How brands and retailers can support their manufacturing partners amid political transition in Bangladesh

The events of the past few weeks have shone the global spotlight on Bangladesh. Everybody, it would seem, has something to say about our country and its ongoing political developments.

I have tried to remain positive as, I believe, we all should. This is no time for self-pity.

One real bright spot has been the ongoing public support of the international fashion industry. This includes expressions of support from apparel trade groups, industry NGOs, labour rights bodies and other stakeholders. There is so much goodwill towards Bangladesh and one of the key messages I keep hearing is that fashion brands should stand by suppliers.

But how can they do that? What practical steps can brands take to support their manufacturing partners in Bangladesh?

Here are some strategies I believe brands can implement to support their suppliers during the coming weeks and months:

1. Engage in Open Dialogue

Open communication is the foundation of any successful partnership. For fashion brands, maintaining an ongoing dialogue with their suppliers in Bangladesh is essential to understanding the unique challenges and needs they have been facing. This will involve regular check-ins, conversations, and collaborative problem-solving. By maintaining a transparent relationship, brands can build trust and demonstrate their commitment to working together through the current instability.

Such engagement allows brands to gain insights into operational hurdles and work collaboratively to find such as disruptions in raw material supply or workforce shortages, solutions. It also creates an opportunity for suppliers to voice their concerns and suggest ideas as to how these might be overcome. This mutual exchange of information and support helps both parties align their goals and expectations, ultimately strengthening the supply chain.

?2. Extend Production Deadlines and Avoid Penalizing Delays

One of the most practical ways fashion brands can support their suppliers is by extending production deadlines. Flexibility in scheduling is crucial when suppliers are dealing with disruptions caused by factors beyond their control, such as political instability. Extending deadlines provides suppliers with the breathing room they need to adapt to changing circumstances without compromising the quality of their work.

Brands should be proactive in assessing the situation on the ground and adjusting timelines accordingly. This flexibility not only reduces stress for suppliers but also allows them to manage their resources more effectively. By accommodating suppliers’ needs, brands can help maintain a steady workflow and ensure production continues smoothly.

Empathy and understanding are vital during challenging periods. Fashion brands should demonstrate these qualities by avoiding penalties for delays which, in many instances, have been unavoidable. Instead of imposing fines or cancelling orders due to late deliveries, brands should show compassion. By refraining from punitive measures, brands can build stronger, more resilient relationships with their suppliers.

3. Be Patient and Bear With Us

We now have a new leader in place. But we need international stakeholders to bear with us until the administration gets the momentum and the turmoil settles. Muhammad Yunus has been sworn in as interim leader of Bangladesh and all signs are that he has the respect of the international community and will be successful in unifying the country and bringing consensus. But this will not happen overnight and bridges still need to be built.

I would ask fashion buyers are patient and understand the delicate nature of the current situation. Our country is still healing.

4. Make Public Statements In Support of Suppliers

H&M has already made a public statement expressing support for its Bangladeshi suppliers. So has Cascale the global apparel industry group. These statements are invaluable. They foster confidence in Bangladesh, reassuring investors that blue chip companies are continuing to do business with our supply chain. I hope further organizations, including major fashion brands sourcing from Bangladesh, will publicly reaffirm their commitment to our manufacturers.

These statements might not seem like much to some, but they send a vital message to an international audience and are nearly always picked up by media outlets.

5. Continue Placing Orders and Make Timely Payments

A steady flow of orders is essential for the financial well-being of suppliers. This is especially so as we enter the run-up to the vital Christmas order season. During the recent instability, it could be tempting for brands to reduce orders or shift production elsewhere. However, continuing to place orders with suppliers in Bangladesh provides them with the consistent work they need to stay afloat.

Likewise, ensuring timely payments for orders is another critical way that fashion brands can support their suppliers at the present time. Cash flow is always a significant concern for suppliers. Late payments will only exacerbate financial strain, leading to difficulties in meeting payroll, purchasing materials, or maintaining operations.

Fashion brands should prioritize prompt payment to help suppliers manage their financial stability. This commitment can be further reinforced by exploring options such as advance payments or favorable credit terms. By providing financial security, brands ensure garment workers remain in work and are paid in a timely manner.

All of these strategies will only help suppliers navigate the current period but also reinforce the brand’s reputation as a responsible and supportive business partner.

This is very much a win-win.

Mostafiz Uddin is the managing director of Denim Expert Limited. He is also the founder and CEO of Bangladesh Denim Expo and Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE).

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