Next Level Apparel Requires 100% U.S. Cotton

Next Level Apparel (NLA), a manufacturer and supplier of blank apparel, announces two significant steps in continuing its commitment to ethical and responsible sourcing.

NLA is expediting its requirement to have all fabric suppliers utilize 100% U.S.-grown cotton for purchase orders placed after Feb. 1, ahead of the company’s original goal. Additionally, the company is implementing origin testing protocols to further ensure the integrity of its supply chain.

“This is a significant advancement in our commitment to global social responsibility and builds on our aggressive 2020 supply chain traceability priorities,” says NLA CEO Randy Hales. “This move complements NLA’s robust environmental, social, and governance initiatives with regard to suppliers who violate our zero-tolerance policy by utilizing forced labor.”

NLA is engaging a third party that combines forensic science and data to verify the origin location of raw material. Origin testing protocols will further establish NLA as an industry leader with transparency throughout the supply chain.

“We work closely with organizations throughout our industry to stand up for human rights and against human injustice,” states NLA Director of Corporate Social Responsibility Carly Gerstman. “Working collaboratively with our competitors and partners is vital to the success of protecting human rights throughout our supply chain and around the world.”