Ludhiana in Punjab that accounts for over 90 percent of the total winter wear production in the country has been stumped by this year’s warm start to the season. The demand from the retailers spread across the country.
Last year’s 20 percent inventory is still with the industry and many units are fearing closure. Traditionally the buying for winter wear is in top gear in October. This year the drop in off stake has worried the warm wear producers. Apart from delay in winter 6the economic uncertainty and high inflation has also deterred consumers. Moreover the prices have also gone up due increase in cost of doing business.
Consumers usually use their woolen clothing for a longer period. The size of the woolen industry is also shrinking probably because the winter duration has shortened. The brand catering to the middle class has been hit more.
Ludhiana is home to around 12,000 units, a majority of them in the MSME category. Winter wear category comprises basic sweaters, hoodies, sweat shirts, jackets, shawls, cardigans and trousers. Bangladesh in winter wearbeing cheaper is also making inroads into Indian markets.
