Trends and drivers of change in the EU textiles and leather sector: Mapping report

This mapping report by the EMCC provides an overview of the European textiles and leather industry, mainly covering the EU15 Member States. It outlines the current employment situation, trade patterns worldwide and the structure of the industry.The report analyses the main drivers of change, including: market liberalisation; globalisation; EU environmental legislation, focusing specifically on the strategy for a future chemicals policy, and environmental change aspects; overcapacity; changing consumer behaviour; new and improved fibres, textiles, and composite materials; information and communication technologies; and innovation in processing technology. It then examines the resulting trends in terms of strategies for managing change and industry action, as well as work organisation, employment relations and skills, training and lifelong learning.

European Founation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions: European Monitoring Centre on Change; EMCC Monitor: EMCC Dossier: European textiles and leather sector, December 2004 http://www.eurofound.europa.eu/observatories/emcc/articles/business-working-conditions/emcc-dossier-on-the-european-textiles-and-leather-sector

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