Embracing sustainability and adaptability is vital in the textile industry
In 1933, in the Como village of Olgiate Comasco, Virgilio Taiana started in his first loom. Ninety years on, Tessitura Taiana Virgilio S.p.A remains faithful to its human values and to the craftsmanship and cultural legacy of the region. The company’s mission is to produce woven fabrics in partnership with the most established leading innovation brands through a dynamic and flexible process. In an interview with Fibre2Fashion, Tessitura Taiana’s owner Claudio Taiana discusses the impact of sustainable materials on the textile industry, challenges and considerations in international expansion, and key trends in the industry.
What are the primary factors contributing to the growth of the global woven fabrics industry?
The desire for a return to normalcy and the resumption of travel following the opening of borders—these are the two factors that are currently driving the growth of the industry.
How has the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly materials impacted the textile industry, and what are the key innovations in this area?
The adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly materials have brought a variety of positive changes. The industry is increasingly utilising recycled fibres, resulting in reduced waste and resource conservation. Additionally, the use of advanced, energy-efficient machinery has lowered energy consumption and minimised the industry’s environmental footprint. Innovations in the textile industry have also focused on reducing water consumption during finishing processes and designing fabrics with enhanced durability. Another notable development is the creation of adjustable garments as an alternative to disposable clothing, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
What are the main challenges faced by the textile industry in Italy?
The main challenges in the textile industry include the technological renewal of manufacturing plants and the often difficult search for recycled materials.
How is technology, including automation and digitalisation, revolutionising the woven fabrics industry?
Automation in the textile industry requires significant investments, but these can lead to substantial savings in the long run. By automating processes, energy consumption is reduced, and the use of consumables and materials is optimised. These savings ultimately help offset the initial costs of implementing automation technologies, making them a valuable investment for a more sustainable and efficient industry.
How are global trade policies and regulations impacting the textile industry, particularly for those operating in Italy?
The textile industry faces challenges due to the lack of clarity in rules between different purchasing groups (brands) and varying legislation between countries not connected to the same regulatory framework. These discrepancies can lead to difficulties in interpretation and compliance, making it challenging for businesses to adapt and maintain sustainable practices. For Italy, however, the rules align with those of the European Union, providing a more consistent regulatory environment within the region.
What are the key considerations for companies looking to expand their operations internationally?
These mainly fall under two categories. First is the customs regulations, which include import and export rules, tariffs, and duties that vary between countries. Second is the non-customs barriers or policy-based legislative restrictions in different countries, such as quotas, embargoes, or licensing requirements.
Can you tell us a little about the history of Tessitura Taiana and how the company has evolved over the years?
Founded in 1933, Tessitura Taiana has adapted its production and distribution according to historical social evolution.
Born in a region particularly devoted to silk, it has over the years moved on to manufacturing of shirting fabrics, swimwear fabrics as well as technical fabrics particularly dedicated to sports. The newly formed ICONA is a line of performance and practical fabrics intended for the upper end of the market for truly innovative clothing.
What makes your products unique compared to other textile manufacturers in the industry?
The technologies adopted as well as the materials often made exclusively for our company on the basis of technical and scientific research are the two things that make our products unique.
How do you balance the need for innovation with the need for maintaining your core competencies?
Innovation often involves high costs in research and development. However, the market may not always recognise this added value, making it crucial for companies to strike a balance between introducing innovative solutions and addressing the economic needs of the market.
What is the importance of research and development in the textile industry? What is your approach?
Research is one of the pillars of our company. A continuous channel is open with the best universities, and research centres are our best allies in this process.
What steps are taken in the manufacturing process to maintain the quality of your products?
Our company has been certified for more than 30 years by Swiss Quality Systems for the ISO 9001 management process. In addition, we have validated internal production processes that monitor every single activity step-by-step through quality control of the individual operation. Additional certifications such as ISO 14001, OEKO-TEX GRS are an indication of how much care we put into the making of a product and the respect we have for the environment.
What are some of the key trends in the textile industry that you are keeping an eye on, and how is Tessitura Taiana adapting to these trends?
Collaboration and alliance with partners in the same supply chain is what we are currently monitoring. To this end, Tessitura Taiana Virgilio S.p.A has taken equity stakes in its most important suppliers and established programmes and contracts with customers who use our fabrics. By forging these strong relationships, we are better positioned to adapt to industry changes, ensure a more sustainable supply chain, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
What are the long-term goals and vision for Tessitura Taiana, and how do you plan to achieve these goals?
Our long-term goals and vision include a strong attention to change and ability to adapt to new times, maintaining financial stability and credibility, and fostering a collaborative work environment with enthusiasm and dedication. The company aims to transform materials into innovative, technologically advanced fabrics while fully respecting the environment, the community, and all individuals involved in the process.
Sustainability is not just a slogan for Tessitura Taiana; it is the outcome of the care and respect that each employee demonstrates daily in their tasks.
Interviewer: Shilpi Panjabi
Published on: 09/05/2023
DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of Fibre2Fashion.com.
