Local textile companies have left US in favor of overseas production as the US industry has, for the most, part unraveled, and supply chains are splintered. Without one streamlined entity, levels of workmanship, accountability and efficiency in the country have plummeted.

However the industry offers a tremendous opportunity to rebuild by building vertically integrated supply chains. To achieve this, the future companies need to be service-driven, proficient, tech-savvy, and state-of-the-art, embedded with traceability, sustainability and lean manufacturing. They need to offer all services under one roof, or at the very least, under streamlined and connected entities that are working together efficiently and effectively.

This will help to rebuild a system that allows for transparency, quality and job growth. It will also benefit brands and retailers by creating lower minimums, quicker turnarounds and less risk of liquidation—to counter the exorbitant textile waste generated by today’s overseas production models.