How Brands Are Navigating Supply Chain Volatility

Luxury brands gathered at the *Vogue Business* Global Summit in Chantilly, France, to address pressing supply chain challenges during an exclusive roundtable discussion hosted by GXO’s SVP of Global Sector Development, Max Alexander, and *Vogue Business*’s Head of Custom Insights, Anusha Couttigane. Key issues included tariff complexities for imports, particularly for brands operating in Brazil, rising fuel costs linked to Middle East conflict, and the financial burden of managing returns, which luxury shoppers increasingly expect to be free. Alexander emphasized the benefits of outsourcing logistics to manage staffing costs and operational complexity, allowing brands to focus on creativity and customer engagement. GXO’s advanced technology and scalable operations enable brands to anticipate demand patterns and strategically position inventory, often with greater precision than independent efforts. Couttigane noted the shift in consumer expectations, with luxury shoppers demanding shorter lead times and personalized services like custom packaging or engraved product cases. Brands and retailers are under pressure to deliver these elevated services, but GXO’s white-glove warehousing solutions help streamline labor-intensive processes, reducing wait times while maintaining high standards. Alexander also highlighted GXO’s ability to restore products within the supply chain—such as cleaning or repairing garments—to recover value and reduce waste. This approach not only minimizes financial losses from unsold inventory but also aligns with sustainability goals by cutting landfill-bound goods. The discussion extended to a panel on AI’s role in fashion, where Alexander suggested AI tools could further enhance supply chain efficiency. The summit underscored how luxury brands are leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to navigate volatility while meeting evolving consumer demands.