Why UK Apparel Sourcing from India Is Growing Rapidly?
In the last decade, UK apparel sourcing from India has evolved from a cost-saving measure into a long-term strategic partnership model.
Tiruppur, India’s knitwear capital, now supplies sustainable, compliant, and customizable garments for global brands – from established retailers to new fashion startups.
UK buyers benefit from:
Transparent communication in English
Proven export compliance under REX and international trade norms
A vast base of apparel manufacturers with specialized expertise
Competitive pricing for private-label and custom production
At Mirthuni Apparel Sourcing Service, we bridge this gap by providing end-to-end solutions for UK fashion brands, apparel importers, and startups – turning design ideas into fully finished export-ready garments.
Step 1: Initial Inquiry and Design Onboarding
The sourcing process begins with a brand’s design brief or tech pack.
UK buyers typically share:
Design sketches or reference images
Fabric composition, GSM, and color preferences
Target price range and order quantity
Our role:
Evaluate production feasibility
Recommend suitable Tiruppur garment factories
Confirm MOQ (usually 300 pieces per color per style)
Issue a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) upon request
All brand details and design files are treated as confidential.
Step 2: Fabric Sourcing and Material Development
Once the style details are approved, the next step is fabric sourcing.
Mirthuni’s sourcing team collaborates with certified mills to develop:
100% cotton, cotton-spandex, and polyester-blend jerseys
French Terry, fleece, rib, and pique knits
Sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton and recycled polyester
Custom-dyed lab dips for buyer approval
Fabric swatches and shade cards are couriered to UK buyers for verification.
All materials are traceable through REX-registered suppliers to maintain export compliance.
Step 3: Sampling and Fit Development
Sampling is the most crucial stage of UK apparel sourcing from India.
We follow a structured three-step process to ensure technical and aesthetic accuracy.
| Sample Type | Purpose | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| Proto Sample | Initial garment to confirm pattern and construction | 7–10 days |
| Fit Sample | Adjusted version for body measurements and fit evaluation | 5–7 days |
| Pre-Production Sample | Final version for approval before bulk cutting | 3–5 days |
Buyers can provide feedback using annotated photos or video calls.
This feedback-driven process minimizes errors before production.
Step 4: AI-Assisted Virtual Fittings (Optional)
To accelerate approvals, we provide AI-generated virtual fit renderings.
Once we receive the tech pack and measurements, our system simulates the garment’s drape and proportion on 3D models.
Benefits include:
Faster design validation
Fewer physical sample rounds
Accurate evaluation of logo placement and silhouette balance
This solution is ideal for UK brands operating remotely or developing multiple styles simultaneously.
Step 5: Commercial Confirmation and Payment Process
Once samples are approved, a proforma invoice is issued detailing style breakdown, quantity, fabric composition, and delivery dates.
Payments are processed securely through international banking channels in accordance with export norms.
All documentation and transactions are managed transparently under Indian export compliance.
Step 6: Export Documentation and REX Compliance
Each order under UK apparel sourcing from India is backed by full export documentation.
We prepare and share:
Commercial Invoice and Packing List
Certificate of Origin under the REX framework
HS Code declaration
Inspection or lab test reports (if required)
Courier or freight tracking details
REX registration ensures UK buyers receive origin-based duty advantages under the India–UK trade framework.
Step 7: Bulk Production and Quality Assurance
After approvals, bulk production begins in BSCI, WRAP, and OEKO-TEX certified facilities.
Our quality systems include:
AQL 2.5 inspection process
Colorfastness, shrinkage, and durability testing
Progress photos and weekly production updates
Dedicated merchandisers for direct communication
This structured production management ensures consistency, accountability, and reliability for every order.
Step 8: Shipping and Logistics to the United Kingdom
We handle export logistics through air and sea freight based on shipment volume.
| Mode | Transit Time | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Air Courier (DHL / FedEx) | 4–7 days | Samples and small runs |
| Air Cargo | 7–10 days | Medium volumes |
| Sea Freight (FOB Tuticorin / CIF Felixstowe) | 20–28 days | Bulk shipments |
All shipments are fully tracked and insured until arrival at the UK warehouse.
Step 9: Post-Delivery and Long-Term Support
After successful delivery, we continue supporting the buyer’s next phase:
Collecting post-delivery feedback
Developing new fabric or seasonal concepts
Managing reorders from saved tech packs
Offering planning assistance for future collections
This long-term approach builds consistency and trust with every sourcing partner.
Key Insights for UK Sourcing Managers
Begin the sampling process at least 4–6 weeks before production.
Provide detailed size charts and measurement sheets to ensure accurate fits.
Consolidate similar styles to improve costing and production efficiency.
Use digital fittings to speed up design approvals.
Verify that the sourcing partner is REX-registered and export-compliant.
Credible References and Trade Alignment
According to the UK Department for Business and Trade, India remains a key textile and apparel sourcing partner for UK importers seeking certified and ethical manufacturing partners.
Our partner factories are certified by BSCI, SA8000, and OEKO-TEX, ensuring compliance with environmental and social standards.
Why UK Buyers Choose Mirthuni Apparel Sourcing Service
Transparent costing and clear communication
Low MOQ from 300 pieces per style
Certified and audited partner factories
Support for both startups and established brands
AI-integrated sampling and design validation
Reliable documentation and shipment tracking
Mirthuni Apparel combines practical sourcing experience with modern digital workflows to make the process transparent and efficient for every UK buyer.
