In a recent LinkedIn post, Choo Ann NGOH discusses the intriguing question of whether all businesses should adopt the operational model of a technology company, prompted by insights from the founder of Uniqlo, Tadashi Yanai. NGOH highlights Yanai’s assertion that Uniqlo operates like a tech firm, a perspective that challenges traditional views of the fashion industry.
NGOH shares Yanai’s rationale, emphasizing Uniqlo’s strategic focus on fabric science over the notoriously fickle nature of fashion trends. This approach involves deep collaboration with industry leaders to innovate at a molecular level.
“Uniqlo focuses on fabric science rather than fast-changing fashion trends”
The Science Behind Uniqlo’s Success
Choo Ann NGOH elaborates on this core strategy, pointing out Uniqlo’s partnerships with major chemical companies. These collaborations are crucial for developing advanced, functional apparel that has become a hallmark of the brand.
As NGOH notes, citing the documentary on Uniqlo, the company engineers materials like HeatTech and AIRism. This dedication to material innovation, rather than simply following seasonal styles, allows Uniqlo to create products with unique performance characteristics that resonate with a broad consumer base.
“They partner with chemical giants like Toray Industries to engineer functional, molecular-level apparel like HeatTech and AIRism”
Fashion: Art or Science?
The insights shared by Choo Ann NGOH prompt a broader reflection on the nature of the fashion industry itself. By detailing Uniqlo’s tech-like approach, NGOH raises a fundamental question about categorization and strategy.
According to NGOH, the Uniqlo model suggests that even industries often perceived as purely creative or artistic can benefit immensely from a scientific, research-driven methodology. This perspective shifts the focus from ephemeral trends to enduring material innovation.
“After hearing the documentary on Uniqlo, I can’t help but wonder, is fashion an art or a science?🤷”
Broader Business Implications
Choo Ann NGOH’s post invites business leaders across various sectors to consider how a technology-centric mindset, characterized by innovation, data, and scientific rigor, could be applied to their own operations. The Uniqlo example serves as a compelling case study for how deep scientific investment can create a sustainable competitive advantage.
NGOH also touches upon the evolving landscape of advertising, musing on the cessation of Uniqlo’s print advertisements in certain publications.
“PS: came across a few of Uniqlo’s full page full colour ads in my collection I wonder why they stopped print ads in this particular English daily?🤷”
This observation, while secondary to the main thesis, adds a layer of contemporary relevance, prompting readers to think about Uniqlo’s marketing evolution alongside its product innovation strategy.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Choo Ann NGOH on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 6, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →