Start a Backpack Manufacturing Business Startup Guide

Starting a Backpack Manufacturing Business

You can start small with a workshop, a few industrial sewing machines, and short production runs. As demand grows, you can add more staff, machines, and product lines. This guide focuses on getting you ready to open, not how to run the business long term.

Your goal at this stage is simple. Decide if this business fits you, confirm there is demand, line up what you need, and open in a way that is legal and practical.

Is This the Right Business for You?

Before you think about equipment or fabric, step back and look at yourself. A backpack manufacturing business is hands-on. You deal with details, deadlines, and quality checks every day.

Ask if you want the responsibility that comes with ownership. You give up a steady paycheck and take on risk. You may work long hours, handle problems on your own, and make decisions with incomplete information.

It helps to walk through general questions about starting a business using a guide such as the points to consider before starting your business. This can help you see if business ownership fits your personality and your situation.

Passion, Motivation, and Family Support

Passion matters in a manufacturing business. When machines break, materials arrive late, or orders change, passion keeps you looking for answers instead of looking for a way out.

Ask yourself if you are moving toward something or running away from something. If you are starting only because you dislike your job or you feel trapped, that pressure may not last. If you are drawn to product design, problem solving, and creating something real, you have a stronger base to build on.

Also ask if you are ready to trade steady income for uncertainty, and if your family understands what that looks like. You can go deeper into this with a resource on how passion affects your business.

Get an Inside Look Before You Commit

One of the best ways to save time and money is to talk to people already in the backpack or cut-and-sew industry. You can learn what it really takes to run production days, deal with suppliers, and manage quality.

Make sure you only contact owners you will not compete against, such as those in other regions or serving a very different market. Be clear that you respect their territory and that you are looking for guidance, not their customers.

For ideas on what to ask and how to approach these owners, see this guide to getting an inside look at the business you plan to start.

Understand the Business Model and How Big to Start

Backpack manufacturing can be flexible. You can start with a very small shop that makes custom or short-run orders. Or you can aim for higher volume and supply retailers or brands.

At the startup stage, most first-time owners begin with a small workshop and a simple structure. You can handle key tasks yourself and add staff as orders grow. Large factory setups with many employees and investors usually come later.

Decide how you plan to start and who will be involved. This choice affects your funding, your legal structure, and how fast you need to grow.

Solo owner with a small workshop and a few machines.
Owner with one or two staff for sewing and cutting.
Partnership where one person handles production and another handles sales.
Model focused on short runs and custom work instead of high volume.

Define Your Products, Services, and Customers

Next, decide what you will actually make. Not all backpacks are the same. You want a clear set of products and services before you invest in tools or materials.

Start with a few focused product lines, then expand later. It is easier to control quality when your range is tight. Clear products also make it easier to describe your offer to customers.

Your customers can be other businesses, institutions, or end users, depending on how you set up the business.

Products: school backpacks, laptop packs, daypacks, travel or hiking packs, tactical or duty packs, camera or medical packs, and special-use designs.
Services: product design, pattern development, prototyping, small-batch runs, contract manufacturing for brands, and logo decoration such as embroidery or heat transfers.
Customers: retailers, e-commerce brands, schools, corporate clients, promotional product firms, and public agencies that need specialized packs.

Research Demand, Competition, and Profit

You need clear demand and enough profit to pay yourself, cover costs, and build a reserve. Guessing is risky. Basic research helps you avoid common mistakes.

Look at both sides: how much people want what you offer and how many other companies already serve that need. A simple guide on supply and demand can help you frame this.

As you research, focus on whether your prices can cover materials, labor, overhead, and a reasonable profit, not just whether people like your designs.

List direct competitors, including those who import finished backpacks.
Study their products, quality level, and target customers.
Estimate realistic price ranges for your segment.
Work out a simple cost and profit estimate for each product you plan to offer.

Estimate Your Startup Costs and List What You Need

Once you understand your model and demand, list what you need to open. This includes a workspace, tools, equipment, and basic office setup.

Write everything down, then research prices. A guide on estimating startup costs can help you build a clear list and avoid surprises.

The size of your workshop and the number of machines will drive most of your upfront costs.

Facility and basic setup: small industrial or commercial unit, work tables, lighting, shelving, and storage racks.
Design and development: computer, pattern design software, large printer or plotter, pattern tools, and a sample sewing station.
Cutting and preparation: cutting tables, manual shears, rotary cutters, electric fabric cutters, webbing cutters, and layout tools.
Sewing and assembly: industrial lockstitch machines, walking-foot machines for thicker materials, overlock machines, binding machines, bar-tack machines, and general sewing tools.
Hardware and finishing: presses for snaps and rivets, tools for grommets, heat press for patches or transfers, and optional embroidery machine.
Quality and testing: simple test jigs, measuring tools, scales, and inspection tables.
Material handling and storage: bins for zippers and buckles, carts, hand trucks, pallets, and a packing area.
Packaging and shipping: packing tables, sealers, tape dispensers, label printer, and shipping scale.
Safety equipment: machine guards, first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, clear exit signs, protective glasses, cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection, and any other safety gear you need.
Office tools: a computer for administration, printer, filing system, and basic office furniture.

Software to Consider

Software will not sew a backpack, but it will help you stay organized. The right tools can save time, reduce errors, and give you a clear view of your finances and orders.

Start with the basics and expand later. You do not need the most advanced tools at the beginning, but you should have a simple system you can trust.

You can learn these tools yourself or hire help to set them up. Professional help can keep you away from costly errors.

Accounting software for invoices, expenses, and financial reports.
Inventory software for tracking fabric, hardware, and finished goods.
Pattern design or computer-aided design for pattern pieces and production files.
Basic customer relationship or order tracking tools to follow quotes, orders, and deliveries.
Website content tools to update your product pages and contact details.

Skills You Need and How to Fill the Gaps

A backpack manufacturing business needs both technical and business skills. You do not have to be strong in every area on day one. You can learn over time or bring in people who are better than you in certain tasks.

Be honest about your strengths. If you enjoy design but dislike bookkeeping, plan to get help with the numbers. If you are new to sewing, consider training or hiring experienced staff once you can afford it.

Use guidance such as how and when to hire to decide when it makes sense to add staff instead of trying to do everything yourself.

Pattern design and adjustment for different backpack styles.
Industrial sewing skills and knowledge of seams and reinforcements.
Basic machine care for sewing machines and cutting tools.
Quality control, inspection, and simple testing methods.
Costing, pricing, and simple record keeping.
Communication with suppliers and customers.

Choose Your Legal Structure and Register the Business

Many small businesses start as sole proprietorships. It is the default in many states when one person operates a business under their own name. As risk and size grow, owners often move to a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation for added protection and a more formal structure.

There is no single right choice. It depends on your risk level, partners, and long-term plans. It is wise to talk to an accountant or attorney before you decide.

You can review general steps in a guide on how to register a business, then confirm details with your state and local offices.

Check name availability with your state’s Secretary of State or business registry.
Register your legal structure, such as an LLC or corporation, if you choose one.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) with the Internal Revenue Service.
Register for state sales tax if you will sell taxable products to customers.
Register for payroll accounts if you plan to hire employees.
Check if your city or county requires a general business license.

Rules vary by state and city. Always confirm with your Secretary of State, your state tax agency, and your local municipality before you open.

Choose a Name, Brand, and Online Presence

Your business name and brand will appear on your packs, invoices, and website. Choose something that fits your products and is easy to remember and spell.

Check if your chosen name is available as a domain and on major social platforms. A short guide on selecting a business name can help you think through this step.

Once the name is set, build a simple but clear identity: logo, cards, sign, and a website that shows what you do and how to reach you.

Design a logo and basic color scheme for labels, tags, and marketing.
Order business cards using tips from this guide on what to know about business cards.
Plan a simple corporate identity with help from corporate identity considerations.
Plan your website using a guide on how to build a website so visitors can see products, contact you, and request quotes.
If you have a physical location, review business sign considerations before you order exterior signs.

Choose a Location and Plan Your Layout

Your location should match your operation. You need enough floor space for cutting tables, sewing machines, storage, and packing. You also need to respect local zoning and safety rules.

Before you sign a lease, confirm that light manufacturing is allowed in that space. Check parking, access for deliveries, and safety features like exits and fire systems.

Use a guide on business location to review general Points, then talk to your city’s zoning office and building department about any local rules and the need for a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).

Create separate areas for fabric storage, cutting, sewing, finishing, quality checks, and packing.
Plan clear walking paths and safe storage so there is no blocking of exits.
Set up a small office corner for your computer, records, and meetings.
Plan where delivery vehicles will load and unload materials and finished goods.

Line Up Suppliers and Materials

Your products depend on fabric, webbing, zippers, buckles, foam, and other hardware. You need reliable suppliers who can provide quality materials on time.

Most new owners start with a small group of suppliers for each key material. Over time, you can add backups to avoid delays.

Build professional relationships with your suppliers. Clear communication and fair terms will help you keep production moving.

Source fabrics suitable for your style of packs, such as polyester, nylon, or canvas.
Choose webbing, buckles, and hardware that match your load and style requirements.
Find suppliers for zippers, sliders, cord, foam, and lining materials.
Choose reliable suppliers for cartons, labels, and packaging material.

Set Your Prices and Offer Structure

Pricing in backpack manufacturing must cover more than materials. You need to account for labor, rent, insurance, and other overhead costs, plus a fair profit.

Decide if you will sell direct to end customers, wholesale to stores, or as a contract manufacturer for brands. Each choice needs a different price structure.

A guide on pricing your products and services can help you build a simple but sound method.

Calculate material costs for each backpack style.
Estimate labor time per unit and apply an hourly rate.
Add overhead for rent, utilities, tools, and insurance.
Set wholesale prices for bulk orders and retail prices for direct sales.
Review prices at least once before launch to confirm they make sense for your market.

Plan Your Business, Funding, and Banking

Even if you are not seeking a loan, a written business plan keeps you focused. It helps you work through your goals, market, costs, and next steps.

You can use a simple guide on how to write a business plan as a starting point. Keep it practical and use it as a working tool, not a document that collects dust.

Next, decide how you will fund the startup. You might use savings, help from family, a loan, or investors. If you plan to apply for a loan, study how to get a business loan so you know what lenders expect.

Draft a simple plan that covers your model, products, market, and costs.
List all funding sources and how much each can provide.
Open a business bank account to keep business and personal money separate.
Set up a basic accounting system to track income, expenses, and taxes.

Insurance and Risk Management

Insurance does not replace safe practices, but it can protect you when something goes wrong. In a workshop with tools, staff, and visitors, you face real risks.

Common coverage types include general liability, property coverage for equipment and inventory, and workers’ compensation where required.

A guide on business insurance can help you understand the basics before you speak with an insurance professional.

Check your state rules for workers’ compensation if you plan to hire staff.
Consider general liability insurance to cover injury or property damage claims.
Consider coverage for equipment, inventory, and business interruption.
Review all coverage once per year or after major changes to your setup.

Build Your Team and Support Network

You can start on your own, but you do not have to do everything forever. As work grows, you may bring in sewers, cutters, or an office assistant. You may also need outside advisors.

Plan early for who you will call when you need help with legal issues, taxes, and insurance. Having support in place reduces stress and avoids rushed decisions.

A guide on building a team of professional advisors can help you think through who you want on your side.

Production staff such as sewing operators and cutters when orders justify it.
An accountant or bookkeeper to set up and review your financial records.
An attorney for contracts, leases, and structure questions.
An insurance agent to explain coverage options in plain language.

Pre-Launch Marketing and Sales Readiness

Before you open, think about how people will learn about your business. You do not need a complex marketing plan at the start, but you do need basic steps in place.

Your website, product photos, and simple profile on key platforms can help prospects see who you are and what you offer. If you have a physical location, local promotion can help you get traffic early.

If you will open a walk-in facility, review ideas on how to get customers through the door and ideas for your grand opening.

Set up a basic website with product descriptions, photos, and contact details.
Prepare a simple digital catalog or sheet you can send to prospects.
Create sample packs to show quality, features, and materials.
Set up invoicing, payment options, and clear terms for orders.

Pre-Opening Checklist

As you near opening day, it helps to work through a short checklist. This reduces stress and gives you more control over the first weeks of operation.

Use a general guide on mistakes to avoid when starting a business as a final review, then build your own list based on your setup.

Check each point in writing. It is easier to spot what is missing when it is on paper.

Confirm your legal structure, registration, and tax accounts are active.
Confirm any needed business licenses and permits are approved.
Verify you have a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) if your city requires one.
Test all machines, safety equipment, and emergency exits.
Run at least one small test batch from start to finish.
Set up your inventory, invoicing, and payment systems.
Confirm your website, phone, and email are working and easy to find.

A Day in the Life of a Backpack Manufacturing Business Owner

Once your business is open, your days will revolve around production and problem solving. You will shift between planning, checking quality, and staying in touch with customers and suppliers.

Your schedule will change as orders rise and fall, but certain tasks will repeat often. It helps to picture them now so you know what you are stepping into.

This overview is not about long-term management. It is here to help you see the reality of the work you are preparing for at startup.

Review orders and plan which styles and quantities to produce that day.
Check that materials are ready and release cutting tasks.
Walk the floor and check early units for each production run.
Answer questions from staff, suppliers, and customers.
Handle small repairs and adjust machines when needed.
Review costs and simple reports so you stay on top of cash and jobs.

Red Flags to Watch Before You Open

There are warning signs that suggest you should slow down or adjust your plan. Catching them at the startup stage can save money and stress later.

Use this list as a quick screen. If any of these apply, pause and correct them before you move ahead.

If you are unsure, talk with a professional or refer back to general guides on avoiding common mistakes when starting a business.

No clear demand or profit estimate for the product lines you plan to launch.
No backup suppliers for key materials such as fabric, zippers, or hardware.
Facility that does not meet zoning rules or safety standards for your type of work.
No written product specifications or patterns, making quality hard to repeat.
No plan for safe handling and disposal if you use adhesives or other chemicals.
Unclear legal structure, missing registrations, or no separate business bank account.
No simple business plan or budget to guide your first year.

101 Insider Tips for Opening and Operating Your Backpack Manufacturing Business

These tips collect the practical lessons you need to design, produce, and sell backpacks with confidence. Think of them as a toolbox you can come back to whenever you hit a question or a roadblock.

Work through them at your own pace, apply one idea at a time, and let each small improvement move your business forward.

What to Do Before Starting

Clarify which backpack segment you want to serve, such as school, outdoor, travel, tactical, or corporate, and choose one that fits your skills and local market.
Visit stores and study online listings to see how many competing brands serve your chosen segment and what price and quality levels are common.
Run a simple cost estimate for a basic model, including fabric, hardware, labor time, and overhead, to check whether realistic prices would leave enough margin.
Decide whether you want to run a small workshop or become a contract manufacturer for other brands, because each path needs different scale, investment, and customer types.
Talk with experienced owners outside your area to learn what surprised them most about production, staffing, and quality control in their own operations.
Sketch your first product range with a small set of core styles and key features instead of starting with many designs you cannot realistically launch.
Research your state and city requirements for manufacturing, including zoning and business licensing, so you do not sign a lease in a location that will not be approved.
Check whether any of your planned products are designed mainly for children twelve and under, because this can trigger specific national safety and testing rules.
Decide whether you will start as a sole owner or form a limited liability company or a partnership, and confirm your choice with a tax or legal professional.
Create a realistic personal budget so you know how long you can cover your living costs while the business is still building its customer base.
List the skills you already have and those you will need to learn or outsource, such as pattern design, industrial sewing, quality inspection, or bookkeeping.
Read basic guidance on textile and care labeling so you understand what information your products may need to show on tags and packaging.

What Successful Backpack Manufacturing Business Owners Do

Build clear, repeatable patterns and sewing instructions for each style so any trained sewer can produce consistent results without guessing.
Invest early in strong cutting and sewing tools to reduce defects, wasted fabric, and frequent small repairs on equipment.
Schedule regular maintenance for machines instead of waiting for breakdowns that stop production and delay orders.
Track production data such as units completed per day and defect rates so you can see trends and act on problems before they grow.
Keep a shortlist of backup suppliers for essential fabrics and hardware so a disruption with one supplier does not stop your production line.
Walk the production floor every day to spot small safety or quality concerns and correct them before they become serious issues.
Build long-term relationships with key customers by learning their calendar, product cycles, and quality expectations and planning around them.
Review workplace safety guidance regularly and adjust shop practices so guards, emergency procedures, and protective equipment stay up to date.
Train staff to report near accidents and unsafe conditions so you can improve safety instead of repeating the same risky situations.
Revisit your product range once a year, discontinuing weak items and updating strong ones with better materials or features where needed.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

Write step-by-step procedures for cutting, sewing, finishing, and packing so new staff can follow them without constant supervision.
Use a simple numbering system to track each batch from cutting to final inspection so you can trace quality problems back to specific runs.
Set quality checkpoints after cutting, after sewing, and before packing so defects are caught early when they are easier and cheaper to fix.
Separate storage for raw materials, work in progress, and finished goods to reduce confusion and accidental use of the wrong components.
Assign one person to inspect incoming materials for flaws in fabric, zippers, and hardware before they enter production.
Keep workstation layouts clean and consistent so operators can move safely and reach tools and parts without awkward stretching or twisting.
Post clear safety instructions near each machine, including how to shut it down quickly and when to use specific protective equipment.
Train all staff on basic ergonomics, such as neutral posture and safe lifting technique, to reduce fatigue and injuries over time.
Use planned time blocks during the day for scheduling, production, and administration so paperwork and planning do not fall behind.
Back up your pattern files, customer records, and financial data regularly on a separate device or secure online storage.
Review your insurance coverage at least once a year and update it when you add major equipment or increase the number of employees.
Keep written job descriptions for each role so employees understand their responsibilities and you have a fair basis for evaluation.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

Recognize that back-to-school and holiday travel periods can create demand spikes for certain backpack styles, especially school and commuter models.
Learn which fabrics and surface treatments used in backpacks may be regulated for chemical content so you can choose compliant materials.
If you plan to use coatings for water resistance, stay informed on changing views about certain chemicals and look for safer options where possible.
Follow occupational safety resources for textiles and light manufacturing so you understand typical hazards in cutting, sewing, and pressing areas.
Study how overseas manufacturers price and position similar products, because you may compete with imported backpacks even if you produce locally.
If your designs are meant for children, review how national rules define a children’s product and what that means for testing and labeling.
Learn the basics of textile fiber content and care labeling so your tags describe materials accurately and meet national standards.
Understand that supply chains for synthetic fabrics can be affected by oil prices and global events, which can change your material costs.
Discuss fire risks in textile storage with safety or insurance professionals and arrange your facility to minimize ignition sources and fuel loads.
Be aware that many major brands use restricted substance lists that go beyond legal minimums, and some customers may expect you to meet similar standards.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

Photograph your backpacks clearly from multiple angles so potential customers can see pockets, straps, stitching, and overall construction.
Describe functional benefits such as durability, organization, weather resistance, and comfort instead of relying on vague marketing claims.
Create a simple portfolio of core styles and color options you can actually produce and present it to local retailers and corporate clients.
Attend trade shows or local business events where store owners, school leaders, and outdoor groups may be looking for custom or bulk backpack suppliers.
Show how your products are made, using short behind-the-scenes photos or videos, to help customers appreciate your quality standards.
Offer sample units at a reduced rate to a few key prospects who agree to test them and provide honest feedback on performance.
Build an email list of interested customers and wholesale prospects and send occasional updates about new styles, materials, or capabilities.
Work with local schools, sports teams, or clubs to produce limited runs that put your backpacks in front of many users at once.
Collaborate with local artists or designers on special editions that stand out from generic backpack options in your category.
Make sure your website explains who you serve, what you produce, and how to request quotes or place bulk orders in clear, direct language.
Use customer reviews and testimonials that mention specific results, such as comfort during long commutes or reliability in bad weather.
Keep your branding consistent across labels, packaging, website, and printed material so customers can recognize your products quickly.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

Ask new wholesale customers detailed questions about volume, timelines, product use, and quality expectations before accepting an order.
Explain your production process and realistic lead times so customers understand why short-notice requests may require schedule changes or higher prices.
Provide simple care instructions with each backpack so end users know how to clean, dry, and store the product safely.
When a customer raises a concern about quality, inspect samples or clear photos and document what you find before proposing solutions.
Offer clear size and feature comparisons among your models so customers choose the right backpack for daily use, travel, or outdoor activities.
Educate institutional customers, such as schools or companies, about how design changes can affect cost, weight, and durability.
When you cannot meet a requested delivery date or feature set, state this early and suggest practical alternatives rather than overpromising.
Keep records of each customer’s past orders, preferences, and fit issues so you can recommend suitable future products and upgrades.
Follow up with key customers after they receive large orders to confirm performance and identify upcoming needs or seasonally driven projects.
Use simple, jargon-free language when discussing standards, regulations, or materials so nontechnical customers feel comfortable asking questions.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

Write a clear warranty or guarantee that states what is covered, how long it lasts, and the steps customers should follow if they have a problem.
Set a realistic repair policy for issues such as broken zippers or strap stitching and communicate expected turnaround times before customers send items in.
Create a straightforward procedure for handling complaints that includes logging the issue, reviewing samples or photos, and deciding whether to repair, replace, or refund.
Track which types of defects appear most often in service claims and use that information to adjust your designs and production methods.
Provide clear instructions for shipping returns or repair items so packages arrive labeled and easy for your team to process.
Invite feedback from customers through simple surveys or short interviews and look for consistent patterns rather than reacting to a single comment.
Train all staff who interact with customers to listen first, avoid blame, and focus on practical steps to resolve the issue.
Review your customer service policies at regular intervals to ensure they still match your costs, materials, and production practices.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

Measure how much fabric and hardware scrap you generate and look for ways to reduce offcuts through better pattern layout and cutting techniques.
Explore using recycled or certified materials where they meet your durability and safety needs, and keep records of the claims made by suppliers.
Consider turning leftover fabric into small accessories or internal components so more material ends up in products instead of waste bins.
Work with suppliers that can share information about the environmental and labor conditions in their mills and factories.
Store chemicals such as adhesives safely in clearly labeled containers and follow local guidance on disposal to avoid environmental harm.
Design backpacks so critical parts like straps and zippers can be replaced, extending product life and reducing landfill impact.
Be careful with sustainability claims in your marketing and make sure every statement about recycled content or reduced impact can be supported with documentation.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

Subscribe to newsletters from apparel and footwear industry associations so you can track regulatory and market changes that affect backpacks.
Review updates from national consumer safety and trade agencies several times a year to stay current on labeling and product safety rules.
Follow trade publications that cover outdoor gear, travel goods, and fashion to watch which backpack features are gaining popularity.
Set a recurring reminder to check for updates to workplace safety standards that apply to cutting, sewing, and other shop operations.
Attend webinars or workshops on topics such as restricted substances, chemical management, or sustainable design for textile products.
Visit major trade shows when possible to see new materials, hardware, and equipment in person and ask questions directly to suppliers.
Create a simple digital folder where you store key guidance documents, standards, and checklists so you can find them quickly when needed.
Join local or regional manufacturing networks where you can share experiences and learn how others are handling regulations and supply challenges.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

Plan production capacity with seasonal demand in mind so you can build inventory ahead of busy periods rather than rushing at the last minute.
Keep a shortlist of alternative materials that can substitute for your main fabrics or hardware when supply is tight or prices rise quickly.
Test new equipment or software on a small set of orders first so you can confirm benefits and fix issues before changing the whole shop.
When a competitor releases a new feature or design, focus on how to match or exceed the practical benefit instead of copying the appearance.
Monitor delivery times and defect rates during global or regional disruptions so you can adjust schedules and customer promises based on real data.
Encourage staff to suggest improvements to processes and layouts and trial the best ideas on a small scale before adopting them fully.
Review your business model at regular intervals to decide whether to expand contract work, add direct-to-consumer sales, or refine your niche.

What Not to Do

Do not accept large orders from new customers without clear written specifications, payment terms, and measurable quality standards.
Do not rely on handshake agreements for long production runs; use written contracts so both sides know exactly what is expected.
Do not ignore minor safety issues such as missing machine guards or blocked exits, because these can lead to serious injuries and legal penalties.
Do not assume that rules which apply to clothing never apply to backpacks, especially when products are intended for children.
Do not set prices so low that you cannot pay fair wages, maintain equipment, and invest in improvements, even if low prices seem attractive at first.

Sources: U.S. Small Business Administration, OSHA, Consumer Product Safety Commission, Federal Trade Commission, American Apparel & Footwear Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, SGS, Textile Exchange, Internal Revenue Service, EPA