Through the short runs project, TCBL has been working on creating an online matchmaking environment that permits three target groups to meet each other and do business. These groups have been identified as follows:
Textile manufacturers willing to produce small lots of textiles (“short run capacity”) or with leftover fabric to sell. This may fill production down-time or resolve problems of overproduction, or help companies diversify their clientele.
Garment manufacturers who range from the at-home sewer to the small Cut, Make & Trim (CMT) units. This could include the larger scale garment manufacturers who need to down-scale because of pressures to reduce numbers and through skills shortages.
Designers (often emergent) who want to design and sell small lots for sample collections or small boutiques.
The end result will be a digital platform that will bring together companies interested in doing short runs, who are currently listed on three TCBL business service provider platforms (Sqetch, Sourcebook, Circular Fashion).
