Protecting Small & Medium Producers of Bangladeshi Boutique Fashion: The Need for a Leadership Role of Industry Associations

Abstract

The story of boutique fashion industry of Bangladesh is a unique one. Carved with thousands of years of cultural heritage, craftsmanship of cottage artisans and Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), depiction of local festivals and struggle for freedom, this industry has the true potential to go global. However, the industry is yet to be declared and prioritized as a thrust sector by the government. The study utilizes the concepts of ‘Leadership’, ‘Business Ecosystem’ and ‘Role of Associations’ combined with Triple Triangle Framework (TTF) of SME competitiveness priorities to identify the key strategic areas that boutique fashion industry representatives need to focus on with due leadership role. The study is based on extensive literature review, experience survey and top-level depth interviews. Based on the findings of this study, the representatives of boutique fashion would be able to craft a strategic approach to address the prioritization issue and bring the industry at the forefront of development discussions for a future Bangladesh.

Keywords: SME, Boutique, Fashion, Ecosystem, Association, Leadership, Thrust Sector, Bangladesh