Textiles in the Upper Midwest
When people think of textile manufacturing in the United States, they often picture the historic mills of the Southeast or New England. Yet the Upper Midwest has its own textile heritage, including woolen mills, outdoor gear makers, and workwear producers that have operated for generations. Fargo businesses, schools, healthcare systems, and manufacturers depend on these suppliers for uniforms, branded apparel, protective clothing, blankets, bags, and industrial fabrics.
This guide highlights ten textile manufacturers and suppliers that serve Fargo and the surrounding region. Some are based locally or regionally, while others are national companies with a strong presence in the Fargo market.
Why Textile Partners Matter
Quality textiles support workplace safety, brand identity, and customer experience. Manufacturers need durable, flame-resistant workwear. Healthcare facilities require scrubs and linens that withstand frequent laundering. Businesses use branded apparel for marketing and team unity. Agricultural operations need heavy-duty tarps and covers. Choosing reliable textile partners helps organizations maintain quality and consistency.
The Top 10 Textile Manufacturers and Suppliers Serving Fargo
1. Cintas
Cintas provides uniforms, workwear, and facility textile services to businesses throughout Fargo. Its rental and laundering programs are popular with manufacturers, restaurants, healthcare providers, and automotive businesses that need clean, professional apparel every day.
2. UniFirst
UniFirst designs and supplies uniforms and protective clothing, including flame-resistant garments for industrial and energy workers. Its service model handles cleaning, repair, and replacement.
3. Faribault Mill
Faribault Mill in Minnesota is one of the oldest woolen mills in the country. Known for premium wool blankets and throws, it represents the region's proud textile heritage and supplies retailers and businesses seeking high-quality American-made goods.
4. Minnesota Knitting Mills
Minnesota Knitting Mills produces knit hats, scarves, and accessories for brands and organizations. Its domestic manufacturing appeals to schools, teams, and companies looking for custom winter apparel, a natural fit for Fargo's climate.
5. Duluth Pack
Duluth Pack has crafted durable canvas and leather bags in Minnesota for well over a century. Its handmade products are popular with outdoor enthusiasts and businesses seeking premium corporate gifts.
6. Carhartt
Carhartt is an iconic American workwear brand trusted by farmers, construction workers, and tradespeople across North Dakota. Its rugged clothing is essential for working outdoors through harsh winters.
7. SanMar
SanMar supplies blank apparel to decorators and promotional product companies. Many Fargo screen printers and embroiderers rely on SanMar for shirts, jackets, and bags that become custom branded merchandise.
8. Shur-Co
Shur-Co manufactures tarp systems and covers for trucks and trailers, products widely used in agriculture and transportation throughout the Red River Valley.
9. Vestis
Vestis, formerly part of Aramark, provides uniform and workplace supply services to businesses, including healthcare, hospitality, and industrial clients in the region.
10. Fargo Embroidery and Screen Printing Shops
Fargo's local decorators transform blank textiles into custom apparel for businesses, schools, sports teams, and events. They provide fast turnaround and personal service for branded merchandise.
Textile Industry Trends
Sustainability is reshaping the textile industry, with growing demand for recycled fibers, organic materials, and responsible manufacturing. Performance fabrics that wick moisture, resist stains, and provide warmth without bulk are increasingly popular. Domestic manufacturing has gained attention as companies seek shorter supply chains and greater reliability. Digital printing technology allows short-run custom apparel at competitive prices.
Opportunities for Fargo Businesses
Fargo businesses can strengthen their brands with quality uniforms and promotional apparel. Manufacturers can improve safety with proper protective clothing programs. Retailers can differentiate by carrying regionally made goods such as wool blankets and canvas bags. Partnering with local decorators keeps money in the community while delivering fast service.
Choosing a Textile Partner
Consider durability, comfort, safety standards, and customization options. Ask about minimum order quantities, lead times, and service programs. For uniform rental, compare cleaning frequency, replacement policies, and contract terms. Request samples before committing to large orders.
Supporting Local Decorators and Small Makers
Fargo has a creative community of small makers who produce quilts, knitwear, leather goods, and custom apparel. Local craft fairs, farmers markets, and downtown boutiques give these makers opportunities to reach customers who value handmade and regionally produced items. Businesses can support this community by sourcing corporate gifts and event merchandise locally. Many small producers also collaborate with regional mills for materials, keeping more of the value chain in the Upper Midwest.
Workwear for Extreme Weather
Fargo's winters demand serious cold-weather gear. Employers with outdoor workers should prioritize insulated, layered, and high-visibility clothing that meets safety standards. Investing in quality workwear protects employees and improves productivity during the coldest months.
Building a Branded Apparel Program
A consistent apparel program helps Fargo businesses present a professional image at job sites, events, and customer locations. Start by defining which employees need uniforms, choose durable fabrics suited to their work, and standardize logo placement and colors. Partnering with a single supplier simplifies reordering and ensures every item matches your brand guidelines over time.
Conclusion
Although Fargo is not a traditional textile center, its businesses benefit from a strong network of regional mills, national uniform providers, and local decorators. These ten companies supply the apparel and fabrics that keep Fargo working, warm, and well-branded throughout the year.