Sustainable supplier selection in the apparel industry: an integrated AHP-TOPSIS model for multi-criteria decision analysis

PurposeIn the apparel industry, suppliers play a significant role, directly affecting customer service levels and business profits. Integrating sustainable requirements into supplier selection not only aligns with global environmental goals but also enhances business performance, social responsibility and overall industry well-being. This study aims to design a multi-criteria model to evaluate and select the most sustainable suppliers in the fashion industry, trying to balance the conflicts in the set of sustainable development criteria.Design/methodology/approachThe integration of analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) offers advantages in sustainable supplier selection within the apparel industry. The AHP plays a crucial role in engaging multiple decision-makers with conflicting criteria to reach a consensus during the decision-making process. Conversely, the TOPSIS is used to compute alternative ratings. By simultaneously determining criteria weights and incorporating stakeholder preferences, hybrid models enhance decision-making strength and overcome limitations observed in classical multi-criteria decision-making techniques.FindingsThis research identified and classified 16 critical criteria impacting the selection of apparel industry suppliers, focusing on sustainable development. The criteria were weighted, providing a robust statistical foundation for the selection model. The results indicated that the most influential criteria were staff training, production capability, flexibility and practice of recycling. The proposed sustainable supplier selection model explains to decision-makers how criteria influence supplier ranking results compared to traditional models, supporting managers in making informed and sustainable supply chain decisions through continuous updates and enhancements.Originality/valueThis research provides new insight into the weighted impact of factors related to sustainable supplier selection in the apparel industry. The combination of a precise process and scientific knowledge will improve the quality of sustainable supplier selection.