Lectra Brings Industry Leaders Together in New Delhi to Decode Digital Transformation in Apparel Manufacturing

As global apparel manufacturers navigate rising costs, shifting trade policies, and margin pressures, technology is emerging as a key differentiator. In this context, Lectra hosted an exclusive industry evening in New Delhi, bringing together senior leaders from India’s apparel ecosystem to discuss how digitalization can future-proof fashion manufacturing. The event marked the first visit of Lectra Chairman & CEO Daniel Harari to the Indian capital, underscoring the company’s focus on connecting with key stakeholders and addressing industry challenges.

The session highlighted how technology-led agility, precision, and data-driven insights are increasingly critical for exporters facing tariff uncertainties and complex global sourcing requirements. With buyers demanding speed, compliance, transparency, and sustainability, manufacturers are moving beyond scale to smarter, more resilient operations.

Daniel Harari with AEPC chairman A Sakthivel at Lectra event

Daniel Harari, Chairman & CEO, Lectra, said, “India represents significant growth potential. Amid evolving uncertainties, the industry is challenged by shorter cycles, cost pressures, and sustainability expectations. Industry 4.0‑enabled solutions allow manufacturers to balance profitability with responsible practices. Lectra’s expertise in fashion, furniture, and automotive industries positions us as a reliable partner for long-term transformation.”

Dr. A Sakthivel, Chairman, AEPC, added, “Digitalization is redefining how apparel is designed, produced, and delivered. From AI-assisted design and 3D sampling to data-driven forecasting and digitally enabled supply chains, technology is making the industry faster, more agile, and globally competitive. For Indian exporters, digital adoption is not just about efficiency—it is essential to maintain transparency, sustainability, and integration with global value chains.”

The evening commenced with remarks from Manish Ranade, Managing Director, Lectra India, followed by an inauguration featuring Dr. Sakthivel, Daniel Harari, Frederic Adrien Morel, President Asia Pacific, Lectra, and Lalit Thukral, President, Noida Apparel Export Cluster. Discussions highlighted India’s strategic role in global apparel supply chains and the urgent need for digital adoption amid geopolitical and tariff-related disruptions.

A notable highlight was the panel discussion, “How Digitalization is Changing the Paradigms of the Fashion Industry”, featuring industry veterans Anil Peshawari (Meenu Creations), Prashant Agarwal (Wazir Advisors), Mithileshwar Thakur (AEPC), and Roberto De Almeida (Lectra). The discussion explored how manufacturers can offset tariff impacts through productivity improvements, automation, smarter planning, and reduced material waste.

The event was attended by senior representatives from top apparel companies, including Jyoti Apparels, Impulse, Radnik Exports, Ginza Industries, Radiant Exports, Modelama Exports, Gokaldas Exports, FA Home & Apparel Pvt., Cantabil, and Dhruv Global Ltd. The event was co-hosted by IIGM and Perfect Sourcing publication, fostering collaboration and dialogue on technology-driven growth for India’s apparel sector.