Sustainable Value Chain Development in the Apparel Industry; Case studies of how Swedish sportswear companies work with sustainability in their value chains

Abstract: Background Sustainability has become a key issue in the apparel industry and sustainable actions are now incorporated into many firms’ strategies. Increased sustainability in business activities calls for developments and changes in existing systems throughout entire value chains and garment life cycles. These efforts involve environmental as well as social and economic sustainability. Many sportswear companies have been driving forces of textile development and sustainability trends in fashion. Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate how Swedish sportswear companies work with sustainable development in their value chains. This concerns what changes they have made, and plan to make, throughout their value chains to become more sustainable. Researchers aim to study footprint reducing efforts, and identify challenges in implementing sustainability efforts. Methodology This thesis is conducted as a qualitative research study designed as multiple case studies with selected Swedish sportswear companies. The empirical material is collected through semistructured interviews with representatives at selected case companies. Results The analysis of theoretical and empirical findings shows that studied companies work actively with sustainable value chain development, and that these efforts are increasing continuously. Environmental, social and economic sustainability issues are all accounted for, but focus is currently directed to environmental aspects. Implemented changes, as well as challenges in implementing these changes, are described.