Prospects for Household Textiles Markets in Developed Countries

The second half of the 1990s represented a period of growth and change for household textile markets in many developed countries. Consumers in developed markets are now more interested in home fashions than ever before, and there is a huge variety of product on offer at highly competitive prices.

These changes are attributable to the globalisation of tastes and supply, as well as the growing concentration of retail distribution. However, the same forces for change have put the prices charged by household textile producers in developed countries under strong pressure. Low cost imports are increasing rapidly in all developed markets.

In response to this situation, major producers of household textiles such as Zucchi in Italy and Springs Industries, WestPoint Stevens and Pillowtex in the USA are attempting to drive down their costs while broadening their product offer.

Over the medium term - as many developed markets for household textiles become increasingly saturated and price competition intensifies - they will also need to look to new emerging markets for their products if they are to remain profitable.

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