Customizing a Sustainable Future in Manufacturing: A Conversation with Roger Lee

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Roger Lee, the visionary CEO of TAL Manufacturing. With decades of experience in the garment industry, Roger provides a unique insight into how TAL Manufacturing integrates sustainability into its core practices. He shares the company’s impressive journey towards carbon neutrality by 2050 and its pioneering efforts in made-to-measure clothing, which not only reduces waste but enhances customer satisfaction as consumer demands evolve.

From the importance of curiosity in leadership to the transformative impact of technology on manufacturing, Roger's perspective underscores the need for innovation in an ever-changing landscape. He emphasizes the crucial role of artificial intelligence and computer vision tools in ensuring quality and transparency for consumers, reshaping industry standards.

Dive into the conversation as we explore what drives Roger personally and professionally, where he finds inspiration and his vision for the future of the apparel industry. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in sustainability, fashion innovation, or the intricacies of running a successful business in the modern world. Join us, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Roger Lee Biography
CEO | TAL APPAREL

A future-focused leader who joined the family business TAL Group (TAL) in 2005, Roger brought significant expertise from his strong IT background, setting TAL on a path toward innovation-led garment manufacturing as an INNOFACTURER®.

With a deep understanding of the garment industry, Roger’s expertise has enhanced TAL’s reach and ambitions. The company employs over 20,000 people in its manufacturing and supply chain operations across Thailand, Vietnam, and Ethiopia, with the capacity to produce more than 50 million garments annually. TAL supplies one out of every six men’s dress shirts sold in the U.S. By focusing on quality garments, on-time delivery, and value for money, the company has grown into one of Asia’s largest garment manufacturers.

Roger also oversees The Apparel Group (TAG) in the U.S., which provides design and logistics management services. During the 2020 pandemic, TAL acquired the made-to-measure pioneer J. Hilburn. Additionally, TAL shipped over 50 million masks to U.S. clients, including hoteliers, retailers, and consumer brands. In November 2020, TAL launched protective washable masks under the Enro brand, designed to withstand up to 100 washes.

Roger is actively involved in several trade organizations in Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong Government Textiles Advisory Board, where he served for seven years until reaching the mandatory tenure, the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) of the Government of HKSAR, and the School of Fashion and Textiles at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He is currently a panel member of the ITC.