The perception that sustainable textiles (organic, recycled, bio-based) are inherently more expensive is a common misconception. While upfront costs can be higher and may increase the unit product cost and contribute to a smaller margins going forward, in the long-run there are major cost savings.
Organic Cotton can be expensive compared to synthetic fibers, but it's lifespan and quality is unmatched.
Organic cotton, recycled polyester, bio-based nylon, vegan leather, are more expensive textiles in terms of material costs and brands often use these sustainable materials as a key component of their collections when they do choose to use sustainable materials. Due to this, marketing and communication with end consumers get more clicks/views or traffic to their website so it help save some marketing cost. While the unit cost is higher, the story behind them becomes a large part of the marketing voice that helps push more sales.
Speaking with the right suppliers can lead you to the right materials and costs.
Another long-term cost saving technique that is furthered by sustainability is that when you start implementing these materials early in their sourcing practice, they find they get on better terms with the suppliers. Often there’s a switching cost when you change over to sustainable materials and manufacturing facilities initially, but after that switch it is a much more beneficial situation all around. So, the transition will cost lower long-term wise.
Policy makers are changing the future of fashion.
Regulatory cost is also a large thing companies worry about. Policy makers are increasingly tackling non-sustainable practices in apparel industry, extended producer responsibility, and supply chain transparency. These factors are becoming important requirements in the industry, so starting early can help you to avoid these regulatory costs down the road as a company.
Appearance is everything.
There’s also another major hidden cost associated with non-sustainable sourcing practices. As competitors have transitioned to transparency, certified sustainable materials, and sustainability manufacturing facilities, it is raising the bar in the industry standard. There may be a reputation risk because of this factor as your customers will question your practices and compare yours to others. So, sustainability isn't just a need it's a necessity. This can become a long-term cost for the brand down the road if they don’t act early.