**London**: Ritesh Khandelwal, Co-Founder of ZYOD, discusses the revolutionary impact of AI and innovative materials in the apparel industry. He highlights the need for brands to adapt to changing consumer preferences and embrace sustainable practices to remain competitive in the evolving fashion landscape.
The apparel manufacturing industry is undergoing significant transformations, driven by the imperative to integrate science and technology within its processes. In conversation with the Free Press Journal, Ritesh Khandelwal, Co-Founder of ZYOD, elaborated on how advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative materials are shaping a more sustainable and efficient future in fashion.
Khandelwal emphasised that the integration of these technologies is not merely beneficial but essential for maintaining competitiveness in an industry characterised by rapidly shifting consumer preferences. “As the fashion industry continues to evolve, brands must adapt to rapidly changing consumer preferences and global trends, or the risk of being left behind is high,” he stated. This sentiment reflects the urgent need for brands to embrace technological advancements to enhance production efficiency, product quality, and sustainability.
At ZYOD, a technology-centric approach is central to their operations. The company utilises AI-driven trend forecasting and smart manufacturing techniques to optimise production cycles, which significantly reduces waste and ensures high precision in meeting consumer needs. Khandelwal noted, “We have a tech-first approach that ensures faster turnarounds, lower waste, and higher precision while catering to consumer preferences and keeping it as a top-notch priority.” This proactive strategy is indicative of a broader shift towards sustainability within the fashion industry.
The concept of transitioning from fast fashion to more responsible, circular models is also gaining traction, thanks in part to scientific breakthroughs. Khandelwal talked about how ZYOD is leveraging technology to create garments that are not only durable but eco-friendly, with materials designed to self-repair, biodegrade, or be upcycled. This commitment to innovation aligns with industry demands for greater transparency in fashion supply chains.
Automation plays a crucial role at ZYOD, where AI-driven design forecasting informs product development. This data analysis allows for understanding consumer behaviour and sales trends, which helps in producing collections that align with market demands. Khandelwal explained, “With Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) as low as 100 units, brands gain the flexibility to test designs and respond instantly to market shifts without the risk of surplus stock or dead stock.” Such practices streamline the manufacturing process, contributing to a reduction in manual labour and facilitating a just-in-time manufacturing model.
Looking towards the future, Khandelwal believes that the fashion industry is on the cusp of a revolution. The incorporation of advanced manufacturing processes and eco-friendly materials suggests a fundamental shift from traditional production practices. “From waiting for global trends to seep into respective countries to using AI to predict upcoming trends, fashion is evolving towards a more sustainable and tech-driven future,” he explained. This outlook underscores a transition that could reshape not only how apparel is produced but also the overall relationship between fashion brands and their environmental impact.
ZYOD’s initiatives to combat the fashion industry’s carbon footprint illustrate a meaningful commitment to sustainability. By employing science-driven solutions and cutting-edge technology, the company aims to mitigate environmental challenges from the outset of the manufacturing process. Khandelwal highlighted the importance of accurate predictions regarding upcoming trends, stating that such foresight helps in reducing overproduction and alleviates the pressures associated with excess inventory.
As the apparel manufacturing sector navigates the complexities of modern consumer demands and sustainability objectives, companies like ZYOD are leading the charge towards a future where technology and responsible practices are paramount.
Source: Noah Wire Services
