Apparel manufacturer Team Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) to roll out the SWAPNO project at South End Sweater Co. Ltd., aiming to improve garment workers’ access to safe, healthy, and affordable food while strengthening long-term nutritional awareness.
The MoU was signed at South End Sweater Co. Ltd., a LEED Platinum-certified green factory of Team Group, in the presence of company management, GAIN representatives, and members of the Worker Participation Committee. The involvement of worker representatives underscored the project’s inclusive design and alignment with workers’ needs.
Under SWAPNO, a Fair Price Shop will be set up inside the factory to provide workers with quality food at affordable rates. The project also includes structured nutrition learning sessions to promote healthier dietary practices and support both daily well-being and long-term health.
Team Group officials said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to building a people-centric and responsible manufacturing environment. They noted that better nutrition contributes to increased energy, reduced absenteeism, and improved productivity across operations.
GAIN representatives stressed that workplace-based nutrition interventions can significantly benefit industrial workforces, particularly in garments where dietary choices are often constrained by income and access. They said employer-led programmes can strengthen workforce resilience and help advance sustainable industrial growth.
The SWAPNO project aligns with Bangladesh’s broader shift toward social sustainability in the apparel sector, complementing investments in green factories, worker safety, and compliance. As global buyers place greater emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance, nutrition-focused initiatives are emerging as key differentiators for responsible manufacturers.
By partnering with GAIN, Team Group aims to create a healthier and more supportive workplace, demonstrating that investment in worker well-being is both a social responsibility and a strategic approach to long-term competitiveness.
