New emerging industry
The Flexible Product Fabrication (FPF) industry, also known as Cut & Sew, in Utah has doubled in the number of companies over the past 20 years, with the most rapid growth within the last five years. The emerging Flexible Product Fabrication industry includes manufacturing processes beyond cutting and sewing such as innovations in new textiles, seam welding, 3D knitting, seam bonding, automatic cutting, and digital fabrication.
In recognition of this growing sector UMA created Utah’s first Flexible Product Fabrication Consortium. Spearheaded by UMA senior advisor Tulinda Larsen, the consortium was created to help connect companies and assist with their strategic efforts and sustainable growth. The creation of this consortium was a top recommendation from a 2023 feasibility study. This study showed an increasing demand for early workforce development starting at the high school level as some of the rural counties have discontinued their programs.
UMA has partnered with the Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), which is an institute dedicated to elevating the Flexible Product Fabrication industry in the United States. ISAIC is a national resource focused on creating a positive impact through responsible production of high-quality garments and provides solutions centered around people, education, advanced manufacturing, and upward mobility for workers. ISAIC has developed programs for both manufacturers and workers to introduce Industry 4.0 processes and principles to the FPF industry.
This past week UMA hosted its first consortium meeting with 17 participants from 13 companies and/or educational partners. ISAIC presented on the Interlace Project and have been looking for a state to be a Pilot Program for a new concept in apparel manufacturing. Utah is looking as a perfect fit through Outdoor Products/Apparel, which is not as volatile as fashion apparel. After a successful meeting ISAIC told the group they will prepare a business plan to implement a Pilot Program in Utah. This could mean the creation of a new innovation center, supported by an Outdoor Brand to apply advanced manufacturing to reshore 10% of the products they are manufacturing in China.
The Consortium is open to suppliers, service users, educators, and other stakeholders, with regular virtual and in-person meetings. If you are interested in participating in the new UMA Utah Flexible Product Fabrication Consortium, REGISTER HERE.