When you think of a great t-shirt, hoodie or everyday essential, chances are you’ve come across Gildan. But what sets Gildan apart isn’t just the quality of its products - it’s the story, values and commitment behind the brand.
From Canada to Australia and NZ
Gildan started in Canada over 40 years ago with a simple vision: to make high-quality basics accessible to everyone. Today, that vision has grown into one of the world’s largest apparel operations - with over 55,000 employees, 30 factories and more than 3 billion garments produced each year across 60 countries.
Because Gildan owns its factories and controls its supply chain, it can promise something few brands can: full visibility, from the cotton fields to the clothes on your back.
Why It Matters
This vertical model isn’t about making more - it’s about making better. Gildan knows where every fibre comes from, how every garment is made and how it reaches you. That level of transparency is what sets them apart.
Gildan in Australia
In Australia, Gildan manages three powerhouse brands - Gildan, Comfort Colors and American Apparel. With 70+ styles and over 6,000 SKUs, they offer one of the country’s most extensive blank apparel ranges. Whether it’s one unit or 100,000, the team can deliver at any scale.
More Than Just Apparel
Gildan’s commitment goes beyond product. Their facilities are recognised by WRAP and SEDEX, while their compliance program is backed by the Fair Labor Association, Sustainable Apparel Coalition and Better Cotton Initiative. Certifications such as OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and Cotton USA give customers confidence that every garment meets the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
In fact, in 2022 Gildan was ranked 5th out of 250 of the world’s largest fashion brands in the Fashion Transparency Index - a strong endorsement of their world-class ESG commitments.
As David Hillen (GM and Director, AU) says:
“We are the makers… and we understand from point A to point Z where and how your garments are made.”
To hear more, head over to our LinkedIn page where Dave shares the Australian story in person.
