10 Best Quality Knitwear Manufacturers and Suppliers in the World

Knitwear is clothing and accessories made from knitted fabrics, where loops of yarn are interlinked to create flexible, stretchy textiles. Common items include sweaters, cardigans, turtlenecks, and accessories like scarves and hats. The knitted fabric mills industry is a significant part of the larger textile manufacturing sector, producing versatile pieces beyond just winter wear. 

Knits, from cozy pullovers to stylish cardigans, are perfect for layering and lounging all year round. Custom wholesale knitwear from Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing, especially our sweaters, is not just a chic wardrobe staple but also a smart and comfortable investment. We are your number one crocheted knitwear sweater supplier with global clients. 

Are you looking to upgrade your collection and boost your business? Explore our top picks for the best knitwear manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. Keep reading to learn about the companies below.

Overview of the Global Knitwear Industry

Image Source: Market research future

The global knitwear market was worth USD 643.9 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 1,605.69 billion by 2030, with a projected CAGR of 12.10% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is influenced by rising disposable incomes, a more comprehensive range of available products, and increasing demand for knitted sportswear, particularly in activities like football, aerobics, athletics, and cricket.

Knitwear’s popularity is attributed to its breathability, wrinkle resistance, moisture-wicking capabilities, and softness compared to woven fabrics. These qualities make it ideal for sportswear, where breathability and thermal insulation are crucial for comfort during physical activity.

Global Knitwear Market Share by Region

The Asia-Pacific region pilots the market, with a valuation of USD 278.16 billion in 2021. It is expected to grow at a 43.20% CAGR during the forecast period (2024-2030), driven by the increasing trend for knitwear made from various materials across the regions. 

North America is the second-largest market, with a high demand for warm clothing due to longer winter seasons. Key markets include the U.S., Canada, Germany, China, and Japan, contributing to the global market's expansion.

10 Best Knitwear Manufacturers in the World

The diverse range of knitwear products makes this industry highly competitive and expansive, accommodating manufacturers across all six major continents. The market's breadth adds to its appeal, from cardigans and sweaters to turtlenecks and knitwear accessories. 

Here are the 10 leading manufacturers and key players in the industry:

1. Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing Co., Ltd

Image Source: Xingtai Clothing Website

• Year founded: 2003
• Address: Zhongshan, China
• Knitwear Products: Crocheted sweaters, Hoodies, Beanie, Hats, Knit scarves e.t.c

First on our list is Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing Co., Ltd., a seasoned Chinese-based knitwear manufacturer with over 20 years of experience. It offers one-stop, customized services ranging from product design to sample creation and bulk production. Known for its flexibility, Xingtai Clothing knitwear production has no minimum order but offers sample and bulk orders, depending on clients' needs and requirements. 

Xingtai Clothing maintains a rigorous quality control process, guaranteeing that all items meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. The company’s commitment to excellence extends beyond production. It offers fast lead times and responsive customer service, further solidifying its reputation as a reliable and trusted manufacturer in the knitwear industry.

2. Otago Knitwear

Image Source: Otago

• Year founded: 1999
• Address: Dunedin, New Zealand
• Knitwear products: Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Custom Accessories, Cardigans e.t.c

Otago Knitwear has been a trusted provider of diverse knitwear products, renowned for high customer satisfaction and the use of advanced knitting machinery. The brand excels in using premium materials like fine merino wool and New Zealand merino possum, catering to retailers, designers, and wholesalers with services from bulk knitting to garment making. 

Ideal for brands seeking high-quality, customizable knitwear, Otago Knitwear offers a reliable source in the industry. However, their focus on premium materials may result in higher product costs, which could be a limitation for brands with tighter budgets.

3. Canada Knitwear 

Image Source: Company’s website

• Year founded: 1993
• Address: Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
• Knitwear products: Custom sweaters, cardigans, headbands, scarves, etc. 

Canada Knitwear is a top knitwear manufacturer located in Etobicoke, Ontario. The company’s core belief is the importance of Canadian production. Skilled artisans with extensive knowledge are employed to make a variety of knitwear items, such as scarves, beanies, custom sweaters, etc. All designs and products are Canada-made while striving to communicate this message to its esteemed customers. 

Canada Knitwear is devoted to making changes in the fashion industry by prioritizing sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly materials, and minimizing waste. The company achieves this by implementing fully fashioned knitting methods, which allows the team to reduce waste to as low as 0%, thereby saving customers money. 

4. John Smedley

• Year founded: 1784
• Address: England, UK
• Knitwear products: Cardigans, Jackets, Loungewear, Dresses and Skirts, etc, 

John Smedley is the world’s finest knitwear company and oldest manufacturing factory, based in England. Since its establishment decades ago, the company has crafted beautiful, high-quality clothing designed to withstand the test of time and distributed worldwide. 

Over the years, John Smedley has undergone several reformations that have made it emerge as one of Britain’s most popular clothing brands—a go-to knitwear brand for British designers such as Sir Paul Smith and Dame Vivienne Westwood. Without relenting, John Smedley continuously seeks to produce the highest-quality unisex knitwear with a contemporary look that will outlive generations.

5. Appareify

Image Source: Appareify

• Year founded: 2017
• Address: 99 Jude Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, China 
• Knitwear products: Sweaters, Cardigans, Jumpers, Dresses, Skirts, e.t.c

Appareify is designed for businesses seeking quality apparel solutions. Appareify is one of the leading Chinese clothing manufacturers, serving companies of all sizes across 50+ countries. It offers a complete range of services from product design to production. 

The company has partnered with major brands like Dunhill, Metro, Tesco, and ASOS. Known for crafting on-trend designs across various apparel types, Appareify’s factory can develop over 100 styles per month. It is a go-to choice for brands looking for innovation and reliability in their clothing production.

6. The Elder Statesman 

Image Source: Facebook 

• Year founded: 2007
• Address: Los Angeles, CA
• Knitwear products: Pants and Shorts, Turtleneck, CrewNeck, Cardigans, Hoodies, etc.

The Elder Statesman is a USA luxury knitwear brand based in Los, Angeles. Established in 2007 by Greg Chait, the company is famous for its top-notch cashmere knitwear, offering luxury and the highest level of integrity. The majority of its products are made at the arts and crafts factory downturn Los Angeles. 

The Elder Statesman is invested in masters of craft; from hand-spun materials to handloom knitters, weavers, and dyers, it visualizes human skill as the primary luxury and upholds it in all they do. Today, Elder Statesman is recognized as a true lifestyle brand that blends flawless craftsmanship and light-hearted soul.   

7. J M Knitwear

Image Source: Facebook

• Year founded: 2008
• Address: Gujarat, India
• Knitwear products: Sweater, Cardigans, Accessories e.t.c

J M Knitwear is dedicated to creating and marketing luxury sweaters and accessories for men, women, and children, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The enterprise uses premium yarns such as Italian Merino, Scottish Cashmere, British Lambswool, Indian Cotton, and Linen. 

Additionally, J M Knitwear offers products made from recycled cotton blends and synthetic yarns, ensuring versatility and eco-consciousness. With a commitment to low minimum order quantities (MOQs) and quick lead times, J M Knitwear provides high-quality, sustainable knitwear that meets the diverse demands of its fashionable customers while maintaining a focus on environmental responsibility.

8. Gianangeli Knitwear

Image Source: Gianangeli Website

• Year founded: 1944
• Address: Via Casellino 2006134 Perugia (PG), Italy.
• Knitwear products: Sweaters, Socks, T-shirts, Hoodies, Socks, Accessories, Caps e.t.c

The Gianangeli Knitwear Factory is a premier producer of high-end knitwear, crafting garments for some of the world's most prestigious luxury brands. By seamlessly blending tradition with creativity, the factory is meticulously organized to meet the exacting demands of its clients. Over the years, Gianangeli has cultivated strong relationships with top yarn suppliers, securing access to the finest materials at preferential prices. 

The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its adoption of renewable energy sources and facility renovations to reduce waste and energy consumption. Furthermore, Gianangeli adheres to MRSL and PRSL standards and is actively working towards full compliance with the ZDHC methodology, reinforcing their dedication to responsible manufacturing practices.

9. Knit-Lab Peru

Image Source: Knit-lab Peru

• Year founded: 2012
• Address: Lima, Peru and Eindhoven, The Netherlands
• Knitwear products: Sweatshirts, T-shirts, Hoodies, Accessories, Cardigans e.t.c

Knitlab is a rising force in the knitwear industry, quickly gaining recognition for its commitment to enhancing the Peruvian export market. The company strives to be seen as a solid, modern, and humane brand that honors the ancestral traditions of Peruvian knitting while integrating avant-garde techniques. 

Knitlab offers premium-quality products that blend cutting-edge technology with time-honored craftsmanship. It ensures that all processes adhere to ethical and socially responsible practices. Its dedication to tradition and innovation sets it apart as a forward-thinking company with deep cultural roots.

10. Pringle of Scotland

• Year founded: 1815
• Address: Maryland Park, Challenge Way, Wigan, Scotland
• Knitwear products: Women’s cashmere jumbers, Men’s knitted lounge hoodies, Men’s merino half zip sweaters, etc.

Pringle is a renowned British knitwear brand of over two centuries, embracing the traditional, innovative, and unexpected outcomes in the industry. The company’s modern knitwear collections are a testament of decades of knitting knowledge and skillfulness, combined with a growing outlook on trending life and styles.

Since its foundation in 1815, Pringle has maintained the legacy of Scottish heritage which involves making most of its cashmere clothing in Scotland, using signature, and Scottish-spun yarns. As the company continues to expand this heritage, it strives to partner with suppliers and fashion brands who are willing to attain its standard of care, transparency, and community. 

FAQs

1. Why Do Leading Knitwear Manufacturers Prioritize Sustainability?

Leading knitwear manufacturers prioritize sustainability to meet eco-conscious consumer demand, reduce environmental impact, enhance brand reputation, and support long-term industry viability, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

2. Which is the Best Sweater Manufacturer?

Despite the presence of numerous brands in the knitwear industry, Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing has emerged as a dominant force in knit sweater production, largely due to its rapid innovation and disruption of the status quo. Other notable brands in the space include Zadakat, International Knitwear Ltd, Kalla, and many more.

3. What Should I Look for When Choosing a Knitwear Manufacturer?

There are many things to look out for when choosing knitwear manufacturers. The list is endless, but here are a few: Location, as this predominantly affects delivery timing, Production Lead Time, minimum order quantity (MOQ), and, more importantly, Pricing.

Conclusion

Aside from their unique qualities, the world’s best knitwear manufacturers and suppliers share a dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Most of the companies on our list seamlessly combine old and modern techniques to create exceptional products that cater to a global audience.

If you're interested in partnering with a company that offers a wide range of high-quality knitted fabrics, Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing is an excellent option. Our expertise and pursuit of customer satisfaction make us a top choice for premium knitwear solutions. Contact us today for your OEM/ODM needs!