Increased interest in UK supply chain visibility
The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) is working with IBM, technology distributor Tech Data and the Future Fashion Factory (a UK-based digital and textile technology research organisation) to design and pilot a new, IBM-powered technology platform, which will take a data-driven approach to improving supply chain transparency.
Blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and sensors, among other emerging technologies, will all be employed in the digitisation of key processes throughout the supply chain.
In its initial phase, the nine-month initiative, called the Sustainable Supply Chain Optimisation project, will include participation from retailers Next, N Brown, New Look and H&M’s Cos brand, plus yarn manufacturer Laxtons.
It is hoped that sustainability and profitability metrics will increase overall as a result of the scheme, which UKFT said will enhance trust and enable real-time, auditable decision making through more effective tracking and tracing of goods as they move along global supply chains.
Further, the platform will contribute towards the UK government’s plan to innovate within the field of digital technology as this relates to national manufacturing, UKFT stated. It will also allow for improved compliance regarding the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals criteria, plus help to mitigate against supply issues caused by unforeseen disruptions, the association added.
UKFT chief executive, Adam Mansell, commented: “A strategic goal for the UK fashion and textile sector is to become synonymous with sustainable and ethical products, processes and production.
"This project aims to promote greater transparency in the industry to ultimately enhance the competitiveness of UK textile and garment manufacturers, while reducing the environmental and ethical impact of the sector.”
In related UK retailing news, Boohoo recently announced that it would opening up its UK suppliers’ factories for an “all access” day in Leicester in September, which will give a select group of its customers behind-the-scenes insights into the making of its garments.
Image: Cos via Instagram.
