The digital thread: connecting data across the fashion supply chain  

by | May 1, 2025 | Data Management, Inventory Management, Suppliers

Fashion brands are navigating complex supply chains impacted by rising tariffs, growing concerns about waste and increased demands for sustainability—all while balancing the need to keep up with fast-changing consumer demands.

The key to thriving in this environment: build modern connections with more efficient order processes, stronger real-time data analysis and timely insights. When data is seamlessly connected across the supply chain, you can make smarter decisions, reduce waste and respond quickly to market changes.

Recognizing issues: time for a refresh

For enterprise businesses, any inefficiencies are magnified.

  • Overproduction and waste: Data that is siloed across different systems and partners can lead to overproduction, markdowns and financial losses. If you don’t have accurate information about product performance, you can also produce more than necessary, resulting in waste. Trying to manage a supply chain with disconnected data means missed opportunities for cost savings that could be achieved through better coordination and visibility.
  • Lack of agility: You’re also likely impacted by supply chain disruptions and unpredictability. Without real-time visibility, it’s more challenging to adapt to changes, leading to increased costs and potential compliance issues.

The bottom line: it’s essential to have real-time data and transparency in your supply chain.

Weaving solutions: the digital thread

To address these visibility and waste issues, you need to better manage the “digital thread” of information that connects your data. Consider upgrading your data management with modern, integrated solutions that support agility and provide a comprehensive view of your supply chain.

You can automate your data exchange with a fulfillment solution that connects product, order, ship and invoice data across all partners in real-time, while analytics solutions provide insights and timely reporting to enable you to stay ahead of the curve.

By creating a seamless flow of information, you ensure that everyone in the supply chain has access to the same data, enabling better coordination and decision-making.

Reaping rewards: ahead of the trends

The benefits of building an intentional, connected digital thread include:

  • More informed decisions: Real-time data enables you to predict demand more accurately and make informed decisions about how to manage inventory. It helps drive your speed to market, reduce operational costs and stay compliant with changing trade policies to ensure smooth operations.
  • Reduced waste: With accurate data and better forecasting, you can produce just the right number of products, minimize excess inventory and reduce environmental impact.
  • Faster decisions: With real-time insights, you can respond quickly to market changes, customer demands and potential disruptions to stay competitive.

The overall impact is a more resilient, sustainable and profitable supply chain. You can achieve greater efficiency, reduce costs and meet the growing demand for sustainability.

Supply chain agility: always in style

By recognizing and transforming your digital thread with modern data exchange and analytics tools, you can become more agile, sustainable and profitable.

SPS Commerce is ready to be your partner in building a better supply chain, with our team of experts offering the people, processes and technology to streamline your operations and future-proof your supply chain to maximize your success.

Lindsey Merchant

SPS Commerce
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