On 17th September a cohort of Assistant Buyers and Senior Buying Admin Assistants from River Island attended the Factory Uncovered workshop.
The aim was to teach the group how a UK garment manufacturer really operates and techniques and insights into what to look for on factory visits and how to communicate with their suppliers.
The four-hour workshop commenced with a review of the garment life cycle, what makes the factory fully compliant, audits were explained and how we ethically manufacturer up to 15,000 units a week.
Production Director Caroline then took the group onto the factory floor and explained each process from cutting the fabric, bundles, different machine operations and how long it really takes to make the garment, finishing, pressing, packing and out for delivery.
Following the review of the factory floor, Senior Pattern Cutter Claire explained the design process, 3D fits and the implications buyers’ comments make to the process.
Other areas including standard minutes, critical path and costings.
The feedback was fantastic with all participants rating everything 10/10!
Comments included:
‘An understanding from a supplier’s side in many different aspects such as costings, garment considerations and lead times. Coming from a knitwear department this was a huge insight into UK manufacturing. Lots has changed since my visit years ago with the FRA and it was great to see the new developments!’ Rebecca, Assistant Buyer
‘I have learnt about the future of fitting and minimising samples and time with sealing, and sustainable printing’ Chloe, SBAA
‘I have learnt about the production process, implications of the late approvals, pattern cutting – 3D fits were really interesting. Really informative and friendly!’ Alicia, SBAA
‘So much about production and implications of decisions, Thank you!’ Francesca, Assistant Buyer
We looking forward to the next workshop with River Island taking place on 1st October.