Rethinking Value in the Textile Industry

The fashion and textile industry is in a state of ongoing change, driven by growing demands for transparency, new legislation, and the increasing role of digital tools. These shifts were the focus of the Transformation Talks in Borås and Stockholm, where professionals from across the industry came together to share experiences and explore practical ways forward.  

The events were a collaboration between Scandinavian Mind and Repass. Among the speakers was Sara, founder and CEO of Repass, who contributed to two panels focused on how transparency can support, not complicate, business goals. Her perspective helped shape discussions that were less about abstract ideals and more about real-world approaches to change.  

Across the talks, a clear theme emerged: the need for better collaboration, shared data, and a shift in how we define value. Rather than offering simple answers, the conversations highlighted the challenges and the potential of a more transparent, tech-driven industry.  

Transparency as a Strategic Asset  

Transparency is no longer just a compliance checkbox, but a competitive advantage. Brands like Blåkläder and Didriksons prove that long-term supplier relationships can unlock deep visibility into the supply chain. “We can go deep into the supply chain and coordinate the materials,” said Ann from Blåkläder. With supplier relationships spanning over 30 years, transparency becomes a tool for trust, innovation, and co-investment in sustainability initiatives like renewable energy.  

Traceability vs. Transparency: Knowing vs. Proving  

Having access to information is only part of the equation. The next challenge is verifying it. A key distinction emerged between transparency and traceability. As Sara explained, “Transparency is the information from processes happening. Traceability is about the authenticity of the data that is coming.” While traceability often requires complex infrastructure, transparency can be achieved by capturing and organizing existing data. This is especially critical for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), who may lack the resources for full traceability systems but still want to be responsible.  

Data as a Business Enabler  

Once transparency is in place, data becomes the engine that drives transformation. “The data already exists, but has to be captured and gathered better,” said Sara. Brands are beginning to see data not just as a reporting requirement, but as a strategic asset. Fanny from Didriksons shared how data collection helped reduce emissions at a tier 4 supplier and informed better product planning. “We have started with systems that we integrated a long time ago,” she said, pointing to the value of building on existing infrastructure.  

Digital Product Passports: Giving Garments a Second Life  

One of the most promising tools for activating transparency and data is the Digital Product Passport (DPP). DPPs are emerging as a powerful tool for transparency, circularity, and customer engagement. “DPP gives the garment a ‘soul’ for the second-hand market,” said Linda, highlighting its potential to extend product life and build community. Johan shared how educating suppliers in Asia about DPPs was time-consuming but ultimately valuable: “If the consumer is interested in the information, the salesperson has deep knowledge about the products and added value to the business.” DPPs are not just about compliance; they’re about connection.  

Legislation: A Moving Target and a Motivator  

While brands make internal changes, external forces also shape the landscape, especially legislation. The evolving EU regulatory framework is both a challenge and a catalyst. “The EU legislation seems like a moving target,” said Steffan from GS1 Sweden, referencing the 170+ legislative initiatives stemming from the Green Deal. While some speakers voiced concern about the pace and complexity of regulation, others saw it as a necessary push. “No one is arguing against a green transition,” said Magnus from Swedish Commerce, “but the way of approaching the Green Deal is what the challenges are about.” The consensus? Legislation should drive sustainability without sacrificing profitability.  

Circularity and Scalability  

With data and legislation in place, the next frontier is circularity. Circularity is a shared ambition, but scalability and profitability remain hurdles. “I hope that all the data we work with today… will help us transform into circular business models that are profitable,” said Fanny. From resale to upcycling, brands experiment with new models, but infrastructure and consumer behavior remain barriers. As Hege noted, “Recycling is the lowest part of the circular value chain, upcycling is better.” The goal is to design longevity and reuse from the start.  

Organizational Integration and Change Management  

Transformation isn’t just about tools—it’s about people and processes. Linda pointed out that sustainability teams often lack the budget or authority to implement systemic change: “They just see it as reporting and data is for IT.” True transformation requires breaking down silos and aligning departments—from sourcing to IT to leadership. As Sara put it, “The industry cannot afford to move systems, but needs something that glues the systems together.”  

Consumer Engagement: From Intention to Action  

Even with the right tools and systems, the consumer remains a key part of the puzzle. While consumers express interest in sustainability, their actions often lag. “Consumers say they want to be more sustainable, but act differently,” said Konrad. The challenge is to make sustainability tangible and rewarding. DPPs, QR codes, and after-sales services offer new ways to engage customers, not just at the point of sale but throughout the product’s life. “When you buy from a brand today, you invest in the resale value,” said Johan, pointing to a shift in how consumers perceive long-term value.  

Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision for the Future  

As the talks concluded, speakers shared their hopes for the next 3–5 years. Ann envisioned a world where we consume less and more consciously: “The main problem today is overconsumption… A lot of garments are discarded before they are even worn.” Sara hoped for a future where data is not just information, but “an enabler for better business decisions, creating value throughout the value chain and after-sales.” The message was clear: transformation is not only possible—it’s already underway.  

Listen in on the Transformation  

Transformation Talks offers a valuable space for honest dialogue, practical insights, and shared ambition. From supplier relationships to digital innovation and evolving regulation, the fashion and textile industry is actively rethinking what value means, and how to deliver it more responsibly.  

Want to hear more? These conversations are available as podcast episodes. Listen here: