiple and prolonged use can be circulated in repeated use cycles. Business models such as sharing, renting, and leasing provide customers with a service offering access to products rather than ownership. In doing so, the average number of times textiles are used or worn is increased, customers gain more convenient and affordable access to textile products, and businesses benefit from greater customer loyalty and more consistent revenue streams.
Design-for-durability enables these business models and offers a strong business case by enabling extended use of the fabric. A clothing subscription services whereby consumers pay a monthly fee to gain access to trendy clothing, which they can rent and swap at any time