Master the Landscape: Understanding the Fashion Supply Chain

Introduction to the Fashion Supply Chain

The world of fashion is complex, with each garment going through a long journey before it reaches consumers. This process, known as the fashion supply chain, involves numerous stages, from raw material extraction to finished product distribution. Understanding this chain is essential for those wishing to tackle worker rights violations within the industry.

Key Stages of the Fashion Supply Chain

• Raw Material Production: This involves the cultivation or extraction of natural resources used in garment production, such as cotton, silk, and leather.
• Fabric Manufacturing: The raw materials are then converted into fabrics through processes like spinning, weaving, and dyeing.
• Garment Production: These fabrics are then transformed into garments. This stage is particularly labour-intensive and susceptible to worker rights violations.
• Retail and Distribution: Completed garments are then sold to consumers through various channels.

Challenges in the Fashion Supply Chain

The fashion supply chain is fraught with challenges, including low wages, poor working conditions, and environmental damage. These issues are particularly prevalent in developing countries, where labor laws are often weak or poorly enforced. As such, understanding the fashion supply chain is a critical step towards addressing these challenges and promoting better worker rights.