Recently, the Cape Union Mart Group launched Green Thread Studio, a destination dedicated to progress. As a design led business, Green Thread Studios was born out of one of the Group’s primary core values which speaks to sustainability - a golden thread considered in every aspect of the studio and its day to day running.
“Most of the big retailers are wanting to convert more production locally, especially on the back of a challenging two years which has made everyone aware of the risks of supply chain. To produce locally, businesses need to have the correct set up to support this strategy, and we wanted to set ourselves up for this growth according to best practice.” says Cape Union Mart Group’s executive.
Within the manufacturing division, there is a training facility to train and upskill new talent with the aim of creating employment for these individuals.
The studio also provides the opportunity for buyers and designers to work side-by- side to create and design products without the burden of couriering samples abroad.
The retail Group is also able to develop and evolve its fabrics and fabric prints with a focus on increasing the number of sustainable fabrics used – in line with the key value of sustainability in the Design Centre. There is a minimal waste approach where Fabric off cuts are upcycled to minimise the amount of waste which occurs through sampling.
Their driving ambition is to offer more product lines to retail which can be made locally at a competitive price, with the same quality standards expected from international suppliers, by supporting local communities with job opportunities and many local fabric and trim suppliers.
The target is to grow local production year on year, and the Green Thread Studio is the creative hub to facilitate this growth. To achieve this, there is a massive focus on ensuring the machinists are multi-skilled and able to flex to different commodities as the needs and demands change relating to trend and supply.
The Green Thread Studio will be the core hub of the design and production for a few of the group’s successful retail businesses.
