Vlisco

For Vlisco we assessed the value of local production in West Africa

Vlisco, a Dutch textiles company, however, the majority of Vlisco’s colorful cotton fabrics are produced in in Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Benin. Producing locally entails local sourcing, which results in the support of local farmers, ginners and cotton processors.  Even though the full gamut of Vlisco’s supply chain is in West Africa, the company had no understanding of its impact and value to the local society and economy. What is the value of local production? This was the question asked Steward Redqueen

To reveal the benefits of Vlisco’s presence in West Africa, Steward Redqueen conducted a socio-economic impact study. By modelling the supply chain of the production of Vlisco’s grey cloth, we mapped the money flows related to delivering the grey cloth to Vlisco’s factory gates. Covering the full range of supply chain activities, the employment and income effects for various economic actors were shown, with an additional focus on the effects of local sourcing on farmers’ livelihood.

Based on our findings, Vlisco embarked on further developing and extending their cotton supply chain in Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Benin. This contributes to further diversifying the economy. In addition, the study showed how public-private investments aimed at increasing productivity help keep the cultivation of cotton attractive for the next generation.