How Much Does UK Clothing Manufacture Cost
How Much Does UK Clothing Production Cost ?
282. Naturally, prices for UK clothing production vary considerably, depending on a number of factors, including quantity per size and colour. And of course, the garment design itself.
If you are manufacturing abroad, the price per garment may be far cheaper, but you will have to produce a much higher quantity to counter the extra shipping costs, communication difficulties, and increase risks.
A shirt costing £15 to manufacture in the UK may cost only £8 if manufactured abroad, but by the time you factor in shipping costs and insurance etc., the price difference is not so great.
UK factories are generally more expensive than foreign ones, but the minimum order quantity (MOQ) can be much lower. Some UK factories do not have a MOQ.
A foreign factory would rarely offer low MOQs, and if they did, it would probably not be worth the bother, as the potential risk and the added costs would outweigh the benefits.
UK startups generally need to have small UK factories to produce high quality production in small quantities – Sometimes just ten or less per style.
We generally advise our startup clients to keep their sample development in the UK, and to produce a small quantity in the UK initially. Around fifty per size and colour ideally, but less is OK too. If you prefer to make a smaller quantity, then many UK factories will be happy to help you.
If you are considering using an offshore factory, we would be happy to help you with the process, and provide whatever services you would require from us. Dont go it alone though.
Online Video Course.
We have created an online video course for anyone interested in how to start a fashion brand in the UK. The course consists of nineteen chapters. It is available to download to study from home in your own time. Just email for details.
This online video course was created by senior fashion business adviser, designer, and entrepreneur, Emile Vidal Carr. He has over twenty years experience in the fashion industry, running his own businesses and helping UK startups. He is also author of The Fashion Formula.
Micro Clothing Factories.
Although there are a number of UK manufacturers who offer no minimum order quantity (MOQ), if you want very small quantities you may be advised to approach a micro factory that specialises in sample development and very small runs.
London used to have plenty of micro factories, run by families operating in their kitchens or garages. There are fewer now, but still exist.
These micro factories are not easy to find as they are often just a couple of sewing machinists working together, or a small tailoring shop. Good micro factories are like gold dust. As they can often provide a whole range of services at a reasonable price. They get booked up very quickly.
Machinery may be limited to a flat stitch machine and an overlocker, but often that is all that is required. They will often have access to embroiderers and printers etc.
Micro factories will often be able to provide you with pattern cutting, grading, and other services, but dont expect them to be highly skilled in those areas.
We are always on the lookout for good micro-factories, so it is worth contacting us to see whether we have someone available in your area.
Sample Development
Startup Workshops.
For fashion startups we run a one-to-one Fashion Startup Workshop that should prove invaluable.
One Hour Startup Consultation.
If you would like a consultation with one of our experienced fashion business experts please email for an appointment, or for more information. The cost for a one hour consultation with our junior adviser is £80. Our senior fashion business adviser is £150 for an hour.
Our junior advisers have over ten years experience in the fashion business, while our senior advisers have over fifteen years experience. Please let us know what areas you are interested in – Sportswear, lingerie, swimwear, streetwear, tailoring, couture, etc.
Our experts will be happy to advise you as to pricing of your designs, or offer you suggestions regarding design changes etc.
FAQ: UK Clothing Production Costs
How much does UK clothing production cost?
UK clothing production costs vary depending on garment type, design complexity, fabric choice, and order quantity. As a guide, a simple shirt may cost around £15 per unit to manufacture in the UK, although prices can be higher or lower depending on specifications and volume.
Is it cheaper to manufacture clothing overseas?
Overseas production can appear cheaper per unit (for example, a shirt may cost around £8 to produce). However, once you include shipping, import duties, communication delays, quality control issues, and higher minimum order quantities, the overall cost advantage is often significantly reduced.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) in the UK?
Many UK factories offer low minimum order quantities, and some have no MOQ at all. This makes UK production particularly suitable for startups, small brands, and sample testing.
What is the MOQ for overseas factories?
Most overseas manufacturers require much higher MOQs. Even when low MOQs are available, they may not be cost-effective due to logistics, communication barriers, and production risks.
How many units should a startup produce?
For new fashion brands, we typically recommend starting with small UK production runs. Around 10 units per style for sampling and 50 units per size and colour for initial production is a practical benchmark, though smaller runs are often possible.
Should I develop samples in the UK or overseas?
We generally recommend developing samples in the UK first. This ensures better communication, faster turnaround, and easier quality control before committing to larger production runs.
What is a micro clothing factory?
Micro factories are very small production units, often consisting of just a few machinists or a small tailoring team. They specialise in sample development and very small production runs, making them ideal for early-stage fashion brands.
Are micro factories still available in the UK?
Yes, but they are limited and often difficult to find. Good micro factories are highly sought after and tend to get booked quickly due to their flexibility and specialist services.
What services do micro factories provide?
Micro factories typically offer sewing, sample making, and small production runs. Some also provide access to pattern cutters, graders, and printing or embroidery services, although their capabilities may vary.
What is the difference between sample development and production?
Sample development is the process of creating your first garment prototypes, including pattern cutting and fitting. Production is the manufacturing of your final approved designs in bulk quantities.
Who owns my patterns and samples?
This depends on your arrangement. In some all-inclusive production setups, factories may retain ownership of patterns and samples. Separating sample development from production ensures you retain full ownership and flexibility to switch manufacturers.
Why should sample development be separated from production?
Separating the two stages gives you greater control, allows easier supplier comparison, and ensures you keep ownership of your intellectual property (patterns, grading, and samples).
Do you offer help with overseas manufacturing?
Yes, support is available for clients considering offshore production. Guidance can be provided to help manage the process, reduce risk, and ensure better outcomes.
How much does the online fashion course cost?
The full course costs £200, or £99 when using the discount code LPC24.
What workshops do you offer?
We offer practical workshops covering startup setup, costings, and fabric and trim sourcing to help new designers develop their business skills.
Do you offer one-to-one consultations?
Yes. One-hour consultations are available with experienced fashion industry advisors. Prices are £80 for junior advisers and £150 for senior advisers.
How do I contact you?
EMAIL [email protected]