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On 9 October, Lectra introduced its new digital platform, Valia Fashion, to the media at its headquarters in Cestas, marking a significant shift in how fashion brands and manufacturers manage production. Incorporating the latest technologies from Industry 4.0, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), Valia Fashion enables greater automation and connectivity throughout every stage of garment production, from order processing to the execution of cutting.
The platform stands out for its ability to automate processes and link all operations, allowing for centralised and integrated management of materials, orders, and equipment. With Valia Fashion, brands and manufacturers can enhance operational agility, efficiency, and sustainability while adapting to the rapidly changing market demands.
Valia Fashion is designed to meet the modern challenges of the fashion industry, such as the increasing demand for personalisation, small batch collections, rapidly evolving trends, and growing consumer expectations around sustainability. The platform allows companies to manage the entire production cycle in a fully connected manner, automating key activities like order preparation, fabric estimation, and cutting planning and execution.
“The launch of Valia Fashion is a milestone in our vision of shaping the future of the fashion industry. At Lectra, we are committed to empowering companies with technological solutions that enable them to grow and innovate sustainably. This platform not only transforms production processes but also creates a fully integrated digital ecosystem where brands and manufacturers can collaborate efficiently,” Daniel Harari told T Journal.
Integration and connectivity
One of Valia Fashion’s most notable features is its complete connectivity with existing cutting equipment and IT systems within factories. This integration ensures a continuous and secure flow of data from the moment an order is received until the final stage of production. The platform centralises information on materials, orders, and production resources, providing real-time visibility into each process’s status. This enhances team collaboration and facilitates decision-making.
The platform’s connectivity also allows for a seamless transition between different types of production, whether it be for personalised small batches or large-scale mass production, making it an ideal solution for an industrial landscape that demands flexibility and rapid response to market changes.
“Valia Fashion represents a deep and innovative shift in our manufacturing offer. For years, we have provided equipment, services, and data. However, from today onwards, Valia Fashion will be at the heart of our manufacturing strategy. This does not mean we will stop producing equipment and services, but rather that Valia will now be the central focus of our manufacturing proposition,” explained Nicolas Favreau, Product Marketing Director, during the presentation of the new solution.
Precise and automated management
Valia Fashion offers an innovative automated fabric estimation feature, which is crucial for optimising material use and reducing waste. Using AI algorithms and historical data analysis, the platform can generate highly accurate simulations of fabric consumption, considering multiple production scenarios. This forecasting capability prevents both underuse and overstocking, directly contributing to cost reduction and improved sustainability.
Additionally, manufacturers can monitor cutting equipment performance in real-time, identify areas for improvement, and adapt operations to maximise efficiency. This not only enhances control over production but also enables smarter resource management throughout the entire process.
“The goal is simple: to ensure that our clients maximise fabric usage with minimal waste, helping them to continuously improve their operations with the data, expertise, and support we provide. Valia Fashion will truly revolutionise how we manage fabric, making the entire process more efficient and sustainable,” said Charlotte Lageyre, Product Marketing Director.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Another key feature of Valia Fashion is its ability to track the environmental impact of production. The platform measures key indicators such as material consumption and the amount of waste generated during the cutting process, providing a clear view of the operation’s ecological footprint. By automating resource management and optimising workflows, Valia Fashion allows fashion companies to advance their social and environmental responsibility goals.
Sustainability is not just a by-product of efficiency. Valia Fashion has been specifically designed to support brands in their transition to more eco-friendly practices. By using less fabric and reducing waste, companies can not only meet environmental regulations but also enhance their brand image among eco-conscious consumers.
Digitalisation and competitiveness
Valia Fashion is more than just a digital platform; it is a fully integrated technological ecosystem that connects the different stages of production through an automated workflow. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the platform can analyse large volumes of data in real time, providing valuable insights that help improve efficiency and profitability.
For example, the platform can generate detailed performance analyses of cutting equipment, comparing results across different factories or production sites. This enables managers to make informed decisions and identify areas where productivity can be enhanced or costs reduced.
“With a digital twin, we can simulate the entire cutting process, from individual pieces to the final assembly, ensuring the most efficient use of fabric. This level of detailed control is essential for our clients and makes it easier to adapt to the specific needs of each project. Valia Fashion takes this efficiency to a new level, enabling brands to reduce waste and significantly improve their production process,” stated Custódio Cabrita, Solution Specialist.
Productivity and profitability
Valia Fashion enables fashion manufacturers to maintain their profit margins while addressing market challenges, such as managing small orders and keeping strict control over costs. The platform helps reduce production time while improving work quality and ensuring that brands meet delivery deadlines.
The platform has also been designed to facilitate collaboration with subcontractors, offering immediate visibility into order progress and sharing essential information for the preparation and execution of fabric cutting. By connecting all parties involved in a single system, Valia Fashion helps eliminate barriers and creates a more streamlined and integrated production process.