What is a successful custom clothing manufacturer in India?

India’s thriving textile industry makes it a hotspot for custom clothing manufacturing¹, offering quality, affordability, and scalability. With a robust supply chain and skilled labor, many manufacturers have built a global reputation for excellence.

A successful custom clothing manufacturer in India includes Shahi Exports, Arvind Limited, and Billoomi Fashion. These companies excel in delivering customized, high-quality garments to domestic and international clients.

Let’s explore the largest manufacturers², profitability, import dynamics, and the leading clothing brands in India.

Who is the biggest clothing manufacturer in India?

India’s textile industry is home to many large-scale manufacturers serving global brands. But who holds the top position?

The biggest clothing manufacturer in India is Shahi Exports, known for its massive production capacity, ethical practices, and international client base.

Fabric Processing Line

Dive deeper into Shahi Exports:

1. Scale:

   • Operates 65+ factories across India with a workforce of over 100,000 employees.

2. Clients:

   • Supplies major brands like H&M, Zara, and Tommy Hilfiger.

3. Sustainability focus:

   • Invests in eco-friendly production, including water recycling and renewable energy.

Other notable manufacturers:

• Arvind Limited: A leader in denim production and textiles.
• Vardhman Textiles: Renowned for high-quality yarns and fabrics.

Is garment manufacturing business profitable in India?

India’s rich textile heritage and growing demand for fashion create opportunities for profitability in garment manufacturing³. But is it a viable business?

Yes, garment manufacturing is highly profitable in India, with profit margins typically ranging from 10% to 30%, depending on scale, efficiency, and market focus.

Dive deeper into profitability factors:

1. Low production costs:

   • Affordable labor and locally sourced raw materials keep expenses low.

2. Export opportunities:

   • India is a major exporter of ready-made garments, especially to Europe and the USA.

3. Growing domestic market:

   • Rising middle-class income fuels demand for both fast fashion and luxury apparel.

4. Niche markets:

   • Sustainable and organic clothing offer higher profit margins due to premium pricing.

Example:

A small-scale manufacturer specializing in custom ethnic wear can achieve 20% margins by catering to niche markets.

Which country is best to import clothes to India?

While India is a major exporter of garments, importing clothing from other countries is also common. Which country offers the best options?

China is the best country to import clothes to India⁴, offering low costs and a vast range of ready-made garments. Other key exporters include Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Turkey.

Dive deeper into importing options:

1. China:

   • Specializes in fast fashion, synthetic fabrics, and accessories at competitive prices.

2. Bangladesh:

   • Known for affordable cotton garments, especially T-shirts and denim.

3. Vietnam:

   • Offers high-quality activewear and outdoor clothing.

4. Turkey:

   • Ideal for luxury and mid-range fashion due to its high-quality textiles.

Pro tip:

When importing, ensure compliance with Indian customs regulations and negotiate favorable terms to reduce costs.

What clothing brand sells the most in India?

India’s diverse consumer base creates demand for various clothing styles, but which brand dominates the market?

The clothing brand⁵ that sells the most in India is Zara, followed by homegrown brands like Fabindia and Peter England, which cater to different market segments.

Dive deeper into top-selling brands:

1. Zara:

   • Leads the fast fashion segment with trendy designs and quick turnaround times.

2. Fabindia:

   • Specializes in ethnic and sustainable fashion, appealing to eco-conscious shoppers.

3. Peter England:

   • Popular for affordable formalwear, targeting working professionals.

4. Reliance Trends:

   • Offers a mix of affordable Western and Indian apparel, dominating the value retail market.

Insight:

India’s top brands succeed by tailoring their offerings to regional preferences and price sensitivity.

Conclusion

India is home to some of the most successful custom clothing manufacturers, with Shahi Exports leading the industry. Garment manufacturing in India is a profitable venture due to low production costs and strong demand. While Zara dominates the retail market, opportunities abound in niche and sustainable fashion segments. For importing, countries like China and Bangladesh offer competitive options, complementing India’s vast domestic production capabilities.