Apparel Sector Research Articles

Systematic Literature Review on Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Practices in the Apparel Industry

This systematic literature review (SLR) investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting sustainable practices within the apparel industry, addressing the critical need for efficient and environmentally responsible solutions in a sector facing increasing sustainability pressures. The research methodology adheres to PRISMA guidelines, encompassing a comprehensive literature search across databases such as Scopus and Web of Science for articles published between 2010 and 2024. The review process involved rigorous filtering and screening, ultimately analyzing 31 relevant journal articles. Key findings reveal that AI applications significantly enhance operational efficiency and sustainability in apparel manufacturing and supply chains. Techniques such as machine learning for demand forecasting, genetic algorithms for supply chain optimization, and computer vision for quality control are instrumental in reducing waste and improving resource utilization. Despite these advancements, challenges in implementation and scalability persist, indicating areas where further investigation is necessary. The implications of this review underscore the potential of AI to transform the apparel industry by integrating sustainable practices into core operations. However, notable research gaps remain, particularly regarding the ethical implications of AI adoption, its impact on labour practices, and the need for interdisciplinary approaches that bridge technology with environmental sustainability. Future research directions should focus on developing innovative AI methodologies tailored to sustainability challenges, examining the socio-economic impacts of AI on labour within the apparel sector, and enhancing collaboration between academia and industry to foster practical applications of AI technologies. This SLR not only contributes to academic discourse but also serves as a valuable resource for practitioners seeking to implement sustainable practices through AI in the apparel industry.

Global Trends and Practices of Industry 4.0 Applications in the Clothing Sector: A Systematic Literature Review

The potential of Industry 4.0 enabling tools is emerging as a strategic factor for the adaptation and innovation of companies in the clothing sector. Thus, the aim is to identify global trends and practices in I4.0 applications in the clothing sector based on a systematic literature review. From the systematic literature review, 11 articles were selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The results showed global trends in the application of I4.0 enabling tools, such as the Internet of Things, Cybersecurity and Additive Manufacturing, in addition to the benefits that I4.0 can provide in manufacturing, such as the possibility of efficient processes with lower operating costs. When studying the perception of businesspeople, the most critical dimensions were: vertical integration, flexibility, data analysis, supply chain integration, traceability, remote production monitoring, strategy, organizational culture and people. The originality of the paper is highlighted by its specific sectoral focus, emerging applications of Industry 4.0 and holistic approach to the value chain. In addition to the academic contribution in terms of mapping key global trends, identifying challenges and opportunities and providing a basis for future research, the results can provide practical recommendations for companies in the apparel sector seeking to start or accelerate their digital transformation journey.

Identifying the Role of Fashion Involvement in Apparel Consumption: A Systematic Literature Review

This systematic literature review aims to identify and analyse the role of fashion involvement in the context of apparel consumption. Fashion involvement represents the degree to which individuals are engaged and interested in fashion-related activities. Its impact on consumer behaviour within the apparel industry is of paramount importance. The review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of existing scholarly articles, journals, and publications to synthesise key findings and insights. By conducting a systematic literature review based on the Scopus database, 72 studies were found and reviewed after filtering and screening. It is found that the main antecedents of fashion involvement are personal values and personal traits, and the main consequences of fashion involvement include intention, attitudes, perceptions, satisfaction and word-of-mouth (WOM). The findings of this literature review contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted role that fashion involvement plays in shaping consumers' choices within the apparel sector. The implications of these findings extend to marketers, policymakers, and researchers who seek to comprehend and leverage the dynamics of fashion involvement for effective strategies in the ever-evolving realm of apparel consumption.

Women Entrepreneur’s Perspective towards Sustainable Entrepreneurship in the Apparel Sector of Saudi Arabia

Sustainable entrepreneurship has recently started to receive global attention, underscoring the need to understand the perspective of women entrepreneurs working in the apparel sector in Saudi Arabia. The present study focuses on exploring sustainable entrepreneurship with specific regards to the experiences of female entrepreneurs and sustainable activities within the sector. This study used a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews of 30 female entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia’s apparel industry. Thematic analysis was employed to understand sustainable entrepreneurship behavior and its causes. The descriptive findings reveal a strong correlation between advanced degrees and professional membership held by the participants, implying higher qualifications and membership with professional bodies result in work with more extensive and established fashion ventures involving on average 10 employees and five business partners. It was also found that female entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia employed sustainable strategies based on their beliefs and customer needs and preferences. However, they faced issues of tradition and prejudice against women. This study further identified four critical categories of sustainable entrepreneurship drivers: gender dynamics (GDs), social norms (SNs), access to resources, and sustainable entrepreneurship practices. This study offers valuable recommendations to policymakers, actors, and women entrepreneurs striving to develop sustainable practices in the industry.

Navigating the complexity of sustainable transition in the textile and apparel industry: a comprehensive analysis across disciplines, geographies and stakeholders

This research study provides an exhaustive bibliometric analysis of the sustainability transitions within the textile and apparel sector. Utilizing the advanced tools of Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, the study maps out the intellectual structure of this field, elucidating co-citation, co-word, and collaboration networks. The prominence of keywords such as "sustainable development", "sustainability", and "textile industry" emphasizes the sector's growing focus on sustainable practices. Furthermore, an assessment of gender and ethical dimensions in research revealed a potential gap in inclusivity, prompting a call for more equitable research representation. Geographically, the prominence of contributions from regions like China and India suggests the need for region-tailored sustainable strategies. Simultaneously, the fusion of technological innovations with sustainability highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of current research. Real-world impacts of this academic discourse were examined, spotlighting the translation of theory into tangible industry practices. Despite the significant insights, the study recognizes its limitations, including potential geographical and publication biases. For policymakers, stakeholders, and academics, this study offers invaluable insights into the current landscape of sustainability research in the textile and apparel industry, suggesting areas of focus and potential opportunities for future exploration.

Creating a local managerial regime in global context: The case of the Bangladesh ready‐made garment sector

AbstractThis article analyses the strategic construction of a factory management regime as an instrument of local value extraction, set against an intensely competitive global value chain in the apparel sector. The article focuses on Bangladesh where, as elsewhere, work in ready‐made garment factories is characterised by long hours, poor pay, hostility to freedom of association and the suppression of independent collective bargaining. This article presents a long‐term study of the ways that managers who preside over such environments are identified, recruited and deployed. In the context of the global value chain in garments, this article shines a light on managerial regimes which squeeze labour and perpetuate inequality as part of extracting value at workplace level, in the context of a broader, internationally dispersed, industrial regime of exploitation.

Factors Influencing Sichuan Consumers' Purchase Intention on E-Commerce in the Apparel Industry

This study investigates the factors influencing Sichuan consumers' purchase intention on e-commerce in the apparel industry. The economic advantages of live streaming and e-commerce have attracted widespread attention, and researchers are particularly keen on delving into the psychological impact of these new channels on consumers' buying behavior. The emergence of new sales channels in the apparel sector is increasingly vital in stimulating sales growth. The number of respondents for this study was 395. The results of this study show that consumers’ purchase intention for e-commerce in the apparel industry would be impacted by performance expectation, effort convenience, perceived usefulness, perceived behavior control expectation, and social impact. These findings have practical implications for marketers and e-commerce platforms, enhancing the consumer experience and increasing purchase intention.

The Influence of Sports Brand Image on Consumer Preferences and Behavioral Tendencies: Lululemon and Anta as Examples

Amidst the surging enthusiasm and demand for fitness activities, there is keen interest in understanding how sportswear brand preferences influence consumer behavioral tendencies. Given Lululemon's rapid global emergence as a contemporary brand icon and Anta's status as a popular national brand in China, this paper endeavors to compare the two, examining their impact on consumer behavior. The objective extends to offering recommendations for brand image cultivation and product design within the athletic apparel sector.

Value chain management practices and value creation in sub-Saharan African apparel firms

Purpose: This study explores value chain management (VCM) practices in the sub-Saharan African apparel industry, developing a strategic framework to enhance value creation.Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was adopted, surveying 430 managers across the apparel value chain. Data were analysed using factor, correlation, and regression analyses to ascertain the impact of VCM practices on value creation. However, it is essential to notice that the study’s findings are limited to the sub-Saharan African context and may not directly apply to other regions.Findings/results: The analysis revealed a strong correlation between specific VCM practices, such as information sharing, incentive realignment, agile manufacturing, and value creation. These practices help firms to navigate the industry’s complexities and leverage regional opportunities.Practical implications: The study provides a valuable framework for managers, highlighting customer-centricity and strategic sourcing strategies. These strategies are crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and competitive positioning in the global market.Originality/value: The study offers original insights by empirically validating VCM practices and their contribution to value creation within the sub-Saharan apparel sector. The strategic framework fills a gap in the literature and aids the sector’s integration into the global value chain.

Integrating Agility and Digital Capabilities: A New Paradigm for Competitive Supply Chain Performance in the Apparel Sector

Integrating Agility and Digital Capabilities: A New Paradigm for Competitive Supply Chain Performance in the Apparel Sector

A study on sustainable foam concrete with waste polyester and ceramic powder: Properties and durability

The textile and apparel sectors currently produce millions of tons of textile waste annually on a global scale. Textile waste fibers are a viable option for sustainability as they can be utilized to reinforce cement-based composites internally by improving ductility and reducing the development of cracks. The issue of ceramic waste accumulation can be effectively resolved by using ceramic waste as supplementary cementitious materials (SCM), for sustainable construction, which also lowers energy use and CO2 emissions during the cement manufacturing process. This study evaluated the fresh, physico-mechanical, durability, and thermal characteristics of foam concrete (FC) reinforced with waste polyester (WP) incorporating waste ceramic powder (CP) as a replacement of cement in the rates of 0, 10 and 20 %. Twelve mixtures with a 0.3 water/binder (w/b) ratio were fabricated using a sodium lauryl sulfate foaming agent. The WP used in this study have four percentages of 0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 % by volume. Durability performance of the mixtures for dry shrinkage, sulfate attack, high temperatures, alkali silica reaction and freeze-thaw cycles was also carried out. Microstructure of the mixtures was analyzed by SEM. Cost investigation and environmental impact of FC mixtures were also investigated. The findings indicated that the mixture with 10 % CP and 0.6 % WP had the largest 28-day compressive strength of 8.78 MPa, representing a 47 % decrease over the reference mixture (without CP and WP). The same mixture also exhibited the lowest dry shrinkage after the reference mixture. The mixture containing 0%CP and 0.2WP had the lowest thermal conductivity with a reduction of 74.0 % as per the reference mixture. The 0.4 % WP and 0%CP incorporated mixture exhibited the best thermal and F-T performance.

Umetna inteligenca v modni in oblačilni industriji

In recent times, there has been significant interest in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) in the fashion and apparel industry, as it has the ability to bring about significant transformations across different aspects of the sector. This comprehensive review offers a systematic examination of current AI applications in fashion, and discusses implications and future opportunities. The study investigates AI uses in the sector, with a focus on virtual try-on technology, personalized recommendations, AI-driven design and supply chain optimization. This analysis explores the benefits and constraints of these applications, and is supported by real-world case studies showcasing successful deployments. The review examines how AI influences consumer insights and market trends, and highlights the effectiveness of sentiment analysis and social media monitoring as tools for understanding consumer preferences and the shaping of brand perception. It also emphasizes AI's role in analysing market trends, enabling the identification of emerging fashion trends through AI-driven market research tools. This study provides a glimpse into future possibilities and advancements AI can introduce to fashion, including potential integration with augmented reality (AR), innovative applications in fashion shows and events, and the potential to revolutionize traditional business models. This review consolidates primary findings on the introduction of AI in the fashion and apparel sector, and emphasizes AI's potential to enhance consumer experiences, sustainability practices and market efficiency.

Sustainable circular practices in the textile product life cycle: A comprehensive approach to environmental impact mitigation

The identification of environmental impacts through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has become a prevalent approach in recent years. However, the utilization of software tools for LCA analysis poses challenges, particularly in terms of cost, time consumption, and complexity, especially for industries operating in emerging economies. Despite these challenges, such industries are compelled to adhere to new policies and regulations when exporting products to European countries. This paper delves into the implementation of a comprehensive approach to identify the environmental impact of the product lifecycle in the textile industry, with a specific focus on recognizing circular economic potential to mitigate environmental impacts. The methodology employed includes value chain analysis, environmental impact identification, lifecycle thinking to pinpoint sustainability hotspots, prioritization of these hotspots, and identification of potential circular economic approaches to alleviate associated impacts. The paper presents a case study applying this approach to the textile industrial sector. By scrutinizing the intricacies of circular economy frameworks, the study provides insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning towards a more sustainable and circular textile industry. The findings aim to contribute valuable knowledge to global endeavors in achieving environmentally friendly practices within the textile and apparel sector.

Increasing Digital Transformation Readiness in Small and Medium Apparel Enterprises Through Maturity Model Evaluation

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in the Indonesian economy, contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has diminished SMEs' GDP contribution. Digital transformation emerges as a crucial solution amidst these challenges. While many SMEs have adopted digitalization, they face obstacles such as product marketing, access to capital, raw material supplies, and effective application of digital technologies. Nevertheless, digitalization presents opportunities to enhance efficiency and expand global market access via the Internet in Indonesia. This study utilizes the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to formulate a digital transformation strategy, focusing specifically on optimizing internal business processes within apparel SMEs. Key findings from the AHP analysis highlight the critical importance of integrated production management systems, document scanning and digitization, customer data analysis, and basic digital skills training. These findings underpin strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing efficiency, productivity, and adaptability through technology adoption, employee training, and organizational restructuring. The strategy outlines short-term (6-12 months) and long-term (5 years) goals to guide SMEs toward achieving advanced digital transformation maturity. By prioritizing internal business processes, these initiatives aim to propel SMEs in the apparel sector towards greater success in the digital era.

Occupational Health and Safety in the RMG Sector of Bangladesh: An Enormous Order

Today it’s a matter of concern to ensure the occupational health and safety in the Ready Made Garments (Hereinafter referred to as RMG) sector of Bangladesh. Some accidents such as the Tazrin Fashion Fire and the Rana Plaza collapse draw attention - to the critical situation the workers of Bangladesh are working in, and to what extent they are at risk. It's a matter of regret and shame that, it has been forgotten that the RMG sector not only contributes to our national economy but also emancipates the poor people from poverty and hunger, This sector also highlights our country in front of the world. Textiles and clothing account for earnings a lot in Bangladesh, where most of these come from the apparel sector. This sector has a crucial role in alleviating poverty in Bangladesh. However, rapid growth, as well as the failure of the Bangladesh government to enforce its building and labour regulations, resulted in worker abuse and unsafe for poorly constructed factories. This series has been elucidated to what extent occupational health and safety covered and their impact, also focuses on how the rights of the worker are violated and analysis the duties and responsibilities of the related persons such as occupiers of the factories, Trade Unions, Collective Bargaining Agent, Inspector, buyer and so on. It also focuses the statutory protection to ensure Occupational health and safety. Finally, put some recommendations or ways out to ensure the safe and sound working conditions of the workers of the RMG sector in Bangladesh.

Antecedents of Purchase Intention: A Study among Female Consumers in the Apparel Sector of Quetta-Pakistan

With the emergence of social media, the apparel products market has grown exponentially, where branded and counterfeit products are readily available to consumers. This phenomenon has changed the shopping behavior of consumers, particularly females. Thus, firms are keen to unpack the factors that enhance female consumers' purchase intention towards apparel products. The literature lacks empirical verification of personal and social factors that enhance purchase intention in various contexts, particularly for female consumers. Therefore, this research aims to substantiate the impact of Materialism, the Need for Uniqueness, Experiential, Brand Attachment, and Social Influence on the Purchase Intention of young female consumers in the apparel market with the mediating effect of Vanity. Three hundred self-administered questionnaires regarding apparel products were filled out through a convenience sampling approach from young female consumers (18-35 years) from four higher education institutions in Quetta-Pakistan. Hypotheses were tested through multiple regression and the Hayes process model. Findings show that all predictors significantly affect purchase intention with the mediating effect of Vanity. The need for uniqueness was the most essential factor that explained purchase intention in Quetta's apparel market. Young female consumers weigh more on the need for uniqueness, which leads to materialism, social influence, and experiential and brand attachment as critical factors when interacting with vanity. Marketers need to design a strategy that enhances their Apparel's uniqueness.

Determination of drivers in embedding environmental sustainability practices in the apparel sector of Sri Lanka

Apparel is the second most polluted industry in the world after oil. Therefore, implementing environmental sustainability practices in the apparel sector is a buzzing topic discussed worldwide. The apparel industry is the prominent export revenue generator of Sri Lanka which contributes to more than 40% of its export income. This research was done to determine the drivers in embedding environmental sustainability practices in the apparel sector of Sri Lanka. Data was collected using a mixed method approach using quantitative data collected through an online questionnaire survey (205 respondents) and qualitative data gathered via semi-structured interviews (30 interviews). Sample size and data analyzing methods were decided using globally accepted scientific methods. The researcher didn’t find any previous scholarly work of a similar study about the apparel sector of Sri Lanka even though many studies were found on the same topic related to other major apparel manufacturing countries in Asia and Africa. Thus, five drivers namely pressure from brands and retailers, enhancing organizational reputation, reduction of operational cost, government regulations, and safety of workers were extracted through the extensive literature survey conducted using previous scholarly work of other countries which were further evaluated for Sri Lankan context using above mentioned quantitative and qualitative data. It was found that all these drivers were relevant to the apparel sector of Sri Lanka while pressure from brands was the most influential and safety of workers was the least influential driver. No other drivers were mentioned by any of the respondents apart from the above-mentioned factors.

Pengaruh Rasio Keuangan Terhadap Perubahan Laba pada Perusahaan Tekstil dan Garmen yang terdaftar di BEI

This research was taken from 2019 to 2022 which aims to examine the effect of financial ratios on changes in profits in textile and garment manufacturing companies listed on the IDX. Several types of ratios are used as dependent variables in the analysis of financial indicators such as Quick Ratio, Debt to Asset Ratio, and Debt to Asset Ratio. Independent variables include Inventory Turnover, Inventory to Sales Ratio, and Net Profit Margin. All businesses in the textile and apparel sector were included in the population of this study. In the study, 15 companies were taken through purposive sampling technique. The results of the analysis in this study also show that the independent variables do affect the dependent variable. The t test shows that Quick Ratio, Inventory to Sales, and Net Profit Margin all have a positive and statistically significant relationship with changes in profit. So, it can be concluded that Quick Ratio, Inventory to Sales and Net Profit Margin have a significant effect on changes in profit in manufacturing companies in the textile and garment industry subsector. These results prove that the inventory turnover ratio and the ratio of debt to assets have little impact on changes in profit.

Tenacity Besides Depletion: Pandemics, Protests, and Workers from the Sri Lankan Apparel Sector

AbstractSri Lankan apparel has conventionally crafted itself as a niche and ethical supplier. Staying with this record, shifting to PPE (personal protective equipment) production, a tripartite agreement on minimum wages and a furlough scheme were key successes during the pandemic. However, the recurrent absence of living wages resulted in varied worker experiences. I use written testimonies from women garment workers to raise pivotal questions on how the lives of workers started to deplete during the pandemic and yet it did not prevent women workers from claiming differently—underlining slivers of hope, where depletion and tenacity are constant bedfellows. The pandemic was when Sri Lankan apparel's dis/articulation within global production processes came about. Contributing to feminist political economy readings of global production processes, I illustrate how depletion and tenacity are no binaries; acknowledging these spaces of hope offers the potential for agentive action.

The influence of endorser credibility and brand credibility on consumer purchase intentions: Exploring mediating mechanisms in the local apparel sector

The influence of endorser credibility and brand credibility on consumer purchase intentions: Exploring mediating mechanisms in the local apparel sector