Ready-made Garment Sector Research Articles

The Impact of HRM Practices on Employee Performance: A Study on Readymade Garments Sector in Bangladesh

This study explores the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on employee performance in the Readymade Garments (RMG) sector of Bangladesh, employing qualitative data collection methods to gain in-depth insights. As the RMG sector plays a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s economy, understanding how HRM practices influence employee performance is essential for organizational growth and effectiveness. Data were collected through semi- structured interviews with HR managers, team leaders, and employees from various RMG firms, as well as focus group discussions. The research focused on key HRM practices including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisal, compensation and benefits, and employee relations. These practices were examined to understand their perceived impact on employee performance, such as job satisfaction, productivity and motivation. The qualitative analysis reveals that effective recruitment and selection practices are crucial in aligning employee skills with job requirements, leading to higher performance levels. Comprehensive training programs are valued for enhancing skills and boosting confidence, which positively affects productivity. Transparent and fair performance appraisals are seen as motivating employees and fostering a sense of achievement. Competitive compensation and supportive employee relations contribute to job satisfaction and commitment, driving overall performance. The findings indicate that while HRM practices in the RMG sector are generally effective, there are areas for improvement. This research provides actionable insights for HR professionals and organizational leaders aiming to improve performance outcomes in the RMG sector.

Revolutionising the ready-made garments firms in Bangladesh: strategies for transformative change towards sustainable product innovation

ABSTRACT Ready-Made Garments (RMG) firms, particularly in developing economies such as Bangladesh, struggles to integrate sustainability into its operations and product innovation. Limited supportive policies and institutions exacerbate this challenge, hindering the industry's ability to produce high-standard and globally competitive sustainable products. Drawing on case studies of Bangladesh’s RMG firms, this qualitative paper aims to identify potential strategies and commitments to drive transformative change in the RMG firms towards sustainable product innovation. It addresses the main questions on the drivers of transformative change in sustainable product innovation, as well as firm leadership responses to sustainable development. Key findings from key informant interviews (KII) and focus group discussions (FGD) indicate drivers and strategies for transformative change towards sustainable product innovation in five dimensions: sustainability practices, market demands, firms’ commitments and initiatives, policy and regulatory framework, and technology and innovation. The findings of the paper highlights policy insights and leadership roles that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the crucial factors and guidelines for initiating transformative changes in the RMG firms towards sustainable products. Also, a framework with insights from stakeholders is developed based on the findings to provide leadership guidance and recommendations for companies in the RMG sector and other related industries.

ORGANIZATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS FOR ACCOUNTING IN-FORMATION SYSTEM PRACTICE: A STUDY ON SOME SELECT-ED READY-MADE GARMENTS FACTORIES OF CHATTOGRAM IN BANGLADESH

In today's rapidly evolving global business environment, implementing Accounting Information Systems (AIS) effectively is essential for improving financial reporting accuracy and operational efficiency. Despite its importance, the relationship between AIS practices and organizational effectiveness remains insufficiently explored, particularly within Bangladesh's ready-made garments (RMG) industry. This study aims to examine the impact of AIS on organizational effectiveness within the RMG sector of Chattogram, Bangladesh. Data were collected from 400 respondents using a purposive sampling method, with responses measured on a five-point Likert scale. The study evaluated AIS across multiple dimensions, including financial reporting accuracy, timeliness of decision-making, data security, ease of accessibility, regulatory compliance, and user satisfaction. Organizational effectiveness was assessed in terms of cost efficiency, integration with other systems, decision support, adaptability to change, training and support, innovation, and system upgrades. Factor analysis was performed to validate the data, and reliability was tested through Cronbach's Alpha. A structural equation model (SEM) was developed using IBM SPSS AMOS 22 to analyze the relationship between AIS and organizational effectiveness, ensuring that the model met convergent and discriminant validity requirements. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between AIS practices and organizational effectiveness. AIS contributed to improved decision-making, enhanced financial reporting accuracy, streamlined operational processes, and greater overall efficiency. These findings underscore AIS's crucial role in promoting organizational success within the RMG sector, highlighting its potential to boost performance, productivity, and overall effectiveness.

Does 4IR and Covid 19 Effect The Quality of Work Life and Living Standard of Women Workers? Evidence from Selected RMG Firms in Bangladesh

Purposes The study's main objective is to find out the impact of the fourth industrial revolution and covid-19 on women workers of selected Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector in Bangladesh. Methodology This study mainly followed a quantitative research approach with survey study. Total 18 garments (case) has been chosen randomly from DSE listed RMG firm based on access priority. Sample size for survey study has been determined by statistical method is 384. But this study consider total (15*27) = 405. Data have been collected from selected respondents (women workers) using structured questionnaire. Findings The study reveals that women workers in the RMG sector exhibit a remarkable lack of anxiety about their work-life quality, largely due to their experience and resilience in handling the challenges of their profession. It highlights the adaptability of these workers and underscores the importance of targeted support and interventions to promote sustainable livelihoods and better working conditions amid persistent challenges. Implications The study's findings can inform policymakers about the specific challenges faced by women workers in the RMG sector due to the convergence of 4IR and the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/Value this study's originality and value lie in its intersectional analysis, empirical evidence, contextual specificity, practical implications, and contributions to knowledge, all of which enrich our understanding of the complex dynamics shaping the lives of women workers in Bangladesh's RMG sector amidst the challenges of 4IR and COVID-19. Limitations The study's findings may be limited by the scope of the selected RMG firms and the sample size of women workers included in the research. While efforts were made to ensure diversity within the sample, the findings may not be representative of all women workers in the RMG sector in Bangladesh, limiting the generalizability of the results.

QFD-based optimization model for mitigating sustainable supply chain management adoption challenges for Bangladeshi RMG industries

In response to heightened pressures from regulatory mandates, global competition, and evolving customer expectations, industries worldwide are compelled to prioritize environmental initiatives, often at the expense of economic considerations. The research gap addressed in this study is the lack of a comprehensive, data-driven optimization model for effectively mitigating sustainable supply chain management adoption challenges specific to the Bangladeshi Readymade Garments (RMG) industry. While previous studies often relied on single techniques, this research proposes a novel AHP integrated QFD-based MILP optimization model. This innovative approach empowers Bangladeshi RMG industries to make data-driven decisions for prioritizing sustainability challenges and selecting cost-effective mitigation strategies to promote the integration of sustainability initiatives within the sector. The study identifies and prioritizes 25 sustainable supply chain management adoption challenges and proposes 16 mitigation strategies. The model emphasizes the critical interplay between sustainability performance and implementation costs, achieving a sustainability performance score of 0.4511 while effectively implementing 12 out of 16 strategies within the expected budget. The optimal solution incorporates green strategies, technology integration, and aspects of Industry 5.0, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainable supply chain management. The findings are crucial for Bangladeshi RMG industries aiming for global market competitiveness and contribute significantly to the academic field by introducing a robust, data-driven decisions for sustainable supply chain optimization. The implications extend beyond the RMG sector, offering a replicable model for other industries and regions facing similar sustainability challenges.

The Impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on Female Workers in the Ready-made Garments and Textile Industry, Bangladesh

This research investigates how the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has affected female employees in Bangladesh’s Ready-made Garments (RMG) and textile industries. Using a qualitative methodological approach, data from eight interviews and one unstructured focus group with female employees and industry stakeholders were gathered. Additionally, five key informant interviews were conducted with industry experts. Analysis of these data revealed that female workers in the RMG and textile industries perceive a threat to their employment due to the declining value of their current skills in the market. The study also suggests that transitioning to new jobs or finding alternative employment will be a challenge without adequate training and support from the government and industry authorities to equip these workers with skills relevant to 4IR-based occupations. The study concludes that enhancing these workers’ preparedness through reskilling and upskilling initiatives is crucial. Furthermore, the study recommends that the relevant authorities devise and implement comprehensive policies addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by 4IR, especially for female workers in the RMG and textile sectors in Bangladesh. The findings of this study will be beneficial to Governments beyond Bangladesh, policymakers, industry owners, professionals, female workers and other stakeholders in this sector.

Economic Resilience and Gender Empowerment: A Post-Pandemic Analysis of Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Sector

Economic Resilience and Gender Empowerment: A Post-Pandemic Analysis of Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Sector

Successful Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Implementation in Readymade Garments factories in Bangladesh: Case Studies of SQUARE Fashions PLC and Nothern Toshrifa Group Limited, Bangladesh

Bangladesh's transformation into an agricultural nation has resulted in significant foreign exchange earnings from the export of ready-made garments (RMG) since the 1970s. Any RMG firm's main business operations are strongly associated with information and communication technology (ICT). The ready-made garment (RMG) sector in Bangladesh has been facing various challenges to secure a competitive position in the global market, including the improvement of industrial operational excellence. Among the various issues, implementation of ICT is felt to be a common and effective way to enhance operational excellence. A PhD thesis was made on the topic “Application of Information and Communication Technology in the Readymade Garments Industry: A Study on the Bangladesh Market” by the author. To validate the hypotheses and results of the thesis, two RMG firms are chosen to compare their gross sales and net profit before and after the implementation of ICT in their industry. The main objective of the case study is to increase information and communication technology (ICT) usage, resulting in improved operational excellence and increased profit.

The impact of supply chain information integration on supply chain coordination and organizational performance: does directionality matter?

This study evaluates how relationships, information characteristics, and supply chain information integration influence supply chain coordination and organizational performance in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment sector. Organizational performance includes operational performance and competitive performance. Data has been collected from 171 supplier-manufacturer dyads. Drawing on the coordination theory, this study theorizes that supply chain information integration and coordination can increase organizational performance. The structural equation modelling approach was used in data analysis. Generally, this study discloses that relationships and information characteristics positively influence supply chain information integration. Supply chain information integration directly influences supply chain coordination and competitive performance, whereas supply chain coordination is significantly related to operational and competitive performance. Moreover, supply chain coordination mediates the two relationships: supply chain information integration and operational performance and supply chain information integration and competitive performance. New insights are added by examining the relationships that connect the antecedents of supply chain information integration, supply chain information integration, and outcomes by looking at the focal manufacturing firm and its dyadic supplier partner separately. Separate examination in the dyad exhibits some identical and diverse outcomes. Furthermore, we suggest theoretical and practical implications for academics for theory building and managers.

Strategies for economic sustainability: An empirical study on Muri, Mura, and Muda in the readymade garment sector

Achieving economic sustainability in the garment manufacturing industry necessitates the implementation of several strategic measures. Basic strategies like adoption of automation, utilization of sustainable energy sources, diversification of markets and products, enhancement of supply chain resilience, etc. lead to the attainment of economic sustainability in the garment manufacturing industry. Additionally, the underlying component of these strategies for ensuring economic sustainability is the minimization of process waste, which can be effectively achieved through the application of lean manufacturing principles, specifically targeting the elimination of Muri, Mura, and Muda. This strategic commitment ensures business longevity amid evolving industrial landscapes, fostering innovation and competitiveness. In emerging economies like Bangladesh, pinpointing precise approaches to reduce waste is vital. This study explores into Muri, Mura, and Muda in the RMG sector, utilizing Pareto analysis, Fuzzy theory, Total Interpretative Structural Modeling (TISM), and Matriced’ Impacts Cruoses Multiplication Applique an un Classement (MICMAC) analysis. After the initial identification of 21 (twenty) factors, Pareto analysis pinpointed the primary 16 (sixteen) factors. Subsequently, these factors underwent analysis through fuzzy TISM and fuzzy MICMAC. The results highlighted “Demand variation”, “Supplier variation”, “Workforce variation”, and “Energy supply variation” as the most crucial factors. The novelty of this study lies in exploring Muri and Mura factors in correlation with Muda employing the existing hybrid and effective methodology that combines Pareto analysis, Fuzzy MICMAC, and Fuzzy TISM methodologies. It offers fresh perspectives on their significance for economic sustainability in the garment sector. Prior research has not explored this integrated approach to reduce process waste by addressing Muri and Mura factors in emerging economies’ garment industries. This research is poised to significantly impact waste reduction in the RMG sector, enhancing competitiveness, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, and ensuring industry standards adherence essential for sustained success. The contribution of this research is grounded in helping the practitioners and entrepreneurs in developing nations make strategic choices that will lead to the RMG sector’s resilience and, ultimately, economic sustainability.

Impact of factory certifications on firm resources: a quantitative content analysis of the Bangladeshi readymade garments (RMG) industry

Purpose This study aims to investigate the association between certifications in the Bangladeshi readymade garment (RMG) sector and diverse firm resources, contributing to Bangladesh’s competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach The study conducted a quantitative content analysis of 366 Bangladeshi RMG firm websites, using Barney’s (1991) resource-based theory (RBT) framework. Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses were used to explore the research questions. Findings The findings reveal significant positive impacts of certifications on all firm resource categories (physical, human, organizational knowledge and learning, general organizational and financial) under the RBT framework. Certifications correlate positively with resources, from small to medium, and with various factors, though some negative correlations were identified. Research limitations/implications The study improves comprehension of apparel manufacturers’ certifications and their association with firm resources, offering valuable insights for stakeholders on long-term competitive advantages. Yet, limitations should be considered, including size-dependent variations and reliance on self-reported website data. Originality/value This study represents a pioneering effort, concentrating on Bangladesh’s RMG sector and offering a unique perspective on the implications of certifications for firm resources within emerging economies.

Prevalence and barriers to early initiation of breastfeeding among urban poor full-time readymade garments working mothers: a mixed-methods study in Bangladesh

BackgroundEarly initiation of breastfeeding is the initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth, which plays a significant role in a born baby’s growth and survival, however its prevalence and predictors among urban full-time readymade garments (RMG) working mothers are not investigated. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence and factors affecting early initiation of breastfeeding among urban RMG working mothers.MethodsA sequential explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted between March 2023 and December 2023 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 452 full-time female RMG workers were included for the quantitative study. Qualitative study was carried out among 30 full-time female RMG workers, four female physicians who were employed in the RMGs, four RMG factory managers, and four local pediatricians.ResultsThe prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding was 40% among the women. It was significantly associated with various factors, including socio-cultural barriers, the advanced age of the mother (AOR 3.93, 95%CI 1.18, 13.04), lack of education (AOR 6.86, 95%CI 1.11, 42.49), lack of awareness, and cultural practices such as initiating goat milk and honey instead of breast milk. The absence of colostrum feeding (AOR 8.96, 95%CI 4.30, 18.70) and pre-lacteal feeding (AOR 0.06, 95%CI 0.03, 0.11) were significant baby feeding practice-related barriers to early initiation of breastfeeding. Maternal health factors, notably post-delivery sickness, cesarean delivery, and lack of breastmilk production, were revealed as a significant hindrance to the early initiation of breastfeeding explored from qualitative analysis. In addition, RMG factory-related factors that significantly affect early initiation of breastfeeding include a strong focus on production, a busy schedule, and a lack of initiative regarding the early initiation of breastfeeding.ConclusionsThe prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding among RMG working women is poor. This study emphasizes the need for interventions that address specific challenges of early initiation of breastfeeding faced by working mothers in RMG sectors, including improved lactation education, increased awareness to mitigate cultural barriers, RMG factory-based initiatives to empower female workers early initiation of breastfeeding, and preparing early initiation of breastfeeding -friendly post-cesarean unit at the health care facility.

Prospects and current scenario of industry 4.0 in Bangladeshi textile and apparel industry

This study aims to explore the scopes and challenges, rank the challenges, and provide strategic solutions for adopting Industry Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) in Bangladesh's textile and apparel industry. A random survey was administered to a total of 142 factories in Bangladesh. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis were used in this study. The survey includes questions on important study variables, such as big data, smart factories, cyber-physical systems (CPS), the Internet of Things (IoT), interoperability, textile production, and industry performance. The Variable Destination Multiple Access (VDMA) Model has been adopted to design the questionnaire, focusing on qualitative and quantitative questions. The survey dataset was investigated through SmartPLS 4.0 by normality and confirmatory tests. Likert scale data have been analyzed through IBM SPSS software version 26.0 by the exploratory factor analysis method to rank the IR 4.0 adoption variables. Analysis of the survey data indicates the level of adoption of Industry 4.0 in terms of organizational strategy, investment, infrastructure, IT (Information Technology), Ready Made Garments (RMG) skilled workers, smart operations, and smart factories. The study shows that the variable “Review of the strategy using indicators” got the highest ranking in the external factor, 0.791. This clearly indicates that strategy formulation is the topmost priority among other IR 4.0 adoption variables. Consequently, “digital integration” got the lowest loading at 0.620, as IR 4.0 digital technology adoption is very low. The overall maturity level for IR 4.0 adoption in the Bangladesh textile and apparel industry is 1.91 on a 5-point scale, indicating a low adoption level. This study can help concerned policymakers and industrialists who want to implement Industry 4.0 in the textile and RMG sectors to stay competitive in the global market. Alongside this study, it also summarizes the IR 4.0 adoption level in 9 broad categories.

Addressing Environmental Challenges in Technology Adoption within the Digital Supply Chain of Readymade Garments

The study aims to investigate the challenges of technology adoption in the Digital Supply Chain (DSC) of the Readymade Garment (RMG) business, focusing on environmental barriers. The study utilizes the T-O-E framework to examine a sample of 380 participants, consisting of owners and top managers from RMG facilities. The data is analyzed using PLS-SEM Modeling with the aid of SmartPLS4 software. It examines the complex interrelationships between competitive pressure, consumer, external support, stakeholder networks, environmental concerns, and technology adoption within the digital supply chain of the RMG industry. The technology adoption is substantially influenced by environmental conditions, particularly regarding the alignment with customers. The analysis of mediation sheds light on the significance of the environment in both partial and complete mediation, as it exerts influence on competitive pressures, customer involvement, external support, and stakeholder networks. Comprehending this interrelationship is crucial for making well-informed business and policy formulation decisions. organizations must incorporate environmental factors into their strategic decision-making processes, ensuring sustainable technologies are adopted. Policymakers can employ these findings to implement environmentally sustainable policies, promoting innovation within the RMG sector. These measures guarantee the long-term viability of the industry and promote ecological accountability.

Improving Equipment Effectiveness through Visual Stream Mapping: Some Exploratory Research Findings in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) Sector

Improving equipment effectiveness is crucial for flexible manufacturing, ensuring that machines and tools perform their functions efficiently and consistently. Our study aimed to enhance the Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) in Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garments (RMG) manufacturing system. We used the DMADV methodology incorporating Visual Stream Mapping (VSM) and OEE. By utilising VSM, we identified issues, eliminated them in the design phase, and evaluated performance in the verification phase. We automated the material handling system to reduce handling time, and the result was a significantly improved OEE in the automated manufacturing system compared to the manual one. This study has numerous benefits in flexible manufacturing and operations management, from immediate efficiency improvements to long-lasting organisational cultural transformations. Thus, it’s a noteworthy topic for practical applications and research. Enhancing Equipment Effectiveness through Visual Stream Mapping 4.0 has broad-reaching implications, including improved productivity, reduced waste, increased efficiency, better resource utilisation, and a more agile and responsive manufacturing environment. Although OEE and VSM are frequently used separately in different manufacturing systems, this study’s novelty lies in their combined application within garment manufacturing.

Gender-Based Violence and Harassment in Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garments (RMG) Industry: Exploring Workplace Well-Being Issues in Policy and Practice

Gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) in the workplace are major issues that affect the work environment and employee well-being. These issues have received little attention from managers in the ready-made garments (RMG) factories or policymakers more generally in Bangladesh, despite the comprehensive approach to restructuring the industry following two devastating industrial accidents. This research examines the role played by RMG factory managers in eliminating gender-based violence and increasing positive work experiences and well-being in the workplace, and the policy initiatives from the government with the aim to stop workplace violence. The study uses qualitative methods—document analysis and semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that measures to protect workers from GBVH are absent in employment regulation. Though there are high court directives on workplace harassment, these have not been implemented effectively. The findings show that women workers have faced longstanding GBVH, which has impacted their well-being. The increasing rate of women leaving RMG sector jobs reflects how women workers’ well-being issues have been disregarded within the factories.

Patterns of common illness and injury of readymade garment workers and a review of safety practices in Bangladesh.

Readymade garment workers globally experience distinctive vulnerabilities at the workplace. The situation is worse in many developing countries. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence about the health and safety of garment workers in the workplace. The objective of this study was to examine the patterns of illness and injury of garment workers, factory level health safety policies and programs, and views and perception of management staff at factories in Bangladesh. This mixed-method study was conducted among garment workers and management level staff between January 2018 and April 2019. We extracted 4000 health records of the workers who attended primary health care centers of the factories and conducted 11 key informant interviews using qualitative method from different management-level staff. Half of the workers (51.0%) were working in the sewing section following 12.8% in quality control and 12.3% in the laundry section. A review of the medical records showed that peptic ulcer diseases (PUDs) (19.2%), fever (11.7%), loose motion (10.3%), and headache (9.4%). Needle injury was uncommon for taking medical care. Occupational safety and health management, safe drinking water, access to maternity leave and other facilities were better in large and medium factories compared with those in small factories. Although the readymade garments sector is one of the largest sources of foreign currency revenue earnings in Bangladesh, occupational health and safety issues of workers remain a big concern. Thus, support from the government needs more focus on the health and safety of workers.

Human Security and Employment Relations in the Ready-Made Garments Industries of Bangladesh: Perspective of Women Workers

Ready-Made Garment (RMG) is the largest export earning sector of Bangladesh and the second largest provider of RMG products in the world. The RMG industries generate more than eighty percent of the country’s total export by creating employment for nearly4.4 million people out of which more than eighty percent are women. The health, safety and working condition of workers in the RMG industry do not comply with global standards and in many of these factories, insecurity of women workers, faulty infrastructural standards, violation of labour law, labour exploitation by low wage and over work; remain matters of serious concern. Obviously, employment in the RMG industry has reduced the social exclusion of women in Bangladesh, but more analysis is required to know how the RMG industry enables the women worker to re-negotiate their roles in society. Therefore, the present article is an attempt to examine how the human security system in the RMG sector has influenced the women workers’ job satisfaction and employment relations in Bangladesh.

Employment Booms and Infant Health: Evidence from the Ready-Made Garment Sector in Bangladesh

Employment Booms and Infant Health: Evidence from the Ready-Made Garment Sector in Bangladesh

Driving Toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Ready-Made Garments (RMGs) Sector: The Role of Digital Capabilities and Operational Transparency

Driving Toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Ready-Made Garments (RMGs) Sector: The Role of Digital Capabilities and Operational Transparency