UK Knitwear Manufacturer 2026: Post-Brexit Sourcing from Turkey

Navigating the new realities of post-Brexit trade? Rising costs, complex compliance, and disrupted supply chains are impacting UK fashion brands. You need a reliable, cost-effective, and compliant knitwear partner who understands the nuances of the UK market. Kiwi Giyim, based in Gaziantep, Turkey, offers a seamless solution – high-quality flat-knit production, streamlined logistics directly to the UK, and a commitment to meeting your specific requirements, from UKCA marking to REACH compliance. We’re not just a manufacturer; we’re a strategic partner helping you thrive in a changing landscape. Let’s discuss how we can optimise your knitwear sourcing for 2026 and beyond.

Why UK-based brands choose Turkey for knitwear

The UK fashion industry is facing unprecedented challenges. Brexit has undeniably increased the complexity and cost of sourcing from the EU. While nearshoring offers some advantages, Turkey presents a compelling alternative. We combine competitive pricing with geographical proximity, offering significantly faster lead times than traditional Far East suppliers. Turkey’s established textile industry, coupled with a modern infrastructure, ensures consistent quality and reliable delivery. Furthermore, Turkey maintains a strong trade relationship with the UK, benefiting from preferential trade agreements that minimise tariffs and streamline customs procedures. Brands like Superdry, Next, and even heritage labels are increasingly turning to Turkey to maintain margins and responsiveness in a fast-fashion environment. We understand the need for both speed and quality – a balance often difficult to achieve.

Compliance & Standards That Matter for UK

We understand that selling into the UK market demands rigorous adherence to specific regulations. Kiwi Giyim proactively addresses these concerns:

• UKCA Marking: We are fully prepared to implement UKCA marking on all products destined for the UK market, ensuring full compliance with post-Brexit regulations. Our quality control processes are aligned with UK standards.
• REACH Compliance: Despite Brexit, REACH regulations still apply to goods imported into the UK. We meticulously manage our chemical usage and supply chain to guarantee full REACH compliance, providing necessary documentation and certifications.
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: All our yarns and materials are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, guaranteeing they are free from harmful substances.
• Ethical Sourcing: We are committed to ethical and responsible manufacturing practices, ensuring fair labour standards and safe working conditions. We can provide detailed traceability information for all our materials.
• Import Duties & VAT: We can provide accurate calculations for import duties and VAT, helping you budget effectively.

Logistics: Turkey → UK (specific routes, days, costs)

We’ve optimised our logistics network to deliver your knitwear efficiently and cost-effectively to key UK hubs. We primarily utilise road freight via Dover, offering a reliable and trackable service.

• Route 1: Gaziantep – Dover – London: Transit time: 7-10 days. Estimated cost (full truckload, 22-24 tonnes): £2,500 – £3,800 (depending on fuel surcharges and seasonal demand).
• Route 2: Gaziantep – Dover – Manchester: Transit time: 8-12 days. Estimated cost (full truckload, 22-24 tonnes): £2,700 – £4,000.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): For smaller orders, we offer LCL shipping, consolidating your goods with other shipments. Cost: Approximately £150-£300 per cubic meter.
• Customs Clearance: We work with experienced UK customs brokers to ensure smooth and efficient clearance, minimising delays and avoiding penalties. We handle all necessary documentation.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): We offer DDP shipping terms, taking full responsibility for all logistics and import costs, providing you with a predictable and hassle-free experience.

Production Capabilities

Kiwi Giyim boasts a state-of-the-art facility equipped with 22 advanced flat-knitting machines, primarily Shima Seiki and Stoll models. This allows us to handle both complex designs and large-volume production runs.

• Monthly Capacity: Up to 100,000 pieces per month.
• Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): 250 pieces per style/colour.
• Gauge Range: 3gg to 14gg, enabling us to produce a wide variety of knitwear, from lightweight summer garments to chunky winter sweaters.
• Specialisation: We excel in fully fashioned knitwear, seamless garments, cable knits, intarsia, and jacquard patterns. See our full capabilities at /capabilities/.
• Technical Expertise: Our experienced team of knit technicians can translate your designs into reality, offering technical support and pattern optimisation.

Yarn & Material Specialties for UK brands

We understand the UK market’s preference for quality and sustainability. We specialise in sourcing and working with:

• Merino Wool: From Australian and Argentinian sources, offering exceptional softness and warmth.
• Cashmere: Premium quality cashmere sourced from Mongolia and China.
• Organic Cotton: GOTS-certified organic cotton for eco-conscious brands.
• Recycled Polyester: Made from post-consumer plastic bottles, reducing environmental impact. Learn more about our sustainability initiatives at /sustainability/.
• Viscose & Modal: Sustainable alternatives to traditional rayon.
• Blends: We can create custom yarn blends to achieve specific performance characteristics and aesthetics.

Working Models: OEM / ODM / Private Label / Sample Development

We offer flexible working models to suit your needs:

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing): You provide the designs, tech packs, and materials, and we manufacture to your specifications.
• ODM (Original Design Manufacturing): We can develop designs based on your brief, offering trend research and design expertise.
• Private Label: We manufacture garments under your brand label, providing a complete white-label solution.
• Sample Development: We offer rapid prototyping and sample development services, allowing you to test designs and materials before committing to bulk production. Our /process/ page details our streamlined sample process.

Communication & Time Zone Compatibility

We understand the importance of clear and efficient communication. Our team is fluent in English and readily available to discuss your requirements. The time difference between Turkey and the UK is minimal (GMT+3), facilitating seamless collaboration. We utilise WhatsApp, email, and video conferencing to ensure prompt and effective communication.

Real Cost Comparison

Here’s a realistic cost comparison for a basic crew neck sweater (100% cotton, 12gg) based on an order of 1,000 pieces:

Note: Costs are estimates and may vary depending on specific design complexity, material choices, and shipping rates.

Why Direct Partnership With Founder Mehmet Özbakır Matters

Working with Kiwi Giyim isn’t just about outsourcing production; it’s about building a direct relationship with the heart of our operation. As the founder, I, Mehmet Özbakır, am personally involved in every stage of the process, from initial consultation to final quality control. I bring over 20 years of experience in the knitwear industry, a deep understanding of technical knitting, and a commitment to exceeding your expectations. I’m passionate about delivering exceptional quality, competitive pricing, and a collaborative partnership. You can learn more about my background and vision at /author/mehmetozbakir_ns7rrpoe/.

How to Get Started: Three-Step Path

Ready to experience the Kiwi Giyim difference? Here’s how to get started:

• Tech Pack Review: Send us your tech pack for a detailed assessment and accurate quotation.
• Sample Development: We’ll create a sample based on your specifications, ensuring perfect fit and quality.
• Bulk Production: Once you approve the sample, we’ll proceed with bulk production, delivering your knitwear on time and within budget.

Don’t let post-Brexit challenges hold your brand back. Partner with Kiwi Giyim and unlock a world of opportunity.

Let’s discuss your knitwear needs today!

• Request a Tech Pack Review: /contact/
• Order a Sample: /contact/
• WhatsApp Mehmet Directly: +90 532 013 17 61