I have so many thoughts on manufacturing - an integral area of the fashion industry I have been fortunate to work with for multiple decades, indeed the key area that has allowed me to develop my skills, knowledge + respect for makers. After doing a post on IG about the subject, the response inspired us to turn the piece into this journal post.
My words were specifically around manufacturing in China. While negativity related to manufacturing in China has lessened over the years, I do still read the occasional comment that surprises me.
A recent comment we received ....
“I’m so disappointed that you manufacture in China”.
The fashion industry is fond of romanticising making in ‘western’ countries. The suggestion being that this equates to fair labour practises, safe environments + a higher quality product - made by ‘artisans’.
I’ve been fortunate to have worked - and continue to work - with China makers who are skilled, experienced, efficient, collaborative + supportive. Mostly in China + on occasion, India. I’ve also worked with makers in Australia, Portugal, Italy, Kenya, Haiti, the Philippines + Indonesia.
There are excellent + poor work practises everywhere. There are also poor human rights + animal welfare issues everywhere. It isn’t country specific - but nowhere gets as criticised, in my experience, than China.
Over + above reviewing Sedex reports to ensure safety standards are upheld, no child labour is utilised, wages + hours worked abide by local laws - I have always valued visiting manufacturers to see with my own eyes the environments + the making in action.
Some of the best makers I have come across have been in China.
I can’t help but think that racism plays some part in the demonising of China made products. Those who criticise have rarely been involved in manufacturing or have ever visited a factory.
Not in all cases of course - for anyone already feeling their temper rising.
It goes without saying that people are going to hold their opinions as they see fit. All I can tell you is that I am so incredibly grateful to have the support of our China partners - Willie + Lena on a day to day basis, and Stephen with his team at factory level.
The doggos at the factory are also a welcome addition for cuddles + chats.
As we build Sans Beast + our team, I plan to show more of our manufacturing journey. Making a bag is a complex process, with so many moving parts + elements to consider. I find the process tough at times - yet always rewarding to solve problems alongside clever technicians.
Our mailing list is the place to be for more words + deeper thoughts on this (and all things coming up) - you can sign up here.
I’ll be travelling quite a bit over the coming months + will be sharing as much as my busy brain + hands can manage.
CW