Corporate Brands understand the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability throughout their supply chains. This article explores the supply chain traceability process and the due diligence which is to be considered by any corporate uniform manufacturers or suppliers.
1. Determine Risk by Product and Country
Corporate uniform manufacturers need to conduct thorough research and analysis to determine the potential risks associated with their products and the countries they operate in. This includes identifying potential human rights violations, labour issues, environmental concerns, and regulatory compliance challenges. By identifying and understanding these risks, companies can take proactive measures to address them effectively.
For example, if a uniform manufacturing company sources cotton from a country known for child labour, they need to have detailed risk assessment procedures in place to mitigate the impact of such practices. This could involve establishing strict supplier code of conduct policies, conducting regular audits, and even considering alternative sourcing options if necessary.
2. Identify and Maintain Full Upstream Supply Chain Mapping
To ensure traceability, it is crucial for uniform suppliers and manufacturers to have a clear picture of their entire upstream supply chain. This involves identifying and mapping out all suppliers, subcontractors, and raw material sources. By knowing where each component of the supply chain originates, companies can effectively track and monitor the journey of their products from inception to delivery.
Maintaining an up-to-date supply chain mapping system is essential as it allows companies to address any potential risks or issues promptly. It also enables them to demonstrate transparency and accountability to their corporate brand customers.
3. Communicate Traceability Policy or Chain of Custody Standard
To ensure consistency and alignment across the supply chain, corporate uniform suppliers or manufacturers should clearly communicate their traceability policy or chain of custody standards to all stakeholders. This includes suppliers, subcontractors, employees, and other relevant parties involved in the manufacturing process.
By establishing a well-defined traceability policy, companies create a common understanding of expectations and requirements, ensuring that everyone involved in the supply chain is working towards the same objectives. This policy should outline the due diligence measures, compliance procedures, and quality control checks that need to be followed at each stage of the supply chain.
Furthermore, uniform apparel companies should provide training and resources to their supply chain partners to help them understand and implement the traceability policy effectively. Clear and consistent communication is crucial in ensuring that all parties involved are aware of their responsibilities and adhere to the required standards.
4. Due Diligence Checks and Controls
Effective due diligence checks and controls play a vital role in supply chain traceability assurance. This involves implementing a robust system to verify the compliance and ethical practices of suppliers and subcontractors.
For example, custom uniform manufacturing companies can conduct regular supplier audits to ensure that their suppliers meet the required standards. Audits can assess factors such as working conditions, wages, child labour, and environmental practices. Additionally, companies should review certifications and documentation provided by suppliers to confirm the validity and accuracy of their claims.
Implementing technological solutions like track-and-trace systems can also enhance due diligence checks. These systems use unique identifiers, such as barcodes or RFID tags, to track and monitor products throughout their supply chain journey. This allows companies to trace the origin of each component and verify compliance with their traceability policy.
Regular monitoring and evaluation of the supply chain can help identify any gaps or areas for improvement. By collecting and analysing data related to supplier performance, companies can take proactive measures to address any non-compliance issues promptly. This could involve providing training and support to suppliers, renegotiating contracts, or even considering alternative sources if necessary.
Sewing it all together
The process begins with identifying the potential risks, visually seeing each component of the supply chain, establishing a standard which is shared with all suppliers. Traceability isn't just a theoretical concept - It requires checks and controls, spot audits and continuous improvements. The end product is building Trust and protecting Brands.
Contact us today to learn more about the systems we have in place and some of our international partners such as
Custom Made Uniforms by Creative Identity carefully manage our supply chains with the help of international partners such as Intertex. To learn more about our custom uniform design and manufacturing services, please enquire now.