H&M launches global supply chain initiative

H&M announced it will be launching a new initiative to provide other retailers access to its global supply chain, in what it says is a bid to “accelerate sustainable change”.

The initiative, entitled Treadler, will begin to offer access to its global supply chain as a service to external companies around the world.

News of the global initiative comes only one day after H&M announced it would be closing its Stoke-on-Trent Warehouse, placing 500 jobs at risk.

According to the BBC, the move may endanger warehouse jobs after XPO Logistics, which runs the Stoke warehouse, confirmed the company plans to open a new warehouse in Milton Keynes later this year. Employees will reportedly be offered a chance to work at the new site. 

The clothing retailer will still go ahead with the new initiative, and said: “New concepts and initiatives are part of H&M Group’s strategy to drive sustainable growth. 

“Treadler will enable its clients to benefit from H&M Group’s expertise, long-term supplier partnerships and strategic sustainability work, thereby helping them to overcome initial business barriers and accelerate sustainable change.”

The retailer said that Treadler will initially work on a smaller scale, providing a service that is “tailored to suit the need of each client, covering all steps from product development to sourcing, production and logistics”.

Gustaf Asp, managing director at Treadler, added: “We see the opportunity to utilise the full potential of H&M Group’s extensive investments and progressive sustainability work by catering to clients’ needs and contributing to driving long-term growth for H&M Group, while driving change in our industry. 

“In discussions with other companies, we have experienced a demand for these kinds of services.”