Global Recycle Standard, better known as GRS, is a certification promoted by Textile Exchange in order to foster the use of recycled materials in the textile sector, so as to meet the demands of customers interested in ascertaining the presence of said materials in the products they purchase. Roberto Riva, owner of the renowned Lombardy-based enterprise specialized in the making of elastic ribbons, is looking ahead with both confidence, thanks to the positive feedback got at Lineapelle, and concern, due to the international situation. Undoubtedly, the steady creative as well as technological research and the beginning of the procedures to get the GRS certification – the latter a byword for ethical work conditions and low environmental impact -, have turned Rifra Nastri into a true market benchmark.
What can you tell us about the latest edition’s turnout?
“Some countries, especially Northern European nations such as Finland, that usually focus on articles for the winter season, – 80% compared to 20% of summer items -, or even Poland, did not take part in the latest edition of the exhibition. That was a first, I may add. Fortunately, we have a lot of orders, so we can only be satisfied.”
Among the innovations on display, what were the most popular?
“Rubberized effects on elastic ribbons as well as transparent solutions drew a lot of attention. The interest in recycled, eco-friendly yarns is growing by the day. A trend that began a few years ago and that will definitely gain further momentum in the years to come.”
How much does the market demand?
“A lot. Even bio-based materials, like OCS-certified organic cotton, are in great demand. Moreover, unlike in the previous years, trends put in the limelight geometric patterns rather than lurex and shiny effects, even though there is not one prevailing style. A common occurrence when uncertainty reigns.”
We saw beautiful jacquard models featuring animal figures, such as the tiger…
“It had been a while since we last put them on display. These samples play a strategic role because they act as examples, giving us the opportunity to show the model to the customers and then proceed with the customization.”
As for customization, is it still in high demand? And is it an integral part of your production?
“Absolutely. I think it accounts for more than 30% of our production. Despite our comprehensive product range, featuring an ample variety of models, several solutions act as inspiration sources, because each customer looks for specific characteristics in terms of, for example, height, pattern, and material.”
What are your expectations for the next exhibition in September?
“The Covid-pandemic matter should no longer be as topical as it is now, so I hope that the authorities succeed in managing everything smoothly. We are sure that, little by little, this issue will be put aside. On the other hand, the situation between Russia and Ukraine is worrisome, because it might have serious repercussions in terms of raw materials provision, inflation and cost management. If the conflict continues, it will result in problems for everyone.”
Are you investing in new projects?
“Now we are busy with the GRS certification, the process should reach its conclusion by mid-2022. Rather than a true investment, it is a huge commitment management-wise and from an administrative point of view. For the rest, we keep investing in machinery so as to rely on technologies abreast with times.”
