Nearshoring

Definition

The practice of relocating manufacturing from distant, low-cost countries to geographically closer facilities. For European brands, nearshoring means manufacturing in Portugal, Turkey, or Morocco instead of Bangladesh, China, or Vietnam. Benefits include shorter lead times (4-6 weeks vs 12-16), lower minimum orders, easier quality oversight, reduced carbon emissions from shipping, and tariff-free trade within the EU. White Cotton in Barcelos is a nearshoring partner for brands across Europe.