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OEM vs ODM in Garment Manufacturing: Differences, Connections, and Practical Applications
In the global apparel supply chain, OEM and ODM represent two core manufacturing models that support the critical transition from brand concept to finished product. Especially in fast-moving segments like fast fashion and casual wear, choosing the right manufacturing model directly impacts a brand’s cost control, product iteration speed, and market competitiveness.
This article offers an in-depth comparison of OEM and ODM—from definitions and distinctions to real-world applications—and illustrates their value through the 39-year expertise of New Asia Garment, a trusted manufacturing partner for brands worldwide.
What is an OEM Clothing Manufacturer?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) is a “production-on-spec” model where the brand leads the design process, and the factory focuses on execution. Under this model, the brand is responsible for the entire creative process—from concept and design to material selection and technical specifications—while outsourcing only the manufacturing stage.
A typical example is UNIQLO’s classic Heattech collection: the brand defines fabric composition, fit, and styling, and the OEM partner produces according to provided tech packs and samples.
OEM factories excel in:
- Standardized production processes (e.g., ISO 9001 certification)
- Large-scale capacity (e.g., 10,000+ pieces per day)
- Cost control through bulk material sourcing and lean production
- Flexibility for urgent orders or last-minute adjustments
New Asia Garment, as a leading OEM manufacturer, operates 6 specialized facilities with 12,000 skilled workers and an annual output of 30 million pieces. We serve global brands like Levi’s and UNIQLO with scalable, on-time production—helping them maintain cost efficiency and supply chain stability.
What is ODM Clothing Manufacturing (Original Design Manufacturer)?
ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) integrates “design + production,” with factories spearheading ideation while brands prioritize marketing. Factories preempt trends (e.g., fabric innovations, silhouette shifts) and consumer insights to craft full lines—complete with sketches, material proposals, and prototypes. Brands then tweak for fit (e.g., logos, colors) and greenlight production. Fast-fashion players, for example, might license ODM-developed basic jeans, swapping waist tags for instant shelf-ready sales.
ODM factories thrive on design-production synergy: trend-savvy teams (trend forecasting, fit optimization, material R&D) paired with manufacturing muscle (seamless prototyping-to-scale transitions, cost/quality balance). New Asia Garment’s ODM arm delivers end-to-end for SMEs—from trend analysis and sampling to delivery—or tailors for majors, slashing R&D costs and accelerating launches in ODM apparel production.
OEM vs ODM: Key Differences at a Glance
| Dimension | OEM | ODM |
|---|---|---|
| Design Responsibility | Brand provides full design & tech pack | Factory leads design; brand may customize |
| Core Strength | Production scale, cost control, quality | Design innovation, trend response, speed to market |
| Brand Involvement | High (deep involvement in design & specs) | Low (selects from designs, adds branding) |
| IP Ownership | Owned by the brand | Usually with factory (brand may buy out) |
| Ideal For | Brands with strong in-house design teams (e.g., Levi’s, UNIQLO) | Startups, DTC brands, those seeking speed and low R&D cost |
| Risk Profile | Brand bears design risk; factory bears production risk | Factory bears design risk; brand bears sales risk |
Inherent Connections Between OEM and ODM
Although OEM and ODM have significant differences, they are not opposing concepts. Instead, they complement and synergize with each other in the apparel industry chain. Their core connections are reflected in the following three aspects:
1. Sharing Basic Production Capabilities
For both OEM and ODM, “high-quality production” is a core prerequisite. Both models require standardized production processes (e.g., ISO9001 certification), professional production equipment (e.g., automated cutting machines, intelligent sewing lines), strict quality inspection systems (e.g., pre-production samples, first-piece samples, batch sampling inspections), and supply chain integration capabilities (e.g., procurement and management of fabrics and accessories).
For example, Henan Newasia Garment’s 6 factories, 12,000 employees, and annual production capacity of 30 million pieces not only serve as the foundation for undertaking large-scale OEM orders but also provide core support for the rapid mass production of ODM design solutions. The same production system can serve both models simultaneously, maximizing production capacity utilization.
2. Flexible Switching Based on Brand Needs
Brands may flexibly choose between OEM and ODM models at different development stages or for different product lines. Factories with dual-model service capabilities can better adapt to such needs.
For instance:
- A brand may select the OEM model for its “classic styles” (e.g., Levi’s 501 jeans) to maintain design stability—where the brand provides fixed designs and the factory conducts long-term mass production.
- For its “seasonal limited-edition styles” (e.g., lightweight spring jeans) that require rapid response to trends, the brand may opt for the ODM model—where the factory provides multiple design solutions and the brand quickly selects and implements them.
Henan Newasia Garment meets the differentiated needs of the same brand across different product lines through its “dual-track OEM+ODM service,” fostering long-term and stable cooperative relationships.
3. Jointly Serving the Brand’s Core Goals
Whether it is OEM’s focus on “cost reduction and efficiency improvement” or ODM’s advantage in “shortening the launch cycle,” the ultimate goal is to help brands enhance their market competitiveness.
- OEM helps brands control unit costs through large-scale production and ensures stable supply of core products.
- ODM helps brands reduce R&D investment through integrated design services and quickly seize market opportunities.
Essentially, both models serve as important supports for brands’ “asset-light operations.” Brands can outsource non-core links (production and design) and focus on core businesses such as brand marketing, channel management, and user operations.
How Do We Guarantee the Quality
Our quality assurance begins with designing and planning, then continues through every step of the production and post-production inspections. Delivery is not an ending. We still offer money-back guarantee for quality issues.
When sourcing fabrics, we will check all related fabric certificates from our suppliers.
We make sure the fabric is well pre-washed to meet the standards before cutting.
All our workers are well-trained and have many years of experience in the garment industry. They are all local workers with high stability.
Our quality team will follow SOPs to conduct five times of quality checks before shipping.
Practical Case Study: Dual-Mode Service Practice of Newasia Garment
As a seasoned OEM enterprise founded in 1986 with 39 years of industry experience, Henan Newasia Garment stands as a typical example of “parallel OEM+ODM dual-mode services.” Its service capabilities accurately meet the differentiated needs of both international renowned brands and small-to-medium-sized brands:
In OEM Services
For large-scale orders from international giants such as Levi’s and Uniqlo, Newasia achieves a daily production capacity of over 100,000 pieces through its “6 professional factories + lean production system.” Meanwhile, it strictly adheres to the fabric standards (e.g., Uniqlo’s AIRism fabric) and craftsmanship requirements (e.g., Levi’s selvedge denim sewing technique) set by these brands. Leveraging the ISO9001 quality certification system, Newasia ensures consistency across every batch of products, solidifying its position as a “stable and reliable production partner” in the global supply chains of these brands.
In ODM Services
Newasia’s design team regularly tracks trends from Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks. Combining consumer habits in different markets (e.g., Europe, America, and Southeast Asia), the team proactively develops casual wear series, including stretch jeans, lightweight hoodies, and quick-dry jackets. It also provides efficient services such as “3-day rapid sampling and 15-day bulk delivery.”
- For small-to-medium-sized brands: They can directly adopt mature design solutions and launch products quickly with only a small design fee.
- For international renowned brands: Newasia can customize designs based on their brand positioning (e.g., developing windproof fabric jackets for outdoor brands), helping these brands shorten the new product R&D cycle by more than 30%.
Currently, Newasia has served brand clients in dozens of countries worldwide. Its Shanghai business office (located in Mingde International Plaza, Jing’an District) and production bases in Henan and Zhejiang form an efficient collaboration model of “front-end connection + back-end production.” Brands can obtain customized OEM/ODM solutions via email or WhatsApp, realizing “rapid demand response and efficient cooperation implementation.”
📩 Contact Us Today
Reach our Shanghai office at:
- Email: business@shanghai-newasia.com.cn
- WhatsApp: +86 15814804753
Let’s discuss your needs and prepare a tailored OEM or ODM proposal—so you can stay ahead in the market with speed, quality, and confidence.
OUR PROCESS
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Outsourcing Mode?
For a brand, the choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) is not an “either/or” decision, but rather one that requires a comprehensive judgment based on the brand’s positioning, resource capabilities, and product requirements:
- OEM Model is the Better Choice if: The brand has a mature design team, needs to control core design intellectual property (IP), and pursues product standardization (e.g., classic/staple styles).
- ODM Model Can Better Meet Needs if: The brand’s design capabilities are weak, it needs rapid product iteration (e.g., fast fashion, seasonal styles), and it hopes to lower R&D costs.
- A “Dual-Model Service Provider” like Henan Xinya Garments can offer a “one-stop outsourcing solution” for brands that simultaneously need scalable core products and quickly iterating niche products, thus balancing cost, efficiency, and product competitiveness.
Against the backdrop of intensifying competition in the global apparel supply chain, the boundaries between OEM and ODM are gradually blurring. However, the underlying logic of industry collaboration remains: “Matching the most suitable manufacturing capability to the brand’s core needs.” Manufacturing enterprises that possess dual-model service capabilities and deep industry experience will become important strategic partners for brands looking to navigate market changes.
FAQ: OEM vs ODM Clothing Manufacturing Basics
Q1: What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
We specialize in flexible production solutions to support emerging brands and growing businesses.
- For highly customised or technical garments (such as specialised denim washes or intricate embroidery), MOQ requirements may range from 200 to 300 units.
- Our standard MOQ ranges from 100 to 300 units per design, depending on fabric availability and production complexity.
- For best pricing efficiency, MOQ is typically based on 300 per style per colour.
- You can mix colors and sizes within the same style and fabric for greater flexibility.
Q2: What Services Do You Offer?
We provide full-cycle fashion support, including:
- Sourcing: Local and global raw material, fabric R&D, and procurement (trims) with cost optimization.
- Manufacturing: Custom manufacturing with quality control checkpoints.
- Design & Development: Assistance with tech packs, trend research, and collection building.
- Logistics: Shipping coordination to your warehouse or 3PL.
- Sustainability Consulting: Eco-fabric sourcing, ethical production planning.
Q3: Can I Customize My Designs Fully?
We work with both OEM (your design, our production) and ODM (our templates customized for you) models. Customization options include:
- Fabric type and color
- Fit and sizing
- Printing (screen, DTG, sublimation, embroidery)
- Accessories (zippers, buttons, cords)
- Labels, hangtags, branded packaging
Q4: What are your sustainability practices?
We’re committed to responsible manufacturing through:
- Waste reduction programs and ethical labor practices (BSCI certified)
- GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled material options
- OEKO-TEX® certified dyes and processing
- Energy-efficient production technology
Q5: What Are Your Lead Times?
For in-stock items: ships worldwide within 3–7 days For custom orders: production lead time 15–30 days Urgent / Express Options: Available at a premium. Timing can vary depending on fabric development, approval cycles, and order complexity.
Q6: What is your production capacity?
Our facility employs 12,000 skilled employees, daily production capacity exceeds 100,000 pieces. We handle orders from 100 pieces to 50,000+ units across:
- Activewear and sportswear
- Denim and casual wear
- Children’s clothing
- Technical apparel
Q7: Where are your garments produced?
Our headquarters are based in China, where we operate our own vertically integrated factory. Our infrastructure and strategically placed worldwide manufacturing facilities allow us to offer extremely competitive pricing for fully custom clothing. offer flexible production options tailored to your needs. All manufacturing is supervised by our quality control team to ensure consistent standards.
Clothing Manufacturer – Customized Clothing Solutions For Every Concept
We deliver fully integrated, end-to-end apparel manufacturing that seamlessly blends design intent with technical execution. Our in-house fabric R&D lab develops proprietary textiles—from advanced performance blends to sustainable cottons and recycled polymers—ensuring material innovation aligns with your brand’s aesthetic and functional needs.
Through precision pattern engineering and fabric mapping, we create tailored through relaxed silhouettes optimized for drape, movement, and consistency. Each collection is supported by comprehensive development services: tech pack preparation, size grading, garment dyeing, custom washes, and specialty finishes. With full control over the entire supply chain—from yarn to final garment—we guarantee quality, scalability, and brand integrity across every piece we produce.
Trusted Certificates：
Fabrics, Trims, and Hardware
Endless Possibilities: Choose the Perfect Denim Fabric, Trims, and Hardware to Bring Your Design to Life
Our extensive selection of denim fabrics allows you to choose the right texture, weight, and finish for your designs. From classic raw denim to stretch denim, and washed denim to colored denim, we offer a variety of fabric options to suit your style.
In addition to fabrics, we also offer a wide array of trims and hardware options, including:
- Buttons & Rivets: Select from various metals, finishes, and designs, from classic copper to matte black or brass.
- Zippers: Choose the ideal zipper length, style (metal or plastic), and color to enhance the design of your denim pieces.
- Labels & Patches: Customize your brand’s look with fabric, leather, or synthetic labels and patches, with options for embossing, printing, or stitching.
Custom Denim Clothing
✔Jeans, jackets, skirts, overalls, and more.
✔Fully customizable designs, washes, and finishes to match your brand’s identity.
End-to-End Production
✔From fabric sourcing and design consultation to manufacturing and packaging, we handle every step in-house.
Logo and Branding Integration Services
✔Multiple branding options, including embroidery, printing, heat transfers, and laser etching.
Packaging Solutions
✔Custom labels, hangtags, and branded packaging for a professional finish.
Flexible Order Quantities
✔Minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 100 pieces per style, perfect for startups and established brands alike.
Sustainability Commitment
✔Sustainable. Ethical. Innovative.
What Printing Methods Do We Use in Our OEM Clothing Manufacturing Process?
See how we print your clothing here
Ideal for large, complex designs but is only compatible with light fabrics such as polyester.
A top choice for consumers looking for bulk printing designs in a short amount of time.
Best for high-quality, photo-realistic, and colorful designs. It is particularly suited for promotional events, novelty gifts, etc.
For high-quality mass production, this is an excellent choice. But it may not be suitable for every type of printing.
Perfect for consumers who prefer small order quantities and want to experiment with various styles.
It can produce easy-to-maintain, low-cost, and prints that are compatible with all types of fabrics.
We can provide
We are a clothing manufacturing group that focuses on producing high-quality clothing and adhering to the concepts of environmental protection and sustainable development.
Fully custom garments, designed and produced to your specifications by a trusted clothing manufacturer.
Jackets | Denim | streetwear | Sports wear | And more
MOQ: Starts at 300 pieces per model/color
Personalize our premium blank apparel with prints, embroidery, labeling, and more, from a reliable garment manufacturer.
MOQ: 100 pieces per model/color.
High-quality, ready-to-brand apparel Made in Portugal in our clothing manufacturer for startups for premium garments.
No MOQ | No minimum quantities