The fashion industry's linear model — extract, make, use, dispose — is under growing pressure from regulators, investors, and consumers. The circular economy offers an alternative, but transitioning requires rethinking the supply chain from the very beginning.
What Does Circular Mean in Fashion?
Circular fashion encompasses a range of approaches: designing for durability and repairability, using recycled or bio-based materials, implementing take-back schemes, and ultimately creating closed loops where garments are recycled into new fibres at end of life.
The Role of Sourcing Partners
As a sourcing partner, NMZ Associates is in a unique position to support brands on their circular journey. We can identify and qualify suppliers of certified recycled materials, connect brands with manufacturers who have closed-loop dyeing systems, and verify sustainability claims through documentation and third-party testing.
Deadstock and Pre-Consumer Recycled Fabrics
One of the most accessible entry points into circular sourcing is deadstock fabric — surplus material from mills and manufacturers that would otherwise go to landfill. We have access to deadstock inventories across our supplier network.
Starting Points
You do not need to overhaul your entire range at once. Starting with one sustainable collection, one material switch, or one supplier transition is a legitimate first step. Our sustainability team would be delighted to help you identify where circular principles can be integrated into your sourcing strategy.