Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director of Epson Australia
Industry collaborators seek research partner to assess feasibility of technology innovation hub that could transform Australian fashion manufacturing
Why a Feasibility Study?
Before committing significant resources to establish a smart factory, the AFC and Epson recognise the importance of thoroughly validating the concept and learning from other local and international examples. The comprehensive six-month study will assess market viability, technical requirements, operational models, financial projections, and social and environmental considerations to create a detailed implementation roadmap.
“This isn’t just a research exercise, it’s the foundation for action,” said Quaintance-James. “Following completion of the study toward the end of 2025, we’ll develop a detailed implementation plan to secure investment partnerships, finalise specifications for an initial pilot, develop training programs with educational institutions, and create a governance framework to maximise benefits to the Australian fashion industry.”
“The smart factory concept represents a transformative shift toward ‘rapid agile’ on-demand manufacturing,” Heckenberg said. “Rather than speculative production, this approach enables creating products in response to actual consumer demand, simultaneously addressing profitability challenges and environmental concerns.”
The initiative aims to retain sovereign manufacturing capability, rebuild local supply chains, drive digital innovation, and upskill the workforce through educational partnerships. “These advancements will deliver far-reaching economic and community benefits – from job creation and skills development to regional growth and greater participation for women in technology-driven manufacturing roles,” Quaintance-James added.
Call for Research Partners
The AFC and Epson Australia are seeking research partners with experience in technology and innovation, fashion and textile industry expertise, stakeholder engagement, comprehensive research and analysis skills, and financial analysis capabilities.
Research partners may be Australian-based or international organisations with the capacity to conduct a thorough feasibility study that delivers actionable recommendations.
Interested parties should submit their expressions of interest by Sunday, 15th June 2025.
For more information, please contact: Sam Delgos, Industry Relations Manager, AFC, sdelgos@ausfashioncouncil.com, 0405 566 313
The complete program page can be found here.
About the Australian Fashion Council
The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) is a not-for-profit and the peak body for the Australian fashion and textile industry, representing the sector for over 70 years. AFC members are Australian founded or majority owned businesses involved in producing fabric, clothing, footwear or accessories, including individuals that contribute creatively and economically to the Australian fashion and textile industry. The AFC champion and advocate for a prosperous and creative Australian fashion and textiles industry, with the purpose of building a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem for our member community through education, collaboration and innovation.
About Epson Australia
Epson Australia offers an extensive array of award-winning image capture and image output products for the commercial, industrial, consumer, business, photography and graphic arts markets, and is also a leading supplier of value-added point-of-sale (POS) solutions for the retail market. Epson is the market leader in Australia and worldwide in sales of projectors for the home, office and education. Established in 1983 and now in its 41st year of operation, Epson Australia is headquartered in North Sydney and is a subsidiary of the Epson Group headquartered in Japan.
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