Experts Discuss AI and Automation as Solutions for Onshoring Challenges
Onshoring has not become a widespread trend despite increased tariffs on offshore production, according to experts at the Fashion Tech Show in Los Angeles. Scalability issues, labor costs, and fragmented supply chains are key barriers preventing fashion brands from shifting sourcing back to the U.S. Advances in AI and automation could help address these challenges by streamlining design processes, inventory planning, and localized manufacturing. CreateMe Technologies is leveraging robotics and digital adhesives for faster on-demand production of apparel. Experts argue that traditional models used overseas are not viable domestically due to higher labor costs, necessitating a redesigned system. AI also plays an important role in predicting consumer demand more accurately than the current fashion calendar allows. By using AI agents to identify short-term trends and produce smaller batches based on real-time data, brands can reduce overproduction or underproduction risks.
Topics: AI in fashion automation fashion tech onshoring supply chains