The fashion value chain
From raw materials to the secondary market, the fashion industry operates as a long chain of distinct economic activities. Each node has its own cost structure, its own regulatory exposure, and its own role in whether the sector's transition is economically viable.
Click any node to open a full breakdown: companies, regulation, and Prefall analysis covering that stage.
Raw
Materials
Cotton · Polyester
Bio-fibres · Wool
Largest environmental footprint. Smallest direct regulatory obligation.
Open node ↗Yarn &
Fabric
Spinning · Dyeing
Finishing · PFAS
Where chemical pollution concentrates. Data provider burden lands here first.
Open node ↗Manu-
facturing
Cut-make-trim
Labour · Audit
Lowest margin in the chain. Highest incoming compliance ask.
Open node ↗Brands
Brief · Claims
Disclosure · DTC
Most regulated, highest-margin node. The chain's primary obligated actor.
Open node ↗Logistics
& Retail
Freight · Returns
Platforms · EPR
Return rate is an unpriced structural waste. Freight emissions newly visible under CSRD.
Open node ↗Consumer
Purchase · Use
Care · Disposal
Use-phase emissions often exceed production. Behaviour is the unregulated variable.
Open node ↗Secondary
Market
Resale · Repair
Rental · Recycling
Value recovery at end of first life. Rebound risk offsets circularity gains.
Open node ↗