If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that supply chain disruption is no longer the exception. It’s the norm.
From tariffs and inflation to labor shortages and shifting trade policies, fashion and consumer goods brands are operating in an increasingly complex and dynamic global environment. And while none of us can predict exactly what’s coming next, we can take steps now to be better prepared for whatever comes our way.
That’s where digital transformation comes in. Because in today’s landscape, building a resilient supply chain isn’t just about reacting faster. It’s about planning smarter.
Disruption Happens; Scrambling Doesn’t Have to
Global trade volatility is top of mind for many leaders in our space. In fact, our BlueCherry Supply Chain & Technology survey found that nearly eight in 10 fashion executives cited economic and political uncertainty as a key concern for 2025.
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But here’s the upside: we’re seeing more brands shift from reactive mode to proactive planning. They’re focusing on agility, transparency and flexibility, traits that can help cushion the impact of almost any disruption, not just tariffs.
Agility Starts with a Clear Line of Sight
You can’t pivot effectively without visibility. That’s why the foundation of a resilient supply chain is full integration: connecting your ERP, PLM, inventory, logistics and supplier systems into a single, real-time view.
This kind of connected infrastructure allows brands to detect early warning signs, explore alternatives, and make decisions with confidence. It also builds trust across internal teams and external partners — critical when you need to move quickly and collaboratively.
Smart Use of AI and Analytics Begins with the Right Data
There’s been a lot of excitement around AI, and for good reason. When implemented thoughtfully, AI-driven tools can support smarter forecasting, stress-test sourcing options and help brands model how different trade scenarios might affect lead times or costs.
But AI only works if your data is reliable.
This is something I emphasize often: smart planning starts with clean, connected validated data. Before deploying advanced tools, brands should prioritize system integration, data governance and alignment across departments.
It’s not about chasing the latest technology. It’s about creating the right foundation that lets you use technology effectively.
Nearshoring and Building Optionality
With tariffs and shifting global trade policies top of mind, we’re seeing renewed interest in nearshoring and regional production. This isn’t just about cost; it’s about having more options and being less dependent on any one region or supplier. In fact according to Gartner, 73% of leading firms have actively reshaped their production networks over the past two years to boost agility and resilience; not just in theory, but in real shifts of sourcing and locations.
AI and analytics can help brands evaluate trade-offs between speed, cost and flexibility. While an overnight shift isn’t realistic, building optionality into your supply chain positions you to respond more effectively when the unexpected hits.
Strengthen Supplier Relationships for Long-Term Stability
Resilience doesn’t stop at your internal systems. Brands that build stronger, more collaborative relationships with their suppliers are better positioned to respond to change.
Whether it’s sharing data, aligning KPIs or jointly planning contingencies, treating vendors as strategic partners — not just transactional vendors — can help you adapt more smoothly to future disruptions. In today’s environment, data is currency — and like any currency, its value depends on how it is exchanged and safeguarded. That’s why it’s critical to bake data-sharing expectations and standards directly into your partner agreements from the start.
Start Small… but Start Now
Digital transformation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Some of the most successful brands have started by modernizing just one area, like demand planning or supplier collaboration, and expanded from there.
The key is to prioritize what matters most for your business and build from a solid foundation. That includes aligning stakeholders and working with partners that understand your industry and can scale with you.
Making the Move from Reactive to Resilient
Tariffs may come and go, but the need for agility and preparedness is here to stay. By embracing digital tools and strengthening supply chain infrastructures now, fashion and consumer brands can reduce uncertainty and respond with greater clarity and control.
The good news? You don’t need to predict the next disruption. You just need to be ready for it.
Brands that take steps now to build visibility, agility and collaboration into their supply chains won’t just weather the storm. They’ll find themselves better equipped to lead through it.
Paul F. Magel is President, Computer Generated Solutions, Inc. (CGS). He is an industry-recognized technology executive with more than 30 years of experience in the software, IT, and professional services sectors. As President of CGS, he leads the company’s global strategy, innovation and delivery for its award-winning BlueCherry® Enterprise Suite along with its Cloud and MSP business. Since joining CGS in 1997, Magel has spearheaded the evolution of the company’s software solutions into a powerful end-to-end supply chain platform that serves the world’s leading fashion, apparel and consumer lifestyle brands with ERP, PLM, ecommerce and logistics solutions. He also has significantly expanded the company’s global footprint, with development and delivery centers across North America, Europe and India.
