Assessing Organizational Readiness for Industry 5.0 in the Sri Lankan Large-Scale Apparel Companies: Challenges and Opportunities

The Sri Lankan apparel industry is a key player in the global market, primarily operating under Industry 4.0 principles, emphasizing automation, and efficiency. However, as the global apparel sector increasingly transitions toward Industry 5.0, which prioritizes human-centric innovation, resilience, sustainability, and hyper-customization, the Sri Lankan industry must address critical gaps to remain competitive. This research aims to identify the readiness categories and factors essential for the Sri Lankan apparel industry’s shift toward Industry 5.0 while assessing the current state of the sector. The analysis of the current situation of the apparel industry highlights the necessity of adopting advanced technologies while also focusing on workforce upskilling and addressing social and sustainability improvements to align with Industry 5.0 principles. By bridging these gaps and adopting sustainable, innovative approaches, the Sri Lankan apparel industry can align with global trends, enhance its adaptability to evolving market demands, and maintain its position as a leading competitor in the international apparel market. This research provides a foundation for navigating this transformative transition effectively.