Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) in Zara
摘要
The fashion industry majorly influenced by Fast fashion (FF) is characterised by high market volatility, low predictability and high impulse purchase (Wang, 2017). This is due to mass production, rapid change in fashion seasons and changes in the structural aspects of the supply chain. Various external competitive forces (Porter, 1980; Gerard and Bruijl, 2019) affect the strategic advantage of any company within the industry with regards to profit and cost. This report addresses the Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) system in Zara fashion. Analysis of the benefits of QRM were made with the use of Strategic Information System as an enabler. Zara’s competitive advantage in relation to costs and risks were identified and recommendations on how to mitigate the identified risks (as they cannot be completely eradicated) were made. These recommendations include considerations for strategic customers, considerations for cultural differences and sustainability related changes.