EXCLUSIVE: ANDAM Awards Innovation Prize to AI-powered Data Analytics Platform Alphalyr

In a significant recognition of innovation within the fashion industry, Paris-based start-up Alphalyr has been awarded the 2026 ANDAM Innovation Award. This accolade highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in transforming the fashion landscape, particularly through data analytics that can enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.

Founded in 2023, Alphalyr is leveraging AI to assist fashion brands in producing more effectively, improving sales, minimizing waste, and gaining a comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior. The company has already attracted notable clients, including Ami Paris, Balmain, Galeries Lafayette, and the SMCP group, indicating its growing influence in the industry.

Insights from the Award

Yann Gozlan, the founder and president of Creative Valley, a Paris-based start-up accelerator and member of the ANDAM expert committee, emphasized the maturity and diversity of new materials available in the industry. He noted that there is a heightened awareness of ecological challenges, particularly concerning water and carbon consumption, which is becoming increasingly critical in fashion production.

Gozlan also pointed out the tangible improvements that AI brings to the fashion value chain. These enhancements can be seen in operational efficiency and the collaborative development of creative approaches. This dual focus on ecological responsibility and operational effectiveness underscores the potential for AI to not only streamline processes but also encourage more sustainable practices in fashion.

Alphalyr plans to utilize the 100,000 euros grant received from the ANDAM Innovation Award, along with the networking opportunities provided, to refine its solutions. Bertrand Fredenucci, co-president of Alphalyr, stated that the aim is to accelerate the AI transformation of brands and retailers, fostering greater resilience, agility, and sustainability in their operations.

In addition to Alphalyr, the ANDAM Innovation Award also recognized a Special Prize winner for the second consecutive year. This year, the prize was awarded to Pili, a biobased dye and pigment producer based in Toulouse, France. This recognition reflects a growing trend towards sustainable materials in fashion, aligning with the industry's shift towards eco-friendliness.

Although only two companies received awards, the expert committee acknowledged the contributions of the other ten finalists. These finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their technology at the Inno-Tech edition of the Première Vision trade show, scheduled for September 1 to 3. This platform allows innovators to present their solutions to a broader audience, furthering the dialogue around responsible fashion.

Nathalie Dufour, the founder of ANDAM, highlighted the role of the prize in connecting research, design, and major fashion houses. She stated that the ANDAM Innovation Award has established itself as a true accelerator of more responsible fashion, creating an ecosystem of innovators that is brought to the forefront year after year.

Why it matters

The recognition of Alphalyr and its innovative approach to data analytics signifies a pivotal moment for the fashion industry, particularly in the context of sustainability and operational efficiency. As brands increasingly seek to understand their consumers and streamline their processes, AI-powered solutions like those offered by Alphalyr could become essential tools in the industry.

The emphasis on ecological challenges, as noted by Gozlan, indicates a shift in priorities within fashion. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, brands that adopt sustainable practices and technologies are likely to gain a competitive edge. The integration of AI into the fashion value chain not only enhances operational capabilities but also aligns with the growing demand for transparency and responsibility in production.

Moreover, the support from ANDAM through grants and networking opportunities highlights the importance of fostering innovation in the fashion sector. By providing resources and platforms for emerging technologies, ANDAM is actively contributing to the evolution of a more sustainable and efficient fashion industry. This recognition and support for innovators like Alphalyr and Pili could inspire further advancements and collaborations that prioritize both creativity and ecological responsibility in fashion.

As the industry prepares for the upcoming ANDAM Fashion Awards, which will reveal this year’s finalists in early June, the anticipation surrounding these innovations continues to build. With a jury led by former winner Alexandre Mattiussi, the focus will remain on celebrating and advancing the next generation of responsible fashion initiatives.