Singapore-based fast-fashion giant Shein announced on Tuesday that its sustainable denim production increased by about 90 percent to 380,000 pieces last year, compared to 200,000 in 2023.
According to a statement, the company also saved 10,000 metric tons of water in 2024 alone and 19,500 MT since its introduction in 2022, marking a significant milestone in sustainable fashion production.
Developed by global textile innovation and solutions company Next Technologies & Xvantages, or NTX, the technology reduces water and energy use compared to traditional denim manufacturing processes and streamlines production.
Redefining Denim Production
Conventional denim production is typically resource-heavy, consuming large quantities of water and energy during dyeing, bleaching, and washing stages.
To address these issues, Shein collaborated with NTX in 2021 to implement Cool Transfer Denim Printing.
The innovative technique uses reactive ink and digital printing to transfer intricate denim designs onto white fabric, replicating textures like faded finishes and retro-worn effects.
Verified by Bureau Veritas in 2023, the process cuts water usage by 70.5 percent compared to conventional methods while reducing workers’ exposure to hazardous chemicals.
“These milestones illustrate the company’s ability to scale innovation within its supply chain, integrating advanced manufacturing practices while promoting resource efficiency,” the company spokesperson said in the statement.
A Perfect Match for On-Demand Fashion
The technology aligns seamlessly with Shein’s on-demand production model, which prioritizes small initial batches of 100–200 items and adjusts production based on real-time customer feedback.
Its efficiency supports this model by enabling smaller, precise runs that minimize waste and overproduction.
This synergy underscores Shein’s ability to blend advanced manufacturing practices with its unique supply chain model, ensuring customer demand is met while adhering to sustainability goals.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the technology also unlocks new creative opportunities. Designers can now achieve intricate, vibrant, and detailed prints that were previously difficult with traditional methods.
This flexibility empowers Shein’s design teams to produce unique denim pieces tailored to diverse customer tastes, pushing the boundaries of modern fashion.
The expanded use of Cool Transfer Denim Printing marks a significant step in Shein’s strategy to accelerate change in manufacturing processes.
As the company continues to explore resource-efficient technologies, it aims to set new standards for sustainability in the fast-fashion industry.
