Sometimes, gaining a new perspective on your work requires stepping outside your usual environment.This was precisely what happened during the study tour to Germany as part of the CONNECT: Export readiness, EU network expansion and resilience enhancement of Ukrainian SMEs program. Organized by Visionest Institute with the support of the EU and the German government, this initiative provided a unique platform for Ukrainian businesses to gain valuable experience, new insights, and connections.

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This was not just a trip but a professional marathon that required focus, resilience, and the ability to see the bigger picture.

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Key Takeaways: People and Partnerships

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One of the most valuable aspects of this tour was connecting with representatives of Ukrainian companies. Each participant brought their own story and experience, fostering an atmosphere of trust and collaboration.

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It was particularly enjoyable to reconnect with Edelvika, a textile company from Lutsk that exemplifies a full-cycle production model. Meeting the team from the knitwear factory Promin and the resilient Varno sewing company, which specializes in shirt production, was equally inspiring. We also met representatives from Parada, a sewing factory in Uzhhorod, as well as colleagues from Sumykamvol and the non-woven materials sector. Participants came from across Ukraine, united by the shared goal of growth and innovation.

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These encounters reminded us that business is, first and foremost, about people. Trust and mutual support are the foundation of long-lasting partnerships, especially in challenging times.

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Bullmer Production Facility: Tradition Meets Innovation

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One of the highlights of the tour was the visit to Bullmer, a company with nearly a century of history. Bullmer impressed us with its ability to seamlessly integrate tradition and innovation.

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Their production facilities, automation processes, and high-quality equipment demonstrated what a modern, sustainability-oriented textile business looks like. The warm welcome from the Ukrainian representatives of Inteltex further enriched the experience. Their efforts to create a comfortable environment for exploring the equipment and their shared values left a lasting impression.

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Heimtextil Exhibition: Global Trends and New Opportunities

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Another significant part of the program was visiting Heimtextil, Europe’s largest home textiles exhibition, held at the sprawling Messe Frankfurt exhibition center.

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It was encouraging to see Ukrainian companies participating in international industry events. Companies such as Vladi and Lana Vitta showcased high-quality products, reinforcing the potential of Ukrainian businesses on the global stage. The meeting with Tetiana Izovit, head of the Ukrainian Association of Light Industry (Ukrlegprom), was warm and productive as always. The association consistently supports Ukrainian companies in gaining international exposure.

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The exhibition highlighted global trends shaping the modern textile industry. Certification, recycling, and sustainability emerged as the three pillars on which European companies now build their operations. Certification ensures transparency, eco-friendliness, and compliance with international standards. Recycling emphasizes the importance of integrating textile waste into production cycles, reducing the environmental burden. Sustainability, in its broader sense, encompasses not only environmental concerns but also social responsibility, resource efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.

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However, the reality turned out to be more complex than expected . Behind bright slogans and eco-friendly claims often lay superficial implementations of sustainable practices. Many stands showcased products with recycling elements, but mainly for internal purposes.. This indicates that many businesses still view sustainability as a marketing tool rather than a fundamental part of their business strategy.

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For example, at the exhibition, it became clear that certification and recycling were often used as image-building tools rather than meaningful contributions to sustainability. This was particularly noticeable in the minimal use of recycled materials, which had a negligible effect on overall production sustainability.

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However, there were also positive examples. Some companies made sustainability not just a key value but a driving force of their business. They developed products made from 100% recycled materials or implemented comprehensive solutions to reduce waste at every stage of the production cycle. These stands became a source of inspiration, demonstrating that true change begins with a willingness to invest in innovation and rethink traditional approaches.

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For Ukrainian companies, this experience should serve as a lesson. To successfully integrate into the European market, we need to not only adopt sustainable practices but also do so transparently, clearly showcasing our results. The European market values those who can back up their sustainability claims with tangible actions and measurable outcomes.

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Day Three: Learning from Mentors

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The final day of the tour was dedicated to training sessions with international mentors. These sessions provided an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into modern strategies for sustainability and export.

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Andrew Paterson, a seasoned expert with extensive experience in textile production, retail, and export, stood out with his insights. His main focus was on sustainability as an essential component for entering EU markets, particularly Germany. During the session, I also connected with a CEO from an Estonian company specializing in packaging made from textile waste. This opened up opportunities for future collaboration.

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Marketing expert Anu-Mall Naarits delivered a fascinating lecture on neuromarketing and tools for evaluating advertisements. Her session underscored the importance of understanding the emotional impact of advertising on consumers. These insights will undoubtedly enhance our marketing strategies.

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Textile Recycling in Ukraine: Why We Have a Chance to Succeed

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European experience clearly demonstrates that sustainability is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s a strategic advantage. Transparency, innovation, and the ability to present achievements effectively are keys to successfully entering the European market.

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At Re:inventex, we understand the importance of providing ecological support to Ukrainian textile and sewing companies. Our goal is to showcase responsible waste management by turning textile waste into valuable resources through high-quality recycling.

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Conclusions: Sustainability as the Foundation for the Future

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This study tour proved that Ukrainian textile businesses have significant potential to integrate into global processes. Sustainability is no longer an optional add-on; it is an integral part of business.

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Returning home, I brought back not only contacts and new ideas but also a clear understanding of the path forward. It is crucial to adapt global experience to Ukrainian realities and demonstrate to our partners that Ukraine can lead in implementing sustainable solutions.

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This experience was not only about professional growth but also personal transformation. It reminded me that even in challenging conditions, there is always room for new solutions, support from like-minded people, and inspiration to move forward. This journey reinforced the idea that sustainability is not just a trend or market demand – it is a strategic choice that shapes our future. While the path to true sustainability may be challenging, every step in that direction is an investment in a better tomorrow that begins with the work we do today.

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