Reinventing the Portuguese knitwear industry: the case of Pedrosa & Rodrigues private label management model

During the first decade of this century, Portuguese knitwear industry, and textile cluster, were strongly affected by globalisation seemed destined to decline. The industry developed for decades a business model based on price as main competitive factor, that was no longer able support competitiveness against low wages countries. made dramatic change towards competition value client. companies adopted primary differentiation drives technological innovation, design, fashion, services customer-oriented, together with more presence international fairs exhibitions. new strategy resulted in significant growth exports reached 40% from 2009 2018. restructuring however, changed it significantly, number reduced almost 50%. entire cluster an case study where modern concept private label is central. most considered full package clients. It integrated collection’s raw materials development, superior finishing, careful cost-effective confection sophisticated logistics. Pedrosa & Rodrigues, SA. midcap company Barcelos County, North Portugal, highly successful example paradigms. This now leading higher level chain gives strong reputation worldwide.