Global garment manufacturer Hi-Tech Apparel has acquired a majority stake in the UK software company Unmade to further expand its reach in the industry. Unmade is known for its innovative technology that allows sportswear and fashion brands like New Balance, Decathlon, and Ralph Lauren to offer personalized and on-demand clothing options. This acquisition presents a significant opportunity for Hi-Tech Apparel to revolutionize its manufacturing processes and meet the increasing demand from customers.
Founded in 2014 by Hal Watts, Kirsty Emery-Laws, and Ben Alun-Jones, Unmade has already attracted investments from major venture capital firms such as Octopus Ventures, Felix Capital, and MMC Ventures. The recent acquisition by Hi-Tech Apparel values the company at 10 times its revenue, indicating the potential for growth and development in the coming years. With Decathlon remaining a shareholder post-acquisition, Unmade will continue to operate independently and collaborate with various brands and manufacturers.
The partnership between Hi-Tech Apparel and Unmade aims to leverage the strengths of both companies. By integrating Unmade’s cutting-edge technologies with Hi-Tech’s manufacturing and logistics expertise, they plan to create a market-leading solution for brands seeking innovative approaches to teamwear and customization. This collaboration will also provide Unmade’s team with access to Hi-Tech’s vast resources, knowledge, and customer base, enabling them to enhance their digital solutions and expand their reach globally.
Over the past two years, Unmade and Hi-Tech have collaborated successfully, delivering customized apparel to a wide range of customers, from amateur clubs to professional athletes. With this acquisition, they intend to scale their operations and introduce new products and services to cater to the evolving needs of the market. The infusion of capital from Hi-Tech Apparel will support Unmade’s growth plans and facilitate the hiring of new talent to drive innovation and excellence in the personalized apparel sector.
Overall, the acquisition of Unmade by Hi-Tech Apparel marks a significant milestone in the industry, signaling a shift towards digital-first manufacturing models and personalized customer experiences. The combined expertise of both companies is poised to disrupt the market and set new standards for customization and on-demand production in the apparel industry. As they embark on this exciting journey together, consumers can expect to see more tailored and sustainable clothing options in the market, driven by the power of technology and innovation.
