GEMM NIFT CE
Q 1: The Strategic Sourcing Question ( 15-20 minute presentation and a 500-word response)
"You are the Head of Sourcing for a new international fashion brand launching in India. Your brand needs to source two distinct fabric lines:
Line A: High-volume, cost-competitive, solid-color cotton knitwear for a basic t-shirt range.
Line B: Premium, high-quality wool-blend suiting fabric for a formal menswear collection.
Based on your research, answer the following:
Which specific sourcing hub in India would you recommend for Line A, and which for Line B? Justify your choices based on the regional specializations you've learned.
For Line B, would you prefer to work with a vertically integrated manufacturer or a horizontally sourced network of specialists? Explain your reasoning, considering the advantages of quality control and lead times.
Identify one specific manufacturer from the list that could be a potential supplier for each line. For Line B, briefly explain why their history and business model make them a suitable partner."
Q 2: The Case Study Analysis Question (45-60 minute group discussion and a detailed written report)
"Read the history and details of the following manufacturers: Arvind Ltd., Raymond, Vardhman Textiles, and OCM (Donear Group).
Based on their profiles and your understanding of India's textile hubs, address the following:
Compare and contrast the business models of Raymond and Vardhman Textiles. Both are considered 'vertically integrated,' but how does their product specialization (wool suiting vs. cotton/knits) reflect their different approaches to vertical integration?
Analyze the resilience of traditional manufacturers like Arvind Ltd. How has their ability to adapt (e.g., launching Flying Machine, diversifying into retail and specialty materials) helped them remain relevant in a highly competitive global market?
Strategic Recommendation: OCM, after its acquisition by the Donear Group, is looking to expand its sourcing network. Based on your research, which South Indian hub would you recommend they establish a new sourcing or finishing partnership with? Why would this hub's specialization complement OCM's core strength in wool-blended fabrics from North India?"
Q 3: The Critical Thinking Question (Individual homework assignment)
"India's textile industry is often described as having a 'dual structure'—a mix of massive, modern, vertically integrated mills and smaller, regional, horizontally networked craft hubs.
Provide one example of a North Indian hub and one example of a South Indian hub that represent the 'regional craft/networked' model. What are their specializations?
Explain the difference between 'vertical' and 'horizontal' sourcing in your own words, giving one advantage of each.
In your opinion, which model (vertical or horizontal) offers a better advantage for ensuring environmental sustainability in textile production? Use the example of Arvind Ltd. or Raymond to support your argument (hint: consider the level of control over processes like dyeing and finishing)."
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