Survival Strategies and Workforce Resilience in Apparel Industry A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Sri Lanka's apparel sector, employing 600,000 workers and contributing significantly to export earnings, faces substantial challenges due to the economic crisis, COVID-19, inflation, and supply chain disruptions, which have led to financial instability, employment risks, heightened employee stress, and reduced resilience. This study explores the impact of well-being strategies on enhancing employee resilience in the industry through qualitative interviews with 11 HR managers from leading apparel companies. Thematic analysis revealed that mental health initiatives, financial support, flexible work arrangements, and digital transformation strategies significantly reduced employee stress, boosted retention rates, and enhanced workforce engagement. Organizations implementing well-being strategies experienced lower absenteeism, increased productivity, and greater workforce resilience. The research highlights the need for standardized well-being policies and recommends collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to develop human resource frameworks that foster employee resilience, ensuring business sustainability and supporting economic recovery.