Achieving an Environmentally Sustainable Fast Fashion Supply Chain by Implementing Lean Processes

Abstract

Objectives

The main objectives of this study were to investigate how different business models and corporate strategies can be utilized for the purpose of creating more sustainable supply chains in the global fast fashion market environment.

Summary

Due to global environmental problems, sustainability has become an important factor in the consumer purchase decision making process. Fast fashion brands are pressured to implement sustainable business practices into their supply chains. However, fast fashion brands do not want to risk their costs of production increasing and thus, their profit margins decreasing. The lean business model can be implemented into fast fashion supply chains relatively cost-efficiently, and yield both sustainability related benefits, as well as cost reduction due to increased raw material utilization and agility.

Conclusions

There is strong evidence suggesting that utilizing lean management practices in supply chain management processes of fast fashion companies is beneficial for brands aiming to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining a high profit margin.