Lacoste is actively advancing sustainability within its supply chain, focusing on efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Through strategic partnerships and the implementation of innovative technology, Lacoste aims to minimise environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency.
During the Drapers Supply Chain Summit, Lacoste’s senior director of merchandising and supply chain, Matt Blackmore, alongside Stuart Greenfield from Advanced Supply Chain Group, discussed sustainability’s pivotal role in modern retail. Their collaborative efforts focus on creating a comprehensive global roadmap that addresses varied environmental challenges.
By the end of this year, Lacoste plans to implement this roadmap, targeting reduction in carbon emissions and packaging waste as a priority. Initiatives to repair and repurpose materials are integral to this strategy.
Product returns pose a significant challenge, particularly in terms of sustainability. Lacoste and Advanced Supply Chain Group advocate for innovative approaches to manage returned items responsibly, ensuring minimal waste.
Stuart Greenfield highlighted how collaborating with charities prevents products from reaching landfills, turning a potential waste stream into a sustainable resource.
Using third-party suppliers like Advanced Supply Chain Group, Lacoste optimises logistics by consolidating stock for multiple brands, reducing transportation emissions and costs.
This approach not only makes supply chain processes more efficient but also aligns with Lacoste’s sustainability goals, emphasising the reduction of carbon footprints through strategic partnerships.
Efforts include ensuring compliance and optimisation of stock through fewer shipments, which significantly lowers the associated carbon emissions.
Technological advancements play a crucial role in Lacoste’s sustainability strategy, particularly through improved inventory and labelling systems.
These systems reduce errors and improve efficiency, eliminating unnecessary manual processes and enhancing operational effectiveness.
The outcome is a more streamlined workflow that contributes to sustainability by reducing waste and resource consumption.
The ongoing focus for Lacoste is to scale current initiatives and explore further innovations in supply chain sustainability, including faster time to market and improved customer service.
Matt Blackmore expressed a commitment to continuous improvement, aspiring to offer enhanced services to both consumers and partners.
The challenges ahead include balancing sustainability efforts with business growth objectives, ensuring long-term viability and competitiveness.
The efforts by Lacoste, supported by Advanced Supply Chain Group, demonstrate significant progress in embedding sustainability within the supply chain.
As these initiatives evolve, they signify a robust commitment to environmental responsibility, setting a benchmark in the fashion industry for sustainable practices.
Lacoste’s journey towards sustainability is a testament to its dedication to responsible business practices.
Through innovative strategies and collaborations, the brand is setting new standards for environmental stewardship within the fashion industry.
