Textile and garment is the biggest employer in Bulgarian manufacturing, employing some 1,00,000 workers. Sub-standard working conditions and low wages are the norm. Workers earn the minimum wage, far less than a living wage, and young people are not motivated to look for a job in the sector. The supply chain needs a well-functioning industrial relations model.

Freedom of association needs to be respected. The objective is to achieve sustainable working conditions and a win-win situation throughout the supply chain. Freely elected trade union representatives and good social dialogue can ensure company sustainability.

Union density in the Bulgarian textile industry is very low and workers are scared to join a union for fear of losing their livelihood. There is a strong need to empower workers and trade unions if a real change is to be seen in the textile and garment sector in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria is Europe's quick response solution. Bulgarian firms are rapidly developing the internal capabilities to manage all aspects of their supply chains to European partners, including sourcing, design, transport/logistics and own branding. These capabilities, combined with Bulgaria's strategically favorable location, make working with Bulgaria a critical and valuable component to a company's strategy.

In short, Bulgaria is Europe's most reliable, capable and cost-effective solution for high quality, small orders that need to be there yesterday.