Intertek Develops Activewear Testing Solutions for Apparel and Footwear Industry
06 Apr 2016
Combined Services Meet Demands of Growing Segment for Manufacturers and Retailers
Chicago (April 6, 2016) – Intertek, a leading provider of quality solutions to industries worldwide, has developed Activewear Testing Solutions, offering comprehensive performance tests for manufacturers looking to meet the growing demand of consumer expectations for fitness apparel and footwear worn for a variety of indoor and outdoor sporting activities. The services, which include fabric function and performance testing for popular attributes like antibacterial/anti-mold properties, wind and water resistance, breathability, ultraviolet (UV) protection, thermal regulation, quick-dry capabilities, perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) testing and stretch/recovery, will be offered in apparel testing labs across the globe.
“Sports apparel and footwear sales have increased 42 percent in the past seven years, with expectations for continued growth through 2020,” said Calvin Yam, Global Head of Softlines at Intertek. “As consumer participation in athletic activity grows, as well as the popularity of athleisure fashion, the demand for comfortable, high-performing active wear is one that manufacturers strive to reach. With our new services, we can help clothing and footwear makers and retailers bring quality gear to the active wear market that delivers on consumer standards and offers an edge in the competitive market.”
In a survey conducted by the cotton industry, consumers rank comfort as the most important factor in selecting active wear, followed by fit, ease of cleaning, quality, durability and price.1 The services under Intertek’s Activewear Testing Solutions evaluate performance qualities like these against promotional claims and industry benchmarking, as well as to standards currently in place from various industry organizations. The services also include access to experts in high-performance fabrics who will offer support and consultation on subjects such as raw materials selection, product development, production and delivery to market.
Intertek performs textile testing on items ranging from fabric samples to finished products, helping customers meet consumer demand, minimize reputational risk, and reduce environmental impacts, while protecting the interests of retailers, brands, textile manufacturers and consumer safety. For more information, visit https://www.intertek.com/textiles-apparel/activewear/.
About Intertek:
Intertek is a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide. From auditing and inspection, to testing, training, advisory, quality assurance and certification, Intertek adds value for its customers by helping improve the quality and safety of their products, assets and processes. With a network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 38,000 people in more than 100 countries, Intertek supports companies’ success in the global marketplace, by helping customers to meet end users’ expectations for safety, sustainability, performance, integrity and desirability in virtually any market worldwide. Visit www.intertek.com.
Intertek Media Contacts:
Amy Paille, Softlines Marketing Manager
+ 1 630 481 3163
amy.paille@intertek.com
Business Inquiries:
Michael Knott, Senior Director, Business Development
+1 630 207 9969
michael.knott@intertek.com
References:
- Updating Favorites:The Modern Elements in Vintage-Looking Activewear. Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor Survey. March 1, 2016. http://lifestylemonitor.cottoninc.com/updating-favorites/. Last accessed: 3/30/16.