LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD News) — Denim’s lasting popularity no longer guarantees stronger cotton demand because many consumers already own several durable pairs and replace them less often. Gherzi Americas Managing Partner Bob Antoshak says the industry must now build a profitable business around a product designed to last.
Mature markets face slower replacement cycles, expanding resale activity, and shoppers trained to wait for discounts. Spending has also shifted toward travel, entertainment, restaurants, and other services competing with apparel purchases.
Retail markdowns pressure every link in the supply chain. Brands seek vendor support, factories squeeze mills, and mills become more cautious about fabric, yarn, and cotton commitments when margins repeatedly disappear.
Forecasting tools, digital samples, laser finishing, and lower-water dyeing can reduce inventory mistakes and production costs. Those improvements may help manufacturers invest, preserve capacity, and maintain fiber demand despite slower unit growth.
Cotton producers should watch denim sales, markdowns, mill profitability, and capital investment rather than fashion trends alone. Future demand will depend on whether the industry can sell fewer mistakes, protect margins, and keep durable products commercially rewarding.
