Mass customization in the fashion and apparel industry falls between two extremes: on one end, highly personalized designs tailored to individual needs, and on the other, standardized production aimed at efficiency and profitability. Through a qualitative survey, this article explores how hybrid customization production models can bridge this gap by catering to specific consumer demands while maintaining operational flexibility. The findings suggest that these models enable a two-way interaction between brands and consumers, allowing for continuous adjustments to better meet individual preferences. However, they also place pressure on value chains, particularly in areas such as human resource management, material procurement, and production planning. A conceptual framework specific to the fashion industry is introduced to highlight the key challenges to consider, as well as the opportunities from operational, consumer, and sustainability perspectives. The study concludes with recommendations for implementing hybrid models in fashion, such as combining standardized base production with strategic customization options. These approaches have the potential to enhance customer satisfaction, improve profitability, and reduce environmental impact.

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Exploring the Flexibility and Impact of Hybrid Production Models in Mass Customization Within the Fashion and Apparel Industry

  • Anne Léger,
  • Jocelyn Bellemare

摘要

Mass customization in the fashion and apparel industry falls between two extremes: on one end, highly personalized designs tailored to individual needs, and on the other, standardized production aimed at efficiency and profitability. Through a qualitative survey, this article explores how hybrid customization production models can bridge this gap by catering to specific consumer demands while maintaining operational flexibility. The findings suggest that these models enable a two-way interaction between brands and consumers, allowing for continuous adjustments to better meet individual preferences. However, they also place pressure on value chains, particularly in areas such as human resource management, material procurement, and production planning. A conceptual framework specific to the fashion industry is introduced to highlight the key challenges to consider, as well as the opportunities from operational, consumer, and sustainability perspectives. The study concludes with recommendations for implementing hybrid models in fashion, such as combining standardized base production with strategic customization options. These approaches have the potential to enhance customer satisfaction, improve profitability, and reduce environmental impact.