Recalls happen, even at facilities known for their airtight quality measures. That’s why a modern SPC software with complete traceability from raw materials to finished goods is indispensable to quality engineers who thrive in the digital age.

Most quality departments are still doing things the old fashioned way: measure, collect, compare, respond, fix, and repeat. This reactive, legacy approach is, of course, vital for any successful company, but in this data-driven age of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0, it’s not enough. 

The recall could cost the company about 25 billion yen, or about $220 million.

In March 2013, Lululemon, a billion-dollar Canadian athletic apparel company, made headlines after the media got wind of an unusual story. The Vancouver-based company recalled its popular black yoga pants after customers complained that the active wear was too sheer.