This series of reports from WTiN provides an in-depth analysis of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies for the textile and apparel supply chain, to deliver a traceability strategy for manufacturing.

Part IV: The textile and apparel industry is limited in some areas by a lack of advanced manufacturing technologies. However, the beginning of this report aims to highlight the full extent of traceability operations networked across the supply chain. This includes information relationships between manufacturers and brands & retailers, and the end consumer. In evaluation of these relationships, the viability for application of currently available traceability methods can be determined. Once the current traceability network in the supply chain is established, various networking models can be analysed based on their ability to support textile manufacturers’ progress. After concluding on the most effective networking model(s) for the textile and apparel supply chain, the practical implementation for traceability technology(s) is analysed in line with the recommended model(s).

In the previous parts of this series we covered the following:

Part I: This report focuses on RFID technology, the most widespread form of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies at present. The history of these technologies and the transition from barcodes to more sophisticated tracking technologies is highlighted. The several types of RFID technology, structured with opposing frequencies, are analysed to identify the most prevalent type that is used in the textile and apparel supply chain, and highlighting the relevant applications in which they are used. The most distinctive developments in RFID technology for the textile and apparel industry are assessed further and the latter part of the report looks at the limitations of RFID technology and the research that is being done to resolve these issues or advance the technology.

Part II: The key focus of this report is on innovative traceability technologies that are newly patented or freshly commercialised, where manufacturers are targeting their technologies at the textile and apparel industry. The technologies analysed in this report are only applicable to specific to certain sub-sectors, based on where you add the technology into the supply chain. Technologies such as origin authenticity, DNA traceability, and microparticle tags, have been technically analysed for compatibility with the textile and apparel supply chain.

Part  III: The key focus of this report is similar to that of Part II; innovative traceability technologies. However, in this report, blockchain and blockchain of things, both considered as full solutions for the supply chain, will be analysed for compatibility with the textile and apparel supply chain.