It’s been nearly a decade since the United Nations issued its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), calling on businesses around the globe to ensure that their consumption and production patterns are sustainable. Yet, the UN says in its most recent report that the progress businesses have made toward the goals has not been encouraging. While many have committed to supporting higher levels of sustainability, few have made actual progress. Sourcing Solutions International (SSI) is not one of the companies that gets low marks on sustainability. Since its inception in 2002, SSI has made and followed through on a firm commitment to sustainability.
“Sustainability initiatives at SSI begin with the very first step in our processes — development — and continue in every step that follows,” says Joseph Schlossberg, VP of Global Sales at SSI. “From production to the choices we make about materials used in our products to the companies we choose to work with, every step that Sourcing Solutions International takes is focused on sustainability.”
SSI is the world’s leading source for hangers and packaging. By bringing the two products together in one place, SSI has provided the entire retail industry with a fully integrated print, packaging, trim, and hanger provider. They offer unmatched expertise in both hangers and packaging, making them a one-of-a-kind, one-stop shop for the retail and packaging industry.
To add additional value, SSI also gives businesses everything they need to reach their sustainability goals. Its innovative processes and products allow it to deliver quality, along with environmentally safe products that surpass the expectations of all of its customers.
The need for sustainability in the apparel industry
The fashion industry, which includes the type of apparel production supported by SSI, doesn’t get high marks in sustainability. In fact, it’s responsible for the production of up to 10% of global carbon dioxide, as well as 20% of global plastics.
The work that SSI is doing provides solutions that fashion manufacturers can use to improve their efforts. “We feel it is very important for us to do our part in reducing the industry’s environmental impact,” says Schlossberg. “Whether we are talking about glues, dyes, paper, or plastic, we are always looking for the most sustainable option. For example, we have invented products that eliminate up to 86% of the single-use plastic that would normally be required.”
SSI’s collapsible hanger is one example of the innovations it leverages to drive sustainability. By allowing the hook on top of the hanger to fold down, the collapsible hanger allows for reduced packaging and more efficient shipping.
SSI’s Hybrid Hanger™ is another example of its sustainability solutions, combining a paper body with a plastic hook to eliminate 75% of the plastic used in a conventional plastic hanger. In addition to reducing the amount of plastic, the Hybrid Hanger™ also allows retailers to remove plastic hooks from worn paper hangers and return them to SSI for reuse in making new hangers.
“For retailers that choose to recycle on their own, the Hybrid Hanger™ is a great environmentally safe solution,” says Schlossberg. “Both the paper and plastic components are completely recyclable through local programs. The plastic hook is made from recycled PET, which is in high demand in the US recycling market, and the paper, which is from as much as 70% post-consumer waste, is also recyclable.”
SSI’s vision for the future
As SSI moves into its third decade, its commitment to sustainability will remain a driving value. One of its goals is to continue to look to vertical integration to reduce its environmental impacts.
“Our company has a global footprint, which would typically require supply chain logistics that challenge sustainability,” Schlossberg explains. “However, we use vertical integration strategies at each facility to limit the need for transportation and other outside resources. It’s just one facet of our efforts to reduce the use of non-sustainable resources in all of our efforts, both now and in the future.”
Vertical integration also pays off for SSI’s customers. By having everything it needs in one place, SSI can meet customer demands more quickly and affordably.
A commitment to effective communication, both internally and externally, is another component that SSI sees as an essential driver for future growth. SSI’s first-rate customer service is driven by a commitment to clear and patient communications.
“No one in our industry offers the level of service you get when working with SSI,” Schlossberg asserts. “We treat every customer like they are our most important customer.”
Schlossberg also highlights the role that internal communications play in SSI’s ongoing success.
“Our focus on effective internal communications allows us to consistently develop and deliver the solutions that our clients need,” Schlossberg says. “Our global sales team comes together weekly to discuss new developments and brainstorm streamlined solutions. When additional resources or support are needed, management is on the line to make sure they are provided.”
A final component of SSI’s strategy for ongoing growth and success is an aggressive commitment to its goals. While many companies are still trying to figure out what sustainable practices might look like, SSI has already made them a reality for themselves and others. Its aggressive commitment to its values and customers has propelled it to the top of its industry — and aims to keep it there.