Upstream Focus: Do-Gree Fashions Ltd.'s Matthew Tock on Tariffs, Taking Risks and Transparency
Upstream Focus is Sourcing Journal's series of conversations with suppliers, associations and sourcing professionals to get their insights on the state of sourcing, innovations in manufacturing and how to improve operations. In this Q&A, Matthew Tock, vice president at Do-Gree Fashions Ltd., a Montreal-based manufacturing and sourcing company specializing in winter hats and accessories, shares why brands should be open to taking risks and how trade uncertainty is shaping his firm's production strategy.
Name: Matthew TockTitle: Vice presidentCompany: Do-Gree Fashions Ltd.
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What's the number one question you get from your clients now that was never really a consideration before?
With the recent U.S. global tariff issues and uncertainties, the most common question we get is, 'How are you pivoting your current production model?'
How are you evaluating potential brand and retail clients? What do you look for in a customer now, compared to a few years ago?
We seek out customers—whether new or established—who are looking to grow within the headwear and accessories market. Today, we value adaptability and long-term partnership potential more than ever before.
As the apparel industry tries to overcome its stock issues, how can supply chain partners improve inventory management?
It's a delicate balance between forecasting based on historical data and anticipating new trends and opportunities. The days of 'buying in hopes of selling' are over; strategy and data now lead the way. Consider consumer demands and market expectations on relative purchases rather than desires.
What should brands' and retailers' top lesson from last year be? How can they address this in their operations?
Don't be overly conservative. Growth still requires risk, but being open to new opportunities—and ready to act on them—is key. [Companies should increase] market research and supply-base research.
How are you working with your factories to support quick-turn, small-run orders?
We prioritize consistent and transparent communication with our factories and set realistic expectations. To support our clients, we've started offering lower MOQs to help them remain competitive and responsive.
Which new sourcing regions are you either considering or ramping up today?
In response to tariffs on China, we're actively expanding production into Vietnam, Indonesia, Pakistan and Mexico. That said, China remains our primary source of production for now.
As you're considering where to source, what are your top considerations today?
U.S. tariffs, shipping lead times and production volume capabilities are the top factors influencing our sourcing decisions. Right now, all anyone can hope for is clarity and stability as regards to U.S.-China relations. As much as a brand wants to distance themselves from China, if they haven't already done that three to four years ago, the ability to pivot is not so easy.
What keeps you up at night?
U.S.-global relations, unpredictable tariff changes, weather patterns, economic uncertainty and overall market volatility.
What makes you most optimistic?
A sense of hope for change—and the resilience of our industry to keep adapting and innovating. At least for us, accessories have never really been a budgetary factor for the end consumer. Getting a new toque, pair of gloves or cap is far less impactful on consumer budgets as compared to hard goods, jackets and higher-priced items.
What's in store for Do-Gree Fashions Ltd. in 2025?
We're focused on maintaining strong relationships with our existing clients while investing in new markets, product opportunities and customer segments.
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