Our production is the core piece.
After all, quality starts with transparency throughout the entire supply chain.
Transparency in the supply chain
THE PRODUCTION STEPS AT MEY: FROM RAW MATERIAL PRODUCTION TO THE HIGH-QUALITY UNDERWEAR PRODUCT.
In the textile industry, the manufacturing process is described by the so-called four tiers. The raw material is grown or produced in tier 4, which is then spun into yarn in tier 3.
In the further course of the manufacturing process, the surface is produced by knitting or weaving the yarn (tier 2). In the so-called textile finishing process, the fabrics produced are dyed, printed and finished.
Making up is the final production step (tier 1). This is where the fabric is cut and the individual components are made into the final product by seamstresses.
The textile value chain is long and complex. From the extraction of raw materials to the high-quality underwear product, many processing stages are necessary.
For mey, creating transparency within its own supply chain means having a thorough understanding of the structures and stakeholders involved and working together in a spirit of partnership. Supply chain transparency is therefore a fundamental prerequisite for corporate due diligence – because if you know your supply chain, you can take social and environmental considerations into account in a more targeted manner.
HANDLING RETURNS AND UNSOLD MERCHANDISE
Transparency in our own supply chain also means ensuring quality across all stages of the value chain. For mey, every product is the result of careful development, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. That is why it is important to us that even returned and unsold merchandise finds a meaningful use whenever possible.
Avoiding Surpluses and Sensible Reuse
We strive to avoid excess inventory from the outset and therefore work closely with retail partners and representatives to develop forecasts that ensure production is tailored to demand. Returns in perfect condition and unsold merchandise are returned to the sales channel through clearance sales, our own outlets, and our other distribution channels.
Items with minor defects that do not affect their functionality are sold as "1B" items or donated. We partner with various organizations for this purpose. In our annual CR reports, we provide details on the various initiatives and channels for reusing these items.
Unavoidable Exceptions
As a manufacturer of linens, hygiene and functionality are our top priorities. Products for which we cannot unequivocally guarantee hygienic safety or functionality are therefore neither resold nor donated.
As part of our legal disclosure obligations, we will in the future track and publish the annual quantities and reasons for the disposal of unsold products. This policy is consistent with our commitment to reuse saleable and functional merchandise whenever possible, rather than disposing of it.
FABRIC CUTTING
CONFECTION
TRADING
CONSUMERS
Our production and partners in India
Responsibility knows no boundaries – and neither does quality.
We know that the production location plays a role. And we also know that ‘Made in India’ can raise questions. That's why we talk openly about our decision – and why we made it with conviction and a clear conscience.
Our responsibility does not end at national borders. It begins where our products are made – whether in Europe or Asia. In addition to our own production facilities in Germany and Europe, we have been working for years with an exclusive, highly specialised selection of partners and now also with a partner production facility in India. This cooperation is based on mutual trust, personal contact and clearly defined standards.
Our partners manufacture with state-of-the-art technology, comprehensive expertise and the utmost care.
The production conditions are not only impeccable – they also meet our own high ethical and quality standards. Through regular training, audits and quality checks by our teams on site, we ensure a consistently high level of quality – for every product, in every batch.
Credibility begins where control meets transparency: that is why we rely not only on our own controls and regular on-site presence, but also on independent standards that are transparent and traceable. Our partner production is certified according to the GOTS standard (Global Organic Textile Standard), among others – one of the world's strictest seals when it comes to environmental compatibility and product safety in textile manufacturing. Memberships such as that in the Fair Wear Foundation ensure compliance with and promotion of high social standards – from fair wages and safe working conditions to complaint mechanisms.
After all, good work is not only reflected in the result, but also in the conditions under which it is produced.
Not all products can be manufactured economically or technically in Germany or Europe.
Even well-equipped European locations reach their structural limits when it comes to certain materials, finishing processes or volume quantities – whether in terms of skilled workers, machinery or simply unit costs.
If we want to offer high-quality products at a market- and product-appropriate price that is realistic for customers – while guaranteeing quality, durability and sustainability – then there is no way around production countries such as India. The decision is not an easy one, but it is necessary. And it is sustainable because we implement it responsibly.
For us, the following applies: if you think globally, you must also be able to act globally – but with standards that do not end at the factory gate. Our stance remains the same. So do our standards. Because true quality knows no boundaries. And neither does responsibility.