The decision will see the planned closure of Cone Denim's Jiaxing facility in Zhejiang province, marking a major step in its ongoing strategic transformation.
Cone Denim says the withdrawal follows a “comprehensive review” of its manufacturing footprint, the global denim market and changes in customer sourcing needs.
Recent changes in global trade, evolving customer strategies, cost pressures, supply chain considerations and broader geopolitical circumstances all contributed to the determination to curtail denim production in China.
Cone Denim president Steve Maggard explained: “We are positioning Cone Denim for its next chapter of success, with a clear priority to continue delivering for our customers with the quality, innovation, reliability, and service that have defined Cone Denim for generations.
“Closing the China facility was a difficult but necessary decision as we position Cone Denim for long-term competitiveness in a changing global market. While this marks a significant change in our manufacturing network, our commitment to serving customers remains unchanged, and we are committed to supporting our customers, employees, suppliers, and local stakeholders through this transition with transparency, care, and disciplined execution.”
Cone Denim’s Jiaxing plant has been operational since 2007, producing denim fabrics in weights from 5.5 oz. to 16 oz., as well as selvage denim.
In 2024, the company boosted its use of renewable energy and lowered greenhouse gas emissions by constructing and launching its first rooftop solar project at the Jiaxing facility.
As part of the transformation plan, Cone Denim will shift its operational focus to its manufacturing base in Mexico.
The company indicated that its Mexico operations will serve as the primary platform for denim production once the exit from China is complete, citing this foundation as central to supplying key markets and maintaining established quality and service standards.
To support ongoing relationships, Cone Denim said its teams would work closely with customers to ensure continuity of fabric supply and support existing commitments.
The transition will also include direct communication with stakeholders as details become available.
Maggard added: “We are grateful for the dedication of our employees and the continued partnership of our customers, suppliers, and local stakeholders who have supported our China operations over the years. We remain committed to treating our employees with respect, working constructively with local stakeholders, and managing this transition responsibly while strengthening Cone Denim’s platform for the future.”
Elevate Textiles, the parent company of Cone Denim, says the transformation represents a step towards a more focused manufacturing strategy.
Elevate Textiles CEO and board member Jeffrey Pritchett added: “Transforming Cone Denim to meet our strategic objectives, including the planned exit from denim manufacturing operations in China, is an important step in sharpening Cone Denim’s focus on the markets, capabilities, and manufacturing platforms where it is best positioned to compete and win.
"By supporting customers through this transition and strengthening our established Mexico platform, we are building a more focused, resilient Cone Denim business for the future.”
