C&A, a European fashion retailer, has partnered with Coats Digital to enhance transparency and sustainability in its supply chain. Recognizing the importance of a standardized costing and sourcing methodology among its suppliers, C&A turned to Coats Digital's GSDCost solution. This collaboration signifies C&A's proactive approach to improving its supply chain operations and reinforcing its strong commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
Coats Digital explains that by establishing international standard time benchmarks based on accurate Standard Minute Values (SMVs), C&A's vendor partners will be able to provide precise "Costs to Make" quotations. This standardized language rooted in the scientific analysis will facilitate more accurate cost predictions, fact-based negotiations, and an efficient manufacturing process. Ultimately, it advances C&A's corporate social responsibility commitments across its global supply chain.
C&A’s Commitment to Transparency and Sustainability in its Supply Chain
Nitin Kumar, lead technical cost at C&A Sourcing Asia, states that as a member of the ACT group, C&A is continuously improving its supply chain to be more transparent, responsible, and sustainable. The implementation of GSDCost brings transparency to the sourcing process through a standardized time management methodology and supports sustainable growth in collaboration with supply partners.
Liv Zhang, Sales Director (Greater China) at Coats Digital, highlights that GSDCost enables C&A to align "Cost to Make" data (CM) throughout its supply chain network, streamlining cost negotiations and fostering greater data sharing and business intelligence. By implementing a standardized language for establishing accurate benchmarks related to production methods, times, and costs, C&A breaks down communication barriers between the brand and its vendors.
This paves the way for a transparent, connected, and profitable way of doing business while ensuring sustainability and fair working practices, meeting the demands of an increasingly discerning consumer. Coats Digital expresses its commitment to closely supporting C&A in seamlessly implementing GSDCost across its supply chain partners, thereby future-proofing its operations.
How C&A Demonstrates its Dedication to Sustainability
The company's dedication to sustainability is evident through its pursuit of various certifications and participation in industry initiatives. One of C&A's key priorities is the use of sustainable materials in its products. The company has obtained the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification for its organic cotton offerings, ensuring the use of environmentally friendly production processes and social criteria. By sourcing a significant portion of its cotton from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) certified farmers, C&A supports more sustainable practices in cotton farming.
Furthermore, C&A actively engages in responsible forest management by sourcing Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood and paper products. This certification guarantees that the company's sourcing practices prioritize environmental, social, and economic benefits. C&A's commitment to sustainable chemistry is evident through its participation in the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) program. By adhering to the ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL), C&A promotes safer chemical management and aims to eliminate the release of hazardous substances in the textile and footwear industry.
The company also embraces the concept of a circular economy through its collaboration with the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. By obtaining Cradle to Cradle Certification, C&A ensures that its products adhere to strict criteria for material health, material reutilization, renewable energy, water stewardship, and social fairness.