Retail global trade

While the dangers posed by hazardous cotton pesticides may seem remote to those who live and work in the developed world, the complexities of the global economy mean that consumers, retailers, and politicians around the world, are all in some small way linked to the suffering these chemicals cause. But crucially, each of these groups is endowed, by their connection with the global trade in cotton and cotton products, with the ability to change the manner in which global cotton production occurs. 

In recent years sourcing continues to be one of the most critical success factors for the garment industry. The expanding global trade, increased consumer demand, fast fashion, increased product accessibility, and competitive pricing have forced suppliers, designers, product manufacturers, and retailers to seek alternative sources of supply. 

Tesco is the largest retail chain in the UK with a global network. In 2006, Tesco turnover was nearly 47 billion with a trading profit exceeding 2.5 billion. At the heart of Tesco s recent success lies an obsession with lean retail supply chain based on principles learned from Toyota. 

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