California Apparel News featured our CEO Preston Plowman and asked him "How will emerging fashion trends dictate investments in technology by apparel companies?"

Here is what he said:

"Everyone’s focus is on artificial intelligence right now, but apparel companies aren’t venture capitalists—they should leave most AI experimentation to them! Digital transformation needs to be a thoughtful investment in the highest ROI activities. Practically, this means focusing on a tech stack that supports the most critical areas: design and product development, inventory and logistics, and sales.

AI isn’t going to replace major job functions overnight. Its best use today is supplementing existing workflows so your team can do more with less. Currently, AI is enhancing productivity, but the killer application for fashion is still on the horizon. Until then, prioritize optimizing those critical areas.

And let’s not forget sustainability, which is more than just a consumer trend—governments, especially in the EU, are beginning to regulate it. Meeting these requirements isn’t just about good PR; it’s about having the right systems in place. A modern PLM system is crucial for traceability, allowing for handling the data and communication demands that come with providing transparent sustainability information.

Don’t get your head over your skis with flashy tech. Start by auditing your brand—if your teams are bogged down with manual processes or spreadsheets, there’s probably a software solution out there that can streamline operations. Focus on building a solid, sustainable tech foundation that supports your core functions and you’ll be ready to lead in both innovation and compliance."