Metamorphosis Project

Project duration: January 2023 - January 2025
Funded by: Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology, Directorate General of EU and Foreign Affair, and Directorate of EU Financial Programmes

Project summary

Managed by McKinsey & Company, the Metamorphosis Project is a multi-layered, 3 year project involving various stakeholders, with the primary objective of revolutionising Turkiye's fashion and textile infrastructure so that it aligns with modern technologies and innovations. This transformation necessitates a comprehensive digital revamp within the industry.

London College of Fashion (LCF) has taken on the responsibility of developing 6 training packages and conducting trainer workshops for the Istanbul Fashion Academy (IMA). Established in 2007 through collaborative efforts led by the European Union, the Turkish Ministry of Economy, and the Istanbul Apparel Exporters' Association, the IMA aims to provide training to Turkish SMEs, which constitute 99% of the country's industry.

Project aims

The project aims to enhance Turkiye's competitiveness both in Europe and on a global scale, with a focus on eco-friendly solutions. Under the scope of the 'Competitive Sectors Programme' carried out by the Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology, the goal is to complete this transformation by 2025.

LCF has played a pivotal role in initiating this transformative process alongside ITA Academy GmbH. The 6 training packages produced by LCF are designed to orchestrate a complete metamorphosis of the value chain, spanning from initial design stages to ultimate communication strategies.

Approach and outputs

UAL's service contract (worth €350,000) included:

• the development of a business plan;
• 6 training packages on digital fashion;
• and their delivery to the trainers of IMA and SME delegates in Turkiye.

In the initial phase of the project, extensive desk research was conducted to identify the industry's requirements and shape the training programmes accordingly. Subsequently, the tailored training packages delivered by LCF professionals to IMA trainers facilitated a robust knowledge exchange. Following this, LCF lecturers proceeded to train Turkish SME representatives, oversaw IMA trainers in action and provided feedback to ensure optimal execution of the training programmes in the future.

Partners and stakeholders

• McKinsey & Company - Business management consultancy project managing the project.
• Istanbul Apparel Exporters' Association (IHKIB) - Founded in 1986, largest sectoral institution with approx 9000 members. Their purpose is to improve the capacity of Turkish garment and apparel sector and introduce it to the global arena.
• Istanbul Moda Academy (IMA) - Nestled within the bustling fashion hub of Nisantasi, Turkiye, IMA is one of the country's foremost institutions in fashion education. Established in 2007 through a collaborative effort spearheaded by the European Union, the Ministry of Economy, and the Istanbul Apparel Exporters' Association (IHKIB), the Istanbul Moda Academy (IMA) occupies a storied historical edifice. Affiliated with IHKIB, IMA is renowned for its comprehensive offerings, including academic programs, short courses, professional development initiatives, and consultancy services.
• Digital Transformation Center (DDM) - Formerly under the umbrella of the IMA, DDM has since emerged as an independent entity. Their focus now lies in championing SMEs by spearheading initiatives aimed at digitally transforming the industry.
• EKOTEKS - Independent laboratory funded by IHKIB in 1998.
• ITA Academy GmbH - Social Compliance & new testing and analysis.