Transformative effect of 3D sampling technology for the ready-made garment industry: A review

The increasing demand for sustainable and efficient manufacturing in the ready-made garment (RMG) industry has driven interest in digital solutions. This review article explores the effect of 3D sampling technology (i.e., CLO 3D, Optitex, Lectra, and Browzwear) over traditional physical sampling on reducing material waste, improving efficiency, and reducing costs. This study examines the role of digital sampling in addressing critical challenges within the garment manufacturing process, specifically focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and lead time. In the RMG sector of Bangladesh, these technologies have great potential due to their proven effectiveness in enhancing design precision and optimizing production workflows. However, challenges such as expensive setup costs, a lack of realistic materials, and training needs continue to be major problems. The current article offers a thorough review of the economic and environmental effects linked to 3D sampling. It also highlights key obstacles to adopting this technology and provides strategic recommendations aimed at industry 4.0 stakeholders.