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“We all operate realising that we are dealing with systemic problems. The way the fashion industry is organised as dictated by the predominant business models, there is continuous and harsh price pressure. In this context, changes to purchasing practices will not suddenly materialise; it requires a combination of a change of business models and legislative pressure. STTI works on both”

In an interview with FASHIONUNITED, Matthijs Crietee, Secretary General of the International Apparel Federation (IAF), shares insights into STTI's impactful journey.

STTI's achievements begen with a white paper published in 2021, introducing "commercial compliance" and emphasising reciprocal relationships in the supply chain. Collaborating with multi-stakeholder initiatives like Fair Wear Foundation, ETI, and the German Partnership for Sustainable Textiles, a significant portion of the white paper was included in the influential "Common Framework for Responsible Purchasing Practices" and contributed to the Sustainable Apparel Coalition’s Brand Retail Module (BRM). Additionally, STTI played a vital role in the development of the Supplier Model Contract Clauses with the Responsible Contracting Project (RCP) to promote fair contract clauses, addressing the unbalanced relationship between the buying and supplying side.

Actively supporting European corporate sustainability due diligence legislation, STTI continually underscores the crucial role of purchasing practices. In addressing systemic challenges, the initiative aims to develop an infrastructure for assessing and influencing buyers' practices.

Looking ahead, future activities include co-publishing a study on "full supply chain profitability," piloting Supplier Contract Clauses, implementing training programs, supporting grievance mechanisms, and representing manufacturers’ voices in different international and national dialogues to promote responsible purchasing practices in the textile and garment industry.