In a groundbreaking collaboration, Walmart is joining forces with fashion tech company unspun to revolutionize garment production through the use of 3D weaving technology. The partnership aims to reduce the environmental impact of garment manufacturing and bring textile production back to the U.S.
The initial phase of the project will see Walmart and unspun examine how unspun’s 3D weaving machines can be used to produce workwear-style pants for a Walmart house brand. Unlike traditional methods where yarn is woven into one-dimensional fabrics and then cut and assembled into garments, 3D weaving involves spinning yarn directly into finished garments, eliminating waste and streamlining production.
If the pilot project is successful, unspun plans to collaborate with a manufacturing partner to establish additional microsites across the U.S. for onshore and nearshore production. Their goal is to have 350 machines in the U.S. by 2030. This innovative 3D weaving process differs from 3D printing, which creates physical objects by depositing layers of material.
Andrea Albright, Walmart’s executive vice president of sourcing, expressed the company’s commitment to innovation in supply chain management to address industry challenges. unspun has received recognition for its technological advancements and commitment to sustainability, making it a leader in the fashion tech industry.
By leveraging Walmart’s resources and unspun’s innovative technology, the partnership aims to disrupt traditional garment manufacturing, create job opportunities in the U.S., and significantly reduce waste in the apparel industry. Beth Esponnette, co-founder of unspun, sees this collaboration as an opportunity to scale their innovations and make a positive impact on the fashion industry.
