Moussy Implements Lectra PLM

Baroque, the Japanese fast-fashion retailer and owner of the Moussy and Sly brands, implemented Lectra Fashion PLM for the Moussy brand with plans to extend implementation to Sly and its other brands by the end of the year.Jun Tanaka, information-technology department manager at Baroque, said the company researched several Japanese and international product lifecycle solutions providers before selecting Lectra Fashion PLM.

Baroque conducted an internal audit, determining that pre-planning and development needed to be improved, as well as communication.“This is our first time working with Lectra, and their expertise in apparel-dedicated tools and global presence were very attractive to us,” Tanaka said. “Design and implementation were completed quickly, and Lectra Fashion PLM went live for Moussy exactly as planned in June.”

Baroque’s fast-fashion business model means producing a wide variety of items in small quantities, often under several brands. Before implementing Lectra Fashion PLM, Baroque was using email, spreadsheets and a master product list to coordinate production, according to the company.

“With higher visibility, we can continue to streamline the way we work for increased agility. For example, instead of preparing separate documents for merchandisers and marketing, these teams can simply rely on PLM to find the information they need,” Tanaka said.The retailer currently has 19 stores in China and has set an aggressive growth plan to open 100 shops in China by the beginning of 2014.

“Our business model requires delivery of new items to shops two or three times per week,” said Isao Sado, Baroque chief financial officer. “In order for us to succeed in China, where competition is becoming increasingly intense, it is critical to master information by having an infrastructure that supports the entire product flow from planning and development to shop delivery. In order to succeed abroad, it is important to redefine our process and streamline the flow of information with a global perspective.”

In addition to the Moussy and Sly brands, Baroque operates several retail boutiques under the nameplates Azul by Moussy, Shel’tter, Rodeo Crowns Wild Bowl and Enfold.

Paris-based Lectra provides machinery and software solutions designed to automate, streamline and accelerate product design, development and manufacturing processes for industries using soft materials, including fashion, accessories, footwear, automotive and furniture, among other industries.—A.A.N.