UNIQLO's research and design (R&D) centers analyze the latest fashions and lifestyles from around the world as well as look into new materials.
Concept meetings are held roughly one year before a product's intended launch. On these occasions, designers meet with representatives from the merchandising, marketing, materials development and production departments to discuss and finalize concepts for upcoming seasons. Then UNIQLO's R&D centers prepare designs and refine samples until each product is finalized.