accordsourcing

Circular Design: The Innovation Set to Transform the Fashion Industry

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 17:20:34 GMT

Circular Design

The transformation starts here

In a world characterized by constant change, a single idea has the potential to shake the status quo and redefine the future. This is the journey of circular design, a philosophy that promises to do for the fashion industry what the most innovative ideas have done for technology: change everything.

Much like a seed that sprouts into a tree, which eventually withers only to fertilize the soil for future growth, circular design challenges the linear 'take-make-dispose' model. It presents a vision where materials are not consumed but borrowed, where waste doesn't exist, and where nature thrives.

But why does circular design matter? Why now? To understand that, let's consider the environment, our shared home, which is gasping under the weight of relentless consumption. The fashion industry is a significant contributor to this crisis, producing 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater. And that's not all. Every year, 85% of textiles are discarded, only to end up in landfills.

However, it's not about painting a bleak picture; it's about recognizing an opportunity, a doorway to an alternative future. That's the magic of circular design. Like a lightbulb moment in a room full of puzzles, it illuminates a path forward.

Circular design doesn't just echo a commitment to the planet; it presents an opportunity for growth and innovation. Picture this: products designed not just for their visual appeal, but for their longevity and ability to be reincarnated in a new form. Imagine materials selected for their minimal environmental footprint, and processes that don't treat waste as an inevitable byproduct, but as a resource waiting to be harnessed.

The transformation doesn't stop there. Your brand, when viewed through the lens of circular design, evolves into a storyteller, a narrator of a tale where sustainability isn't just a chapter but the entire plot.

This transformation isn't just about preserving the world for future generations. It's about reshaping business models, designing products that last longer, and building brands that resonate with consumers. It's about creating a brand that stands not just for style, but for substance.

In the grand story of our world, circular design is a turning point. A point where we stop to reconsider our course and choose a path less traveled. A path that, while filled with challenges and unchartered territories, leads us to a sustainable and prosperous future.

So, here's to the dreamers, the innovators, and the game-changers ready to embrace circular design and transform the future of fashion. This is your call to adventure. This is your opportunity to make a difference. Let's begin this journey together, and let's create a story worth telling.

Sabrina

The Future of Sustainable Fashion

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 03:17:18 GMT

Eco-friendly and Recycled Materials

The future of Sustainable Fashion

As the impact of fashion on the environment becomes increasingly apparent, the industry is moving towards more sustainable practices, particularly in the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials. This movement is marked by two key concepts: the use of environmentally friendly materials in new products and the recycling or upcycling of existing ones.

Eco-friendly materials refer to substances that, throughout their life cycle, have a minimal impact on the environment. This can mean a variety of things, such as the use of organic fibers that don't require pesticides or the use of materials which require less water or energy to produce. For instance, Tencel, a material derived from the pulp of eucalyptus trees, is gaining popularity for its sustainable qualities, including its low water requirements and its ability to grow on low-grade land.

One brand championing the use of eco-friendly materials is Stella McCartney. A long-time advocate for sustainable fashion, McCartney's brand avoids harmful materials like PVC and consistently uses organic and recycled materials in its collections. They've also been a pioneer in using lab-grown materials, like Mylo, a leather alternative made from mycelium.

On the other hand, recycled materials refer to the process of converting waste materials into new materials or products. One of the most commonly recycled materials in fashion is plastic, often sourced from discarded water bottles. For example, the clothing company Everlane released its ReNew collection, which features outerwear made entirely from recycled plastic bottles.

Upcycling takes recycling a step further by creatively reusing waste or unwanted items to produce high-quality, functional, and fashionable items. This doesn't just reduce waste; it also reduces the need for new resources. For instance, the Spanish brand Ecoalf has made its name by upcycling waste materials like used tires and ocean plastic into fashionable clothing and accessories.

In conclusion, the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials, alongside upcycling, holds great promise for the fashion industry's sustainable transformation. By embracing these practices, brands can not only contribute to environmental conservation but also differentiate themselves in a competitive market, tapping into the growing consumer demand for sustainable products.

Sources:

- Stella McCartney. (2023). Sustainability.

- Everlane. (2022). ReNew Collection.

- Ecoalf. (2023). Upcycling the Oceans.

Product Development: DIY inhouse or outsource to specialists?

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 08:30:22 GMT

Product Development:
Perform inhouse or outsource to specialists?

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, transforming creative ideas into successful products requires a comprehensive understanding of the industry's intricate processes. While some companies may consider managing product development in-house to save costs, they often underestimate the potential risks and challenges involved. In this article, we will explore the role of a product developer in fashion and shed light on the benefits of outsourcing product development to experienced professionals who specialize in bringing ideas to life. By doing so, companies can mitigate costly missteps, ensure superior quality control, and minimize manufacturing delays.

Expertise and Efficiency

Within the fashion industry, a product developer plays a crucial role in planning, developing, and presenting fashion-focused products tailored to specific market segments. They work closely with design and technical teams to translate design concepts into prototypes and oversee the entire product development process. By outsourcing product development to a specialized company, businesses gain access to a team of experts with extensive knowledge and experience in the field. These professionals possess the expertise to source raw materials, identify suitable manufacturing partners, and organize testing and certifications. Their streamlined approach ensures greater efficiency, accelerates the development process, and delivers products that meet the highest quality standards.

Minimizing Risks and Challenges

In-house product development may seem enticing at first, but it can present several risks and challenges that can be detrimental to a company's success. Language barriers, miscommunication, and cultural differences can hinder effective communication between the company and overseas manufacturing partners, leading to costly mistakes and delays. By partnering with a trusted product development specialist, businesses can overcome these obstacles. These professionals have established relationships with factories in Asia, enabling seamless communication and reducing the risk of language issues or missteps. They act as a bridge between your company and the factories, ensuring smooth collaboration and minimizing potential disruptions.

Quality Control and Manufacturing Efficiency

Maintaining strict quality control standards is paramount in the fashion industry. Product developers specializing in outsourcing have robust quality control processes and partners in place to ensure that products meet or exceed expectations. They have extensive experience in monitoring supplier performance, managing delivery schedules, and negotiating prices. Additionally, these professionals analyze product costs, recommend manufacturing techniques, and assess materials to enhance manufacturability while maintaining design and quality. By entrusting product development to experts, businesses can rest assured that their products will be manufactured with precision, adhere to desired specifications, and be delivered on time.

Cost-Effectiveness and Time Optimization

While the initial cost savings of in-house product development may seem appealing, the potential risks, setbacks, and delays can quickly outweigh the perceived up front cost saving. A specialized product development company brings a wealth of knowledge and industry connections that can optimize cost-effectiveness and time management. They have the experience to identify cost-saving opportunities, recommend alternative materials, and streamline production processes. By leveraging their expertise, businesses can achieve better outcomes while saving time and resources that can be allocated to other critical aspects of their operations.

Conclusion

If you have an inhouse resource that has years of experience working in Asia, has an established network of suppliers, factories, and QC partners, is a project management expert, has an extensive and up to date knowledge of materials, understands the complexities or product manufacturing and can speak English and Chinese, then in house product development would make great sense for your company.

Otherwise, in the competitive fashion industry, outsourcing product development to specialized professionals offers a myriad of advantages. By collaborating with an experienced company that understands the complexities of bringing ideas to life, businesses can minimize risks, mitigate quality problems, and avoid manufacturing delays.

Product Development specialists such as Accord Sourcing possess the necessary expertise, streamline processes, and provide effective communication channels with overseas partners. Ultimately, you're leveraging their proven ability to deliver superior outcomes that not only optimize project success but also allow you to focus on core competencies and achieve sustainable growth in the dynamic fashion landscape.

Embracing Circular Design in soft goods & fashion accessories

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 07:30:12 GMT

Embracing Circular Design

The sustainable path for Designers and Brands

With rising consumer awareness about the impact of products on the environment, sustainability has become more than just a buzzword. It's an imperative. In the sphere of fashion accessories and soft goods production, one approach stands out: circular design .

What is Circular Design?

Circular design is a sustainable development framework that aims to ensure economic, social, and environmental sustainability by designing products to be used, reused, and recycled, rather than following the traditional "take-make-dispose" model, also known as a linear economy. This innovative design strategy not only helps to reduce waste and the demand for new resources, but it also stimulates economic growth.

Why is Circular Design Important?

The importance of circular design is intrinsically linked to our planet's health. It is estimated that the fashion industry produces around 10% of global carbon emissions and nearly 20% of wastewater. Furthermore, 85% of all textiles go to dump each year (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2020). The circular design's core principle is to eliminate waste and the continual use of resources, thereby significantly mitigating these detrimental effects on the environment.

Benefits of Circular Design

1. Economic Growth: Embracing circular design can open new revenue streams for businesses. For instance, by selling refurbished or upcycled products or offering a service to repair items.

2. Enhanced Brand Reputation: Implementing sustainable practices can dramatically enhance a brand's image, appealing to the growing demographic of environmentally conscious consumers.

3. Resource Efficiency: Circular design promotes the efficient use of resources, reducing the cost and environmental impact associated with sourcing new materials.

How Can Circular Design Benefit Your Brand or Company?

Implementing circular design principles could profoundly transform your company's operations and brand reputation:

1. Material Selection: Choose materials that are renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable. This reduces the environmental footprint and can offer cost benefits in the long term.

2. Manufacturing Processes: Designing for longevity and recyclability from the outset can dramatically decrease waste during production.

3. Marketing and Branding: Your commitment to circular design principles positions your brand as a responsible and forward-thinking entity, appealing to the increasingly sustainability-conscious consumer.

How Does Circular Design Benefit the Planet?

By minimizing waste and optimizing resource use, circular design significantly reduces the negative impacts of production on the environment. It helps conserve natural resources, reduce carbon emissions and water pollution, and promote biodiversity.

Practical Steps to Adopting Circular Design

1. Conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): This tool allows companies to assess the environmental impact of their products throughout their life cycle, offering insights into where improvements can be made.

2. Design for Longevity: Create products that are durable and timeless, thus extending their life and reducing the need for replacements.

3. Design for Disassembly and Recycling: If a product can be easily disassembled, its parts can be repaired, reused, or recycled more efficiently.

4. Encourage a Culture of Repair and Reuse: By offering repair services or guides, you encourage consumers to extend the life of their products.

5. Educate your Customers: Use your platforms to inform consumers about your sustainable practices and how they can contribute to the circular economy.

Successful Implementations of Circular Design in Soft Goods and Fashion Accessories

Let’s take a look at some successful ventures leveraging the principles of circular design. These brands have not only achieved significant commercial success, but also contributed to positive environmental outcomes.

Patagonia's Worn Wear Program:

The outdoor clothing brand Patagonia has always been at the forefront of sustainability. They took their commitment a step further by launching the Worn Wear Program, an initiative that encourages customers to trade in their used Patagonia items in return for store credit. These items are cleaned, repaired, and resold at a lower price. This initiative embodies circular design by promoting reuse and extending the lifecycle of their products. Patagonia's sales and customer loyalty have grown significantly due to this program, highlighting the commercial viability of circular design.

Adidas x Parley for the Oceans:

In an innovative partnership with Parley for the Oceans, Adidas developed a line of sneakers made from recycled ocean plastic. Each pair reuses 11 plastic bottles, turning waste into a resource. The initiative was immensely successful, selling over a million pairs in the first year. Beyond commercial success, the collaboration brought global attention to the issue of ocean plastic pollution, demonstrating the power of strategic partnerships in achieving sustainability goals.

Eileen Fisher's Renew Program:

Eileen Fisher's Renew program is another excellent example of circular design in practice. The brand buys back its used clothing from customers, professionally cleans and repairs them, and resells the items. In 2017, they salvaged 800,000 garments and generated over $3 million in sales from the program. The brand’s commitment to circularity serves as a blueprint for other fashion companies, demonstrating the potential for economic success and waste reduction.

Pela Case:

Pela Case, a company that produces 100% compostable phone cases, embodies circular design by using flax straw waste, a byproduct of farming, in their product. As of 2021, they have sold over a million phone cases and saved an estimated 41,890 kg of plastic from being produced. Pela Case’s success proves that sustainable materials can be marketable and profitable.

These case studies clearly demonstrate that circular design principles can lead to commercial success, while also creating positive environmental impacts. Companies can leverage circular design not only to meet their sustainability goals, but also to drive innovation, differentiate their brand, and build customer loyalty.

In conclusion , circular design offers a viable and responsible path forward in an era defined by environmental challenges. By understanding and implementing these principles, startups, designers, and brands can contribute to a more sustainable future, while creating value for their company and their customers.

Sources:

Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2020). The State of Fashion 2020.

Patagonia. (2023). Worn Wear - Better than New.

Adidas Group. (2021). Adidas x Parley.

Eileen Fisher. (2022). Eileen Fisher Renew.

Pela Case. (2021). Pela: World's First 100% Compostable Phone Case.

Bags, Backpacks & Fashion Accessory Production - From Concept to Creation

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 15:58:53 GMT

Production of bags, backpacks, soft goods & fashion accessories

From Concept to Creation

Whether you're an independent designer looking to expand your fashion line or a larger brand seeking to develop a new collection, understanding the process of fashion accessory production is a fundamental part of realizing your creative vision. Let's explore the nuances and intricacies involved in producing fashion accessories from conception to completion.

Conceptualization

The first stage of fashion accessory production begins with an idea. This is where designers let their creativity run wild, envisioning the different materials, shapes, colors, and patterns that might feature in the final product. Whether it's a handbag, a backpack, or a belt, this initial concept is the foundation of the product's design.

During this phase, sketching your ideas on paper or using digital design software is a common practice. Having a tangible representation of your concept helps you share your vision with others involved in the production process and allows for feedback and adjustments as needed.

Material Selection

The next step is selecting the materials to bring your design to life. The choice of materials largely depends on the design itself, budget considerations, and the target demographic. Luxury brands might opt for high-quality leathers or exotic skins, while a designer focused on sustainability might choose recycled or plant-based materials.

Aside from the material's aesthetic appeal, factors like durability, ease of maintenance, and environmental impact are essential considerations. When sourcing materials, it's important to find suppliers who are reliable, can deliver high-quality materials, and align with your company's values—be that ethical labor practices, sustainability, or something else.

Prototyping

With a concrete design and selected materials, the next step is creating a prototype. This phase is crucial as it allows designers and manufacturers to test the product's functionality and aesthetic appeal. It's the first opportunity to see your concept transformed into a tangible object.

The prototype is thoroughly reviewed, and potential changes or improvements are noted. This might include adjusting the size or placement of pockets in a bag, or the buckle design on a belt. The prototype serves as a blueprint for mass production and should be as close as possible to the final product.

Production

Following successful prototyping and any necessary adjustments, the production phase begins. The manufacturing partner plays a crucial role here, transforming your approved prototype into a finished product ready for the marketplace.

This phase involves a series of steps, including cutting the material, assembling the product, and applying any finishes, such as zippers, buttons, or buckles. The speed of production and the number of units made will depend on various factors, including the complexity of the design, the manufacturing capabilities, and the demand for the product.

Throughout the production process, rigorous quality control measures should be in place. This ensures that each product meets the company's standards and the expectations of the end consumer.

Quality Control and Packaging

Every single unit should be inspected for defects or inconsistencies. By enforcing strict quality control measures, brands can ensure they're providing a high-quality product that will satisfy their customers and bolster their reputation in the marketplace.

Once the products have passed the quality control stage, they're ready to be packaged. Packaging not only protects the product during shipping but is also an extension of your brand. It's an opportunity to enhance the customer experience and reinforce your brand identity.

Distribution

The final step in the fashion accessory production process is distribution. Whether you're selling through brick-and-mortar stores, online, or both, organizing the distribution logistics is key. From warehouse storage to shipping, every detail must be coordinated to ensure your products reach their destination in perfect condition.

The process of producing a fashion accessory from concept to completion is a journey that involves creativity, careful planning, and close collaboration with various partners. Each stage of the process, from design to distribution, is interlinked and essential to delivering a product that resonates with your brand and appeals to your customers.

Despite the complexities, the reward of seeing your initial concept transformed into a tangible product that's ready for market makes it all worthwhile. With a clearer understanding of the process and what it entails, you're well-equipped to navigate the exciting world of fashion accessory production.

How to create a Tech Pack for soft goods & fashion accessories

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 17:14:20 GMT

How to create a Tech Pack for soft goods

A comprehensive guide.

If you've ever wondered how an idea or a design sketch transforms into a tangible, ready-to-market product, you've entered the realm of 'Tech Packs'. Tech packs are like the blueprints for your fashion accessories, bags, backpacks, or any other soft good items. In this article, we will delve into what a tech pack is, why it is indispensable in the manufacturing process, and a step-by-step guide on how to create one.

Understanding a Tech Pack

A tech pack is a comprehensive document that communicates all the necessary details about your product design to your manufacturer. Think of it as a detailed instruction manual that guides your manufacturer through the process of transforming your design into a physical product. Without a well-constructed tech pack, your manufacturer is left to fill in the blanks, leading to potential misinterpretations of your design and deviations from your original concept.

The Importance of a Tech Pack

The importance of a tech pack cannot be understated. Here's why:

1. Precision and Consistency: A tech pack ensures every detail of your design is clearly communicated to your manufacturer, minimizing the chances of errors or misunderstandings.

2. Efficiency: A thorough tech pack streamlines the manufacturing process, saving you time and money by reducing the need for multiple samples and revisions.

3. Scalability: A tech pack allows your product to be consistently reproduced, essential for mass production and maintaining product quality and uniformity.

Components of a Tech Pack

A comprehensive tech pack typically consists of the following components:

1. Cover Sheet: This includes basic information like the product name, product code, designer or brand name, season, and date of creation.

2. Sketches: Detailed, accurate sketches of your design from different angles. Include call-outs for special features and close-ups of intricate details.

3. Materials and Colorways: Information about the specific materials to be used and their color specifications, usually with Pantone codes for precision.

4. Construction Details: Detailed written and visual descriptions of how the product should be assembled, including stitching, hardware placement, and finishing instructions.

5. Measurements: A comprehensive size chart for all components of your design.

6. Labels and Packaging: Information on labels, hangtags, packaging, and any other branding elements.

7. Bill of Materials (BOM): A list of all materials and components needed for the product, including quantities.

Shown here is an example of product design sketches..

This is an example of the Bill Of Materials (BOM). In this example, in addition to the list of items we are showing example costs as well..

Creating a Tech Pack: Step by Step Guide

Creating a tech pack may seem daunting, but here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you:

Step 1: Create Detailed Sketches

Begin with clear, detailed sketches of your design. Include front, back, and side views, and close-ups of specific details. These sketches can be hand-drawn or digital, but they should be as precise as possible.

Step 2: Specify Materials and Colors

Identify and list the materials for each part of your design. Specify colorways using exact Pantone codes. Include fabric swatches or material samples if possible.

Step 3: Detail the Construction

Provide specific instructions on how the product should be assembled. This can include stitch types, seam allowances, and hardware placement.

Step 4: Include Measurements

Create a measurement sheet that specifies the dimensions of all parts of your design. This is especially important for fit and sizing.

Step 5: Add Branding Information

Include specifics on labels, hangtags, and packaging. Specify the placement, size, color, and font for any branding elements.

Step 6: Compile the Bill of Materials (BOM)

The BOM is like a shopping list for your manufacturer. Include all components, their quantities, and any specific sourcing instructions.

Remember, a tech pack is a living document. It evolves as your design moves from concept to production-ready. Revisions based on prototypes, costings, or manufacturing feedback are all part of the process. Always ensure your manufacturer has the latest version of your tech pack.

Creating a tech pack may seem like a complex task, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. It fosters effective communication, reduces errors, and ensures your vision becomes a reality just as you envisioned.

Happy designing!

If you need any assistance with your product idea or design we're here to help. Don't hesitate to contact us .

Why use a sourcing company, instead of dealing direct with the factory?

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 15:38:49 GMT

When you are ready to manufacture your product, should you:

go direct to the manufacturing source

partner with a sourcing company?

Factory direct sounds very straight forward; just do a search, find several candidates and go with the most suitable, intuitively you would also think it should be cheaper too.

A sourcing company is an extra layer in the middle - a layer that you might believe you could do without. You might be surprised!

In this article we take a close look at the pros and cons of going direct vs partnering with a sourcing company.

Read on and find out why g oing with a sourcing company is often the best choice!

Contents

Benefits of Going Factory Direct
Downside of going factory direct
The Sourcing Company Advantage
Leverage Price Negotiation—Walmart’s Secret Weapon

Conclusion

BENEFITS OF GOING FACTORY DIRECT

The internet has delivered convenience almost beyond belief when it comes to quickly and easily making business connections.

A quick search will deliver a list of factories with whom you can deal directly to shortlist as candidates.

The question then becomes, which factory is suitable for you to deal direct with?

Communication

There is no denying the benefits of having open, direct lines of communication between a customer—particularly a designer, and a factory.

Often a design is simply not achievable given the cost or technology restraints for a given contract.

When a factory tells you a design is not workable, you can talk directly with them to find the solution .

Getting unmediated information will also help you to deepen your product knowledge, helping you optimize design in the future.

Become Their Priority

One of the most important factors affecting your relationship and success with a factory is your level of business with them. If the value of your business with them is 30% or greater of a factory’s annual turnover, you will get priority in everything.

Are You Truly Getting Value?

Partnering with a professional sourcing agent may add a small percentage to the unit price, but will add value in so many other ways. If you can work directly with a factory, you may get better unit price—but that’s all you’ll get.

As you will see, the unit price is only part of the total cost of offshoring sourcing. More on that later.

How to Go Direct

Check out more about this in our complete article on the subject of going direct .

Very briefly, if you are planning to deal direct, you should look for a company that has a focused merchandise category , or in other words where the products have a longer lifecycle.

Products such as bicycles, lunch boxes, luxury pens, glass water bottles and the like don’t require an updated look every season.

Consistency and stability of product quality is more important than the products requiring seasonal updates, products with a shorter life time.

Your knowledge and experience counts for everything here .

For example, if a factory turns down your request, you need to distinguish whether the rejection means a real problem or they are just giving you an excuse.

If this is an actual problem, do you need to revise your design? What is the nature of the difficulty—exactly—and is there another way around it?

If they are dancing around the issue, how can you get them to keep moving forward with your production? Or should you find a new factory?

These are completely different directions: one forward; the other back.

Making the right choice depends entirely on your professional expertise which enables your brand to work through the details.

Ultimately it is your total experience and expertise which determines if you can enter into a long term production arrangement with a factory or not.

If your expertise is lacking in any area, your difficulties in the years ahead will be compounded .

DOWNSIDE OF DEALING DIRECTLY WITH THE FACTORY

If you go direct then the difficulties you must overcome include:

Fixed Mindsets
Wasted Time
No Backup

Fixed Mindset

In some recent research, I submitted a questionnaire to a group of factories about how they sourced new fabric.

The overwhelming response was that 80% of them sourced with an existing vendor. They do not visit trade fairs or intend to expand their knowledge about how things are done within their industry.

New product development depends on suppliers knowing the totality of available options.

Point: If a factory is not aware of changes in the industry such as the availability of new materials, then they severely limit your options .

Having access to a new material could make all the difference by either

reducing costs or
increasing the value of a product without increasing costs at a minimum.

The problem with a factory not having broad-based knowledge that translates a designer’s creativity into a workable finished product is that it involves input from varied manufacturing perspectives.

For example, Accord Sourcing developed a daily commute business backpack for a client that wanted a backpack that would allow office workers to keep their clothes neat and crease free while jogging or cycling to work. This was a significant challenge.

The design brief requested a hard case garment box with a folding card.

We created a garment box to hold and protect the suit and shirt, which can be easily taken in and out of the backpack.

The challenge was in finding a material stiff enough for the task and with good elasticity, so that it could be shaped to protect the suit inside and keep it crease free. After discussions on the construction and several mold revisions we found a great solution.

We also needed a folding board to keep the suit crease free. What sounded like a simple item became the most challenging aspect of this project. The board material had to be light, thin, affordable, and have a super smooth edge so it would not snag or damage shirts and suits.

We sourced and tried out different materials, manufacturing the boards by means of different processes including laser cut, CNC cut, and die cut.

None of these met our requirements. The final solution came out of left field – we used an aircraft material supplier to produce and polish boards by hand. And at a reasonable price!

Check out the case-study for more details.

The main point here is that these factories didn’t know each other, and had not worked together before. We created bridges from one to the other, without which the project would have failed .

If you cannot connect the factories required to realize your project together, get them working in sync, any creative design remains merely a concept on the paper—it will never end up as a money-making product in the market.

Time Sink

Turning a design graphic into a sample, then turning that sample into a product is enormously time consuming. Most of the time you’ll be solving seemingly unending problems—big and small—that continually come up.

So prepare to spend an inordinate amount of time communicating back and forth with your supplier.

We have one customer who started their brand as a side hustle. The product they developed was a leather and canvas camera messenger bag.

The whole project from designer sketches to sourcing the factory, sourcing the leather, prototyping and the rest consumed 3 years—and they never achieved their objective of a viable production of the messenger bag.

The bottleneck was the lousy quality of the first and second samples.

They eventually made the decision to go with a sourcing company and reached out to us at Accord Sourcing.

We solved all problems inside 6 months and additionally assisted them with sample presentations during the trade show.

No Backup

If your business volume with a particular factory is less than 30% of the total factory turnover then you’ll find there is nearly always a bigger customer ahead of you in the pecking order.

You need to have a backup —a second factory that you can turn to should your primary manufacturer’s production capacity be taken up by a bigger customer.

If you don’t, you have the problem of finding a replacement, a process that will set you back months, perhaps years.

One factory is not enough

A factory is not a sourcing company; it specializes in, and focuses on, what it does best.

If you are looking to source a number of different products, you need to go through the process of sourcing the right factory for each, with all the time consuming hassle that entails.

THE SOURCING COMPANY ADVANTAGE

You can use the internet to find a factory. But that’s not a straightforward process since you still have to zero-in on exactly the right factory.

And there are the issues covered above that stand in the way.

The answer is to go with a sourcing company. Here’s a close look at why.

Save Big on Costs

The 2008 financial crisis led Walmart to downsize their in-house sourcing offices in Shenzhen & Shanghai.

They signed a contract with a big sourcing company , Li & Fung, in order to reduce costs incurred in dealing with a large number of importers across their supply chain.

Staff salaries, pensions, local taxes, office rent are all monthly outflows that increase over time, no matter whether business is good or bad.

Outsourcing the buying to a sourcing company transformed the office operational costs into buying costs, which meant Walmart only needed to pay Li & Fung when they purchased a production run.

They also benefited by leveraging the buying power that a big agency, such as Li & Fung, is able to command.

Backup Plans!

Sourcing company staff deal with many factories, and know each of them very well.

They therefore have a list of backup factories on hand should a factory that was expected to take a project turn it down for any reason.

They will also have factory lists from other businesses if they’ve handled some complicated projects in the past.

An example is Accord Sourcing’s recent project in which we developed a camera strap with SD card holder, camera rain cover, and lens cleaning cloth.

This project needed a cross-over amongst three different fashion accessory industries:

a belt factory
a jewelry box factory
an outdoor garment factory
a cycling pants factory

In total, 35 suppliers were involved in the delivery of this product encompassing a supply chain stretching from Guangdong to Fujian to Jiangsu, a total transportation distance of 1750km.

If you are not able to work across this type of network, or simply don’t have one in place, you are at a huge disadvantage.

At Accord Sourcing, for example, we focus on a number of areas we are good at. Not just one; but also not too many.

We know the industrial niches we deal in very well— fashion accessories and outdoor products, which includes bags, backpacks, mountain backpacks, waterproof backpacks, fashion hand bags, wallets, luggage, and rolling trolleys.

LEVERAGE PRICE NEGOTIATION (WALMART'S SECRET WEAPON)

A sourcing company will negotiate a much better price for you.

A sourcing company has deep roots in the business stemming from their widespread and well-developed network.

And, of course, they already have business with these factories - they combine buying power to get you a much better price.

Walmart’s orders are already large enough to command respect. But when combined with Li&Fung buying power they get the best service regardless of the economic conditions.

It’s a secret weapon that brands of any size can also take advantage of.

Find a Smaller Factory

In our article How to Find a Manufacturer in China , we pointed out the advantages of starting out with a small factory rather than large.

Finding one, though, is not easy, even (especially) online.

The professionals in a sourcing company have their own local and inter-regional networks, removing the effort of finding one along with a guarantee that the factory(ies) you’ll be working with are top notch.

True Quality Control

Stable quality is the most important thing for any brand, so using a 3rd party Quality Control specialist to perform final detailed inspection of production runs at the factory is essential.

Some factories have their own in house QC, but that’s not enough. Factories are blind in certain areas, particularly those that have been in business for a long time.

A third party QC specialist checks the quality standard of a production from an unbiased and clinical point of view.

This is a standard function of a good sourcing company, which conducts thorough inspections during production as well as post-production.

You’ll received a detailed itemized report on numerous aspects of the production process, complete with lots of photos.

Shown below is the first page of the QC Report used by Accord Sourcing. You can download a full copy of the report here ,

Less Communication Hassles

Product development is a long journey in which the devil really is in the details.

Nuances of design and production processes are the subject of continual discussion and refinement.

You might think that not having a go-between such as a sourcing company eliminates possible points of confusion; but that’s definitely not the case. We are your advocate working tirelessly on your behalf to have your desired outcomes realized.

To illustrate just a couple of issue from the many issues we see... Should your target production price and initial quantity be very low, how do you persuade a factory to buy into that?

What if the product defect rate exceeds expectations? How do you carefully negotiate your way through that remembering that starting over with another factory is going to blow out your costs.

A sourcing company has

personnel who speak both the national language and the regional language
personnel with highly developed skills to persuade a factory to your line of thinking on just about any issue
more sway with a factory. Either because we have a history of delivering business to the factory, or we are in a position to bring more business to a factory from our other clients, if they do a good job for you

Our team keep the factory aligned with your interests every step of the way.

Same Time Zone

If you’re located in Europe or North America you’ll know the pain that the time difference can cause in dealing with remote factories and suppliers.

The obvious benefit of working with a sourcing company is that they have staff permanently in the local time zone.

A sourcing company provides you with quality representation, face-to-face, in the local time zone.

CONCLUSION

The advantages of working with a sourcing company rather than working directly with a factory are many and varied.

If you are still sitting on the fence, here’s the clincher: make your evaluation all about the total cost and time to market. .

Containing costs is the bedrock on which everything else is constructed. Make a mistake that blows out your costs, and your business life will become miserable, whether you are an entrepreneur or managing a project in-house.

It's not just about saving a few bucks on production. If you can get your product to market months or even years ahead of doing on your own, partnering with a a reliable sourcing partner will allow you to generate a lot more income, a lot sooner.

One piece of advice you’ll often hear in all walks of business is ‘copy what the successful people are doing’.

Walmart is a great example of a company meeting contemporary challenges head-on, taking the fight right up to Amazon for example. The secret to their success is intimately connected to their reliance on their sourcing company partner.

Get in touch with us at Accord Sourcing for a FREE, no obligation assessment of how you can benefit from the same winning edge.

How to Find a Manufacturer in China

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 13:01:41 GMT

Despite what you may have heard, China is still the #1 place to get your product manufactured—whatever product you have in mind.

But, how do you find a manufacturer in China?

Easy. Basically search on Alibaba, along with one or two other things.

But how do find the manufacturer that’s right for you ?

It’s hard. Really hard. Unless you know the right technique.

I’ll point you in the direction of that technique. And, it may be a cliche, but the key is to work smarter , not harder.

CONTENTS

Why China? (The unparalleled advantages)
Trade Fairs (The definitive list)
Using Alibaba to Search for a Manufacturer in China
The Secret to Finding a Manufacturer Fast
Document Checking Tips
Latest Developments—What is the RCEP Effect?

WHY CHINA?

“This coffee shop is successful because they never take one day off throughout the entire year, not at Christmas or even Chinese New year,” said the curator. “Business is always good because people know the coffee is being served 365 days a year without exception.”

Consistency , predictability and a fierce work ethic infuse every Chinese business at whatever scale they operate, wherever they operate.

These qualities are most on display, though, in China’s manufacturing system and are key to understanding China’s rapid industrial transformation.

Most importantly, they are qualities to keep in mind as competing industrial centers — notably in India and Southeast Asia — offering ‘cheaper’ labor come onstream.

A China-based supplier still provides unsurpassed value for money and will continue to do so well into the future.

High End vs Low End (and in-between)

China has a reputation as the source for dollar store quality items.

The truth: many of the world’s luxury brands are made in China including Prada, Miu Miu, Balenciaga , Burberry, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Coach, Nike, Adidas, Patagonia.

And that’s to name a few.

A number of manufacturing levels are available in China.

If you are looking for dollar item quality, you will find plenty. But if you are looking for premium quality, it’s certainly available. You’ll need to pay more though.

Quality is always depending upon the budget that you, the buyer, is willing to outlay.

The difference between high end and low end is the degree of precision brought to the manufacturing process.

In my experience with TUMI & Coach production, to name two high end brands I’ve worked with, the bar is extremely high—the level of quality is off-the-charts .

It largely comes down to bag sizing tolerances which must be kept within 3mm.

What you are paying for in achieving those tolerances is China’s

highly optimized factory processes
highly skilled workers

That’s the China advantage.

Mature Infrastructure

China’s transportation networks are second to none.

In the past decade, the high-speed rail system has massively increased the ease of getting around the country.

As of 2019 the total length of China’s HSR was 35,000 km or 2/3 of the world’s total HSR track.

More than 50% of the world’s 4G cell coverage is in China with 5G networks also in rapid development.

China is also the world's largest mobile payment market, and handled more than 500 billion mobile payment transactions in 2018 alone.

7 out of the top 10 global container ports in the world are in China, the biggest one being Shanghai.

World leading infrastructure and communications has created the world’s best supply chain integration by a long way.

Supply Chain Networking

This sophisticated infrastructure enables thousands of small towns you have never heard of to produce an enormous range of goods, both for local consumption and the global market.

30% of the world’s guitars is produced in Tangwuzhen, Changle Country, Shandong Province
30% of the world’s violins are produced in Huangquiaozhen, Jiangsu Province
More than 50% of the world’s steel tape is produced in Shangqui, Henan Province
More than of the world’s lighters are produced in Shandong, Hunan Province

All Industries Are Covered

According to the United Nations industrial taxonomy, there are 666 industrial sectors in all.

China is the one country that produces products in every one of them—a first in human history.

From high end to low end, from military to every day household items, China’s suppliers manufacture in every sector.

So, Why China?

Because you get highly skilled workers able to produce top quality goods to the most exacting tolerances, including handiwork. That’s why.

Moreover, China’s infrastructure, communications and complete supply chain integration covering every industrial sector makes in the no brainer manufacturer for the world.

The only problem is how do you negotiate your way through this world to find the manufacturer right for you?

Despite the sheer abundance of manufacturing excellence, how on earth do you find a manufacturer in China?

TRADE FAIRS

Trade fairs have long been the traditional, tried and true way to find a manufacturer, and will remain an important business tool in that regard.

Trade fairs are a main method I use to explore new materials and manufacturers.

Trade fairs are an efficient way to find the trustworthy partner IF you have the right product and industry knowledge, however—the more of both you have, the better.

You’ll get product, material, and often manufacturing process details, as well as the all-important MOQ of course.

If you know what you are looking for, you can fast screen vendors and make a short list of possible partners.

Apart from this you will often discover inspiration or frank truths from the conversations you have. I always learn a lot from talking with manufacturers.

A very important point: plan your schedule and book a hotel well in advance of a trade fair, since the bigger fairs attract huge numbers of buyers from all over the world.

The following section details the most important trade fairs in the Fashion and Outdoor Accessory

Here is some important trade show in the Fashion and Outdoor Accessory sectors you shouldn’t miss.

Trade Fairs Are Great — But...

...you need to have the right knowledge to make best use of them.

Consider using a full-service sourcing agent , since this takes the risk out of every aspect of finding a manufacturer in china, getting your products made to order, delivered on time and your intellectual property protected.

USING ALIBABA TO FIND A MANUFACTURER IN CHINA

Using one of the many trade platforms can replace trade fairs completely in your search for the right china manufacturer.

The main platforms are:

Their functions are quite similar. But you are hard put to go past Alibaba—it’s the best site because it’s:

the biggest market place, and
the place to find your ideal manufacturer.

But, you need to know how to use it .

The simple process for searching for a manufacturer on Alibaba goes as follows.

You pop your keyword into the search box and hit ‘Enter’. Or if one of the auto suggests is close to what you want, then just click on that.

If one of the auto suggests is close but not specific enough, you can add your own qualifying keywords to it, such as preferred types of material or something like that.

Whatever the case you’ll find that in the blink of an eye you’ll have in excess of 100 suppliers to consider.

Manufacturers — No Resellers or Trading Companies

The most important tip I can give you is make sure you are dealing just with manufacturers.

Adding the golden manufacturer filter will reduce the list to maybe around 50, which certainly helps. But that’s still a hell of a lot of suppliers and many hours of work ahead of you as you sift and painstakingly create your shortlist.

Making the (Tinder) Shortlist

The process that follows is a lot like what you might experience on Tinder. And just like Tinder the trick is to go beyond appearances to the very essence of who you are dealing with. But first things first.

The manufacturer’s profile photo allows you to swipe right or left.

After 10 minutes you’ll have reduced the list to maybe around 20. And then the really hard work begins, the process of finding out which one will be the best matchup for you.

If you were to allocate a score from 1-10 for each criterion, you’ll find nearly all of the china manufacturers on your shortlist score really high.

But, of course, you haven’t yet met in person, let alone been on a first, second, or third date.

The devil in this business of teaming up with the right manufacturer is absolutely in the details.

Here’s how to find the right one in half the time.

HERE’S HOW YOU FIND A MANUFACTURER IN CHINA—FAST

Speeding up the process means taking a different approach. I’ll now show you how to use Alibaba’s power in a different way.

Send a Request for Quote (RFQ)

instead of carrying out a keyword search, send a request for a quote, or RFQ.

The RFQ is a powerful tool, which enables buyers to send the request to the factory.

The RFQ screen appears like this:

I n each RFQ, you will get 10 factory price quotes.

It’s important that you include as much detail as you can.

Details, Details, Details

Avoid describing your product in general terms.

The more details you include, the easier you make it for the manufacturing personnel to address your needs. Plus you also show your professionalism, that you are a serious customer with whom they can do business.

Get razor-specific and focus in exactly as much detail as you can. Narrow it down.

For example, if you are looking for a mountain backpack with an aluminum frame supporting system, don’t just tell the factory you want to develop a ‘backpack’.

There are so many different types of backpack design that exist within the backpack category with accordingly different functions.

Take a daily backpack (Jansport style) for example.

This is the most basic style of backpack, with simple construction and simple back panel design.

The first thing I’ll do is check a potential backpack factory’s product line to see if they have a similar style product as the one I’m looking for.

I’ll make sure the factory uses a synchronous stitching machine, which makes the bottom stitching appear exactly the same as the top stitching. I would include all this in the basic request.

I f I was looking for a fashion backpack, then I would specify PU or leather , both of which require a factory to be proficient in glue and edge painting processes.

But an everyday backpack or mountain backpack was my target product, I would specify polyester or NY fabric, which requires a different functional sewing process.

If I was interested in sports backpacks, with a focus on waterproofing, then I would specify those aspects.

All backpacks mentioned are manufactured, as it happens, by four different manufacturers. The

materials (and therefore that supply chain)
construction
production line setup
technical aspects of production

are all different. Therefore the details of the RFQ will also be different.

Target the Customer

Related to this, you need to understand the type of customer and market that is the focus for a particular manufacturer.

If you are a EU independent designer brand, for example, then a factory that manufactures for Walmart is not the right one.

Manufacturers used to producing huge quantities at a low price per order won’t be familiar with the high end material supply chain—the production line is designed for quantities in the order of 10k+ per style.

Producing a small order of high quality products will not have the same production efficiency under such a setup which will mean inferior production quality at a higher price in the end.

Are They Responsive?

Usually, you will receive a reply within 24 hours. If not, then use the time between the time you sent your RFQ and get a reply as part of your evaluation: a fast replying manufacturer may be a much better partner than one which is slow to respond, although that will depend on other factors as well.

When you get a reply from factory, read the message carefully, and find out which manufacturers have really digested the details of your request. Those are the ones to start up a conversation with first of all.

After talking to a factory representative you will get a clear idea of their professionalism, and particularly whether they can handle your project.

A major red flag is that if you see that a manufacturer’s representative didn’t read your product request word by word at the beginning. I can guarantee they will also handle your product with the same attitude and then you will be on the road to hell . I can’t emphasize that enough.

Quality Conversation

Looking for a good factory is same as looking for a good match on Tinder. How you decide if you want to go out with this man/ woman after swiping that image? Talk to them!

The key criterion for finding your dream manufacturer comes down to the quality of people you will be working with.

A manufacturer’s quality is, ultimately, not defined by fancy buildings or efficient machines.

A factory is working with “people”, yes, real people! Therefore, conversation will tell you if they are a good match for you.

Factory Support is More Important Than Factory Size

‘When eating an elephant take one bite at a time’ so the saying goes. Great businesses always start out small and it takes time to grow big. You only get there one bite at a time.

So for a smaller business, your first order should be small. It’s more expensive because you have less buying power to negotiate with a manufacturer.

The answer is find a small manufacturer since they are, structurally, in the same position as you.

They want to grow their business in the same you do, so you can get a higher priority and better support in factory’s schedule.

I understand that large factories with their impressive premises looks persuasive and appealing to you.

However a big factory usually requests a high MOQ and accompanying sky-high surcharge .

Another point is that they have other bigger customers than you, higher paying customers who will naturally take priority—your production may well be delayed.

It will certainly not be as important for that manufacturer as the larger customer’s production.

Because small factories usually have fewer customers than large factories, you will be top priority for problem solving.

You’ll probably also get a smaller MOQ because the supply chain they work with may also be smaller, those manufacturers in turn also requiring a lower MOQ.

You will get a shorter sample lead time, and better overall price because the factory’s scale is smaller; thus, overheads are also lower.

All of these elements are crucial when it comes to growing your brand.

For instance, one of my customers is a middle size sports brand. I short listed two factories for them to work with: one factory had 1000 workers, the other 200 workers.

After weighing all aspects I decided to contract the smaller factory on behalf of my client.

However, my client was much keener to work with the larger factory—larger appears to be more ‘reliable’.

But when I compared the price and sample quality from both factories for them, they immediately realized the smaller factory was the way to go.

In the course of working with that factory over 5 years, I was able to grow their business from 200 employees to 800 employees.

And I became the only supplier to the brand for their fashion bag category.

DOCUMENT CHECKING

Careful document examination is absolutely crucial. It is one of the pillars in this whole process. You are on the hunt here for false documentation.

Through this, you learn a company’s registration address, the amount of registered capital, the registration date, and the scope of the business.

It’s very important that you obtain a potential manufacturer’s social credit code.

Once you have this you are able to check if the factory has any sort of a bad record in the National Enterprise Credit Information Public System database.

The only problem is since the whole process is in Chinese, you may need some help to finish this step.

Another way to verify the factory is to ask the factory to show a bank remittance receipt with their company name on it. If the payer’s name is the same as the registered company’s name, then it’s a real company because the bank will verify each payment resource with the company accountant as a standard money laundering and fraud prevention procedure..

Visit the Factory

There is nothing better than actually visiting a factory. It’s a really important step in the whole process.

If you can’t do that, the next best thing is to hire a 3rd party to carry out a factory visit for you.

Ideally they will send you a detailed report so you will not only know a factory’s export business and production capacity, but also how they manage the quality, material control, manufacturing process, in house inspection, testing, technical machine and protective equipment.

Given the extreme difficulties posed by the Covid 19 pandemic, carrying out this crucial task is extremely difficult without the right partner.

Accord Sourcing has decades of experience with this; it’s our specialty.

Download this factory audit report example so you know the exact information you need to obtain from a potential factory.

Better still, get in touch for a free, no-obligation assessment of how we can help you eliminate the risks and the hassles of DIY.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

I’ll update this section periodically when changes occur to any of the procedures or techniques. The biggest change most recently is the new Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) free trade agreement

RCEP was signed into effect on 15 November, 2020, creating one of the world's largest free-trade zones accounting for 45% of the world's population and approximately 30% of global GDP.

RCEP unification of the rules of origin will smooth international supply chain functioning by reducing export costs to member states; it also lowers tariffs between member countries.

For example:

Vietnam will lower import tax from China for fiber/yarn/fabric (HS code # 5208.11.00, #5208.12.00, #5209.11.00, #5209.12.00) from 12% to 1.2%~9% over the next 10 to 20, or 25 years.
China will cancel import tax for Japan on fiber, yarn, and fabric (HS code # 50-60). Textile and apparel tariffs will also be lowered from a range of 5% - 19% to zero.
Japan will lower export duty on textile and apparel to other RCEP member (HS Code # 50-63) from 1.9%~ 12.8% to zero.

Since 2008, Chinese suppliers have expanded their production base south of Asia. With lower tariffs between member countries, we will soon see a China + RCEP manufacturing rim.

A way into Asia for European or US brands

If a brand was to have a bag, for example, produced in a RCEP member’s factory or to the point where it could prove that at least 40% originated in a RCEP member country, that brand will receive preferential treatment with the RCEP region, a great boost for any brand wishing to rapidly expand their Asia business.

Accord sources in China, Cambodia and Myanmar, and can customize the most effective supply chain for customers’ needs.

CONCLUSION

So, how do you find a manufacturer in China? Basically 3 ways:

1. Trade Fairs: will always be around (once we are through this pandemic).

2. The internet : I’ve outlined the RFQ procedure to help you fast-track identifying potential factory partners on the premier sourcing platform, Alibaba.

3. Sourcing Agent: Find a partner to walk you through the mine-field of finding the right manufacturer.

You’ll avoid the pain of wasted time and wasted money—this is the best way to find a manufacturer hands down! Click here and we’ll show you how.

accordsourcing

Circular Design: The Innovation Set to Transform the Fashion Industry

Circular Design

The transformation starts here

The Future of Sustainable Fashion

Eco-friendly and Recycled Materials

The future of Sustainable Fashion

Product Development: DIY inhouse or outsource to specialists?

Product Development: Perform inhouse or outsource to specialists?

Embracing Circular Design in soft goods & fashion accessories

Embracing Circular Design

The sustainable path for Designers and Brands

Bags, Backpacks & Fashion Accessory Production - From Concept to Creation

Production of bags, backpacks, soft goods & fashion accessories

From Concept to Creation

How to create a Tech Pack for soft goods & fashion accessories

How to create a Tech Pack for soft goods

A comprehensive guide.

Why use a sourcing company, instead of dealing direct with the factory?

BENEFITS OF GOING FACTORY DIRECT

How to Go Direct

DOWNSIDE OF DEALING DIRECTLY WITH THE FACTORY

Time Sink

No Backup

One factory is not enough

THE SOURCING COMPANY ADVANTAGE

Save Big on Costs

Backup Plans!

LEVERAGE PRICE NEGOTIATION (WALMART'S SECRET WEAPON)

Find a Smaller Factory

True Quality Control

Less Communication Hassles

Same Time Zone

CONCLUSION

How to Find a Manufacturer in China

Despite what you may have heard, China is still the #1 place to get your product manufactured—whatever product you have in mind.

WHY CHINA?

High End vs Low End (and in-between)

Mature Infrastructure

Supply Chain Networking

All Industries Are Covered

So, Why China?

TRADE FAIRS

Trade Fairs Are Great — But...

USING ALIBABA TO FIND A MANUFACTURER IN CHINA

Manufacturers — No Resellers or Trading Companies

Making the (Tinder) Shortlist

HERE’S HOW YOU FIND A MANUFACTURER IN CHINA—FAST

Send a Request for Quote (RFQ)

Details, Details, Details

Target the Customer

Are They Responsive?

Quality Conversation

Factory Support is More Important Than Factory Size

DOCUMENT CHECKING

Visit the Factory

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

A way into Asia for European or US brands

Product Development:
Perform inhouse or outsource to specialists?