It all starts with transparency: Bart Westerman shares his vision for a more ethical fashion industry
In today’s fast-moving world of fashion, where trends come and go in the blink of an eye, one fundamental value stands out as timeless: transparency. But what does it mean to be truly transparent in an industry often criticised for its opacity? At tex.tracer, we believe transparency is more than a goal—it’s the foundation for meaningful change.
Our founder, Bart Westerman, recently sat down with Muchaneta ten Napel of Shape Innovate during Munich Fabric Start to discuss his vision for transforming the fashion industry. The conversation was a deep dive into the urgent need for supply chain transparency and how tools like tex.tracer are empowering brands to embrace this change.
A clear view of the challenges
The textile industry faces mounting challenges:
- Increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices
- Limited visibility into supply chains
- Widespread concerns over workers’ rights and garment value
Bart emphasised that many brands struggle with the complexity of their supply chains. From raw materials to finished products, the journey of a single garment involves multiple layers of suppliers, factories, and logistics. Without clear insight into these processes, it’s nearly impossible for brands to ensure ethical practices and meet rising consumer expectations for sustainability.
tex.tracer: a platform for change
Bart’s vision for tex.tracer was born out of a desire to simplify supply chain transparency. the platform gives brands the tools to map their supply chains comprehensively, empowering them to:
- Track every stage of production
- Verify ethical and sustainable practices
- Build trust with consumers through verified data
“transparency isn’t just about compliance,” Bart explained. “it’s about creating a system where every player in the supply chain—from cotton farmers to factory workers—is valued and respected.”
Respecting workers and valuing garments
A key theme of the interview was the human side of the fashion industry. behind every piece of clothing are workers whose contributions often go unnoticed. Bart highlighted that transparency allows brands to shed light on these individuals and ensure they’re treated fairly.
additionally, Bart discussed the importance of appreciating the true value of garments. fast fashion has conditioned consumers to view clothing as disposable, but transparency can shift this mindset. by showing the effort, resources, and craftsmanship behind each garment, brands can encourage more conscious consumption.
A call to action
The fashion industry is at a crossroads. as Bart pointed out, the path forward requires brands to embrace transparency—not as a buzzword, but as a commitment to doing better. tex.tracer is here to support brands on this journey, providing solutions that make it easier to navigate supply chain complexities and ensure accountability at every step.
Watch the full interview
Want to hear more about Bart’s vision and the steps brands can take to prepare for the future? Watch the full conversation with Muchaneta ten Napel on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hYOv84.
