Bangladesh knitter targets 'factory of the future'

Category: SUSTAINABILITY

Country: Bangladesh

Region: Asia

By Haydn Davis
9th November 2023

Singapore - Bangladesh-based knitwear manufacturer Ananta Group has partnered with textile processing specialist NTX to create what it calls a 'factory of the future'.

The facility, which will be built in Bangladesh, will include cutting-edge fabric dyeing and printing technologies, sustainable water and energy management, and digitalisation processes.

“Our partnership with Ananta Group marks a significant milestone in NTX’s journey towards sustainable textile production,” said Kalvin Chung, chairman of NTX. “By leveraging our proprietary NTX Cooltrans technology, we’re not only addressing the critical water challenges in Bangladesh but also pioneering a transformative approach in the textile industry that prioritises environmental stewardship, community empowerment, and responsive market innovations.”

Ananta Group, renowned for its multi-product capabilities spanning knitwear, casual bottoms, intimates, activewear and outerwear said the partnership will allow it to ramp up its production levels.

It will also support the backward integration of these product lines, bolstering not just Ananta but the entire Bangladesh garment industry.

“This strategic alliance with NTX is a testament to Ananta’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation,” added Sharif Zahir, managing director of Ananta Group. “With a special focus on synthetic and man-made-fibre based fabrics, we’re poised to meet the growing demands in activewear, outerwear, and intimates categories.

"This partnership is a leap forward in our sustainability journey, reducing lead times and enabling brands to swiftly respond to market trends.”

The 'Factory of the Future' will reportedly embody a range of sustainability initiatives including advanced water management practices aimed at achieving zero liquid discharge or closed loop water management, where discharged water may be repurposed for other industrial or agricultural usage such as irrigation. Energy management is also a top priority, with plans for extensive renewable energy usage, including rooftop solar power generation.

Both partners say they are also committed to community empowerment through their local-to-local drive. By fostering a robust, diversified local industry, the partnership enhances skill sets, creates high-tech jobs, and builds a resilient economy less susceptible to global market fluctuations.

“Through this venture, we’re not just investing in technology; we’re investing in people and the planet,” added Chung. “This is the embodiment of NTX’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future, and we’re thrilled to have Ananta Group by our side in this transformative initiative.

"The collaboration between NTX and Ananta Group sets a new standard for the textile industry, blending technological innovation with a deep commitment to sustainability and community."

Established in 1992, Ananta is a major manufacturer and exporter of ready-made garments in Bangladesh.

Courtesy: Knittingtradejournal.com