As the fashion industry grows more complex, navigating the myriad of certifications required for scaling a brand can feel overwhelming. Twenty years ago, when I just started in the industry, there were only a handful of certifications that people recognized. Today, the industry is flooded with acronyms and standards, each serving a unique purpose. For brands that are scaling or entrepreneurs entering the industry, here are a few essential certifications you should start with:
BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative)
One of the most widely recognized social audit programs in the world.
Focuses on improving social compliance across global supply chains.
Look for facilities with BSCI certification, ideally with a rating of at least C, to ensure adherence to workers' rights, safety standards, and environmental practices.
WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production)
Ensures ethical and responsible manufacturing across the supply chain.
Includes the C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) security audit.
Commonly used by large facilities catering to the North American market.
SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit)
Focuses on responsible supply chain audits.
Two versions: 2-Pillar SMETA (Labor Standards and Health & Safety) and 4-Pillar SMETA (adds Environmental Assessment and Business Ethics).
Preferred by some brands over BSCI due to its comprehensive approach.
Textile Exchange
Founded in 2002 and headquartered in the US, Textile Exchange offers widely recognized sustainable material certifications like GRS, RCS, OCS, and RDS.
Ensures that your suppliers can provide the necessary transaction certificates for sustainable sourcing.
Technologies like FiberTrace and Aware add extra assurance with tracers and blockchain to verify recycled materials.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) (Global Organic Textile Standard)
The most well-known certification for organic textiles.
Ensures the entire manufacturing process adheres to organic standards, not just the use of organic materials.
GOTS-certified products are typically less common and more expensive due to its stringent requirements.
FSC and Canopy
Important for materials derived from wood pulp or related to forestry.
Ensures that man-made cellulose fibers like rayon, viscose, or lyocell are sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Common for paper packaging and hangtags to have FSC certification.
Supplier Communication and Additional Assurance
When communicating with suppliers, ask about their certifications and whether they renew them annually. If a supplier lacks a certification that you require, explore how you might assist them in obtaining it.
For brands seeking additional assurance, consider using tools like the Higg Index, tracer technologies, and in-line production tours. Providing transparency through the publication of actual facility addresses and names on your website can also enhance consumer confidence.
Conclusion
With 50 years of experience, CKG stands as a beacon of sustainable manufacturing, specializing in outerwear and garments. Rooted in a family-owned tradition, our journey reflects the industry's shift towards ethical and innovative practices.
In an industry where wholesalers and retailers increasingly require certifications like GRS or BSCI, starting with the right suppliers can help you scale your business faster and more effectively. These certifications are just a starting point on your journey to scaling your fashion brand. Whether you're assessing your current compliance, exploring new supplier partnerships, or seeking guidance on specific certifications, I'm here to help. Feel free to reach out—I'd love to connect and discuss how we can navigate this complex landscape together.