Fabric sourcing 101

abric sourcing is the process of identifying fabric suppliers to meet the raw material requirements of your business. It also involves implementing solutions to manage the delivery and the supply chain efficiently, getting the required materials on time, and sourcing fabrics within a predetermined budget. To create an effective fabric sourcing strategy, you must understand the different types of suppliers you can choose from. 

Types of fabric suppliers to handle your sourcing requirements 

Fabric suppliers can belong to any of the following categories.  

• Fabric mills and factories 

Fabric mills and factories meet customized fabric requirements at cost-effective rates. However, there will typically be strict minimum order requirements in place.

• Converters and jobbers

Next in the supply chain are converters, companies that transform unfinished materials from mills into sellable fabrics. Jobbers sell limited stocks left over from converters.  

• Trade shows 

Trade shows allow fashion brands to shop around for different fabrics as well as different sources under a single roof.  

• Online suppliers

For businesses that are keen on embracing e-procurement, sourcing fabrics online is an excellent alternative. It’s future-proof, economical and easier to track and manage.

4 key things to look for when you are sourcing fabrics for your business 

Whichever kind of fabric supplier you decide to partner with, it is crucial to check the following criteria to make informed and prudent fabric procurement decisions. 

• Affordability 

While quality is certainly vital, it is also necessary to choose a supplier whose cost metrics align with your budget. Overspending could quickly lead to a cash crunch across your supply chain.

• Availability 

Sourcing fabrics in bulk at short notice may often be impossible. To ensure consistency in the availability of the desired fabrics, you need to choose suppliers who support bulk purchases.  

• Functionality 

The fabrics you procure must also be tested for functionality to ensure the clothing or accessory turns out as planned. Purchasing samples before ordering in bulk can help here. 

• Sustainability 

Sustainability in fabric sourcing is an essential box to check. It helps future-proof your procurement process and helps you meet any ESG criteria that may be in place.  

Want to upgrade your sourcing strategy? Here’s an idea! 

Managing multiple vendors and suppliers can be quite the challenge for businesses today. Steer clear of this roadblock by choosing Moglix fashion to handle all your business requirements comprehensively, from design to delivery. With end-to-end solutions that include raw material procurement, brand collaborations, quality checks and an extensive network of suppliers, you stand to gain a lot with the Moglix advantage. 

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