Epic Group, a global leader in the apparel manufacturing industry, has won four awards in the 2024 Just Style Excellence Awards for its commitment to innovation, investment, sustainable financing, and environmental initiatives.
The Just Style Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the apparel and textile industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry.
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Epic Group has been honored with the Innovation award for its significant emissions reduction efforts recognized by Walmart’s Project Gigaton, the Investment award for strategic expansion and technological advancements in growth markets such as India, the Financing award for securing a substantial sustainability-linked loan package from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Environmental award for its ambitious commitment to decarbonization, including a 65% greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target by 2030.
Driving apparel innovation with green technology
Epic Group’s strides in innovation have been acknowledged due to its significant contributions to Project Gigaton, where it was recognized as a Giga Guru by Walmart for its role in reducing more than 1 gigaton of carbon in collaboration with Walmart and other suppliers.
The company has strategically positioned itself as a leader in the digital transformation of the apparel industry by adopting Apparel Industry 4.0 technologies. This includes the integration of advanced analytics and automation into their production processes, which has not only optimized operations but also reduced waste and improved product quality.
The introduction of a laser-tight inventory management system has enabled real-time stock keeping unit (SKU) tracking and sales responsiveness. The system allows for a more agile response to market demands, minimizing overproduction and excess inventory, which are common issues in the apparel industry. Furthermore, Epic Group’s investment in RFID-based production tracking and worker performance systems highlights its commitment to operational excellence. These systems have improved the accuracy of production data, enabling better decision-making and enhancing the overall efficiency of the supply chain.
Scaling new heights: Expansion in textile manufacturing
Epic Group’s expansion into growth markets, particularly India, is marked by significant capital investment. The company has improved manufacturing efficiency and productivity by investing in advanced technologies and equipment. This includes the adoption of state-of-the-art machinery that not only accelerates production but also ensures higher quality standards and consistency in the products manufactured.
Epic Group has set ambitious corporate performance targets to support its growth trajectory and operational excellence. These targets also include objectives related to sustainability, employee welfare, and innovation. The company’s five-year investment plan focuses on business growth and enhancing market competitiveness, with a particular emphasis on automation and data-driven insights to improve manufacturing processes. This plan is a blueprint for scaling operations while maintaining a commitment to the principles of sustainable and ethical manufacturing.
Trailblazing approach to eco-friendly financing
Epic Group has secured a $100 million debt financing package from the IFC, demonstrating strong financial trust and backing. The IFC’s funding, which includes its first green loan with sustainability-linked features in the manufacturing sector, is structured with three ambitious corporate sustainability performance targets, including reducing greenhouse gas emission intensity, decreasing freshwater intensity, and increasing the representation of women in junior and middle management.
The strategic financing will enable Epic Group to continue its investment in eco-friendly technologies and practices that reduce the environmental impact of its operations.
It is expected to generate over 27,500 direct and indirect jobs in India and Bangladesh, indicating a significant socio-economic impact. Funds are also allocated for investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as upgrading washing and wastewater treatment plants, and for technology investments aimed at lowering energy and water usage. These investments are crucial for the company’s long-term sustainability goals and for minimizing its carbon footprint.
Leading decarbonization efforts in apparel manufacturing
Epic Group has set a target to reduce GHG emissions per garment by 65% by 2030, a testament to its high standard for environmental performance. The company operates an Effluent Treatment Plant that meets ZDHC aspirational discharge standards and reuses 50% of treated effluent. This not only demonstrates Epic Group’s commitment to water conservation but also its role in promoting a circular economy within the industry.
Achieving Leader Level status in the 2023 Cascale Membership validates Epic Group’s commitment to measurable and impactful environmental sustainability. The construction of a new facility in India, designed to the highest sustainability standards, including significant solar energy generation, is a step towards achieving its decarbonization goals. This facility is a model for future developments, showcasing how industrial operations can be designed with sustainability at their core.
“We are incredibly honored to receive awards at the 2024 Just Style Excellence Awards, which reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation in the textile and apparel industry. These accolades are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our global team who strive every day to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable manufacturing. At Epic Group, we believe that integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices is not only essential for environmental stewardship but also a strategic imperative that drives our competitive advantage. As we continue to expand and innovate, our focus remains on delivering high-quality products while significantly reducing our environmental footprint and enhancing the communities where we operate. We are proud to lead by example in our industry and remain committed to achieving our ambitious sustainability goals, thereby creating a more sustainable future for all.” – Ranjan Mahtani, Chairman of Epic Group
Company Profile
For decades, Epic Group has been a key player in the apparel industry, first as a major textile trading house, then as a leader in sourcing quality fabrics, and since 2005 as a state-of-the-art manufacturing group with facilities worldwide. The company has a global footprint across Africa, Asia, UAE, the UK, Jordan, & United States. It has evolved to become a leading manufacturer and trusted supplier to its valued clients, focusing on innovation, state-of-the-art technology & cutting-edge design. Through a passionate and driven team of people, the company enables its global retailers to deliver on their consumer expectations.
Epic Group is a highly driven group that focuses on excellence in execution, quality, and passion. It uses modern technologies, insights, and trends to provide a partnership approach to its relationships. Sustainability is at the heart of what the company does, from the head office to the manufacturing plants. Epic Group employs over 30,000 people.
For more information, visit www.epicgroup.global
Contact Details
9th Floor, EGL Tower,
83 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong,
Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
+852 3512 0800
Epic Group Communications: communications@epichk.com
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