By: Staff Writer
Colombo (LNW): Global fashion infrastructure platform PDS Limited will be unveiling a centralized cutting plant in its Sri Lankan subsidiary Norlanka, located in Malwana.
With a fully digitalized and integrated system, starting from mill inspection to warehouse operations, fabric inspection and the cutting process, this initiative is a testament to how multinational companies can collaborate effectively with local manufacturers, by leveraging technology.
Founded over 24 years ago in Hong Kong, PDS has been growing steadily, creating a network that oversees the end-to-end manufacturing process of apparel.
Despite global economic challenges that have impacted apparel manufacturers worldwide, the Company generated US$ 2 Bn in Gross Merchandise Value and is poised to more than double its revenue in the next 4-5 years.
Priding itself as a global collaborative platform catering to over 300+ brands, the Company has expanded to over 22 countries, providing a global plug-and-play platform for entrepreneurs in the areas of designing, sourcing, manufacturing and brand management, serving leading global brands and retailers.
This unique business model not only operates in an asset-light manner, infusing scalability and robustness into the business, but also promotes a large entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout its entire value chain.
Executive Vice Chairman of PDS Pallak Seth says, “We are looking to further expand our manufacturing footprint to include Egypt and India, while also exploring other strategic locations.
Reflecting on the PDS journey when it established a presence in Sri Lanka over ten years ago to set up Norlanka, Seth observed that the country possessed the strength of a knowledgeable workforce and a rich vendor base.
“In just a few years, we generated a revenue of US$ 100 Mn by adopting a customised model designed specifically to meet consumer needs. We are now regarded as the preferred vendor for retailers who would otherwise find it challenging to manage and collaborate with smaller factories.
PDS is the conduit that ensures designs and financing are provided to factories. This leaves room for the factories to focus on manufacturing.”
In the world of global manufacturing, PDS views its subsidiary Norlanka as a thriving success story, poised for remarkable growth. The Company aspires to achieve a staggering revenue of US$ 120 Mn this year, with ambitions to double its business within the next 3-4 years.
In order to reach this target, PDS has several initiatives in the pipeline. The Company recently invested in a manufacturing base in Trincomalee for babywear and partnered with a further 2 to 3 factories to enhance its capacity.
The Company also established a centralized cutting plant in close proximity to the commercial capital Colombo, opening up capacity, adding value and creating further investment opportunities for vendors and customers.
