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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.

In recent years, the fashion industry has witnessed a significant shift in consumer preferences, with a growing emphasis on quality over quantity. This movement, often referred to as "quality fashion," reflects a deeper awareness among consumers about the environmental and ethical implications of their purchases. As a result, the future of fashion is being redefined by a commitment to durability, sustainability, and timeless design.

The traditional fast-fashion model, characterized by rapid production cycles and disposable clothing, is increasingly being scrutinized for its environmental impact and contribution to waste. In response, consumers are gravitating towards brands that prioritize high-quality materials and craftsmanship. This shift is not merely about aesthetics but represents a broader commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices.

Brands like Stella McCartney have set the standard for sustainable luxury fashion by utilizing eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and promoting transparency. Such initiatives resonate with consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility, reinforcing the idea that quality fashion is synonymous with ethical practices. 

Sustainability and quality are becoming increasingly intertwined in the fashion industry. High-quality garments tend to have longer lifespans, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thereby minimizing waste. Consumers are recognizing that investing in well-made pieces not only offers better value over time but also aligns with environmentally conscious values. 

The European Commissions Sustainable and Circular Textile Strategy emphasizes that textiles sold in the EU should be durable, repairable, and recyclable, encouraging a move away from fast fashion towards more sustainable consumption patterns. 

Advancements in technology are playing a pivotal role in the evolution of quality fashion. Innovations such as 3D knitting and digital printing allow for precise manufacturing, reducing waste and enhancing the quality of the final product. Additionally, technology enables greater transparency in supply chains, allowing consumers to make informed choices about the origins and production methods of their clothing. 

The rise of the secondhand apparel market further underscores the shift towards quality. According to a report by ThredUp, the global secondhand clothing market is projected to reach $367 billion by 2029, growing 2.7 times faster than the overall apparel market. This trend indicates a growing consumer preference for durable, high-quality items that retain value over time. 

The rise of quality fashion signifies a transformative period in the industry, where consumer priorities are increasingly aligned with sustainability, durability, and ethical production. As technology continues to evolve and awareness grows, the focus on quality over quantity is reshaping the way clothing is designed, produced, and consumed. At ITG Group, we share this commitment to quality—not only in fashion but in every machine, spare part, and accessory we offer. Our goal is to support our clients in producing high-quality fabrics that keep them ahead of their competitors in the textile sector. We are your commercial ally in the textile industry, dedicated to helping you weave success.

Information obtained from: 

https://www.globaltextiletimes.com/articles/quality-fashion-the-future-of-consumer-trends/