GOTS Case Study:
Armstrong Knitting Mills
Weaving Sustainability into Business with Armstrong Group
Armstrong Knitting Mills, a textile factory in India that’s been in operation since 1969, is a pioneer in sustainable textiles and business in the industry and is known for its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and innovation.
From Farm to Fashion
From Farm to Fashion
Armstrong Group boasts a vertical setup that encompasses the entire textile production process, from sourcing quality cotton to creating impeccable garments. Sustainability is the cornerstone of their operations, and it is evident in multiple aspects of their business, including:
Armstrong has invested substantially in renewable energy sources, harnessing wind and solar power. They generate over 18.5 megawatts from windmills and 9.234 megawatts from solar energy annually, which is enough to ensure that their operations are powered entirely by green energy. This not only makes Armstrong a net-zero carbon emission factory but also reduces 25 million kilograms of CO2 emissions annually.
Recognising the threat of plastic waste, Armstrong has embraced sustainability by using post-consumer recycled PET polyester throughout operations. In the past ten years, this effort has saved 60 million plastic bottles from ending up in landfills.
Green Planet
Armstrong's commitment to making the planet greener is evident in its extensive tree-planting initiatives, which have seen over 5,200 trees planted in its region over the last five years. It also collects and stores millions of litres of rainwater for various purposes.
Fair Trade Premium:
Armstrong supports local farmers with fair-trade premiums, totalling around $1.6 million over a decade. These premiums contribute to improving the living standards of farmers through a number of programs.
Employee Benefits
Employees are at the heart of Armstrong's success, and the company tries to provide as many opportunities for the well-being of its workers as possible. That includes a safe and hygienic work environment, competitive pay, free transport, healthcare, and an on-site childcare facility.
Armstrong extends its impact beyond its operations by offering free training programs to those interested in the garment industry. These training opportunities, guided by experts, aim to develop a skilled and knowledgeable workforce, benefiting not only Armstrong but also other manufacturers in the region.
GOTS certification underscores Armstrong's adherence to eco-friendly manufacturing practices. It assures consumers that the textiles are produced using natural resources thoughtfully and responsibly, aligning with Armstrong's goal of safeguarding the environment.
