In an exclusive deep-dive interaction with MediaBrief, Ankit Jaipuria, Co-Founder of ZYOD, speaks at length about the launch and growth of his B2B apparel sourcing and clothing manufacturing platform. Jaipuria discusses the Indian export and manufacturing market, its growth potential, global trends, and market dynamics.
He also elaborates on ZYOD’s unique selling propositions, business model, collaborations, expansion plans, sustainability initiatives, ethical practices, and future plans. Read on.
Tell us about ZYOD in your own words, starting from the name, what it offers, and why you decided to pursue your entrepreneurial mission in the B2B apparel sourcing and clothing manufacturing space as a platform that offers end-to-end design-to-delivery solutions for fashion brands.
ZYOD is the fastest-growing tech-enabled fashion manufacturing firm renowned for its comprehensive design-to-delivery services tailored to fashion brands. It offers an extensive portfolio of the latest styles, catering to the rapidly changing trends and customer preferences of the fashion industry.
Growing up in a family business centered around fashion and apparel, after exploring various sectors, I came back to the fashion industry. At the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey, I observed major challenges such as supply chain inefficiencies and inventory losses that existed in the industry. In an attempt to address these challenges, ZYOD was created as a solution for fashion brands.
What is the current scenario of the Indian export and manufacturing market? How does ZYOD position itself in this landscape?
The Indian export and manufacturing market is currently experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing global demand for high-quality and cost-effective apparel. Despite this, the industry faces challenges like long production cycles and overproduction.
ZYOD positions itself as a leader in this field by offering just-in-time manufacturing, flexible MOQs (minimum order quantities), and AI-driven design solutions.
What is the core business model of ZYOD? How does it create value for its clients?
ZYOD operates on a business-to-business model, creating value for its clients by tackling issues such as inventory losses. The brand introduced flexibility in Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) to help brands make informed decisions, minimize waste, thereby reducing environmental impact, and supporting emerging brands.
What does ZYOD offer – what are the USPs, and ease of going to market for a company or an individual too?
ZYOD offers a tech-driven approach to streamline design-to-delivery processes, making quality fashion more accessible and affordable for emerging brands. To tackle the challenge of inventory losses, ZYOD introduced flexible minimum order quantities (MOQs), enabling brands to make informed decisions, minimize waste, and reduce environmental impact.
ZYOD utilizes AI algorithms to analyze extensive datasets, enhancing design and production standards. This technology allows the company to predict accurate fashion trends by dissecting fashion into attributes and mapping designs from a vast library.
With a monthly output of over 10,000 unique styles, the brand demonstrates scalability and precision, serving industry giants and cementing its status as a forerunner in the fashion domain.
Are there any innovative aspects of ZYOD’s business model that deserve attention?
We observed significant inefficiencies plaguing the manufacturing sector of a $300 million fashion business. The industry was transforming, requiring a more agile supply chain for the digital age. With consumer behavior shifting from intent-led to discovery-led buying post-COVID, there was increasing demand for more options at faster rates, creating pressure on brands with traditional supply chains.
Recognizing this shift in the industry, we implemented a real-time ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system at ZYOD to streamline and enhance transparency in our operations. ZYOD’s innovative approach addressed the persistent issue of overstock in the fashion sector by introducing flexible Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs).
This allows brands to better understand their target audience and make informed production decisions, promoting efficient inventory management and reducing waste.
The comprehensive services ZYOD provides include manufacturing, logistics, and AI-driven design creation tailored to individual customer needs. Tell us about the tech platform of ZYOD, and the kind of new-age tech like Gen AI etc that you deploy, and how it is done.
ZYOD’s tech-enabled cataloging platform creates accurate design representations, while augmented reality (AR) technology enables virtual try-ons. This interactive platform allows our clientele to customize and visualize their designs, enhancing the personalization of the brand’s services.
It collects data from sources such as customer feedback, e-commerce sites, and social media trends, training AI models to generate high-quality variations of styles in different prints. This comprehensive approach creates a detailed catalogue and provides designers with innovative ideas by analyzing market trends and past data.
How do you ensure that there are no breaches of IP through the Gen AI designs generated, because Gen AI designs on the basis of training that would likely include designs by others.
At ZYOD, we protect intellectual property (IP) by using only open-source and proprietary data to train our AI systems. Our models are designed to create original, innovative designs rather than replicating existing ones. Our designers oversee AI outputs to ensure originality, blending human creativity with AI innovation.
Break down the steps from first contact by an interested party, till the party’s business becoming up and running. How easy or difficult is it?
During the initial phase, brands initiate contact with ZYOD either through our website or via our sales and networking team. As part of the process, we conduct consultation meetings to gain a thorough understanding of their needs, design preferences, and production specifications.
Furthermore, we utilize AI to generate design options tailored to the brand’s requirements, presenting samples for their approval. Upon approval of the samples, the brand proceeds to place an order.
The production process commences based on the quantities requested, with the duration varying accordingly. Finally, the products are delivered directly to the brand’s doorstep.
What kind of handholding do you do for those interested in ZYOD’s services?
ZYOD provides extensive assistance throughout the entire process, from initial consultations and design support to sample production and feedback revisions.
We assign dedicated account managers to each brand, offering personalized guidance and ensuring seamless communication. Through our ERP system, we provide real-time updates and maintain transparency at every stage of the production process.
When was ZYOD founded, and what were the initial challenges during its launch?
ZYOD was founded in January 2023. Upon its inception, the primary challenges included building the technology platform, establishing a dependable supply chain, and securing funding. Nevertheless, our core emphasis on innovation and sustainability helped us swiftly overcome these obstacles.
How has ZYOD’s journey evolved? Are there any significant milestones or turning points?
ZYOD as a new player in the B2B fashion manufacturing landscape has evolved rapidly since its inception. Some of the key milestones include securing $3.5 million in funding from Lightspeed Ventures in April 2023, achieving over $50 million in annualized GMV within its inaugural year, and expanding operations to 15 countries.
ZYOD implemented an ERP system to ensure a seamless customer experience. To tackle the challenges of overproduction, we introduced flexible MOQs to brands and employed AI for trend and fashion forecasting. Additionally, ZYOD obtained SEDEX4 certification for its commitment to ethical labor practices.
Elaborate on the growth potential of this sector, considering global trends and market dynamics, and how the Indian trends and market dynamics are different from the global ones.
The global fashion manufacturing sector is poised for growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and agile manufacturing solutions. In India, the market is evolving rapidly, prioritizing the enhancement of production capabilities and export opportunities.
ZYOD leverages these trends by offering scalable, precise, and eco-friendly manufacturing solutions catering to both domestic and international markets.
How is ZYOD growing in space?
ZYOD is expanding through strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. Our goal is to continually improve the platform’s capabilities and expand market reach, aiming to standardize the manufacturing process in the Indian fashion industry.
What sets ZYOD apart from other apparel sourcing and manufacturing platforms?
ZYOD sets itself apart from competitors by integrating advanced technology, utilizing AI for trend prediction, and implementing real-time ERP systems for operational transparency. Our model emphasizes efficiency and waste reduction, delivering rapid turnaround times. Additionally, we offer flexible minimum order quantities (MOQs) to support emerging brands and minimize overproduction.
Addressing scalability and precision, ZYOD boasts a high production capacity, enabling the creation of 10,000 unique styles each month. ZYOD consciously implements sustainable practices across production, manufacturing, and delivery, all monitored through the ERP system.
Ensuring comprehensive solutions to its customers, ZYOD provides end-to-end services from design to delivery, filtering products through a rigorous multi-layered quality control system. These elements ensure that ZYOD provides a robust, flexible, and sustainable solution in the apparel sourcing and manufacturing industry.
Provide specific examples of ZYOD’s unique offerings or features that resonate with fashion brands.
Some of the unique features of our services that resonated with fashion brands we work with include employing a real-time ERP system that provides comprehensive oversight of every stage of production. This ensures transparency and allows instant tracking of production status, optimizing operational efficiency and guaranteeing timely order fulfillment.
Our just-in-time manufacturing service cuts the traditional turnaround time from six months to just six weeks. This faster process boosts cash flow for brands and supports an inventory-light approach.
ZYOD offers a full spectrum of services, from design inception and sampling to production and final delivery. This comprehensive approach streamlines workflow, reduces time-to-market, and enhances overall operational efficiency.
How does ZYOD leverage AI for fashion forecasting and trend-setting? Can you share specific examples of successful implementations?
ZYOD uses AI algorithms to analyze market data, consumer preferences, and fashion trends, enabling precise trend forecasts and design recommendations. For example, ZYOD’s AI predicted the popularity of pastel colors for a summer collection, which resulted in high sales and positive customer feedback.
Are there any impactful case studies where ZYOD’s services made a tangible difference for a brand?
Case Study 1: Anthropologie needed to quickly adapt to changing fashion trends while maintaining high-quality standards and reducing lead times. ZYOD implemented its advanced AI-driven fashion forecasting and just-in-time manufacturing processes to streamline production. As a result, Anthropologie experienced a significant reduction in turnaround time from design to delivery, enabling them to bring new styles to market faster and meet consumer demands more effectively.
Case Study 2: FirstCry aimed to properly manage inventories and reduce waste due to variable demand. ZYOD offered adjustable Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) and a real-time ERP system to keep track of production and inventory levels. This allowed FirstCry to make smaller batches, decreasing waste and ensuring a continuous supply of popular items.
Case Study 3: To remain competitive in the fast-paced fashion market, Rare Rabbit needed to deliver high-quality production quickly. ZYOD’s multi-layered quality control procedure, connected with their ERP system, ensures rigorous quality inspections at every stage of manufacturing. As a result, Rare Rabbit maintained high product quality standards while benefiting from shorter lead times, thus improving their market position.
Share specific instances where ZYOD’s solutions led to improved efficiency, cost savings, or enhanced product quality.
In the first instance, ZYOD implemented a real-time Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to streamline operational efficiency and transparency. This system enabled brands to closely monitor production status instantaneously, reducing the complications involved with traditional manufacturing procedures.
This resulted in a more streamlined workflow from design to final delivery, considerably improving operational efficiency and ensuring timely order fulfillment.
In the second instance, ZYOD’s quality control procedure involved more than 20 checkpoints throughout the manufacturing process. This multi-layered quality control system ensured that all garments met the highest quality standards.
The ERP system enabled real-time oversight, allowing for swift remedial actions if any deviations were found, resulting in consistently good product quality.
What are ZYOD’s expansion plans? Is there a focus on specific regions or markets?
We aim to advance towards global expansion by targeting operations in over 40 countries, with a strategic focus on key regions such as North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
Beyond geographical growth, ZYOD is pursuing strategic partnerships and acquisitions to bolster its market presence. Collaborating with established fashion industry players will enhance our capabilities, broaden our customer base, and diversify our offerings.
What are the advantages of offering a one-stop solution from design to delivery?
Offering a one-stop solution from design to delivery provides several benefits to organizations, particularly for individuals with non-fashion backgrounds entering the field. It transforms the entire process into a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Instead of dealing with several vendors and organizing different areas of production such as design, material procurement, manufacturing, and transportation, brands can rely on a single provider to handle everything from beginning to end. This simplifies supply chain management while also reducing the likelihood of errors or miscommunications.
Elaborate on ZYOD’s strategy for targeting the international market and promoting India as a global fashion hub.
ZYOD is dedicated to establishing India as a leading global fashion hub by highlighting its capabilities in rapid production. The method focuses on harnessing innovative technologies and efficient production processes to ensure high efficiency and precision.
This technology integration allows the brand to offer short turnaround times and the flexibility to respond to changing market demands, attracting more international brands and showcasing India’s significant potential in the global fashion industry.
Which leading brands collaborate with ZYOD, and in which sectors do they operate?
ZYOD has formed beneficial agreements with recognized global businesses, demonstrating its industry expertise. These brands predominantly operate in the direct-to-consumer market.
ZYOD has worked with a number of top fashion brands and labels, including Reliance, FirstCry, Rare Rabbit, NEXT, Aminas Collection, Ancestory, Tata Cliq, Allen Cooper, TIGC, Libas, Coverstory, Muse, and Payal Singhal, among others.
Some of the worldwide companies that have partnered with ZYOD include Vandos, Distalor (Spain), MUSE (UK), Landmark Group (UAE), Joop & Gypsy, Cactus Rose (Australia), Urban Research, Amina Collection (Japan), Deluxe (France), Anthropologie (USA), Blue Age (Saudi Arabia), and Babylon (Greece).
Any specific instances where these collaborations have led to impactful outcomes?
Our work with Demmonash and Slazy Club is one such example. They utilized ZYOD’s end-to-end design-to-delivery solutions to optimize their processes and reduce time-to-market for new goods. This efficiency enabled them to meet the fast-paced demands of the fashion business.
Demmonash and Slazy Club also leveraged ZYOD’s flexible Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) to produce smaller batches initially, assessing market response before committing to larger production runs. This approach reduces the risk of overproduction and saves costs associated with excess inventories.
How does ZYOD approach marketing? Which channels play a crucial role in reaching its target audience?
ZYOD’s marketing strategy combines traditional and digital media to effectively reach and engage its target audience. Our participation in events, exhibitions, and trade shows enables us to strategically position the brand among competitors in the sector, while also fostering strategic alliances.
ZYOD has emerged as a disruptor in the fashion manufacturing space? Are there any case studies or proof points that highlight this disruption?
ZYOD has emerged as a disruptor in the apparel manufacturing market due to our solution-oriented approach. At ZYOD, our major goal is to simplify and streamline the complexity that emerging and established businesses face throughout the development, manufacturing, packaging, and delivery processes.
Some of the prominent indicators are ZYOD’s usage of AI algorithms and a real-time ERP system, enabling speedy turnaround and high-quality standards. ZYOD also incorporates sustainable practices by utilizing eco-friendly products and procedures, thereby lowering environmental effects while preserving efficiency. This commitment to sustainability draws brands that prioritize ethical manufacturing.
With the potential to create over 10,000 new styles per month, ZYOD exhibits both scalability and precision in fulfilling market demands. ZYOD’s capacity has established it as a top solution supplier in the fashion industry.
As Co-founder, what leadership principles do you deploy at ZYOD?
At ZYOD, I oversee product innovation and technology, sales and marketing, human resources, and investor management. My role also involves exploring long-term strategic collaborations.
ZYOD has integrated modern technologies to enhance transparency, operational efficiency, and informed decision-making for fashion firms.
I often emphasize the significance of using intuition alongside data-driven solutions. Contrary to evidence, a hunch regarding pastel colors resulted in a successful summer collection, underscoring the importance of intuition in decision-making.
ZYOD prioritizes and invests in labor training to enhance skills and ensure the well-being of workers. Our commitment to personal and professional development benefits the team and contributes to the company’s overall success.
How has ZYOD’s commitment to sustainability and ethical standards influenced its market positioning and partnerships within the fashion industry?
In terms of implementing sustainable and ethical standards, ZYOD integrated eco-friendly materials and procedures across its production activities. This commitment to sustainability not only lowered environmental impact, but also attracted brands that value ethical production, boosting ZYOD’s market position and reputation.
In terms of empowering and developing SMEs, ZYOD actively interacted with over 500 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and integrated them into its supply chain network.
This relationship gave SMEs access to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and attractive market prospects, promoting mutual growth and development. It also increased ZYOD’s production capacity while maintaining high levels of quality and innovation.
These examples demonstrate how ZYOD’s unique ideas have resulted in increased productivity, significant cost savings, and higher product quality, resulting in favourable outcomes for the organization and its partners.
