Polyester squeeze tests fashion's price discipline as Hormuz risk lifts oil through 2026
Brent near $100 and a 20% global oil chokepoint at Hormuz are pushing polyester costs higher across H&M, M&S and Next. Delhi couturier Gaurav Gupta, fresh off dressing Reliance's Isha Ambani at the Met Gala, says luxury can absorb it; CFCL leans on 90% recycled feedstock. Mass brands will pass through.
What happened
Oil shock from Strait of Hormuz disruption is driving polyester prices up, pressuring fashion supply chains. Delhi couturier Gaurav Gupta, who dressed
Key facts
- 20% global oil via Strait of Hormuz
- $100/barrel Brent
- 90% recycled polyester at CFCL
Why this matters
Scout bolt-on acquisitions in recycled polyester capacity and circular feedstock supply to hedge a multi-year oil premium and structurally de-risk input costs before valuations re-rate on the squeeze.