Where does fabric sourcing fit in an apparel company’s supply chain? The obvious answer is that since materials are the main component of garments, the whole apparel manufacturing supply chain process starts with it, and the fabric team’s role is to research, develop and source fabrics that are right for the business.
For many in the apparel manufacturing industry, Step One is finalizing fabric. Once those fabrics are listed on a nice and neat spreadsheet, the whole process can start – patterns, samples, costing, projecting, allocating and shipping stuff everywhere. And for sure, Heather, it’s the same with sweater yarns.
But not too many people know what happens before Step One. I’m not even gonna describe the process, because it’s pretty unrelatable outside of the fabric/yarn world. I will just say that it involves a tremendous amount of research, a bunch of trials and errors, a lot of patience, an organized fabric library, great relationships, constant communication, a good eye, and a really good “hand.”
If a brand’s materials are of a high quality, and the price, style, fit and color are right for the customer, clothes will sell and business can be great. But if a brand’s fabric and yarns are of a low quality, then it’s just a matter of time before it wins the race to the bottom. It doesn’t take long for a brand to lose credibility and loyalty, and using poor quality materials is the fastest way there.
The time and effort spent on sourcing quality materials is crucial. And while fabric and yarn research and development are typically not included in an apparel manufacturing supply chain model, its impact on the outcome and performance of a brand is huge. Not everyone within the apparel organization may acknowledge this, but ultimately, the consumers can tell the difference. And without them, there would be no one to supply.