Above image is Echotex, which is part of the Echo Group , employing over 20,000 workers.
PLACING ENVIRONMENT AND PEOPLE AT THE HEART OF OUR BUSINESS MODEL
Planet
We are continuously taking significant strides to ensure that our operations protect the planet, creating a sustainable and thriving world for all.
people
We are committed to serving and empowering our employees, ensuring continuous investment in the best training and collaborative projects that benefit all.
product
Our product portfolio celebrates creative talent, quality materials and on-time deliveries, driving excellence in economic, environmental and social sectors.
partners
Together with our aligned partners, we are weaving a legacy of environmental stewardship where businesses thrive and collaborate to respect the planet and our people.
PLANET
The fashion industry’s rapid growth has led to significant environmental consequences, contributing to global carbon emissions and water supply depletion.
Today, however, many stakeholders are committed to improving the present to create a better future by adopting sustainable practices that prioritise environmental responsibility.
As a design-to-delivery garment supplier, Echo Sourcing collaborates with multiple factories globally. To ensure environmental responsibility across its diverse supply chain, Echo Sourcing has established a universal environmental standard that all partner factories are required to follow. This standard encompasses key environmental focus areas – environmental management system, energy and water resources, wastewater, chemical management, air emissions, and waste management – primarily addressing global warming and water scarcity.
Recognising that “what cannot be measured cannot be improved,” Echo Sourcing invests in technologies to monitor and optimise energy use, emissions, and water performance across its supply chain. In 2021, the company began implementing advanced technologies to enhance energy efficiency, reduce consumption, and transition to cleaner energy sources, thereby improving environmental performance. Additionally, Echo Sourcing encourages its partner factories to adopt renewable energy solutions, such as installing solar panels, and to invest in highly efficient machinery to replace conventional equipment, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout its global operations.
These environmental practices have been adopted from Echotex, a factory we have built from the ground up with the planet considered in every step of its creation. By leveraging the insights and successes from Echotex, Echo Sourcing ensures that sustainability remains at the core of its operations and partnerships.
PEOPLE
While the garment sector has brought economic benefits to many countries, it also faces significant challenges in terms of working conditions. Low wages are often far from living wage standards, resulting in excessive overtime which leads to high-stress levels, fatigue, and mental health issues.
Echo Sourcing works with factories around the world to ensure that all workers are cared for and paid fairly. We are committed to upholding the highest standards for working conditions across our supply chain. When Echo built the Echotex factory, all considerations were made for worker welfare and wellbeing, setting a benchmark for what we expect from our partner factories. By partnering only with factories that align with our core values and by implementing robust monitoring systems, we aim to safeguard worker well-being and promote fair wages. These practices have been inspired by the principles established at Echotex, where ensuring worker welfare has been a foundational priority. Echo Sourcing extends these values globally, striving to create a positive impact on the lives of all workers within our network.
product
The demand for sustainable materials is increasing, but recycled fibers remain a challenge due to their higher price tags and limitations in recycling technologies. Additionally, the production of virgin fossil-based synthetics continues to rise, threatening to undermine the industry’s climate commitments.
Echo Sourcing is committed to replicating best practices in sourcing down the supply chain and advocating for the most sustainable products. We ensure that our global sourcing network aligns with our values of sustainability, quality, and innovation. By leveraging the expertise gained from Echotex, we continue to push boundaries in providing high-quality products without compromising on environmental and social standards.
Our full creative team is based in Camden, London, a location with a rich creative history that inspires our work. The team includes the best graphic and shape designers, supported by an in-house research team dedicated to market insights, trends, and innovation in fabrics and trims. This creative hub enables us to elevate our customers’ brands through thoughtful design and cutting-edge solutions.
PARTNERS
To complement our own operations, Echo Sourcing boasts a global network of partners who share our commitment to sustainable practices. This network expands our customers’ sourcing opportunities while ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality and environmental stewardship. Product stewardship remains central to our sustainability strategy, reflecting our dedication to delivering well made, high-quality, and environmentally responsible products that consumers trust and value.
The fast fashion industry is highly price-sensitive and depends on global demand. Economic downturns or shifts in consumer behaviour towards sustainable and durable fashion pose challenges to many Partners. However, Echo Sourcing views these challenges as opportunities to drive positive change.
At Echo Sourcing, we know that true sustainability comes with a cost. Our commitment to ethical manufacturing and environmental stewardship requires investments in advanced technology, robust infrastructure, and programmes that benefit workers and their communities, in parallel, Echo Sourcing finds the the best cost of goods.
Over the years, we have built a global network of partner factories and clients who we view as strategic, long-term allies in our joint mission for a more sustainable fashion and efficiant production. By fostering mutual understanding and a shared commitment to sustainability, we work hand-in-hand to implement best practices and drive meaningful change across the supply chain. Together, we strive to meet the demands of today’s conscious consumers while ensuring the cost of goods is fairly priced.
None of this is possible without the collaboration and support of our all our partners.
