This week, TigerTrade partner – The United States Association of Importers of Textiles & Apparel (USA-ITA) hosted an event in New York discussing trade and sourcing developments affecting the apparel and textiles industries. Among the speakers was Soo-Ah Landa, VP of merchandise sourcing for Disney Theme Parks. Landa offered tremendous insight into Disney’s supplier selection process. These qualifications are important for TigerTrade members to know.
Soo-Ah Landa at the USA-ITA Trade and Transportation Conference
Landa outlined Disney’s process for finding quality suppliers. Many of Disney’s important points-of-reference most suppliers already know:
- Product quality
- Delivery process and record
- Factory capacity
- Design support
- Supplier financial health
Beyond these factors – Landa also described environmental responsibility requirements that Disney looks for in manufacturers. Since certifications vary between countries, it is important that you find certifications where you operate that match these qualifications:
1) Environmental Policy
- a steady commitment to eco-policies
- goals towards improving environmental impact
2) Water Usage
- water treatment
- water conservation program
3) Energy Efficiency
- conservation program
- equipment efficiency
- energy source
- factory design
4) Sustainability
- responsible sources for raw materials
- recycling program
5) Carbon Emissions
- goals towards reducing harmful gas emissions
These environmental factors in production will continue to be key for large scale US buyers like Disney. Complying with certifications is very important but also – having programs and goals to reduce your environmental impact appeals to buyers.
We will continue to bring you more information regarding qualifications and certifications.