Design as Driver for Understanding Sustainability and Creating Value in the Garment Sector

This paper examines the value of design in business seen through the example of the Danish company Kopenhagen Fur. Design School Kolding has during 2014 and 2015 conducted a design research program and study with focus on sustainability as a key parameter in the company’s future use of design on different levels. In order to explain the potential that design represent for the company’s value creation we draw upon Heskett’s models (2003) and his explanation of the relationship between economic theories and design (2008). To explain the relationship between design and sustainability we further elaborate towards theories connected to the transformation economy (Gardien 2014) and explain how Kopenhagen Fur’s potential for including design and sustainability throughout their entire value chain aligns with the present understanding in the fashion and textile industry.