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In this Q&A session, we spoke with Dr. Gaylon Morgan, the director of Agricultural Research at Cotton Incorporated with 22 years of experience in applied cotton research, to learn more about the benefits of soil health practices for cotton production, how they can be implemented and how they impact brands and retailers. 

The persistently strong labor market continues to defy the expected effects of the Federal Reserve’s increases in interest rates. The economy added a high number of jobs again last month, and the unemployment rate remains at a historically low level. With unemployment low, employers face more competition for qualified candidates, and that can put upward pressure on wages.

The trajectory of the global economy looms large. The latest data releases indicate inflation has yet to be cured, which may mean interest rates will have to climb higher. Meanwhile, labor markets have proven resilient, consumers still have savings from the stimulus, and COVID has faded as a pressing threat. Geopolitical developments are unknowable but may prove influential.

These days, more and more of our actions and activities are transitioning to digital and electronic methods—and the worlds of fashion and textile design are no exception. The use of digital fabrics can lead to greater efficiencies for the fashion industry by reducing designers’ reliance on physical samples, accelerating design timelines, and providing more opportunities to experiment with new ideas in less time.

With a dwindling tampon supply trending in the news over the past year, rumors of a cotton shortage took hold. It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the global supply chain across many product categories. However, when it comes to tampons, cotton use and availability are not to blame. Here are the facts.

There are several potential signals that a turnaround in business conditions could be emerging. In its latest round of updates, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) lifted projections for global economic growth in 2023 and 2024. While growth is still expected to be sluggish, the reversal in the direction of the updates may be notable.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released an updated set of global estimates for economic growth in late January. The headline for the report was “Inflation Peaking Amid Low Growth”, suggesting that while a major challenge for the global economy may be fading, another remains.

The unemployment rate remains safely below four percent and is low by historical standards. Although it has not been able to surpass inflation, wage growth has been steady near five percent, beyond anything registered in the decade between the financial crisis and the onset of COVID. Nonetheless, inflation has been increasing faster than wages since the first quarter of 2021, implying that consumer spending power has been falling despite higher income.

Given widespread reports of a slowdown in mill demand, the decrease to USDA consumption this month could have been anticipated. China is central to global cotton demand, and the continued inversion of traditional relationships between Chinese prices and other benchmarks may signal that a global recovery in demand is not yet underway.

The U.S. labor market continues to add jobs and support wage growth. This may give the Federal Reserve more room to continue to aggressively increase interest rates to tame inflation. For this reason, financial markets turned lower after the positive job report.

The recent volatility in NY/ICE futures has been attributed to various factors, including short covering in the futures market and import interest from China. The steep increases in early November can also be interpreted as a sensitivity to potential increases in demand for U.S. exports.

The U.S. economy was estimated to have added 261,000 jobs last month. This was the lowest addition since December 2020, but job growth has nonetheless remained resilient to interest rate increases.

Who has time to worry about wrinkled clothing? If you’re looking for the perfect, easy-care Chino pant, look no further. Onward Reserve has launched its men’s City Chinos featuring PUREPRESS™ technology.

About 100 buyers, designers, and sustainability officers with major fashion brands and retailers joined sustainability luminaries and experts in soil health, supply chain, circularity, and cotton agriculture at the 2022 Cotton Sustainability Summit. 

Carbon is a perennially hot topic in the cotton industry. It has a unique role in the carbon equation, as cotton plants naturally—and very efficiently—sequester carbon in the soil and in the fiber itself.

A major development in the global economy has been a steep increase in the value of the U.S. dollar. As U.S. interest rates increased relative to those in other markets over the past several months, it made investment in dollar-denominated assets more attractive and the resulting influx of money caused the dollar to strengthen.

Price decreases over the past month indicate that demand-related concerns have been winning the contest between the competing storylines involving a weaker downstream outlook and lower production expectations in a couple key cotton-growing countries.

October 7 is World Cotton Day, a global celebration of the world’s most important natural fiber. The U.S. cotton industry is leading the way for sustainability research, climate-smart collaboration, and industry innovation that benefits the environment, farmers, and consumers alike.

Staying on top of fashion trends is a must for designers, manufacturers, and retailers alike. Yet, predicting the future of fashion is a tricky business that requires the perfect blend of research and expertise. Even for a tried-and-true fabric staple like denim, trends in how the fabric is made, worn, and styled have evolved and will continue to change over time.

Carhartt has launched the perfect everyday leggings featuring TOUGH COTTON™ technology. Made with 95% cotton, they’re a perfect blend of tough and comfortable and are available in toddler and girls' sizing.

Cotton Incorporated and Adobe collaborated to demonstrate and showcase a new material workflow using Adobe Substance 3D applications, designed to unify digital and physical materials.

Cotton Incorporated is honored to collaborate with industry leaders to focus on increasing the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices, as part of the USDA Partnership for Climate Smart Commodities pilot projects.

The decline in Chinese prices relative to those from the rest of the world may affect trade in the new crop year. China is normally the world’s largest importer of both cotton fiber and yarn. However, significantly lower domestic prices encourage consumption of domestically grown fiber and should discourage imports.

In recent comments, the Federal Reserve reiterated that it is willing to continue to increase interest rates until the threat of inflation has definitively eased. The latest comments from the Fed’s chairman made in late August, were followed by losses in several markets, including cotton.

In the U.S., consumer spending on clothing has been flat for the past year. However, it has been holding at levels that are 25% higher than they were in 2019. If U.S. consumers pull back on clothing purchases, it may hit the market just as retailers have caught up with consumer demand after the onset of the shipping crisis.

The U.S. economy was estimated to have added 528,000 jobs in July. With last month’s job growth, the count of U.S. workers fully recovered from the 22.0 million jobs lost with the onset of COVID.

Crypton, a leader in performance and upholstery fabrics, has launched a collection of cotton-rich performance fabrics for residential, luxury hospitality, and workplace interior applications. The fabrics are made with at least 50% recycled cotton and feature Crypton's innovative stain and odor-resistant technology.

Cotton may be a plant, but there’s no limit to what it can do. Cotton Incorporated works to harness the full potential of this natural, biodegradable fiber through continuous research and development. The result: innovation from farm to finished product.

The breadth of losses throughout the commodity sector suggests a sea change in investor sentiment for the entire category. The effects of inflation, the withdrawal of stimulus, rising interest rates, and concerns about a possible recession could all be reasons explaining a reversal of speculative bets, and all could be contributors to the losses.

Financial markets continued to be volatile over the past month. Following drops in stocks and cryptocurrencies, commodity prices became the latest broadly defined sector to suffer steep losses. Cotton futures were among the commodities that experienced sharp declines.

What would it take to reduce plastic waste and replace it with natural materials that have a better sustainability profile? That’s one of the questions researchers at Cotton Incorporated asked themselves before delving into a multi-year project looking at cotton’s potential within 3D printing and injection molding.

The U.S. cotton industry is seeking continual improvement in sustainable cotton production, striving to more efficiently use our natural resources—water, land, carbon, and energy. The sustainable journey for cotton incorporates a variety of approaches and practices, including regenerative agriculture practices.

Global financial markets continued to be volatile over the past month. Volatility likely stems from uncertainty regarding how the global economy will manage the transition from a heavily stimulated recovery into one grappling with inflation, supply shortages, and tightening monetary policies.

The war in Europe has contributed to the rise in input costs and reduced the availability of crops like wheat and corn. These crops can compete with cotton for acreage and may lend some support to cotton prices.

The Federal Reserve implemented a half percentage point increase in interest rates on May 5. Fed officials also signaled that further half-point increases are possible at each of the five remaining meetings this calendar year.

Most benchmark prices increased over the past month. Chinese prices decreased.

Sustainability is in the spotlight each April, but it’s front and center for the U.S. cotton industry year-round. If you missed our Earth Day features celebrating the science and art of cotton sustainability, we’ve got your full recap here.

This Earth Day, we’re recognizing the journey that’s involved when investing in a sustainable future. For cotton, that means appreciating the innately sustainable aspects of the renewable fiber while advocating for continuous improvements at the farm, manufacturing, and consumer levels.

Most benchmark prices increased over the past month. Open interest is shifting out of the May NY/ICE futures contract and into July.

Before Russia invaded Ukraine, inflation was already a creeping global concern. The outbreak of war in Europe caused extreme volatility in commodity markets, most notably those tied to energy and food markets.

Most benchmark prices decreased over the past month. The most actively traded May 2021 NY/ICE futures contract decreased from 124 to 118 cents/lb. over the past month.

With the invasion of Ukraine, the world suddenly became a different place. Along with the pandemic, shipping constraints, and inflation, the war represents yet another source of uncertainty and volatility.

Cotton Incorporated has collaborated with Studio 317 to showcase a new garment collection that features unique constructions and exciting technologies you can only find with cotton. These new pieces highlight cotton’s innovation by incorporating our own FABRICAST™ developments.

All benchmark prices increased over the past month. The Nearby March NY/ICE futures contract increased from 115 to 127 cents/lb.

Many financial markets experienced volatility in recent weeks. The list of contributing causes is not short. It includes record COVID cases brought by the Omicron variant, high inflation, concerns about central bank actions to tame inflation, and geopolitical developments.

Are you heading to Denver next week? Is your team looking for new inspiration for your cotton products? Do you want to learn more about cotton’s sustainability? Connect with us next week at the Outdoor Retailer Snow Show to see the latest cotton technologies, sustainability research, and fabric developments.

All benchmark prices increased over the past month. The March NY/ICE futures fell as low as 104 cents/lb in early December.

The Omicron variant has driven COVID case counts to new records in the U.S. and elsewhere. While the new strain has proven extraordinarily contagious, it has also been less dangerous to human health.

The latest USDA report featured a small decrease in global production (-224,000 bales to 121.6 million) and a small increase to global mill-use (+170,000 bales to 124.3 million).

The U.S. economy was estimated to have added fewer jobs last month. Nonetheless, the unemployment rate posted a significant drop (-0.4 percentage points).

The latest USDA report featured increases to 2021/22 global production (+1.5 million bales to 121.8 million) and mill-use (+0.7 million bales to 124.1 million).

The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates the U.S. economy grew at a 2.0% seasonally-adjusted annual rate in the third quarter (Q3 2021).

In this 3-part Supply Chain Insights series from Cotton Incorporated, read how consumers translate their concerns into action, from buying organic food to seeking out sustainable clothing made of natural fibers.

Looking for innovation and inspiration in your cotton products? Connect with us this month at the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, OR, to learn about the latest cotton technologies, sustainability research, and fabric developments. 

Relative to 2019, apparel spending has been up 25% in recent months. Normal annual growth is near 3%, so there has been more growth than could have been expected without COVID.

Transform your cleansing routine. Made with 25% repurposed cotton, Burt’s Bees has launched a new range of facial wipes to lift away makeup, dirt, and oil without harsh rubbing or rinsing. Cleansing, hydrating with a refreshing scent, these 100% cotton...

Most benchmark prices surged between late September and the present. After touching values below 90 cents/lb on September 20, the December NY/ICE futures contract surged higher.

The list of challenges facing apparel sourcing professionals seems only to get longer. First, there were trade tensions and tariff increases.

Cotton Incorporated has teamed up with the American Center for Life Cycle Assessment and North Carolina State University to host a 3-day virtual conference, Environmental Tools for Improving Sustainability Decisions In Agriculture.

Student voices are powerful. That’s why we partner with emerging professionals across the U.S. in our CottonWorks™ Campus Influencers program. Our influencers spread the word about what’s happening in the cotton industry and share the resources available here on CottonWorks™.

October 7 is World Cotton Day, a global celebration promoting cotton and all its stakeholders in production, transformation, and trade while also highlighting the many technological advances and ongoing research related to cotton and cotton products.

Consumers in the U.S. Amid the latest worldwide surge in COVID-19 cases due to the new delta variant, concern among consumers has spiked, nearing its highest level of the pandemic. The latest “Things To Know About” infographic from Cotton Incorporated...

Consumers in Mexico Amid the latest worldwide surge in COVID-19 cases due to the new delta variant, concern among consumers has spiked, nearing its highest level of the pandemic. The latest “Things To Know About” infographic from Cotton Incorporated presents...

Consumers in China Amid the latest worldwide surge in COVID-19 cases due to the new delta variant, concern among consumers has spiked, nearing its highest level of the pandemic. The latest “Things To Know About” infographic from Cotton Incorporated presents...

U.S and Chinese benchmark prices increased in early August but were flat to lower later in the month and through early September.

After two months of stronger than expected job gains, the latest figure was disappointing. In August, the fewest jobs were added since January.

Urban outdoor brand An Ko Rau 0® continues their TransDRY™ technology adoption into 2021. An Ko Rau 0® offers a range of men’s and women’s products featuring moisture-wicking technology and the TransDRY™ hangtag. Products are available at 150 stores across China and on the popular e-commerce...

Most benchmark prices increased last month. Values for the December NY/ICE futures contract held between 88 and 90 cents/lb for much of July. In early August, futures resumed their climb and have reached levels over 93 cents/lb.

In their latest update, the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) indicated that the U.S. economy surpassed its pre-COVID peak of activity in the second quarter.

Although several prices slipped around the middle of June, most benchmarks are slightly higher than their levels one month ago.

Age of Consumers Percent of consumers who are very concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic (by age): Returning to Normal 41% feel safe resuming normal, pre-pandemic activities 91% have purchased or plan to purchase clothing to resume normal activities Consumer...

Age of Consumers Percent of consumers who are very concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic (by age): Returning to Normal 69% feel safe resuming normal, pre-pandemic activities 95% have purchased or plan to purchase clothing to resume normal activities Consumer...

The labor market continues to show signs of improvement, with job growth in June estimated to be the strongest in nearly a year.

Banana Republic has you covered rain or shine with their adoption of STORM COTTON™ technology in two women’s jacket styles. The Rain Jacket and Popover Rain Jacket both feature the water repellent benefits of the STORM COTTON™ finish with crisp,...

Between a pandemic-driven recession and unprecedented stimulus to spur consumer spending, the past year has been a roller coaster for the economy and consumers. Despite initial drops, clothing expenditures outperformed overall spending and continue to top shopping lists. With vaccinations...

Percentage who are very concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic (by age):   Consumers expect to spend more on clothing   Percent of consumers spending more on clothing since the start of the pandemic:   70% say the pandemic experience...

Indian and Pakistani prices increased over the past month, while NY/ICE futures, the A Index, and Chinese cotton prices fell and rebounded.

Job growth picked up in May, but the U.S. economy is still down 7.6 million positions since the onset of the COVID crisis. Simultaneously, employers have been reporting difficulty in finding applicants for work.

Johnston & Murphy adopted TransDRY® technology in their line of men’s and women’s performance golf socks. Designed to perform on or off the course, the moisture-wicking technology transfers moisture from the inside to the outside of the sock to keep...

Searching for a bag that you can’t live without? Great news! Vera Bradley launched a Recycled Cotton Collection featuring their iconic backpacks, totes, crossbody bags, travel bags, and more. Everything you love about cotton (the softness, the comfort, the vibrancy)...

All benchmark prices increased over the past month. Since early March, the July NY/ICE futures contract has risen from 78 to those above 90 cents/lb. In the latest trading, prices have been near 88 cents/lb.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates that the U.S. economy expanded at a 6.4% annual rate in the first quarter.

A Year in Review: Consumers Look Ahead Percent of consumers who are very concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic (by age): Consumers expect to spend more on clothing   Percent of consumers expecting to spend the same amount or more...

A Year in Review: Consumers Look Ahead Percent of consumers who are very concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic (by age): Consumers expect to spend more on clothing   Percent of consumers expecting to spend the same amount or more...

Every Earth Day is an occasion for reflection and an opportunity for improvement, but Earth Day 2021 marks a unique moment and a singular chance to create lasting change. As the world begins to sketch its post-COVID shape, rather than...

Browzwear and Cotton Incorporated are uniting to create an eco-conscious digital fabric collection of minimally processed cotton fabrics ready to use in Browzwear’s VStitcher asset library.

The European Commission adopted the world’s first comprehensive plastics strategy to decrease single-use plastics accounting for marine litter. As a result, the European Union is taking legislative action against single-use plastic items and plastic fishing gear – plastics that account...

All benchmark prices decreased over the past month. The May NY/ICE futures contract fell from 88 to 78 cents/lb between early March and early April. In later trading, prices have rebounded to levels near 82 cents/lb.

U.S. Macroeconomic Indicators & the Cotton Supply Chain The International Monetary Fund (IMF) just released an updated set of forecasts for economic growth around the world. The latest IMF estimate for global economic growth in 2021 is 6.0%. This is...

Grupo Familia, one of the largest personal care and hygiene brands in South America, has adopted cotton into a range of products. The cotton enhanced™ and cotton natural™ trademarks are identified in their line of feminine pads, tampons, and pantyliners...

The global brand P&G has launched the first feminine pads labeled with the Seal of Cotton trademark in Mexico.

Wolverine has adopted TOUGH COTTON™ technology under the name Guardian Cotton. Wolverine claims that Guardian Cotton “provides the comfort of cotton with 4x-8x the abrasion resistance for the hardest of workers."

Most benchmark prices increased throughout February but decreased in early March. The May NY/ICE futures contract rose from values near 85 cents/lb one month ago to levels approaching 94 cents/lb on February 24.

The U.S. Senate narrowly approved a third set of stimulus measures. This package features another round of direct payments, an extension of supplemental unemployment payments, support for state and local governments, and assistance for low-income children.

Have you made the leap into digital product development? As a leader in cotton product innovation and a resource for digital fabrics, Cotton Incorporated is pleased to take part in the upcoming CLO Virtual Fashion User Summit on February 23 and 24.

Most cotton benchmark prices increased over the past month. Trading activity has started to shift out of the Nearby March NY/ICE futures contract and into the May contract.

The U.S. economy is estimated to have grown at a 4.0% annualized rate in the fourth quarter. This followed record growth in the third quarter (33.4%) and record contraction in the second quarter (-31.4%).

Sourcing Cotton is a special resource that provides you with essential information about cotton that can help answer relevant sourcing questions.

Are you attending Outdoor Retailer Winter Online? Connect with Cotton Incorporated virtually at OR for the latest in digital cotton design, innovation, sustainability, and trend. As a CottonWorks™ member, here’s your exclusive preview. OR Exclusive: Digital Fabric Education Digitized for...

Global cotton prices continued to rise over the past month. The NY March futures contract climbed from 74 cents/lb to 82 cents/lb.