NAICS 315 - Apparel Manufacturing
Industries in the Apparel Manufacturing subsector group establishments with two distinct manufacturing processes: (1) cut and sew (i.e., purchasing fabric and cutting and sewing to make a garment), and (2) the manufacture of garments in establishments that first knit fabric and then cut and sew the fabric into a garment. The Apparel Manufacturing subsector includes a diverse range of establishments manufacturing full lines of ready-to-wear apparel and custom apparel: apparel contractors, performing cutting or sewing operations on materials owned by others; jobbers performing entrepreneurial functions involved in apparel manufacture; and tailors, manufacturing custom garments for individual clients are all included. Knitting, when done alone, is classified in the Textile Mills subsector, but when knitting is combined with the production of complete garments, the activity is classified in Apparel Manufacturing.
Industry trends:
The apparel manufacturing industry, classified under NAICS 315, is experiencing significant transformations. One of the most notable trends is the increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical production. Consumers are demanding transparency in the supply chain, pushing manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly materials and processes. This shift is expected to drive innovation in the development of sustainable fabrics and recycling techniques, with a forecasted rise in circular economy practices over the next few years.
Another key trend is the integration of technology within the manufacturing process. The adoption of automation, AI, and data analytics is becoming prevalent, leading to more efficient production lines and reduced waste. Manufacturers are investing in smart factory initiatives and digital design platforms to streamline operations and enhance customization capabilities. This technological advancement is likely to result in faster production times and more flexible supply chains, allowing companies to respond more swiftly to consumer demand.
The industry is also witnessing a shift towards on-demand and direct-to-consumer (DTC) business models. As e-commerce continues to grow, manufacturers are focusing on reducing lead times and exploring partnerships with retail platforms to stay competitive. This trend is forecasted to change traditional retail dynamics, with more apparel companies aiming to provide bespoke and personalized options that cater directly to individual consumers.
Looking ahead, these qualitative trends suggest that apparel manufacturing will increasingly be dominated by sustainable practices, technological integration, and evolving consumer demand patterns. Companies that adapt by investing in technology, sustainability, and DTC models are likely to thrive in the changing landscape.
This industry is comprised of:
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