How SHEIN boosts garment production efficiency with advanced tools and technology

It has already created over 100 sewing and garment-making tools for its suppliers.

SHEIN has achieved significant strides in modernising the garment manufacturing sector with the development of advanced manufacturing tools and automated production processes.

In 2023, the company invested heavily in innovation and research and development (R&D) to help suppliers upgrade their equipment, technology, and processes. To date, the company has developed over 100 sewing and garment-making tools for its suppliers and filed more than 10 patents for new technologies and tools designed for complex craftsmanship methods and special fabrics.

Recently, SHEIN invited suppliers and equipment manufacturers to a “Tool Day” event at the Center of Innovation for Garment Manufacturing (CIGM). The event showcased over 60 self-developed technical tools used in more than 20 industry processes and several types of cutting-edge intelligent equipment. These tools promote flexible lean manufacturing and have been developed in consultation with SHEIN’s suppliers, addressing their pain points and enabling them to upgrade their equipment and processes with minimal investment.

SHEIN’s cutting-edge tools include the Automated Glove Production Template, which simplifies glove-making with pre-set sewing templates, boosting production efficiency by 200%. The V-Neckline Sewing Tool ensures neat stitches and smooth edges with a modified presser foot and needle plate. The Bird Beak Presser Foot streamlines the sewing of embellished fabrics by pushing aside decorations during stitching.

SHEIN’s Supplier Community Empowerment Program committed $70m over five years in 2023, providing training and support. In 2023, it conducted 620 training sessions and upgraded 132 facilities, transforming over 407,000 square meters of workspace. 

The company also upgraded 10,486 square meters of canteens, dormitories, and recreational spaces across 23 facilities and provided financial aid to 165 worker families in need.