Does Your Apparel Supply Chain Need A Logistics Makeover?

One of the ever-changing industries is the Apparel Industry due to the constant change in customer reaction and behavioural patterns. The consumer attitude across the apparel market is just unpredictable. There is a constant need on the part of the designers to improve the buying experience for their customers. Be it the changes in the clothing size, colour and look, the need to get a discount or an item in stock again, etc. are a few of the many demands that a customer buying online expects the apparel retailers to fulfil. But it is that easy to meet the consumer demand?

Given the fact that 2020 had been a difficult year and slowed down the normal pace of functioning for most of the supply chains, getting a new concept out in the market now takes longer than usual. Again, a lot of apparel industries have to outsource their materials from countries like China and Vietnam. Also, let us not negate the threats of the increased trade restrictions between the US, China, and other countries. The increased tariffs are driving up the cost of fabrics and other relevant materials. To solve these challenges and to meet the increasing demands of the consumers, the need for savvy Apparel Logistics is being heard!

Yes, there is a need to revamp your logistics strategy if your apparel supply chain is being faced with the threat of “items going out of stock” and other secondary challenges. Fresh technology aimed at customizing and innovating logistics is going to be your saviour in the future.

Hence these are a few ways in which a logistics makeover can help you:

• Shorter lead times: Having an in-house producing and design team will make sure that your concept hits the sales floor in the shortest time possible.
• Small batches of inventory will refine your in-house manufacturing methods and help products to ship quickly to the stores.
• A linear management model where the store managers can provide direct feedback to the designers will be helpful.
• Using the best-in-class technology if you’re not really looking to take the traditional route. With technical advancement, you can experience reduced product development time, reduced total lead time, improved overall margin, and accelerated market time.
• Digital innovation can transform supply chain visibility and transparency, thereby bridging the gap between the brands and suppliers. It can help track and trace products from the source of raw materials to the customers, thereby helping to maintain a consistent data format for all the supply chain elements.

As much as the fashion industry is resistant to change, it should embrace tech and not ignore it to expedite its processes and meet the fast-changing consumer demands with ease!