TRU Group: Operational procedures of various departments and recommendations for improvements

Abstract

This report illustrates my internship experience at TRU Group under the PGD-KIM program. The main purpose of this internship was to understand how a textile and apparel company operates in practice and to connect my academic knowledge with practical experience. During my internship, I worked with all departments, including SCM, Marketing, HRM, Production, Commercial, and Business Development. This helped me understand how departments work together across the board. I understand that effective communication and coordination are crucial to achieving company goals. I also gain practical experience in supply chain management, sustainability practices, production risk, data management, and buyer communication. I discovered that historical data and prior experience help decision-making. So, a burning question arises due to the lack of proper data management and digital systems in this industry. I also notice some communication barriers among the departments, but teamwork helps address these issues without causing negative impacts. Furthermore, the company and the textile industry face some big challenges. These include tariffs, high employee turnover, foreign currency problems with L/Cs, and energy supply issues. On the other hand, there are some internal issues, such as centralized decision-making in family businesses, slow adoption of modern technology, and a focus on experience rather than being tech-savvy. To face future challenges, the industry must first address its internal issues. Then the company should focus on product diversification and innovation. It should produce more eco-friendly products using recycled materials, regenerated cotton, and organic fibers. Sustainable products are very important because global buyers now prefer environmentally friendly fabrics. The company should also provide employee skill training, encourage new ideas, improve planning, adopt digital systems such as an ERP, and explore new markets. Our government should also take the necessary steps to expand the industry's foreign market, including addressing energy, gas, and currency issues. Besides, tariffs are now a major concern for the textile industry in our country, especially for the USA market, as of early 2026. In 2027, the GSP advantage will end for the EU market, as the earlier government had already declared Bangladesh a developing country. Proper government policy on trade can eradicate the problem and create opportunities and sustainability for the textile industry. Overall, my confidence level is being boosted by doing this internship. It also increases leadership ability and understanding of the textile industry. It helped me connect theory with real industry practice and prepared me for future career challenges.