Dear Switcher friends,
In recent weeks, reports about a supposed EU "cotton ban" have caused uncertainty and discussion. We have received many emails and phone calls. As a sustainable Swiss textile brand, we want to provide clarity with facts and show how we will shape the future together with the industry.
Facts about the EU Ecodesign Regulation
The EU is not planning a ban on cotton. Rather, it is about implementing the Ecodesign Regulation, which promotes innovation and recycling in the textile industry. Here are the most important points:
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No ban on cotton: The aim is to promote the circular economy, not to ban cotton.
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Recycling quotas: Concrete targets will only be defined in the coming years, from 2026 at the earliest.
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Innovations: Together with the Swiss textile and clothing companies CALIDA, Mammut, Odlo, PKZ, Radys and Workfashion, the Fabric Loop association was founded on November 12 together with the industry association Swiss Textiles. However, we believe that only holistic solutions that work across the entire industry can create the necessary incentive for consumers to return their textiles consistently and responsibly as soon as a product reaches the end of its life. In our opinion, this is the only way to truly close the loop and achieve a positive environmental impact.
Switzerland as a pioneer
The Swiss textile industry is actively investing in the future:
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Switcher has been offering products made from recycled cotton since 2021: The first collection was launched in 2021. 2024 saw the launch of the first 100% recycled T-shirt, an innovative product made from chemically recycled cotton and PET-recycled polyester.
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Recycling plant in St. Margrethen: Tell-Tex AG is working with Säntis Textiles on a state-of-the-art facility that will recycle old clothing efficiently and sustainably. Using the same model as in our production facility, the recycled fabrics are spun into new yarn, which can then be used to produce textiles.
Our responsibility at Switcher
Since 1981, Switcher has stood for sustainable, long-lasting basics without labels or logos - timeless classics that simply fit. As a sustainable pioneer, we see the new regulations as an opportunity:
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Organic cotton: From 2026, we will focus exclusively on fashion made from organic cotton that is produced sustainably. Many styles will also be converted to 100% organic cotton and the proportion of recycled polyester materials will be drastically reduced once again.
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Recycling: With our models such as the Max T-shirt, we already offer items made from 100% recycled materials. This means that the cycle has already been closed once.
Our goal is clear: We want to increase the proportion of recycled materials and at the same time bring natural fibers such as cotton more sustainably into the cycle.
Working together for more sustainable solutions
The debate on these issues should take place on a factual level. Sensationalist reporting creates uncertainty and hinders much-needed change. We work closely with the industry to communicate facts and educate about progress in sustainable fashion.
Thank you for your support on this path to a more sustainable future.
Cordially,
Marc Joss
CEO Switcher
Switcher - Made with Respect. The original since 1981.
