Gildan Activewear, Inc. granted S&S Activewear exclusive wholesale distribution rights to its American Apparel brand in the U.S. imprintables market. It also reached an agreement for S&S to become the exclusive wholesale distributor of its brand portfolio, which includes Gildan, Comfort Colors, American Apparel, and Champion, in the Canadian imprintables market.
Gildan acquired American Apparel in 2017.
“American Apparel is an iconic premium clothing brand known for its timeless styles, premium quality, and youthful energy, dedicated to ‘Crafting the Culture’ through music festival sponsorships and collaborations with artists,” said Chuck Ward, chief operating officer at Gildan. “S&S has always been a strong advocate of American Apparel, and we are confident that this partnership will broaden customers’ access to the brand and further position American Apparel as the timeless, iconic choice for customers.”
“We are proud to be the exclusive distributor of American Apparel products,” said Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear. “By leveraging our scale, industry-leading technology, and deep customer relationships, we’re committed to delivering the brand’s full product line across our nationwide network.”
“We’re excited to expand our partnership with Gildan and continue to drive sales for the American Apparel brand,” said Toby Whitmoyer, chief commercial officer of S&S Activewear. “This brand has always stood for creativity and cultural relevance, values that deeply resonate with today’s buyers. With our national reach, deep inventory, and service-first mindset, we’re ready to support the brand and deliver more value to our customers.”
The Canadian deal is expected to provide decorators with an expanded brand portfolio and stronger infrastructure.
Commenting on the Canadian distribution deal, Gildan’s Ward said, “S&S Activewear has been a valuable business collaborator in Canada, and we are excited to strengthen this partnership. By aligning Gildan’s Canadian product supply capabilities with S&S Activewear’s robust distribution network, Gildan’s Canadian customers will benefit from improved product availability, swift service, and a streamlined ordering process.”
“Gildan’s brands are among the most iconic and recognizable in our industry and we’re excited to bring this powerful portfolio together under one roof,” said Craig Ryan, VP of Commercial for Canada at S&S. “With increased inventory depth across our Canadian network, reaching over 99 percent of the population with one and two-day service, S&S is enhancing access and reliability for customers nationwide.”
“Gildan has been a trusted and strategic partner for years, and we’re proud to take this next step together,” said S&S’s Myers. “This expanded agreement reflects the strength of our partnership across North America and our continued investment in the Canadian market.”
The exclusive partnership arrangements will take effect on December 28, 2025.
Image courtesy American Apparel
