Top 7 Highly-Rated Knitwear Manufacturers in Europe

Are you seeking the perfect European knitwear manufacturer to elevate your fashion brand? Choosing the right partner is crucial for defining the quality and appeal of your collection. Capitalizing on extensive industry expertise and a deep understanding of fashion production, we provide insights that help brands navigate the complexities of knitwear manufacturing.

After exploring seven top knitwear manufacturers, we found a couple of manufacturers that excel in multiple aspects—setting a high standard in the industry. Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing Co., Ltd. has been a noteworthy influence in the knitwear industry for the past twenty years, raising the bar as a leading sweater supplier and custom accessories manufacturer globally.

In this guide, we’ll review the top seven highly-rated manufacturers in Europe, highlighting their unique strengths and offerings in the knitwear sector.  Read on to find the ideal match for your brand!

Overview of the Knitwear Market in Europe: The Growth, Challenges, and Headways

The European knitwear market is experiencing steady growth, powered by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and stylish apparel. European knitwear imports are valued at approximately €25.8 billion, positioning the sector as a significant part of the apparel market. 

ITC Trade Map data shows that Europe accounted for 34% of global knitwear imports in 2022, surpassing the USA's 26% share. Key markets within the EU that present strong opportunities for knitwear imports include the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.

Challenges like fluctuating raw material prices and supply chain disruptions persist. However, manufacturers make headway by embracing eco-friendly materials and advanced manufacturing technologies. 

Brands focusing on innovation and sustainability are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend as consumers increasingly prioritize ethical and high-quality knitwear products.

The 7 Leading Knitwear Manufacturers in Europe

Here is a detailed insight into the 7 leading knitwear manufacturers in Europe. They produce knitted sweaters and pullovers, beanies, cardigans, turtlenecks, dresses, skirts, among other things. We would dissect their year of establishment, core values, strengths, and what distinguishes one from the other.

1. Paul James Knitwear

• Year founded: 1976
• Address: Leicestershire, England
• Knitwear products: Sweatshirts, T-shirts, Hoodies, Socks, Cardigans e.t.c

Paul James Knitwear is perfect for brands focused on natural fibers and sustainability. It offers luxury knitwear rooted in strong ethical values. Partnering with the company enhances sustainability efforts and attracts eco-conscious consumers. However, its focus on natural materials and in-house production may limit scalability and variety, particularly for brands needing synthetic options or larger-scale production.

Paul James Knitwear factories create timeless classics and wardrobe staples from premium materials such as cotton, alpaca, merino wool, and lambswool, which are flawlessly sourced worldwide. They proudly support ethically sourced products and celebrate British design and manufacturing.

2. Maglificio FMF

Image Source: favicon

• Year founded: 1983
• Address: Piazza 1° Maggio 14/15/16 59016 Poggio a Caiano (PO) – Italy
• Knitwear products: Sweatshirts, T-shirts, Accessories, Hoodies, Sweaters, Cardigans e.t.c

Maglificio FMF is a renowned Italian knitwear factory known for producing both men's and women's garments, ranging from casual wear to high-end fashion. With a focus on attractive designs, quality yarns, and meticulous attention to detail, the enterprise creates premium products that embody Italian excellence. 

Maglificio FMF’s factory utilizes the latest Stoll knitting machines, producing over 100 original designs each month across various gauges—3gg, 5gg, 7gg, 12gg, and 14gg. The company works with a range of fibers, including wool, cotton, viscose, polyester, nylon, and luxury materials such as cashmere, silk, and alpaca, offering extensive customization options.

3. Mars Knitwear

Image Source: Facebook

• Year founded: 1994
• Address: 50 Pullman Road Wigston LE18 2DB, United Kingdom
• Knitwear products: Sweaters, Socks, T-shirts, Scarves, Beanie, Caps e.t.c

Mars Knitwear is a distinguished manufacturer specializing in high-quality knitwear for men and women. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Mars Knitwear produces garments that meet the latest fashion trends while maintaining timeless appeal. Over the years, it has supplied several high-street stores and global customer bases in the USA, Germany, Japan, etc.

Mars Knitwear offers a wide variety of yarns, including wool, cashmere, etc., ensuring versatility and quality. The company’s products are crafted with precision and care, including everything from casual essentials to sophisticated luxury pieces. Focusing on custom services, it works closely with brands to create unique knitwear that resonates with today's discerning consumers.

4. Infiknit Knitwear 

Image Source: Infiknit Website

• Year founded: 1978
• Address: Tokyo straat 11175 RB, Lijnden, Netherlands
• Knitwear products: Sweaters, Cardigans, Scarves, and Hats.

Infiknit Knitwear is a Netherlands brand that combines over 40 years of experience with deep production knowledge and trend-driven design expertise to create value-added knitwear for a diverse range of clients, from retailers to fashion brands. What began as a Dutch knitting factory is now a global knitwear wholesaler with manufacturing sites in Eastern Europe, East Asia, and Turkey.  

Fully embracing ethical fashion, Infiknit Knitwear prioritizes the environment, animal welfare, and safe working conditions—ensuring its commitment to sustainability is woven into every piece. The company values collaboration and works intimately with customers to design and produce on-demand private-label garments ideal for all seasons.

5. Bilyana Knitwear

Image Source: Bilyana Website

• Year founded: 2012
• Address: 70 Tzar Simeon Str., Petrich 2850, Bulgaria.
• Knitwear products: Custom sweaters and pullovers. 

Bilyana Knitwear specializes in crafting garments from a wide range of natural fibers, with particular expertise in Extra Fine Merino. The company also produces items using 100% Lambswool spun in Scotland, Italian Merino blends, 100% Cashmere from Italy, and Egyptian cotton and cotton blends sourced from European spinners. 

As a trusted partner to respected international brands across the UK, USA, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and the Netherlands, Bilyana Knitwear offers in-house dyeing and finishing, including advanced treatments like T.E.C. (Total Easy Care) and NanoTech water repellency. The ISO 9001:2008 certified brand also holds a Woolmark license, underscoring its commitment to quality. 

6. Madalena Beca Knitwear

Image Source: Madalena's website 

• Year founded: 1998
• Address: Penafiel, Portugal
• Knitwear products: Cardigans, Sweaters, Beanie, Children’s sweater knits, etc.

Madalena Beca Knitwear is a productive, certified supplier and knitwear sustainable family brand with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Established in 1998, the company underwent an internal restructuring in 2016, spending money on compliance to meet the requirements of its certifications. 

Madalena Beca partners with wholesalers, boutiques, stores, etc., in design, powering their creativity with innovative options. The company also provides direct access to its technically skilled team, who are ever supportive and willing to explore new offers. Its flexible production line is custom-made for each client and cuts across nearly all demographics—kidswear, womenswear, menswear, and babywear.

7. IrelandsEye Knitwear Limited

Image Source: IrelandsEye website

• Year founded: 1988
• Address: Baldoyle Industrial Estate Dublin D13 DT63, Ireland.
• Knitwear products: Blankets, Women’s and men’s sweaters and cardigans, hats and scarves 

IrelandsEye Knitwear Limited draws inspiration from the rich textures of the Irish landscape, the vibrant colors of nature, and Ireland's deep cultural roots. Every knitwear is a tribute to this legacy, blending traditional expertise with contemporary design. 

IrelandsEye is dedicated to creating garments that are both beautiful and durable, using high-quality natural fibers. Its intricate patterns and attention to detail ensure that every item reflects Ireland's timeless beauty and rugged charm. The company’s sustainable and ethical goals further enhance the value of its knitwear, making the items a cherished addition to any wardrobe.

FAQs

1.What are the criteria for selecting these manufacturers?

Expertise, quality of materials in knitwear manufacturing, production capacity, sustainability, and client reviews. Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing embodies these criteria and more. We welcome clients both home and abroad.

2. Do these manufacturers offer customization?

Yes, most provide tailored designs and private label services. In addition to custom designs, colors, and sizes, we provide custom logo services, including brand labels, hang tags, zippers, washing labels, and packages for your private label brands.  

3. Are sustainable practices a priority for these manufacturers?

Definitely, most manufacturers prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical production. For instance, Zhongshan Xingtai Clothing implements energy and water minimization techniques, forbids the use of environmentally harmful materials, and more—all to promote sustainability. 

Bottom Line

This review shows that each knitwear manufacturer offers unique strengths and specialties to enhance their customers' needs. The listicle acts as a guide, providing insights to help you select the most suitable partner for your brand’s specific needs. Each brand conveys premium and luxury knitwear messages, changing the narrative with sustainability, eco-friendliness, and more.

In case you are in doubt about how to get started, Zhongshan Xingtai Clothings is a knitwear manufacturer specializing in producing the best-crocheted sweaters and custom accessories with great wholesale pricing options and flexible MOQ. We are a standout choice for a partnership that merges innovation and quality. Contact us for more information and personalized collaboration.