Sae-A Trading Strengthens Global Manufacturing with Swisstex Acquisition

Sae-A Trading, a leader in textile and apparel manufacturing, recently made headlines with its significant acquisition of Swisstex's operations in El Salvador. This strategic move not only solidifies Sae-A's presence in the manufacturing sector but also enhances its capabilities in producing sports and performance apparel.

Details of the Acquisition

As of October 1, 2025, Sae-A Trading has officially completed the acquisition of Swisstex's manufacturing facilities in El Salvador. In addition to this, Swisstex Direct, the company's U.S.-based sales arm, is now under Sae-A's management. While specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed, the acquisition is poised to elevate Sae-A's production capabilities significantly, especially in high-demand segments such as sports apparel.

Swisstex is well-known for its expertise in advanced fabric technologies, including knitting, dyeing, and finishing, with a workforce of approximately 500 employees, 300 of whom are part of the El Salvador operations. The company has built a reputation for innovative sustainable manufacturing practices and is recognized as a market leader in this field. By bringing Swisstex into the fold, Sae-A Trading aims to leverage these advanced capabilities for its own production lines.

Enhancing Operational Excellence

One of the key aspects of this acquisition is the retention of Swisstex's current management team. This move ensures that operations at both the Los Angeles and El Salvador facilities will continue seamlessly, preserving the organizational culture and operational excellence that have been hallmarks of Swisstex’s success. Swisstex's operations will remain distinct in their local markets, allowing them to continue serving their global apparel brand partners effectively.

Integration and Future Prospects

This acquisition follows Sae-A's successful integration of Tegra, a major sportswear manufacturer, in 2024. The combination of these significant players in apparel manufacturing positions Sae-A Trading as a formidable leader in the market. With Tegra already having a notable presence in the United States, Honduras, and El Salvador, the addition of Swisstex further strengthens the company's manufacturing footprint across the Americas.

James Ha, the CEO of Sae-A Trading, expressed optimism about this acquisition, citing it as a crucial step in the company's strategy to broaden its global reach. He emphasized, “Integrating Swisstex's advanced production capabilities allows us to better meet customer demand for innovative, high-quality apparel.” He also committed to investing in new technologies and automation to enhance production efficiency and scale.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sae-A Trading's acquisition of Swisstex is not just about market expansion; it also aligns with the company’s vision for sustainability in textile manufacturing. Swisstex is recognized for its environmentally friendly processes and specialized fabric treatments, which include moisture management and UV resistance, contributing to sustainable practices within the industry. This commitment will be critical as consumer preference increasingly shifts toward sustainable products.

Keith Dartley, President of Swisstex Direct, highlighted the values shared between the two companies. He noted that Sae-A's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction aligns well with Swisstex’s ethos, anticipating that this partnership will foster mutual growth and address future market challenges effectively.

Background of Sae-A Trading

Founded in 1986, Sae-A Trading has established itself as a significant player in OEM/ODM apparel manufacturing, operating with a substantial global supply chain. With facilities across North and Central America as well as Southeast Asia, the company’s emphasis on innovation and customer service sets it apart in the competitive textile industry.

In summary, Sae-A Trading's acquisition of Swisstex marks a significant step in its strategy to expand its global manufacturing network and strengthen its position in the sports apparel sector. As it continues to innovate and invest in new technologies, the company is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its clientele and lead the way in sustainable manufacturing practices.