**London**: Cascale has acquired key assets from the Better Buying Institute, aiming to bolster responsible purchasing practices in the apparel industry. This strategic move integrates BBI’s methodologies to tackle supply chain issues and improve labour conditions, reflecting Cascale’s commitment to fair and accountable practices.
Cascale, the global nonprofit alliance previously known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, has announced a significant acquisition involving key assets of the Better Buying Institute (BBI). This acquisition includes the Better Buying Purchasing Practices Index (BBPPI) and the Better Buying Partnership Index (BBPI), both of which are well-regarded within the industry. The move underscores Cascale’s dedication to improving responsible purchasing practices and advocating for fair and accountable supply chains.
The integration of BBI’s tools and methodologies into Cascale’s existing framework aims to tackle major supply chain issues, particularly addressing unfair purchasing practices. Such problematic behaviours include last-minute changes to orders, delayed payments, and pricing below manufacturing costs, all of which jeopardise the financial stability of manufacturers and negatively impact workers. By incorporating BBI’s resources and retaining its staff, Cascale intends to empower manufacturers to make effective plans, enhance working conditions, and ensure fair wages. This initiative aligns closely with Cascale’s strategic pillar named Support Decent Work for All, which seeks to address systemic labour challenges and promote safe and equitable working conditions across global supply chains.
Colin Browne, CEO of Cascale, commented on the importance of this acquisition, stating, “Incorporating Better Buying’s tools into Cascale is a pivotal step in transforming supply chain relationships. These proven methodologies will enable us to tackle systemic challenges such as unfair purchasing practices, amplify supplier voices, and advance meaningful industry-wide change.” He emphasised that these actions fit seamlessly into Cascale’s mission to create fairer and more equitable supply chains that prioritise both people and the planet.
Dr. Marsha Dickson, the president and co-founder of BBI, highlighted the strategic rationale behind this alignment with Cascale. Speaking about the transition, she stated, “Better Buying Institute’s decision to align with Cascale is a strategic choice to ensure our mission—to improve purchasing practices—can achieve greater scale and impact.” She expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration, affirming that both organisations already share common missions, goals, and a considerable membership base. Dr. Dickson will serve as a consultant during the integration phase to ensure the smooth transition of BBI’s methodologies into Cascale’s operations.
Anant Ahuja, director of ESG and sustainability at Shahi Exports and a board member at BBI, remarked that this transition is a crucial opportunity to enhance accountability within the apparel value chain. He noted that fostering greater alignment between brands and manufacturers is essential for promoting responsible purchasing practices and advancing sustainability in the fashion industry.
Fiona Sadler, a Cascale board director and global head of responsible sourcing at Marks & Spencer, added that this milestone emphasises Cascale’s role in uniting stakeholders and driving accountability across the industry. She stated, “Cascale’s global reach and resources provide a powerful platform to scale the impact of Better Buying tools, ensuring their reach extends further than before.” Sadler further explained that the integration of these methodologies would strengthen supplier relationships and improve purchasing practices, ultimately leading to tangible improvements in labour conditions and environmental performance.
Alexander Kohnstamm, executive director at Fair Wear, expressed support for Cascale’s investment in the future of Better Buying, underscoring the importance of creating a robust ecosystem of approaches to promote equitable partnerships between brands and suppliers. Kohnstamm emphasised that this is vital for enhancing working conditions for individuals who contribute to the fashion industry.
As the transition unfolds, Cascale is committed to maintaining data protection and ensuring continuity throughout the integration process. Suppliers will retain the anonymity and security of their contributions, as current safeguards will remain fully effective. Importantly, users of BBI tools and members of Cascale should expect no immediate changes to their subscriptions or access during this transition period.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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