Objective: As we prepare for our expansion into the U.S. market, your task is to conduct a comprehensive and strategic analysis of potential factories for producing Gully Klassics' luxury streetwear. Your research will help us secure top-tier manufacturing partners for our menswear product line, ensuring the highest standards of quality and exclusivity. This project will provide you with valuable real-world experience in supply chain management and strategic sourcing for a high-end fashion brand.

Background: Gully Klassics is a premier streetwear brand based in Toronto, Canada, known for its cutting-edge designs and status-symbol appeal among millennials and Gen Z. Competing with the likes of Amiri, Palm Angels, and Supreme, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality and style. Our U.S. expansion is a pivotal step in our growth, and we need your expertise to streamline our procurement processes.

1. Factory Quality Assessment:

• Identify Potential Factories: Research and shortlist domestic and international factories that specialize in high-end menswear.
• Evaluate Quality: Assess the quality of their products, focusing on materials, craftsmanship, design aesthetics, and finishing. Ensure the factories can meet our stringent quality standards.
• Production Capacity: Verify the factories' ability to handle our production volumes and adhere to our timelines.
• Innovation and Flexibility: Consider factories with a proven ability to innovate and adapt to the latest fashion trends.

1. Cost Analysis and Tariff Implications:

• Detailed Pricing: Obtain detailed cost breakdowns for each product category (menswear: baseball caps, t-shirts, hoodies, jogger pants, jackets, sweaters).
• Tariff Analysis: Investigate tariffs, import duties, and other trade costs for goods imported into both Canada and the U.S. Provide a comparative analysis of costs by region.
• Value for Money: Ensure that recommended factories offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.

1. Geopolitical and Trade Considerations:

• Risk Assessment: Analyze geopolitical risks, including political stability, trade restrictions, and economic conditions that may affect procurement.
• Trade Agreements: Focus on factories located in countries with favourable trade agreements with Canada and the U.S., ensuring smooth and cost-effective logistics.
• Future-Proofing: Consider potential future changes in trade policies and how they may impact our supply chain.

1. Supply Chain Management:

• End-to-End Mapping: Map out the entire supply chain from raw material sourcing to final product delivery. Include details on lead times, shipping logistics, and potential bottlenecks.
• Sustainability and Ethics: Evaluate the environmental and ethical standards of each factory. Ensure compliance with labor laws and Gully Klassics' commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
• Logistics and Scalability: Assess the scalability of the supply chain to support our growth and expansion plans.

1. Factory Profiles:

• Comprehensive Profiles: Create detailed profiles for each recommended factory, including:
• Location and contact information
• Production capabilities and specializations
• Quality certifications and industry reputation
• Client references and case studies
• Compliance with ethical and environmental standards

Timeline:

• Week 1-2: Initial research and identification of potential factories
• Week 3-4: Detailed quality assessment and cost analysis
• Week 5-6: Geopolitical and trade research
• Week 7-8: Supply chain mapping and factory profiling
• Week 9-10: Compilation and refinement of final report and presentation preparation

Resources and Tools:

• Access to institutions Supply Chain Management course materials
• Online databases, industry reports, and research tools
• www.gklassics.com for in-depth understanding of our brand and product standards
• Networking with industry experts and leveraging professional contacts for insights

Evaluation Criteria:

• Thoroughness and depth of research
• Relevance and accuracy of data
• Quality and clarity of the final report
• Strategic alignment and feasibility of recommendations

• Regular check-ins and feedback sessions to guide your research and ensure alignment with Gully Klassics' goals
• Opportunities to present your findings to Gully Klassics' leadership team and receive constructive feedback
• Mentorship from experienced professionals in the fashion industry