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01. Introduction to Well-being and Retention in the Garment Industry

 


The Garment Industry: Roots and Economic Impact

The garment industry is one of the oldest, with roots that go back hundreds of years and a huge part of the global economy. It includes everything from sketching designs to mass production and finally getting clothes onto store shelves. By 2024, its value is expected to reach about $1.79 trillion, which is approximately 1.63% of the world’s GDP. Around 420 million people work in fashion, making up about 12.6% of jobs worldwide. By September 2024, Sri Lanka’s apparel exports reached $3.56 billion, providing jobs for nearly 700,000 people directly and indirectly.

The Reality of Worker Conditions

But the reality for many of these workers, conditions are intense. Every day, they’re under constant pressure to keep up with the fast-changing trends, leaving little time to rest. In the past, making clothes was a careful, hands-on process. Each garment was crafted stitch by stitch—slow and steady. But the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century changed that. Garment-making shifted to machines, setting the foundation for today’s high-speed production. Now, things are moving faster than ever. People are updating their wardrobes frequently, and stores release new styles every few weeks, pushing manufacturers to keep up. This pace has a significant impact on workers. Many work long hours, facing constant stress. Burnout, injuries, and mental strain have become part of the job. Some leave because they can’t continue; others stay, doing their best to balance work and life, often hoping for a break that never really comes.

Nurturing True Well-being for Garment Workers



In the garment industry, looking after employee well-being is about ensuring workers feel healthy, happy, and genuinely satisfied in their jobs. This includes addressing physical, emotional, and mental needs. Physical well-being requires a safe workspace and fair hours to prevent exhaustion and reduce injury risks. Emotional well-being comes from a positive environment where people feel valued and motivated. Mental well-being is about reducing stress and providing support so employees can handle the demands of fast-paced work without feeling overwhelmed.

The Importance of Well-being for Productivity





 Well-being is crucial in this industry. Garment work is tough, often high-stress and physically draining. Long hours and constant pressure can lead to burnout, mistakes, and even accidents on the factory floor. But when companies focus on well-being, employees stay more focused, motivated, and productive. Morale goes up, and operations run more smoothly. In a business where deadlines are always tight, investing in worker well-being isn’t just a good practice; it’s the key to a healthier, more sustainable workplace.

Turnover and Retention Challenges

The garment industry struggles with high turnover, largely due to the intense, stressful conditions workers face daily. Long hours, heavy physical demands, and tight deadlines push many employees to their limits, making it challenging to stay long-term. When well-being slips, so does retention. Without proper support or decent working conditions, people start looking elsewhere searching for jobs that feel healthier and less draining. This constant turnover impacts stability, not only on the production floor but across the operation.


The Cost of High Turnover



 Each time an experienced worker leaves, they take valuable skills with them, leaving companies scrambling to cover the gaps. And that rush isn’t cheap. Bringing in new people, getting them comfortable with the work—all of it takes time, drains energy, and increases costs. Meanwhile, productivity drops, and the pressure on remaining employees rises significantly.

The Path to a Sustainable Future


 To truly address this, making employee well-being a priority is essential. When companies work to make the job more manageable and supportive, they’re not just retaining employees; they’re preserving skills, reducing hiring costs, and building a team that can stay for the long term. Building a supportive, healthy workplace isn’t just about helping employees feel better; it’s essential for the garment industry’s future. When companies focus on creating a place where people feel valued and cared for, they boost morale and build a more reliable, skilled workforce.



Conclusion: Strengthening the Industry


 This kind of stability means fewer interruptions, smoother operations, and teams that are better prepared to handle the demands of the industry. With a healthier work environment, productivity can improve naturally. It’s not just about hitting numbers; it’s about creating a place where people want to stay and grow. This investment not only helps individual workers but strengthens the entire industry. By focusing on well-being and retention, garment companies set the groundwork for lasting growth and an industry prepared for the future.


Reference list

Uniform Market, 2024. Global Apparel Industry Statistics. Available at: https://www.uniformmarket.com/statistics/global-apparel-industry-statistics [Accessed 5 November 2024]

Statista, 2024. Apparel - Worldwide. Available at: https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/apparel/worldwide [Accessed 5 November 2024].

 Karimi, C. and Lesser, D., 2022. Worker Well-Being. Garment Worker Diaries. Available at: https://workerdiaries.org/worker-well-being/ [Accessed 5 November 2024].

Sri Lanka Export Development Board, (no date). About Apparel and Textiles Industry in Sri Lanka. Available at: https://www.srilankabusiness.com/apparel/about/ [Accessed 5 November 2024].

Malalasekera, R., 2024. Sri Lankan apparel industry is responsible, innovative and agile. Daily FT, 8 November. Available at: https://www.ft.lk/opinion/Sri-Lankan-apparel-industry-is-responsible-innovative-and-agile/14-768976 [Accessed 5 November 2024].

Moore, J.T., Carpenter, D.O., and Doyle, A.M., 2019. Health and well-being of the apparel industry workforce: A public health perspective. Public Health Reports, 134(5), pp.492-499. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0033354919878434 [Accessed 5 November 2024].

Wickramasingha, S. and De Neve, G., 2022. The Collective Working Body: Rethinking Apparel Workers’ Health and Well-being during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sri Lanka. Global Labour Journal, 13(3), pp.322-334. Available at: https://workerdiaries.org [Accessed 5 November 2024].

Knowledge@Wharton, 2017. Why employee turnover costs more than you think. Knowledge at Wharton. Available at: https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/why-employee-turnover-costs-more-than-you-think/ [Accessed 5 November 2024].



Location: Sri Lanka

Comments

  1. randikaNovember 11, 2024 at 7:23 AM

    Dear sasindu, The garment industry is a significant driver of the global economy, with a long history and millions of workers contributing to its growth. Despite its economic importance, the conditions many workers face remain a critical concern, highlighting the need for better labor standards and ethical practices in the sector.



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    Replies
    1. SasinduNovember 12, 2024 at 11:22 PM

      Thank you for your comment! You’re absolutely right. the garment industry has such a rich history and plays a crucial role in the global economy. Despite its significance, the working conditions many employees face remain a major issue that can’t be overlooked. Improving labour standards and adopting ethical practices are essential steps forward to ensure that workers not only contribute to the industry’s growth but also benefit from safe and supportive environments. It’s an area that really needs continuous attention if we’re to see sustainable progress in this sector

      Delete
  2. Waruni VithanaNovember 12, 2024 at 2:10 PM

    Agreed Sasindu. The industry’s fast-pace and demanding nature, as well as its impact on workers’ physical and mental health, cannot be underestimated. As the blog highlights, employee well-being is directly linked to productivity and retention. When workers feel supported and valued, their motivation and focus improve, reducing turnover and increasing job satisfaction (Harter, Schmidt & Hayes, 2002). The garment sector, often associated with high-stress environments and low wages, faces significant challenges in retaining skilled workers, which can ultimately harm both workers and the business (Kohn, 1993). Addressing worker well-being is not only an ethical responsibility but also a strategic necessity for companies seeking to build a sustainable workforce.

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    Replies
    1. SasinduNovember 12, 2024 at 11:30 PM

      Waruni, I completely agree with your points about the demanding nature of the industry and the direct link between well-being, productivity, and retention. When workers feel valued and supported, they’re naturally more motivated, which benefits both employees and the business. I appreciate you bringing in those references to support your points; it really highlights how crucial it is for companies to invest in well-being initiatives. Addressing these issues is indeed both an ethical responsibility and a smart strategy for building a sustainable workforce. Thank you for sharing this perspective

      Delete
  3. Madushika UrulawattaNovember 20, 2024 at 12:56 AM

    Hi Sasindu,

    This blog beautifully highlights the importance of well-being in the garment industry and how crucial it is for both employee retention and overall productivity. The fast-paced, high-pressure environment that workers face can take a toll on their physical and mental health, which often leads to burnout and high turnover rates. I particularly appreciate how the article emphasizes the need for a healthy, supportive work environment - not just for the workers’ sake, but for the future sustainability of the entire industry. Investing in employee well-being isn’t just an ethical choice, it’s a smart business strategy that can reduce costs and improve efficiency in the long run. A great read!

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    Replies
    1. SasinduNovember 20, 2024 at 2:38 AM

      Madushika, It’s true that the high-pressure environment can often overshadow the human aspect of this sector, and I believe focusing on creating a supportive and balanced workplace can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. It’s inspiring to see that this perspective resonates with you, as it emphasizes the mutual benefit for both employees and employers. Your point about sustainability is so important too. When companies invest in their workers’ health and happiness, they’re not just improving today’s productivity they’re building a foundation for long-term success. Thank you again for taking the time to read and engage with this topic. Your feedback really motivates me

      Delete
  4. Sasandi WeliarawaNovember 20, 2024 at 8:06 AM

    Dear Sasindu,
    It’s truly amazing how you have addressed this situation thoroughly doing research in all sections! Being an officer in government sector has made me even face for such hard times too and this made me realize more and more with all the hectic work, how must have been the garment workers must be going on with their day today work and personal lives!
    Great research Sasindu!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SasinduNovember 20, 2024 at 9:00 AM

      Sasandi, Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post! It means a lot to know that my efforts to shed light on these issues resonate with someone who also experiences the challenges of a demanding work environment. I can only imagine how hectic your work in the government sector must be, and it’s true seeing things from the perspective of garment workers really puts into perspective how tough their day-to-day lives are. I think it’s important to highlight these realities, not just to create awareness but also to push for meaningful change. Your comment reminds me that many industries share similar struggles, and perhaps by improving well-being in one, we can inspire change across the board.

      Delete

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