Gildan Names S&S Activewear as Exclusive Wholesale Distributor for the Canadian Printwear Market

Executive Summary

• Gildan Activewear has appointed S&S Activewear as the exclusive wholesale distributor for its portfolio of brands (Gildan®, Comfort Colors®, American Apparel®, and Champion®) within the Canadian imprintables market.
• The partnership aims to leverage S&S Activewear’s distribution network to improve product availability, service speed, and ordering efficiency for Gildan’s Canadian customers.
• The exclusive arrangement is scheduled to become effective on December 28, 2025.

Key Details

• Parties Involved: Gildan Activ Inc. (Licensor/Manufacturer) and S&S Activewear (Exclusive Distributor).
• Scope of Agreement: Exclusive wholesale distribution rights in the Canadian imprintables market.
• Brands Covered: Gildan®, Comfort Colors®, American Apparel®, and Champion®.
• Effective Date: December 28, 2025.
• Strategic Rationale:
  • Gildan benefits from S&S’s robust distribution network and infrastructure.
  • S&S benefits from access to Gildan’s iconic brand portfolio.
• Operational Benefits for Customers:
  • Improved product availability.
  • Swift service.
  • Streamlined ordering process.
  • Increased inventory depth across S&S’s Canadian network.
  • Service coverage reaching over 99% of the Canadian population with one and two-day service options.

Notable Quotes

• Chuck Ward, Chief Operating Officer at Gildan: “S&S Activewear has been a valuable business collaborator in Canada, and we’re excited to strengthen this partnership... By aligning Gildan’s Canadian product supply capabilities with S&S Activewear’s robust distribution network, Gildan’s Canadian customers will benefit from improved product availability, swift service, and a streamlined ordering process.”
• Craig Ryan, Vice President of Commercial – Canada at S&S: “Gildan’s brands are among the most iconic and recognizable in our industry and we’re excited to bring this powerful portfolio together under one roof... S&S is enhancing access and reliability for customers nationwide.”
• Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear: “This expanded agreement reflects the strength of our partnership across North America and our continued investment in the Canadian market.”