If you want to sell apparel under your own name, you do not need your own factory. You do need to choose how you work with one. The three common models are OEM, ODM and private label, and the difference comes down to who brings the design.
Key takeaways
- OEM: you bring the specification, we manufacture it.
- ODM: you bring the idea, we develop it into a finished product.
- Private label: you choose from existing styles and we put your brand on them.
OEM: your specification, our manufacturing
OEM means original equipment manufacturing. You arrive with a defined product, usually a tech pack, and we make it. That covers manufacturing to your specification, buyer-approved samples, custom fabric and colour, custom measurements, branding, packaging and bulk production. Choose OEM when you already know exactly what you want made.
ODM: from idea to finished product
ODM means original design manufacturing. You may have a concept but not a complete garment. We help turn it into a production-ready product through design development, product concept support, fabric recommendation, colour development, sample development, and fit and measurement support, followed by bulk manufacturing. Choose ODM when you have the idea and want a partner to develop it.
Private label: your brand, our production
With private label, the focus is your identity on the finished product. We can supply custom brand labels, care and size labels, hangtags, custom packaging, logo embroidery, printing and retail-ready finishing, then produce in bulk. It is a fast way to launch a brand without building your own production.
Comparing the three
| Model | You bring | We provide |
|---|---|---|
| OEM | Tech pack and specification | Sampling and bulk manufacturing to your spec |
| ODM | Concept or idea | Design, sampling, fit support and manufacturing |
| Private label | Brand name and labelling | Branded finishing, packaging and production |
How to choose
- Have a finished tech pack? Start with OEM.
- Have a concept but no pattern or spec? Start with ODM.
- Want to launch a brand quickly? Start with private label.
Many buyers combine models, for example a private-label range plus one custom OEM style. Orders follow the agreed development, sampling and production schedule, and shipping terms are confirmed in the commercial quotation or purchase order.
Ready to talk? Send us an OEM / ODM / Private Label request or read more on our Global Business Solutions page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between OEM and ODM?
In OEM you supply the design specification and we manufacture it. In ODM we help develop the design from your concept.
Can I add my own labels and packaging?
Yes. Custom brand labels, care and size labels, hangtags and custom packaging are part of our private label service.
How do I start?
Fill in the OEM / ODM / Private Label request form with your requirements and our team will reply with a quote.
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