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Dear Readers,
The fact that the global fashion retail industry is at a transformative shift with sustainability at its core comes as no surprise. As one of the largest contributors to global waste and carbon emissions, the industry bears a unique obligation—and an incredible opportunity—to reshape its future. Brands, retailers and companies at large are committing to designing, producing, and selling clothing in ways that respect the planet and its people. From using eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester to ensuring ethical labor practices across supply chains, sustainability in fashion retail addresses environmental impact and social equity in equal measure.
Infact, a Technopak study has revealed that the Indian fashion retail industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 10% during 2023-2028 and continued consumer shift towards sustainability and corporate adoption of eco-friendly practices are expected to drive this growth.
However, even moving towards a progressive phase has not been easy for the industry. While it is true that sustainability in fashion retail is no longer a choice but a mandate driven by conscious consumers and the pressing realities of climate change, it is also true that the shift itself comes with a set of obstacles which are challenging to navigate. Limited awareness and education around sustainable practices among consumers, designers, and small-scale producers; infrastructure and technology gaps; labour and ethical issues;regulatory frameworks and scaling challenges for small enterprises all pose hurdles to a smooth transition towards a sustainable fashion framework. Nonetheless, as consumers are waking up to the cause of preserving the planet for future generations and the ‘ethical fashion market’ is gaining popularity, brands and retailers are waking up to the challenge.
Innovative technologies—focused on recycling, upcycling, and extending product lifecycles—have emerged as a cornerstone, alongside efforts to reduce waste, minimise carbon footprints, and embracing renewable energy. Transparency is also key, with brands prioritising honest sourcing and production to build consumer trust.
So much has the subject of sustainability been gaining prominence that we at IMAGES Group are hosting an IFF Innovators Club Conclave at our flagship event, India Fashion Forum 2025. A powerful highlight of the conclave is Customer-Centric Sustainability (CCS), a purpose driven platform with a showcase of global value chain partners and their innovations that help improve sustainability of the current offering at retail. From sourcing responsibly to sustainable production techniques, CCS will feature a range of multifaceted conversations at the intersection of fashion, ethics, climate change and culture.
Keeping this pivotal understanding in mind, IMAGES Group is releasing the third edition of its Sustainability Yearbook. The India Business of Fashion Report 2025 is an insightful and timely coffee table book, which studies the shift in the industry’s role towards creating a more responsible and inclusive future.
This 21st edition of our annual Business of Fashion Report is a green edition, which in keeping with our theme is printed using Favini Shiro Echo, an environmental paper with 100% recycled fibres – from cover to cover. Shiro Echo paper is CO2 emissions neutralised, and all raw materials are sourced from controlled and certified sources. Do take a look on this page to view the official certification.
Our exhaustive, research-based book presents a thorough exploration of the complex dynamics in fashion retail, featuring expert perspectives on supply chain management, sustainable circularity, and ethical practices. It addresses both the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry, offering readers a deep understanding of the evolving landscape.
It explores how the industry can embrace the shift towards sustainability and circularity, closing the loop and weaving an earth-friendly ethos into every facet of the value chain, from sourcing and production to distribution and consumption.
At its heart, this book is a call to action for retailers, designers, and stakeholders to think beyond profits and trends and embrace the broader impact of their decisions. Through real-world case studies, cutting-edge innovations, and insightful analysis, it aims to inspire readers to redefine success in fashion retail.
The Fashion Retail Industry in India and across the world stands at a pivotal crossroads today, where creativity and commerce meet the urgent need for environmental and social responsibility. Together, we can forge a future where sustainability and profitability coexist, driving a positive impact on people, the planet, and the bottom line, because sustainability in fashion retail is no longer optional—it’s essential.
