Fashion MSMEs confronting climate change, COVID-19 and Brexit

17 May 2023

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Authors:

Dr Emmanuel Sirimal Silva, 

Dr Emmanuel Sirimal Silva

Interim Director Fashion Business Research and Reader in Applied Statistics at London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London

Dr Alessandra Vecchi

Dr Alessandra Vecchi

Reader with London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London

This discussion paper presents findings from a study which analysed the impact of climate change, COVID-19, and Brexit on the drivers and factors underlying the supply chain relocation strategies of fashion Micro/Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The study was based on a mixed methods sequential explanatory research design. The quantitative research was followed by the qualitative research. The data collection involved a questionnaire targeting fashion MSMEs in the UK and a focus group with stakeholders

The authors produced a comprehensive list of factors underlying 16 drivers that could potentially impact the relocation of fashion MSMEs. Next, the survey recorded a total of 37 usable responses from UK fashion MSMEs and the findings were complemented with qualitative insights from five stakeholders representing fashion MSMEs.

The report identifies several factors and drivers underlying relocation strategies differentiated by climate change, COVID-19, and Brexit. The authors also hone in on four focal points for policy intervention: costs, environmental and social sustainability, logistics, and risk management.

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Hero Photo by Rio Lecatompessy via Unsplash

Thumbnail photo by Becca McHaffie via Unsplash