SUPPLY CHAIN — begins with the first two links, materials suppliers and manufacturers or SOURCING, then onto distributors, logistics, marketing, retailing and finally, the customer — all the links that take your product from its conception to its sale destination….from that design in your head into the hands of your customer.
SOURCING for a brand used to be: plan the collections for almost a year in advance and then order in large quantities to get the lowest possible price.
Today, consumers are driving the trends. Lead times are getting slimmer and slimmer. A brand needs to act faster, run smoother. Whether you’re a niche designer that needs to produce a small batch at an affordable price or a product developer for a massive manufacturer that needs to deliver a trending item very quickly, you’re faced with sourcing options and decisions.
And, the core sourcing requirement — “get it done at the best price” is still very important, but so is doing it right … concerns for sustainability, labor practices, government actions have all entered into the sourcing aspect. The push has started and will not stop for a more responsive, on-demand product, one manufactured with less waste, and sold successfully thereby reducing excess inventory.
There are opportunities for everyone involved in the sourcing stages and we can all play a part in the supply chain.
THE FASHION GROUP INTERNATIONAL invites you to a timely discussion examining sourcing. What’s the best fit for you? Join us for a roundtable discussion and networking lunch on February 11.
Complimentary admission. Space Limited. RSVP required.
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