Chapter 15.2, Problem 2.1RQ

Summary Introduction

To explain: The ways through which customers should be concerned about the happening or operations in the supply chains for clothing they purchase.

Case summary: The given case described the importance of supply chain transparency in the retail sector where consumers are highly concerned about the location and way of production of products that are they going to purchase. The technology of electronic tracking of goods and materials through manufacturing and distribution enables us to get more information about products as compared to paper format or cloth labels. Many companies provide portals that allow customers to view production and manufacturing operations. Several suppliers of company W responded to a public call for larger transparency in labor operations with the installation of web cameras in the building premises from where consumers can easily access the operations of the factory. Moreover, some manufacturers or producers make inspection output and safety sheets publicly available along with whole information about each step of the supply chain. These facilities offered by companies assist them to satisfy customers and make ethical claims.