M&S to trace entire supply chain of its apparels

10 Aug '11

2 min read

Marks and Spencer plc (M&S), a leading British retailer with presence in over 40 countries, has inked a deal with Historic Futures, which specializes in supply chain traceability, as a part of its 'Plan A' sustainability programme.

The agreement will enable M&S to trace each and every raw material source, spinner as well as the textile mill on every single apparel and home furnishing items sold at its stores. For example, the information gathered for a cotton shirt will include the place where the cotton was grown, the yarn was spun, and the fabric was dyed and manufactured, to where it was finally produced.

The deal is the latest among a list of commitments made by the British retailer under its 'Plan A' sustainability programme undertaken to make M&S the first major retailer committed to complete traceability of non-food products. It is aimed at providing greater ability to differentiate M&S products from other retailers.

Full traceability of the M&S apparel and home furnishing products will be carried out through 'String', a specifically designed traceability service of Historic Futures, which will be first implemented on M&S kidswear range this year.

In the midst of fluctuations in raw material prices, and increasing demand for eco-friendly production, the measure would help M&S improve its connections with the entire supply chain and is also expected to garner more trust from the consumers.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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