We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
SIGNALING SUSTAINABILITY IN FASHION PROCUREMENT : An Empirical Examination of Information Asymmetry and Firm Archetypes Using Signaling Theory
Summary
Researchers applied Signaling Theory to analyze how 225 fashion firms use sustainability signals such as certifications, audits, supplier codes of conduct, and traceability systems to reduce information asymmetry in procurement, finding that only 21% adopt costly, verifiable signals.
This thesis applies Signaling Theory to examine how fashion firms use procurement-related sustainability signals—such as certifications, audits, supplier codes of conduct, and traceability systems—to reduce information asymmetry. Using a web-scraped dataset of 225 firms, three research questions were addressed. RQ1 shows that while signaling is nearly universal, only 21% of firms adopt costly, verifiable signals, with private, small, and premium-positioned firms more inclined than large, public, or value brands. RQ2 reveals two archetypes: Minimalists, who rely on symbolic or low-cost signals, and High-Intensity Specialists, who invest in narrow but credible signal portfolios. RQ3 demonstrates that when signals are aggregated into a composite score, contextual factors do not explain variation, resulting in pooling equilibria where firms converge on similar signaling levels. The study contributes by mapping uneven adoption, introducing a typology of signaling archetypes, and showing that sustainability signals in fashion currently function more as pooling mechanisms than as credible differentiators.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Role of Consumer Attitudes and Policies in Increasing Sustainable Buying Habits in the Fashion Industry
Researchers surveyed consumers across diverse regions and demographics to assess attitudes toward sustainable fashion purchasing, finding that policies, financial barriers, geographic setting, and physical barriers all influence willingness to choose sustainable over fast fashion products.
The Phenomenon of Greenwashing In The Fashion Industry: A Conceptual Framework
This paper develops a conceptual framework for understanding greenwashing in the fashion industry, where brands make misleading environmental claims. The fashion industry is a major source of synthetic microfiber pollution, making honest sustainability reporting especially important for environmental protection.
Sustainability Complexities in Supply Chains: A Qualitative Study utilizing Social Systems Theory
Researchers conducted 26 semi-structured interviews with sustainability managers across firms in textiles, beverages, coffee, food, cosmetics, and chemical industries to explore supply chain sustainability complexities using social systems theory as a theoretical framework. The study identifies the distinct sustainability complexities perceived by firms in different sectors and offers managerial guidance for recognizing and addressing these complexities as a first step toward sustainable supply chain management.
Why do consumers buy recycled shoes? An amalgamation of the theory of reasoned action and the theory of planned behaviour
Researchers found that consumers' intentions to buy recycled footwear are shaped by environmental knowledge, sustainable label awareness, and social norms, with actual purchase behavior further driven by sustainable labeling and word-of-mouth, offering guidance for circular economy marketing.
The Influence of Perceived CSR Authenticity on Perceived Brand Loyalty Through Perceived Brand Authenticity in the Fast Fashion Industry
This study examined how perceived authenticity of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs influences brand loyalty in the fast fashion industry. Consumers who believed a brand's sustainability efforts were genuine showed higher loyalty. The findings are relevant to plastic pollution because authentic sustainability commitments in fast fashion could reduce synthetic textile fiber production and the associated microplastic contamination of waterways.