Is American Apparel Only at S&S Activewear? Fact-Checking the Exclusive Distribution Deal

What are the facts regarding Is American Apparel Only at S&S Activewear? Fact-Checking the Exclusive Distribution Deal? Explore the insights in this feature article.

Q1: Can I still buy American Apparel wholesale blanks from SanMar or Alphabroder?

A1: No. Following the August 2025 agreement, S&S Activewear holds exclusive domestic distribution rights for American Apparel in the wholesale imprint channel. Competing distributors no longer carry replenishment inventory.

Q2: Is American Apparel going out of business again?

A2: No. The brand remains fully solvent under the ownership of Gildan Activewear. The exclusive arrangement with S&S Activewear is a supply chain consolidation strategy, not a sign of financial insolvency.

Q3: Does the S&S Activewear catalog carry the entire American Apparel blank lineup?

A3: Yes. S&S stocks the full core imprintwear catalog, including the 2001 Fine Jersey tee, 1301 Heavyweight tee, unisex crew sweatshirts, and signature poly-cotton fleece styles.

Q4: Do print shops need a dedicated business license to order these blanks?

A4: Yes. Purchasing through S&S Activewear requires an active wholesale account, which mandates a state resale certificate or tax ID showing business operations within the decorated apparel or promotional products industry.