Module manager: Shuyu Yang
Email: s.y.yang@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will introduce students to the challenges and opportunities for the modern fashion industry, focusing on the interconnectedness of society, business, and the environment. . The module will provide students with a description of the key operations within the industry in terms of its structure, different sectors, business models, and the supply chain while analysing economic and socio-cultural drivers that shape decision-making in fashion institutions (e.g., consumers, retailers, brands) Through this, the module provides a foundational understanding of sustainable fashion and its relevance within the broader business context.
The aim of the module is to provide a broad introduction to the fashion industry from a business perspective, considering environmental, economic, and socio-cultural sustainability. The module will describe the key functions of the industry, the common approaches for the management and delivery of fashion to the consumer market and an understanding of brand/retailer structures and business models.
The module will also introduce the concept of product development, the buying process and the supply chain that all play important roles within the industry.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Describe the structure of the fashion industry.
2. Illustrate the complexity of the fashion supply chain and value chain.
3. Identify the key functions of the product development process for a brand/retailer.
4. Recognise the impact product development choices have on sustainability.
Skills Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on working with others
6. Apply effective written/visual communication skills to present findings.
The module will develop students’ understanding of the fashion industry by considering the role of design, marketing, technology, brands/retailers and the global supply chain in the delivery of fashion products (clothing) to the consumer market. Students will also be exposed to the fundamentals of product development, and the roles of key functions within brands/retailers and the supply chain. This will provide a broad overview of the complexity of the industry, and the process of product development. This foundation will be used to explore the challenges of delivering sustainable fashion within a commercial context. The role and influence of the consumer will be considered within this complexity as well macrotrends that are driving change within the industry.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 6 | 1 | 6 |
| seminars | 6 | 2 | 12 |
| Practicals | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Group learning | 2 | 0.5 | 1 |
| Independent online learning hours | 3 | ||
| Private study hours | 176 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 21 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
The seminar activities provide opportunities for formative feedback on progress and understanding. Further feedback will be provided via the group poster presentation which is used to test student knowledge. Dedicated group tutorials support the finalisation of the summative submissions.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Group Report | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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