New brand to ensure social and quality standards compliance

Singapore – Buyers purchasing from the newly launched Apparel Singapore brand can expect an integrated supply chain solution from design to distribution from manufacturers under the brand, as well as the assurance that end products adhere to strict quality, social and environmental standards.

The Apparel Singapore brand was created by the Textile and Fashion federation (TaFf) with support from International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and SPRING Singapore. The member companies are manufacturers in the industry with proven track records and manufacturing operations in more than two locations in Asia.

For a start, nine manufacturing companies will represent Singapore as brand ambassadors. These companies are Asia Garment Manufacturer, Clovertex, Ghim Li Global, Gimmill Industrial, Lee Yin Knitting, Ocean Sky, SL Global, Teo Garments and Bodynits, who produce apparel for global brand names including Gap, Esprit, Nike, Adidas and Macy's.

TaFf said the brand will help buyers retain peace of mind when sourcing, as member companies are compliant with international standards of quality, and adhere to strict social and environmental regulations.

"The best kept secret of the apparel industry is that our manufacturers are already well-established and have been producing clothes for several of the largest and most reputable global brand names out there," said Benny Pua, president of TaFf. "The key to their success is the ‘Managed by Singapore' trademark, delivering results with international standards and quality, while abiding to strict social and environmental compliances."

TaFf said the launch of the brand would also provide procurement professionals with an integrated outsourcing supply chain solution, product capability and innovation, quicker turnaround time being closer to market as well as greater IP protection.

"At Macy's we are glad that we've been able to rely on our Singapore partners throughout the buying process, from design concept to product development and distribution," said Elaine Pang, general manager and buyer of Macy's Merchandising Group. "I think what buyers also look for are customised services and uncompromised quality. The manufacturers we work with have manufacturing bases with good geographical spread, and that truly reduces our worries with regard to getting fast support and minimising our trade barrier risks."

TaFf said the Singapore branding will open more opportunities for the industry. In spite of this, the sector continues to face challenges in rising costs and the inability to solve this due to the restrictions on importing lower-cost labour; competition from other low-cost countries which are catching up to Singapore in terms of political and economic stability as well as the "cultural advantage" of countries like Hong Kong and Taiwan which are perceived as more fashion-forward.