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Is the Apparel Industry in the Midst of a Systemic Change?

In a recent TexProcess/TechTextil webinar, panelists discussed what is happening with respect to the textiles and apparel supply chain, especially what has been accelerated by the pandemic. Has there been a sourcing shift? Is there a balance shift between Western and Asian sources? What key elements do brands and suppliers need to address to bring about needed systemic change? How many are even capable of driving systemic change? These were some of the questions and issues discussed in this very interesting session.

Monday, March 01, 2021

TexProcess/TechTextil continued its webinar series with a session entitled Fashion On-Demand: From Supply Chain to Demand Chain. Moderated by Edward Hertzman, Executive Vice President, Fairchild Media & Founder and President- Sourcing Journal at Penske Media Corporation, the session included three highly knowledgeable panelists:

The topic was whether or not brands and retailers are shifting their mindset relative to sourcing. Thorbeck made the point that he was not sure there is a specific sourcing shift required, stating, “I prefer to think of this as more of a fashion system as opposed to the function of supply chain. There is no easy answer. You can’t merchandise your way out of this crisis. This is not a cycle; it is systemic change.”

Macquin added, “Brands have lost a lot of money during COVID. Changes that were a great idea for the future are now a matter of survival. Everything we were thinking about for two, three, four years out has to happen now.”


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About Cary Sherburne

Cary Sherburne is a well-known author, journalist and marketing consultant whose practice is focused on marketing communications strategies for the printing and publishing industries.

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