Germany-based Stedman GmbH, a designer, manufacturer and supplier of premium casual and sportswear blank apparel for the printwear industry has been acquired by U.S.-based Next Level Apparel (NLA).
Since 1953, Stedman® has stood for top quality and ethically responsibly produced clothing across men’s, women’s and youth apparel — all of which are complementary with NLA’s product collections and reputation for premium quality, fit and style. With its distribution center in Ghent, Belgium — and a market presence in over 40 countries — Stedman’s international foundation will serve as a critical accelerant to NLA’s strategic geographic expansion in Europe.
“The team at Stedman is excited to join ranks with Next Level Apparel, a strong partner and the perfect match thanks to numerous synergistic effects.” said Stedman General Manager Marcel Schweigert, who will remain with the company in his function for the long term. “This cooperation unfolds new opportunities for all of us. By expanding our product range with fantastic styles from NLA and with their strong team and supply chain backing us, we will be able to offer our existing customers an even better service, attract new customers and compete in new markets. I am personally thrilled to be part of this partnership, not only as a stakeholder but also as a shareholder.”
Founded in 2003, Next Level Apparel is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of premium blank apparel for the printwear, retail, brand specialty and other decorated apparel markets.
“The Stedman team has built a strong brand and a culture of excellence, and we’re excited to have them join Next Level Apparel,” said CEO Randy Hales. “This partnership presents a great opportunity to expand and diversify both organizations’ footprints across Europe and in the U.S.”
The Stedman® brand has stood for reliable product quality, excellent value for money and ethically responsible manufacturing conditions. Today Stedman is an independent company providing top-quality blank apparel. Based in Aachen, Germany, and with its distribution center in Ghent, Belgium, Stedman enjoys a strong market presence in 40 countries. With Stedman, you choose experience and customer service, but more importantly, you choose their core values: quality, ethics, eco-friendliness and responsible manufacturing.
Next Level Apparel is a design innovator, industry leader and top supplier of premium blank apparel. NLA put its stamp on the map as a blank apparel pioneer in the printwear industry by answering the call to its customers’ need for a Sublimation T-shirt. The company’s passion for exceptional craftsmanship catalyzed the development of more styles and ultimately formed the Next Level Apparel® brand – putting the customer first, always, and in all ways. The company’s tagline “Ready to Inspire™ is a commitment to finding new ways to make it easier for customers to keep their shelves fully stocked with thoughtfully designed premium blank apparel that offers exceptional printability.