Fast fashion also has a poor social responsibility reputation with claims of employee exploitation with workers struggling to survive on extremely low pay, suffering appalling working conditions, excessive hours and being denied basic human rights.
Whilst the fast fashion low priced wear once and throw away fashion items continue to be favored by Instagram obsessed teens and price-driven family shoppers seeking quantity over quality there is undoubtedly an environmental and social backlash brewing.
In much the same way that we have seen public backlashes drive change in other industries from disposable cups, to the reduction in the volume of red meat being eaten to the banning of single-use plastic bags I think we will see the same happen in the fashion industry as consumers start to vote with their feet.
Yet fast fashion as a process has much to recommend it—it relies on early identification of customer wants and a quick turnaround process to get these products into the market with data feedback loops ensuring that the correct volume of product is offered to meet customer demand and avoid stock-outs or margin crucifying discounts.
