TEXTILES.ORG
A new report shows that the waterproof, breathable textiles (WBT) market is expected to be worth $1.73 billion by 2020. A study conducted by market research and consulting company Grand View Research Inc. says increasing preference towards high-performance comfortable apparel should drive market growth over the forecast period.
Additionally, rising consumer disposable income and growing fitness awareness are also expected to favorably impact WBT market growth. The global market has become technologically advanced as a result of plasma and silicon-based technologies. Increasing use of recycled PET bottles to manufacture waterproof breathable fabrics is also expected to fuel global market growth.
Changes in consumer interest or consumer preferences in outdoor activities may pose a challenge to growth in this market. Fashion trends may also have an impact on product demand. The market is characterized by certain risks as the business requires companies to anticipate consumer preferences; decisions regarding product designs are often made in advance of consumer acceptance, which may hamper market growth.
Further key findings from the study suggest:
- Membranes are expected to be a high growth segment over the forecast period owing to their capability to provide protection from UV-radiation, airborne pollutants and temperature variations.
- Due to surging demand for WBT in active sportswear, garments are expected to remain the dominant segment over the forecast period.
- WBT demand in the active sportswear segment can be attributed to the rise in demand for antimicrobial, antiviral, dirt/stain/dew-resistant fabrics.
- Europe was the largest regional market in 2013, and accounted for over 30 percent of the global market in the same year.
- Key market players include W. L. Gore & Associates, eVent (General Electric), Polartec and SympaTex. Industry participants focus on offering environmentally viable products that are recyclable, PTFE-free and PFC-free. W. L. Gore & Associates was the market leader in 2013.