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In a world where consumers expect faster turnarounds and greater personalization, the textile industry is undergoing a profound shift toward modular, rapid production systems. No longer satisfied with off-the-rack assortments, many buyers now demand garments with custom fits, adjustable features and unique styles — and textile manufacturers are adapting accordingly.

At the heart of this transformation lies modular production architecture: machines, fabrication lines and design workflows built not for long-runs of one style, but for quick changeovers, multiple variants and mass-customization. Unlike traditional production that uses fixed processes, modular systems allow manufacturers to switch fabrics, colors, sizes and even structures with minimal downtime. Research on modular garment systems shows that a small set of “building blocks” (modules) can be recombined to create a wide range of styles, essentially enabling customization at scale.

Complementing modular design is rapid configuration — the ability to set up production machinery quickly, based on simulations or digital models rather than trial-and-error sampling. For example, the European research project MODSIMTEX developed systems to simulate textile structures and machine settings in advance, thereby reducing the time required to configure setups for new product variants.

Why are these changes critical? For one, today’s consumer doesn’t wait eight to twelve months for a new style. They expect updates seasonally (or micro-seasonally), customizations and quicker fulfillment. Modular and rapid systems reduce lead times and enable smaller lot sizes — matching demand for personalization while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Secondly, these systems support variety without cost explosion: by standardizing modules and digitizing configuration, manufacturers maintain efficiency while offering more variants. An academic study on production scheduling in personalized fashion goods showed that manufacturers who optimize for flexibility rather than just volume can deliver both customization and speed.

In practice, what does this look like on the factory floor? You’ll see a textile-machinery line with swappable cylinders, automated adjustments, and digital models that define machine settings in minutes. Teams move seamlessly between one style and the next. A garment may be assembled from modules — detachable sleeves, interchangeable panels or modular closures — reducing waste and enabling personalization without rebuilding the line for each variant.

For textile machinery manufacturers and suppliers like ITG Group, the implication is clear: the future of production lies not only in faster machines, but in machines built for flexibility, modularity and personalization. Supporting fabrics and garments that shift with consumer desires means supporting the entire value-chain of textile manufacturing in motion and those who adapt their machines, workflows and mindset to this shift will lead the next wave of textile innovation.

Source: arvix.org

The textile industry has always been driven by innovation. From mechanical looms to today’s advanced systems, every leap in technology has reshaped how fabrics are produced, improved efficiency, and expanded design possibilities. Among the most impactful innovations of recent decades are modern knitting machines, which play a central role in producing seamless garments, high-performance fabrics, and versatile knitwear. But is now truly the right time to invest?

According to Consegic Business Intelligence, the global market for large knitting machines is expected to grow from USD 1.24 billion in 2022 to USD 1.92 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7%. This steady increase reflects rising demand for knitwear across multiple segments, including sportswear, athleisure, medical textiles, and technical fabrics.

The popularity of comfortable, stretchable garments, combined with the expansion of on-demand production, has created a favorable environment for knitting machines. Digital customization and shorter production cycles are reinforcing the need for equipment that adapts quickly to changing consumer trends.

While growth projections are promising, investment decisions must go beyond the numbers. Insights from industry analyses highlight that return on investment (ROI) depends largely on selecting the right type of machine and aligning production capacity with demand.

Modern knitting machines offer the flexibility to produce different types of fabrics using the same equipment by simply installing interchangeable cylinders. Each cylinder allows for variations in gauge and structure, enabling manufacturers to shift from lightweight fabrics to heavier knits without investing in multiple machines. This system not only maximizes the versatility of production but also reduces the need for large-scale equipment fleets, making it easier for companies to adapt quickly to changing market demands.

Equally important is aligning investment with actual production needs. Overestimating capacity can delay ROI, while underestimating demand risks missing growth opportunities. Companies should carefully evaluate their product lines, target markets, and access to reliable technical support before making a purchase.

With global demand for knitwear on the rise and ongoing technological improvements making knitting more efficient and flexible, this is a favorable moment to invest. Still, the most successful outcomes will come from businesses that combine optimism about market growth with disciplined planning.

At ITG Group, we support this journey by offering high-quality knitting machines, second-hand equipment in excellent condition, and a complete range of spare parts and accessories. Whether you are upgrading, expanding, or maintaining your production, we provide the solutions to help your textile business thrive.

Sources:

https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/large-circular-knitting-machine-market?

https://insights.made-in-china.com/Maximizing-Returns-with-the-Right-Circular-Knitting-Machine-Investment_qARtUkYOqEDI.html?

Shapewear has become one of the flagship products of Colombian fashion. The country is not only recognized for its creativity and quality in clothing manufacturing, but has also established itself as the leading exporter of shapewear garments in the Americas and the second largest worldwide, behind only China.

This leadership was not achieved overnight. Since its inception, when so-called “cinturillas” (waistbands) were the most common items, the industry has evolved into a diverse portfolio that includes bodysuits, control jeans, sets, and one-pieces. Today, these garments not only serve an aesthetic function, but also have medical and post-operative applications, further expanding their market.

According to figures from DANE, in 2024 Colombia exported more than 1,300 tons of shapewear and control garments, with a value of over $54 million. The main destinations for these exports are the United States and Mexico, markets where Colombian design, quality, and innovation have been widely accepted. In addition, the sector has managed to maintain annual business of more than $55 million on average, demonstrating its stability and capacity for growth.

The success of shapewear is part of a broader context: the sustained growth of the Colombian fashion industry. According to figures from Inexmoda, in the first half of 2025, the country recorded a 3% increase in its textile and fashion exports. Colombia leads South America in the export of products such as underwear and jeans, ranks first in flat fabric garments in the region, and is the leading exporter of swimwear in South America and the second largest in Latin America and the Caribbean. These figures reflect a sector that has grown by 7% in the last five years, consolidating itself as an economic engine and ambassador of national innovation.

In this ecosystem, knitting looms play a key role in the creation of high-quality fabrics for the manufacture of shapewear. ITG Colombia, as a leading company in textile machinery, offers knitting looms that allow companies to produce fabrics with elasticity, resistance, and comfort, essential characteristics for control garments that conquer international markets. This technology ensures that manufacturers can offer a competitive, high-quality end product.

The international recognition of Colombian shapewear is due to several factors: the use of quality raw materials, the development of state-of-the-art textile technologies, and the ability of designers and manufacturers to combine functionality with aesthetics. In addition, the rise of trends related to wellness, functional fashion, and sustainability has further boosted demand.

In conclusion, shapewear is not just a successful product: they represent the ability of Colombian fashion to compete and lead on the global stage. With constant innovation, entrepreneurial vision, and a commitment to quality, this segment will continue to be a source of pride for the country and an opportunity for growth in the textile and apparel industry.

Source: https://co.fashionnetwork.com/news/Las-fajas-y-prendas-de-control-colombianas-al-alza,1763442.html

In conventional dyeing, colors are applied to wet fabrics—with unpredictable shifts occurring during drying. These non-linear color changes often lead to dyeing errors that can only be detected late in the process. As Jasper explains, by the time these mistakes surface, entire batches may need re-dyeing, contributing to massive material and resource waste.

To tackle this issue, Jasper and his team developed five machine learning models to map the complex transition between wet and dry color states. Their neural network stood out with exceptional accuracy: a CIEDE2000 error as low as 0.01 and a median error of 0.7, well below the industry’s typical acceptability threshold of 0.8–1.0. In comparison, traditional methods produced errors up to 13.8—demonstrating the vast improvements possible with machine learning guidance.

This AI-driven prediction enables manufacturers to identify and correct color deviations early, reducing re-runs, minimizing resource waste, and saving time and cost across production workflows.

Machine learning isn’t only enhancing color accuracy. Numerous textile manufacturers are leveraging AI and ML for real-time monitoring, resource optimization, and predictive maintenance. AI systems analyze data from dyeing equipment to ensure consistent temperature, chemical balance, and application uniformity—drastically improving efficiency and reducing downtime.

By using models trained on historical data, AI algorithms accurately forecast energy and water usage and optimize formulations to avoid overuse. Coupled with automation, this enables dramatic reductions in chemical and resource consumption, supporting sustainable production standards.

Given the environmental footprint of traditional dyeing—particularly its high water, energy, and chemical demands—machine learning models offer a powerful solution. With improved prediction and real-time response, factories can significantly reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and limit harmful chemical runoff. These practices align with ethical and regulatory demands across global markets.

Moreover, optimizing dyeing operations through AI translates into business advantages: reduced material costs, fewer quality control failures, faster turnarounds, and higher product consistency. This positions brands and manufacturers to deliver better value while meeting customer and regulatory expectations for sustainability.

While promising, widespread adoption of machine learning in textile dyeing is still emerging. Challenges include the need for robust data collection, integration with existing systems, and investment in AI-ready infrastructure. But as textile makers continue to digitize operations and gather production data, the path is clear for scalable, intelligent dyeing processes that deliver reliability and resource efficiency.

At ITG Group, we recognize the transformative potential of machine learning in textile dyeing. While we continue monitoring these innovations, our goal is to help our clients stay ahead through efficient, high-quality textile production. By offering machinery, spare parts, and advisory support tailored to each of our clients needs, we aim to empower them to produce fabrics that lead the market. We’re your commercial ally in the textile industry, committed to weaving success together.