Clothing Wholesale and Gresham Businesses
Clothing wholesalers are essential partners for many Gresham businesses. Independent boutiques in Historic Downtown Gresham, screen printers producing team shirts and event apparel, schools and youth sports leagues, restaurants and healthcare facilities needing uniforms, and online sellers all rely on wholesalers for inventory at competitive prices.
The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most influential apparel brands and wholesale distributors in the country, giving Gresham businesses access to quality products with relatively short shipping times. Here are ten clothing wholesalers and suppliers serving the area.
The Top 10 Clothing Wholesalers Serving Gresham
1. SanMar
SanMar, headquartered in the Seattle area, is one of the largest wholesale suppliers of blank apparel in the United States. Screen printers, embroiderers, and promotional product companies in Gresham rely on its extensive catalog of shirts, outerwear, and accessories.
2. S&S Activewear
S&S Activewear is a national distributor of blank apparel and accessories with fast shipping from multiple distribution centers. Its broad brand selection makes it a go-to for custom apparel businesses.
3. alphabroder
alphabroder distributes blank apparel, headwear, and bags from leading brands. Its product range supports promotional products companies, decorators, and corporate apparel programs.
4. Columbia Sportswear
Columbia Sportswear, headquartered in the Portland area, sells to retailers through its wholesale programs. Outdoor shops and boutiques in East County carry its jackets, fleece, and footwear, which are well suited to the region's climate.
5. Pendleton Woolen Mills
Pendleton Woolen Mills offers wholesale programs for retailers seeking its iconic wool blankets, shirts, and accessories. Its heritage brand appeals to customers who value quality and Northwest style.
6. Cintas
Cintas provides uniform rental and purchase programs for businesses across many industries. Restaurants, manufacturers, and healthcare providers in Gresham use Cintas to outfit employees with professional, consistent apparel.
7. UniFirst
UniFirst supplies workwear, uniforms, and protective clothing through rental and direct purchase. Its services include laundering and maintenance, making it convenient for industrial and automotive businesses.
8. Vestis
Vestis, formerly part of Aramark Uniform Services, offers uniform and workplace supply programs. It serves hospitality, healthcare, and industrial customers with branded apparel and facility products.
9. Faire
Faire is an online wholesale marketplace connecting independent retailers with emerging brands. Gresham boutiques use it to discover unique clothing and accessories with flexible order minimums and payment terms.
10. Rose City Apparel Wholesale
Rose City Apparel Wholesale is a regional supplier serving boutiques, schools, and community organizations with fashion basics, team apparel, and seasonal collections. Its local focus allows for personalized service and quick delivery.
Types of Clothing Wholesalers
Clothing wholesalers vary widely. Blank apparel distributors supply garments for decoration. Brand wholesale programs allow retailers to carry established labels. Uniform providers focus on workwear and professional apparel, often with rental and laundering services. Online marketplaces connect retailers with independent brands. Choosing the right type depends on your business model and customers.
Benefits of Buying Wholesale
Wholesale purchasing offers lower per-unit costs, access to larger inventories, and the ability to build consistent product lines. For decorators, reliable access to blank garments in a full range of sizes and colors is essential. Retailers benefit from brand support, marketing materials, and seasonal collections.
Trends in Apparel Wholesale
Sustainability is reshaping the market, with growing demand for organic cotton, recycled polyester, and ethically produced garments. Direct-to-garment printing and on-demand production are reducing inventory needs for custom apparel businesses. Online wholesale platforms have made it easier for small retailers to access diverse brands. Comfort-focused and outdoor-inspired styles remain especially popular in the Pacific Northwest.
How to Choose a Clothing Wholesaler
Consider product quality, size and color availability, minimum order quantities, pricing, shipping speed, and return policies. Request samples before placing large orders. For uniform programs, compare service levels, contract terms, and replacement policies. Building strong relationships with a few reliable wholesalers can improve consistency and margins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license to buy clothing wholesale?
Most wholesalers require proof of a legitimate business, such as a business registration or resale documentation. Requirements vary, so check with each supplier before applying for an account.
What are typical minimum order quantities?
Minimums vary widely. Blank apparel distributors often have low or no minimums, while brand wholesale programs may require larger opening orders. Online marketplaces frequently offer flexible minimums for small retailers.
Which apparel sells best in the Pacific Northwest?
Layering pieces, rain-ready outerwear, fleece, flannel, and comfortable casual wear perform well year-round. Locally inspired designs and outdoor brands also resonate strongly with Gresham shoppers.
Is uniform rental better than buying?
Rental programs include laundering, repairs, and replacements, which can simplify management for larger teams. Buying outright may cost less over time for smaller businesses with simple uniform needs.
Final Thoughts
Clothing wholesalers help Gresham businesses dress their customers, teams, and employees. The wholesalers on this list offer a range of options, from blank apparel for screen printers to iconic Northwest brands and professional uniform programs. By choosing partners that align with your goals, you can build a successful apparel business or program in East County.