Increasing the productivity of garment manufacturers thanks to consultancy services

Abstract

The firm-level competitiveness is affected by factors that impact its productivity levels, costs and the value added for consumers. The pace of current changes generates profound transformations in production, prompting manufacturing firms to quickly react to ensure the increased efficiency essential for their survival. At the same time, the ability of firms to adapt and change has become an essential element of their competitive advantage. Apparel manufacturing firms need today to change their production systems engaging methods that ensure reduction of losses at each step of the production process. Effective improvements can happen when firms acknowledge the need to engage specialized consulting services. This article presents the findings of using consulting services in apparel manufacturing firms in the Republic of Moldova aimed to improve production systems based on Lean methodology to eliminate loss, increase productivity, reduce costs, and increase added value.