On 22nd September a cohort from the buying, merchandising, buying, sourcing and design teams at George at ASDA attended the Factory Uncovered workshop.
The four hour on site workshop gave the group a unique opportunity to visit an ethical UK garment manufacturer and learn all about the processes from a suppliers point of view. The aim of the session was to offer an insight into why factories operate the way they do and what really makes a factory ethical and compliant.
The session was lead by Production Director Caroline Ash, who has over 40 years’ experience within garment production both in the UK and across the world. Caro began by discussing the current industry, what is occurring with re shoring, effects of Brexit and how we adapted during the pandemic. She explained what the garment life cycle is and audits carried out to ensure a factory follows correct polices and procedures.
The group were the taken onto the factory floor where they could witness garment workers in action and understand how long it really takes to make a garment from the delivery of the fabric right through to pressing, packing and delivery.
Caroline also gave the participants a brief overview of our latest manufacturing technologies including the Kornit digital printer and Zud master cutter and explained what the future looked like in the micro factory concept.
In addition Claire our senior pattern cutting spent time with the group explaining the design process to production and how it becomes 2D to 3D, along with design considerations from both a cost and manufacturing perspective.
With 10 out of 10 from every attendee the feedback was excellent:
‘I have learnt a lot of technical knowledge about the garment manufacturing process and industry awareness regarding suppliers. Really thoroughly enjoyed the visit it was extremely informative. Thank you!’ Ghanika, Buying Advocate
‘I have learnt the whole process from fabric cutting to packaging. Really great to see the more sustainable side of the business and the upcoming technology’ Amy, Merchandising Assistant
‘Very informative and thorough, friendly and answered everything in detail. Brilliant visit thank you!’ Shareena, Merchandising Assistant