QST is perhaps the largest global trims manufacturer that is a specialist in pocketing, waistbands, lining, elastics, interlining and other components such as embroidery backings and fiber fills. As they join our Denimsandjeans Egypt show, we reached out to them to understand how and what they are doing and what they feel about Egypt market. We spoke with Mr. Roland Pelz – VP Sales and Marketing from QST.
QST is probably the largest trim manufacturer globally . How do you explain your growth story and your presence globally ?
Established in 1880, QST has grown into one of the largest trim manufacturers globally, driven by our family-owned values, commitment to innovation, and the dedication of our 700+ employees worldwide. From the beginning, our mission has been to exceed customer expectations by providing innovative products and solutions tailored to their needs. A key example of our innovative spirit is the development of Q-Loop, a groundbreaking product exclusive to QST. Q-Loop stabilizes fabric yarns, preventing denim belt loop fraying and eliminating the labor-intensive, costly hand trimming process during production. This innovation not only enhances manufacturing efficiency but also improves the belt loop’s durability and appearance throughout the garment’s lifecycle. What separates QST from our competition is that we understand the evolving needs of our customers as garment manufacturing expands around the world and we are committed to follow that expansion, ensuring regional market availability of product and service, eliminating long transit times, all while maintaining competitive pricing. Our extensive product portfolio caters to a wide array of applications across various garment categories, including denim, menswear, women’s fashion, active wear, casual wear, and specialized work wear. This diversity allows us to serve a broad spectrum of industries, further solidifying our presence as a trusted partner in the global apparel market. With our focus on innovation, quality, and customer-centric solutions, QST continues to expand its global footprint while staying true to our heritage and commitment to excellence.
What are your key products that you are focused on and how do you your presence in the denim segment ?
The key products we offer for the denim market are:
· POCKETING: Discover our extensive range of sustainable pocketing options crafted from BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) cotton, recycled polyester, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly materials. We offer a variety of weaves, weights, and colors to meet diverse requirements, along with customizable printed pocketing to add a unique touch to denim garments. QST’s denim wear pocketing offers durability, functionality, style, and comfort to enhance the overall utility and appearance of denim garments. Cotton or cotton-blend fabrics are used to ensure compatibility with the rugged denim fabric. Inspired by the latest fashion trends, QST’s product design and marketing team creates an innovative and fashion forward seasonal collection two times a year. These serve as inspiration to our customers as they look for innovative ways to promote their brand through unique trim options.
· Q-LOOP: As one of our hallmark innovations, Q-Loop significantly enhances the stability of denim belt loops, effectively preventing fraying and eliminating the labor-intensive hand trimming process. This ensures a polished look and exceptional durability throughout the garment’s life.
· EMBROIDERY BACKINGS: We provide premium embroidery backings that serve as the essential foundation for machine embroidery. Our high-quality products ensure excellent stability, delivering precise and long-lasting embroidery designs, even on denim fabrics.
· INTERLINING: Vital for adding strength, shape, and durability to denim apparel, we produce two types of interlining: Woven interlinings, known for their strong, durable grid-like structure and high tensile strength, and Non-woven interlinings, which allow for cutting in any direction without fraying due to their bonded fiber composition.
· LINING: Used to enhance comfort, durability, and aesthetics in garments. While denim is inherently rugged and versatile, the addition of linings introduces both functional and decorative elements, particularly in areas that necessitate reinforcement or a softer touch against the skin. We provide a wide variety of sustainable lining options, including printed designs, satin, polyester, stretch materials, and more, to meet diverse garment requirements and styles.
We thank you for joining the first Denimsandjeans Egypt show in 2025. What would be your focus collection and products for this market ?
QST is thrilled to participate in this year’s Denim & Jeans Egypt Show. In this vibrant market, we are showcasing our extensive range of trims specifically designed for denim and casual pants, including pocketing, fusible interlinings, and our innovative belt-loop/Q-loop® solutions. Additionally, we offer high-quality lining and interlining options for formal wear. A key highlight is our just-in-time delivery service from our new warehouse in Egypt, ensuring personalized coordination with our customers to meet their unique needs efficiently.
You are also focusing a lot on sustainable solutions for the denim industry. Can you shed a light on your latest innovations in this regard.?
As a leading global supplier to the apparel industry, QST is committed to researching and developing environmentally friendly products that reflect our deep commitment to sustainability—now recognized as a long-term imperative rather than a fleeting trend. We continually innovate and integrate eco-conscious solutions into our product range, adhering to rigorous certifications including Oekotex, Global Recycled Standard, BCI (Better Cotton Initiative), Organic, and the Higg Index. Understanding that sustainability and compliance are critical priorities for major brands, we actively collaborate with our supply chain partners to meticulously define and map each tier of the production process—from raw cotton fiber to finished garment—ensuring complete transparency and documentary traceability throughout the supply chain. This level of diligence instills confidence in our customers, reassuring them that all origin requirements are met and that we adhere to applicable laws and regulations. A prime example of QST’s commitment to sustainability is our recent investment in a state-of-the-art water treatment and recycling facility at one of our primary manufacturing sites, which will enable us to conserve and recycle up to 40% of our water usage.
How do you see the Egyptian market evolving over the next few years ?
In light of the increasing macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges, along with the mounting uncertainty surrounding trade tariffs under the Trump administration in the United States, we foresee a significant rise in the importance of garment manufacturing in Egypt. This shift is further driven by escalating inflation and currency devaluation in Turkey, which have prompted manufacturers to seek more stable and cost-effective alternatives. As businesses look to optimize their production strategies, Egypt’s strategic location, competitive labor costs, and established textile infrastructure make it an attractive destination for garment manufacturing. This trend not only offers opportunities for local production growth but also supports the broader regional economy by creating jobs and fostering partnerships within the supply chain.
For more details, visit the website : www.qst.com
