When it comes to sourcing sportswear, companies are often faced with a crucial decision: where to manufacture their products. Two prominent regions that dominate the global sportswear production market are Europe and China. Both regions offer distinct advantages and challenges, and the choice between them can significantly impact product quality, lead times, sustainability efforts, and cost.
In this blog, we will explore the key differences between sourcing sportswear from Europe and China, looking at critical factors such as cost efficiency, production quality, labour standards, sustainability, and lead times to help businesses make informed decisions.
Pakistan, India and Bangladesh are also sources for sportswear, however we don’t source in these regions because in our experience, the general level of quality and service isn’t where we operate. Most brands that focus purely on margin and cost look to source in these territories.
1. Cost Efficiency
Sourcing from China
China has long been regarded as the manufacturing hub of the world, and one of the primary reasons companies choose to source their products from China is cost efficiency. China’s massive industrial infrastructure and access to inexpensive labour make it the go-to destination for brands looking to produce high volumes of sportswear at lower costs.
Chinese factories have the capacity to produce large quantities of garments at significantly lower unit costs compared to Europe. This is especially beneficial for businesses that operate on tight margins or require bulk production. Additionally, China’s well-established supply chain and proximity to raw materials contribute to keeping production costs low.
However, low production costs in China often come with trade-offs, such as variability in quality, which we will discuss in greater detail later.
Sourcing from Europe
Sourcing sportswear from Europe tends to be much more expensive than from China. Higher wages, shorter working hours, and higher costs of living contribute to increased production costs in European countries. Additionally, many European manufacturers specialise in smaller, high-quality batches rather than mass production, which can drive up the unit price for each item.
Despite the higher costs, sourcing from Europe can offer certain advantages, such as enhanced product quality, better working conditions, and shorter lead times for companies located within Europe. European factories also tend to adopt higher environmental and ethical standards, which can justify the premium for brands looking to prioritise sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Note however that these are general thoughts, however the factories we work in across Europe and EU are audited and regulated in terms of ethics and all our factories only work with premium brands and focussed on high quality production only.
2. Production Quality
Sourcing from China
China’s sportswear production landscape is vast and diverse. Factories in China can produce everything from low-cost, mass-produced goods to high-quality, premium products. The key to successfully sourcing from China lies in selecting the right supplier.
Many Chinese factories are equipped with advanced technologies, such as automated production lines and cutting-edge sewing techniques, allowing them to produce sportswear at a high standard. However, due to the sheer number of suppliers, quality control and service can be inconsistent between suppliers.
Some Chinese manufacturers are highly reputable and work with well-known international sportswear brands, delivering top-notch products. However, others may cut corners, leading to variability in fabric quality, stitching, and overall construction. This can result in defective products, which may require rework or refunds, thereby increasing long-term costs.
The key here is to locate the high quality factories. If you think you have found one on sites such as Alibaba, then take this with a pinch of salt. Alibaba is full of factories that claim to produce for brands such as North Face, Alo, Lulu Lemon, Nike etc, however hive this some thought and you soon realise these are not repeatable factories. Factories that supply these high quality brands are all under contract and NDA’s to not advertise they make for them, so it’s incredibly hard to find such factories online.
We have worked with our network of factories for many years and build up a large volume of quality sportswear factories across China and Europe, many of which produce for leading edge sportswear brands. Most of these factories don’t advertise or entertain working with Start-Ups other than through Blue Associates because we have concluded the due dillegence on the brand for them.
Sourcing from Europe
In contrast, Europe is known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, particularly in countries like Italy, Portugal, and Turkey. European manufacturers tend to focus on producing high-quality sportswear that meets exacting standards. The emphasis on quality over quantity is a hallmark of European production.
European factories often specialise in using premium European fabrics and innovative textile technologies, such as moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, or antimicrobial properties, which are essential for performance sportswear. Many of these fabrics are available from the Far East at a much lower cost, however if “EU” made is part of your brands story, then having the entire garments made using EU sourced fabrics and trims is the way to go.
Sampling in Europe is much slower than China. It also costs a lot more with most EU factories charging a development fee of anywhere from $500 – $1000 per style just to manage the development.
In our experience, the development of sportswear from Europe will take at least an additional; 3-6 months to develop and the costs are upwards of 30% more expensive for like for like kit.
3. Labor Standards and Ethical Production
Sourcing from China
Labour practices in China have been a contentious issue for years. While labour conditions have improved in recent decades, many Chinese factories still face scrutiny over worker rights, wages, and working conditions. Labour in China is considerably cheaper than in Europe, which is one of the reasons why manufacturing costs are so low. However, this often comes at the expense of long working hours, minimal wages, and inadequate labour protections.
That said, China has made efforts to improve labour conditions in response to international pressure and demand from Western brands for more ethical production. Many factories are now certified by third-party organizations like the Fair Labor Association or WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production), which help ensure compliance with labour standards. It’s crucial for brands to thoroughly vet their suppliers and insist on transparency regarding labour practices to ensure ethical production.
All the factories we work within China are fully audited and many have additional audits carried out by the brands they work with. Some of the factories in China have a much nicer working environment than factories we have visited in Europe.
Sourcing from Europe
In Europe, labour standards are generally much higher due to stringent labour laws, unions, and regulations aimed at protecting workers’ rights. European countries tend to have higher minimum wages, shorter working hours, and better overall conditions for factory workers.
For companies focused on ethical sourcing and ensuring that their sportswear is made in fair and humane conditions, Europe offers a more transparent and regulated labour environment. Factories in Europe are required to adhere to rigorous labour laws that protect workers’ rights, health, and safety. This not only ensures better working conditions but also aligns with the values of brands that prioritise ethical and sustainable production.
Ethical factories are available in China, however it’s much harder to source these factories as they don’t generally need to advertise as they get repeat business from their regular customers and are under contract not to advertise who they work with.
4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Sourcing from China
China’s industrial prowess comes at an environmental cost. The country’s rapid industrialisation has led to significant pollution and environmental degradation, particularly in regions with dense manufacturing activity. The energy-intensive production processes, reliance on coal-powered factories, and lax environmental regulations in some areas have raised concerns about the environmental impact of manufacturing in China.
However, China has been taking steps to address these issues. There is a growing movement towards greener production practices, with some factories adopting cleaner energy sources, reducing water usage, and implementing recycling programs. Many suppliers are now offering eco-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester, merino, Tencel or organic cotton, to cater to the growing demand for sustainable sportswear. Brands sourcing from China should prioritise working with suppliers who are certified by environmental organizations, such as bluesign® or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), to ensure sustainability.
Sourcing from Europe
Europe, on the other hand, is a global leader in sustainability. European governments and businesses are subject to strict environmental regulations, and there is a strong emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, conserving resources, and minimising waste. Factories in Europe are often powered by renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, or hydropower, and the textile industry is heavily regulated to ensure minimal environmental impact.
European manufacturers are also more likely to use sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, Tencel, and recycled fibres. Many factories in Europe adopt circular economy principles, where garments are designed for durability, recyclability, or biodegradability. As a result, sourcing sportswear from Europe is often seen as a more sustainable option, especially for eco-conscious brands.
5. Lead Times and Flexibility
Sourcing from China
China is located further from major Western markets like Europe and the U.S., which clients often think will result in longer lead times due to shipping distances and customs clearance. In our experience, the shipping times are the only longer aspect of the process, while the development, sampling and production lead time is usually much faster in China than the EU. WE therefore predict that China will deliver goods 3-6 months faster than a factory based in the EU.
Sourcing from Europe
For European-based brands, sourcing from within Europe significantly reduces lead times for shipping, however the sampling, development and production will all take longer than China. The proximity of manufacturers to major markets in the European Union allows for faster shipping and easier customs clearance. European factories are also more likely to offer smaller production runs and greater flexibility in order quantities, however these will all come with a cost.
Also note that factories in Europe are generally much smaller than China and therefore the lead time and capacity isn’t aligned with quick turn around. Many EU factories will need 6 months lead time just to manage the bulk production, where Chinese factories can work to much shorter lead times.
6. Innovation and Technology
Sourcing from China
China is quickly catching up in terms of technological innovation, with many factories adopting cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, automated sewing machines, and advanced fabric treatments. Many Chinese manufacturers are capable of producing high-tech sportswear, such as garments with embedded sensors or smart textiles that offer enhanced functionality.
The size of China’s manufacturing industry means that it can invest heavily in research and development (R&D) to stay competitive, which benefits brands looking for innovative sportswear solutions. Additionally, China’s capacity for mass production makes it an ideal choice for tech-driven sportswear brands needing to produce at scale.
Sourcing from Europe
Europe has a rich tradition of textile innovation, particularly in countries like Italy and Portugal, where cutting-edge fabric technologies and manufacturing techniques have been developed.
European factories are also at the forefront of sustainability innovations, focusing on eco-friendly materials and closed-loop recycling processes. For brands looking to combine premium craftsmanship with the latest advancements in fabric technology, Europe remains a hub of innovation.
Conclusion
Sourcing sportswear from Europe or China offers distinct advantages and challenges. China is a dominant player in global manufacturing, offering cost-effective production, large-scale operations, and increasing innovation. However, companies sourcing from China must be mindful of quality control, ethical labour standards, and environmental impact.
On the other hand, Europe is known for **high-quality, high cost and slower development times.
It’s important to understand your brands values and how important it is for your customers to understand where the goods are made. If “Made Locally” is your brand message, then Europe is for you. If however you are more about quality, ethics and transparency but less focussed on location, then China and Europe would both suit.
Bottom line, you need to be in the right factory. You need to work with a factory that specialises in your types of products and can deliver to your brief. You also need to make sure the factory have very clear tech packs that stipulate and nominate the fabrics and trims. Never leave it up the factory to source these as you then limit your quality assurance.
At Blue associates Sportswear, we have spent the last 27 years building our database of over 50 factories. Most of these have been from word of mouth or from some of the bigger clients we have worked with over the years that are generally invisible to google.
Don’t trust everything that is written on Alibaba or a factory profile that claim they make for “X,Y and Z”
And remember, the factory is only a small percentage of the final product. They just stitch the garment together, however you need to give the same consideration to the fabrics, zips, labels, packaging and trim to guarantee you end up with a quality product.
If you are looking for more advice or want to understand the difference more, then please book a call now.
