Redesigning Supply Networks in the Fashion Industry

The Fashion industry is a global industry, where competition is planetary. Nowadays companies have to face the challenges posed by demand unpredictability and adapt to a new competitive environment. Competition from low-wage countries is increasing and consumers’ behaviours are radically changed, being more price sensitive. This research aims at studying Italian fashion companies to: · evaluate new managerial and organizational models that support business development in fashion industry; · examine what variables should be leveraged and what strategies implemented in response to the crisis to remain competitive. Firstly, 16 in-depth case studies have been conducted. Then, a confirmatory survey has been run to test and assess case study findings. Research provides fresh knowledge on fashion industry “successful” business models, by revealing the existence of different clusters of firms that have found alternative ways to compete in the new global context. This research indicates avenues of strategic innovation within the industry.