A study on the Supply Chain Management Strategies of Structured, Unstructured Apparel Companies and Handloom Sector during Covid-19 and Solutions

Authors

  • Santosh Kumar Tarai National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bhubaneswar
  • K. Shailaja National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bhubaneswar

Abstract

The Pandemic bomb that dropped on the world disrupted every business in ways they would have never imagined of. Every corner of the world has been affected not sparing the MNCs or the MSMEs. The scenario of Indian Textile and Apparel Industries is no different. The major challenges faced by them leading to a disruptive supply chain includes migration of labour forces, constraints in cash flow, sourcing issues, transportation issues and so on. The Apparel Exports Promotion Council (AEPC) has stated that 65% of exports payments has not been completed due to the pandemic which amounts to $2 Billion. The disrupted supply chains due to lockdowns and cancellation of many orders in the domestic apparel retailers have also caused many retails shops to close because of the huge losses incurred. Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyse the different strategies in handling the supply chain for both structured and unstructured apparel retailers that they adopted during this pandemic. By comparing the strategies of companies that have been able to survive with those who couldn’t, the flaws could be understand and improvement methods for the poor performing companies can be suggested. Moreover, the study would also help to understand the critical points of operation controlling which, the companies could improve their survival conditions in the market as well as prepare themselves for the onset of any other disaster conditions in the future. Further, the study would also understand the supply chain management strategies of handloom sectors and come up with plausible solutions for improving their condition. Methodology: The data collection for this study is done through primary and secondary sources. Information regarding company performance, growth statistics before and after pandemic, customer base and losses incurred were posed to the structured, unstructured and handloom businesses. They were asked regarding the strategies they employed to control the operations and the issues they faced in detail. The analysis of the supply chain strategies was done taking into consideration the supporting factors including the reach of the companies, financial backing, help from government, transportation facilities and troubleshooting capabilities. Results: Through this study, a detailed insight is obtained on all the parameters which are important in the developing a strong supply chain for companies that aided in their survival. Moreover, the important factors were identified which led to possible disruptions in the supply chain. The study will also help in coming up with damage control and prevention strategies that could be implemented whenever the company would face unpredicted problems.

Author Biographies

  • Santosh Kumar Tarai, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bhubaneswar
    Dept. of Fashion Management Studies Associate Professor
  • K. Shailaja, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bhubaneswar
    Student of Fashion Management Studies

Downloads

Published

2021-08-31