Articles by Simone Preuss
Simone Preuss is a freelance journalist specialising in apparel production, sustainability and social responsibility. She has been working with FashionUnited since 2012, gaining valuable insights into an ever-changing industry.
OECD warns of inflation, slow global growth in case of prolonged Middle East conflict
The apparel, footwear and textile industries are bracing for impact as the evolving conflict in the Middle East reshapes the global economic landscape. According to the OECD’s latest “Economic Outlook,” a severe energy shock is driving up inflationary pressures and stifling global growth — factors that directly threaten fashion supply chains,...
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How the mould crisis is reshaping fashion supply chains
The “Mould Crisis” of 2026 is a direct byproduct of the extended maritime detour around the Cape of Good Hope, which has become a semi-permanent fixture due to the 2026 Strait of Hormuz (SoH) closure and continued Red Sea instability. What began as a logistical delay has evolved into a quality assurance nightmare, particularly for shipments...
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Textile production in Germany: “Inventing Industry 7.0” at Textile Factory 7.0
The German government-funded future project, “Textile Factory 7.0” (T7), launched almost a year ago. It is a collaboration between the University of Applied Sciences Hochschule Niederrhein (HSNR) and other stakeholders from research, business and local authorities. The ambitious goals were announced in July 2025 already: Production and business...
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Philippine's sustainable textiles get boost from banana plantations
The recent establishment of the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (NTFIH) in Benito Soliven, Isabela, represents a significant leap for the Philippine textile industry. By leveraging the region’s vast banana plantations, which cover approximately 1,200 hectares, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is transforming agricultural...
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First DPP-ready textile library goes live
Brands and retailers that are currently preparing for the EU’s Digital Product Passport (DPP) regulation can start by sourcing verified, compliance-ready textiles directly from a structured, supplier-level data library, which went live on 21st May. The library is the brainchild of World Collective who connects brands with next-generation...
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How AI can support fashion companies
The modern fashion industry operates under constant strain, where traditional forecasting models frequently clash with unpredictable market realities. Siloed workflows, fragmented planning systems and a heavy reliance on manual processes mean that crucial information is often trapped in disconnected spreadsheets, tech packs and erratic...
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The great logistics pivot: How Mexico and Vietnam are reshaping global trade
The global textile and garment industry is currently undergoing its most significant structural transformation in decades, driven by a combination of geopolitical friction and logistical instability. As the US continues its rigorous review of Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports, the traditional “Made in China” model is being systematically...
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Tool to watch: GFA Policy Matrix Asia
After successful editions covering the EU and Americas, non-profit Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) has released its GFA Policy Matrix: Asia. The resource is designed to map sustainability and social matters related legislation in the fashion industry across the region and focuses on eight major manufacturing countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, China,...
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European Anti-Fraud Office unmasks major textile smuggling ring
In a decisive blow to the European “grey market,” the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) confirmed on 6th May 2026 the successful conclusion of a coordinated strike against a sophisticated smuggling network. Working in tandem with Polish and Spanish customs officials, OLAF investigators intercepted a rail corridor originating in China that was...
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Fashion CFO Agenda 2026: Building financial resilience through sustainability
While sustainability is increasingly impacting fashion economics, executive attention is paradoxically dropping. A new report, “Fashion CFO Agenda 2026”, argues that sustainability is no longer just a “high visibility” topic but a core financial discipline essential for long-term company resilience. It has been co-authored by Global Fashion...
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