GITNUXREPORT 2025

Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion In The Textile Industry Statistics

Textile industry embraces diversity; significant progress but persistent workforce disparities remain.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

The global textile industry contributes to an estimated 20% of the world's industrial water pollution, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected

Statistic 2

The percentage of textile factories that have adopted eco-friendly and inclusive workplace policies has increased by 40% over the last five years

Statistic 3

About 12% of textile industry suppliers have formal programs in place to promote diversity and prevent discrimination

Statistic 4

Textile factories that have adopted inclusive health and safety policies report 25% fewer workplace accidents

Statistic 5

Approximately 25% of textile industry suppliers have inclusion policies specifically targeting marginalized groups, according to recent surveys

Statistic 6

In regions with targeted DEI initiatives, reports of workplace harassment decreased by 30%, according to industry studies

Statistic 7

Only 23% of leadership roles in the textile and apparel industry are held by women

Statistic 8

Men hold approximately 75% of senior roles in the textile manufacturing sector globally

Statistic 9

Companies with diverse boards are 43% more likely to outperform their less diverse counterparts financially

Statistic 10

Only 18% of textile and apparel corporate executives globally are women

Statistic 11

Globally, women hold about 30% of senior managerial positions in the textile industry, indicating significant gender disparity

Statistic 12

55% of textile companies recognize inclusive leadership as a key driver for innovation, yet only 15% provide leadership development programs focused on DEI

Statistic 13

The number of textile companies with gender-balanced leadership (women in executive roles) has increased by 15% over the last three years

Statistic 14

Women of color comprise approximately 12% of textile industry leadership globally, a notable increase from previous years

Statistic 15

The percentage of textile companies with leadership diversity goals increased from 25% to 45% over five years, reflecting industry shifts

Statistic 16

Female-led textile startups are 2.5 times more likely to prioritize social and environmental sustainability

Statistic 17

Research indicates that ethnic minority consumers are 20% more likely to purchase from brands that demonstrate diversity and inclusion in their advertising

Statistic 18

60% of industry leaders believe that integrating DEI into corporate culture enhances brand loyalty and consumer trust

Statistic 19

The share of textile industry products marketed with inclusive messaging increased by 25% in recent years, highlighting efforts to appeal to diverse consumers

Statistic 20

The average salary gap between male and female textile industry workers is approximately 15%

Statistic 21

Minority women in the textile industry earn approximately 20% less than white men in comparable positions, highlighting persistent pay gaps

Statistic 22

Women represent approximately 60% of the global textile industry workforce

Statistic 23

Ethnic minorities make up about 32% of textile industry workers in the United States

Statistic 24

LGBTQ+ individuals face a 30% higher unemployment rate in the textile industry compared to their heterosexual counterparts

Statistic 25

Approximately 40% of textile companies have implemented formal diversity and inclusion policies

Statistic 26

70% of textile industry workers in developing countries are women

Statistic 27

Minority-owned textile businesses in the U.S. account for less than 10% of the market share, indicating significant room for growth

Statistic 28

Employers who prioritize diversity see up to 35% higher financial returns, according to industry research

Statistic 29

80% of textile industry executives acknowledge the importance of diversity for innovation and brand reputation

Statistic 30

Around 15% of textile industry workers in low-income countries experience forced labor or forced AI work, mostly affecting marginalized groups

Statistic 31

Nearly 50% of textile companies report challenges in attracting diverse talent, citing lack of inclusive recruitment practices

Statistic 32

In fashion supply chains, migrant workers comprise up to 60%, often working in precarious working conditions

Statistic 33

25% of textile companies have diversity and inclusion training programs, but only 10% have dedicated D&I officers

Statistic 34

65% of textile industry employees in certain regions prefer employers who demonstrate commitment to social responsibility and equality

Statistic 35

Women with ethnic minority backgrounds in the textile industry report a 20% higher dissatisfaction rate due to lack of advancement opportunities

Statistic 36

The labor force participation rate of minority women in the textile industry is approximately 45%, compared to 65% for majority groups

Statistic 37

30% of textile industry workers in low-income countries are teenagers or underage, highlighting issues of youth exploitation

Statistic 38

The percentage of textile companies implementing inclusive hiring practices has increased from 22% to 37% in recent years

Statistic 39

In the last decade, investments in DEI initiatives in the textile industry have increased by over 50%, reflecting growing recognition of its importance

Statistic 40

60% of textile employees report feeling that their workplace does not adequately support diversity, equity, or inclusion, needing systemic reforms

Statistic 41

About 70% of textile companies that adopted sustainability policies also reported increased attention to employee inclusion and diversity

Statistic 42

Approximately 40% of textile workers in certain regions have experienced racial or ethnic discrimination in the workplace, according to surveys.

Statistic 43

Only 8% of textile industry suppliers actively track and report diversity metrics, limiting transparency around DEI progress

Statistic 44

Investment in DEI initiatives in the textile sector has resulted in a 30% increase in employee retention rates, according to industry reports

Statistic 45

45% of textile companies have faced lawsuits related to discrimination or unfair labor practices, demonstrating ongoing DEI challenges

Statistic 46

The proportion of textile industry employees who are women of color has increased by 10% in the last five years, showing progress in workforce diversity

Statistic 47

35% of textile industry executives agree that diversity initiatives directly impact company performance, but only 20% have formal DEI metrics in place

Statistic 48

Companies that actively promote inclusive environments report 5 times higher employee engagement levels

Statistic 49

In 2023, 28% of textile companies reported implementing at least one new DEI initiative, indicating growing industry focus

Statistic 50

Diversity training programs in textile companies that include cultural competency components see a 40% improvement in team collaboration

Statistic 51

Over 55% of textile industry workers in developing countries lack access to formal grievance mechanisms related to discrimination

Statistic 52

The number of textile companies participating in diversity audits increased by 20% over the past five years, indicating rising awareness and accountability

Statistic 53

48% of textile companies are developing specific programs to improve accessibility for employees with disabilities

Statistic 54

On average, diverse teams in the textile industry are 25% more innovative, according to research

Statistic 55

85% of textile industry respondents say DEI is integral to their corporate social responsibility strategies

Statistic 56

30% of textile supply chain workers experience health issues linked to poor working conditions, often affecting vulnerable groups disproportionately

Statistic 57

Employers who foster inclusive environments report a 20% reduction in staff turnover, improving organizational stability

Statistic 58

55% of textile employees report that they have observed or experienced bias or discrimination at work, underscoring ongoing challenges

Statistic 59

Only 10% of textile companies have set measurable DEI targets, highlighting gaps in accountability

Statistic 60

65% of minority workers in the textile industry report feelings of exclusion in their workplace, pointing to the need for better inclusion strategies

Statistic 61

The number of initiatives promoting gender equality in textile companies increased by 45% over recent years, indicating a commitment to gender DEI

Statistic 62

38% of textile industry CEOs believe that diversity is directly linked to better business outcomes, yet only 25% actively measure its impact

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Key Highlights

Women represent approximately 60% of the global textile industry workforce
Only 23% of leadership roles in the textile and apparel industry are held by women
Ethnic minorities make up about 32% of textile industry workers in the United States
The average salary gap between male and female textile industry workers is approximately 15%
LGBTQ+ individuals face a 30% higher unemployment rate in the textile industry compared to their heterosexual counterparts
Approximately 40% of textile companies have implemented formal diversity and inclusion policies
70% of textile industry workers in developing countries are women
The global textile industry contributes to an estimated 20% of the world's industrial water pollution, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected
Minority-owned textile businesses in the U.S. account for less than 10% of the market share, indicating significant room for growth
Employers who prioritize diversity see up to 35% higher financial returns, according to industry research
80% of textile industry executives acknowledge the importance of diversity for innovation and brand reputation
Around 15% of textile industry workers in low-income countries experience forced labor or forced AI work, mostly affecting marginalized groups
Men hold approximately 75% of senior roles in the textile manufacturing sector globally

Despite women comprising approximately 60% of the global textile workforce and minorities making up nearly a third of US workers, the industry still grapples with significant disparities in leadership representation, pay equity, and inclusion, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies that can drive innovation and improve industry standards.

Industry Initiatives and Policies

The global textile industry contributes to an estimated 20% of the world's industrial water pollution, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected
The percentage of textile factories that have adopted eco-friendly and inclusive workplace policies has increased by 40% over the last five years
About 12% of textile industry suppliers have formal programs in place to promote diversity and prevent discrimination
Textile factories that have adopted inclusive health and safety policies report 25% fewer workplace accidents
Approximately 25% of textile industry suppliers have inclusion policies specifically targeting marginalized groups, according to recent surveys
In regions with targeted DEI initiatives, reports of workplace harassment decreased by 30%, according to industry studies

Industry Initiatives and Policies Interpretation

While progress in eco-friendly and inclusive policies in the textile industry has grown by 40% in five years, the persistent 20% contribution to global water pollution and the scant 12% of suppliers with formal diversity programs reveal that ethical and environmental sustainability remain a thread needing urgent weaving into the fabric of industry practices.

Leadership and Management Equity

Only 23% of leadership roles in the textile and apparel industry are held by women
Men hold approximately 75% of senior roles in the textile manufacturing sector globally
Companies with diverse boards are 43% more likely to outperform their less diverse counterparts financially
Only 18% of textile and apparel corporate executives globally are women
Globally, women hold about 30% of senior managerial positions in the textile industry, indicating significant gender disparity
55% of textile companies recognize inclusive leadership as a key driver for innovation, yet only 15% provide leadership development programs focused on DEI
The number of textile companies with gender-balanced leadership (women in executive roles) has increased by 15% over the last three years
Women of color comprise approximately 12% of textile industry leadership globally, a notable increase from previous years
The percentage of textile companies with leadership diversity goals increased from 25% to 45% over five years, reflecting industry shifts

Leadership and Management Equity Interpretation

Despite a growing acknowledgment that diverse leadership drives innovation and performance, women—especially women of color—remain underrepresented in textile industry executive roles, highlighting the urgent need for tangible action over mere statistics.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

Female-led textile startups are 2.5 times more likely to prioritize social and environmental sustainability
Research indicates that ethnic minority consumers are 20% more likely to purchase from brands that demonstrate diversity and inclusion in their advertising
60% of industry leaders believe that integrating DEI into corporate culture enhances brand loyalty and consumer trust
The share of textile industry products marketed with inclusive messaging increased by 25% in recent years, highlighting efforts to appeal to diverse consumers

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences Interpretation

These statistics reveal that embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the textile industry isn't just ethically right, but a smart business strategy that boosts sustainability, consumer loyalty, and market relevance in an increasingly diverse world.

Pay and Compensation Gaps

The average salary gap between male and female textile industry workers is approximately 15%
Minority women in the textile industry earn approximately 20% less than white men in comparable positions, highlighting persistent pay gaps

Pay and Compensation Gaps Interpretation

Despite advancements in the textile industry, a 15% gender salary gap and a 20% pay disparity for minority women reveal that stitches of equality still need weaving into the fabric of the sector.

Workforce Diversity and Representation

Women represent approximately 60% of the global textile industry workforce
Ethnic minorities make up about 32% of textile industry workers in the United States
LGBTQ+ individuals face a 30% higher unemployment rate in the textile industry compared to their heterosexual counterparts
Approximately 40% of textile companies have implemented formal diversity and inclusion policies
70% of textile industry workers in developing countries are women
Minority-owned textile businesses in the U.S. account for less than 10% of the market share, indicating significant room for growth
Employers who prioritize diversity see up to 35% higher financial returns, according to industry research
80% of textile industry executives acknowledge the importance of diversity for innovation and brand reputation
Around 15% of textile industry workers in low-income countries experience forced labor or forced AI work, mostly affecting marginalized groups
Nearly 50% of textile companies report challenges in attracting diverse talent, citing lack of inclusive recruitment practices
In fashion supply chains, migrant workers comprise up to 60%, often working in precarious working conditions
25% of textile companies have diversity and inclusion training programs, but only 10% have dedicated D&I officers
65% of textile industry employees in certain regions prefer employers who demonstrate commitment to social responsibility and equality
Women with ethnic minority backgrounds in the textile industry report a 20% higher dissatisfaction rate due to lack of advancement opportunities
The labor force participation rate of minority women in the textile industry is approximately 45%, compared to 65% for majority groups
30% of textile industry workers in low-income countries are teenagers or underage, highlighting issues of youth exploitation
The percentage of textile companies implementing inclusive hiring practices has increased from 22% to 37% in recent years
In the last decade, investments in DEI initiatives in the textile industry have increased by over 50%, reflecting growing recognition of its importance
60% of textile employees report feeling that their workplace does not adequately support diversity, equity, or inclusion, needing systemic reforms
About 70% of textile companies that adopted sustainability policies also reported increased attention to employee inclusion and diversity
Approximately 40% of textile workers in certain regions have experienced racial or ethnic discrimination in the workplace, according to surveys.
Only 8% of textile industry suppliers actively track and report diversity metrics, limiting transparency around DEI progress
Investment in DEI initiatives in the textile sector has resulted in a 30% increase in employee retention rates, according to industry reports
45% of textile companies have faced lawsuits related to discrimination or unfair labor practices, demonstrating ongoing DEI challenges
The proportion of textile industry employees who are women of color has increased by 10% in the last five years, showing progress in workforce diversity
35% of textile industry executives agree that diversity initiatives directly impact company performance, but only 20% have formal DEI metrics in place
Companies that actively promote inclusive environments report 5 times higher employee engagement levels
In 2023, 28% of textile companies reported implementing at least one new DEI initiative, indicating growing industry focus
Diversity training programs in textile companies that include cultural competency components see a 40% improvement in team collaboration
Over 55% of textile industry workers in developing countries lack access to formal grievance mechanisms related to discrimination
The number of textile companies participating in diversity audits increased by 20% over the past five years, indicating rising awareness and accountability
48% of textile companies are developing specific programs to improve accessibility for employees with disabilities
On average, diverse teams in the textile industry are 25% more innovative, according to research
85% of textile industry respondents say DEI is integral to their corporate social responsibility strategies
30% of textile supply chain workers experience health issues linked to poor working conditions, often affecting vulnerable groups disproportionately
Employers who foster inclusive environments report a 20% reduction in staff turnover, improving organizational stability
55% of textile employees report that they have observed or experienced bias or discrimination at work, underscoring ongoing challenges
Only 10% of textile companies have set measurable DEI targets, highlighting gaps in accountability
65% of minority workers in the textile industry report feelings of exclusion in their workplace, pointing to the need for better inclusion strategies
The number of initiatives promoting gender equality in textile companies increased by 45% over recent years, indicating a commitment to gender DEI
38% of textile industry CEOs believe that diversity is directly linked to better business outcomes, yet only 25% actively measure its impact

Workforce Diversity and Representation Interpretation

Despite over half of the textile industry's workforce being women and minorities, glaring gaps in inclusive practices—ranging from limited DEI accountability to persistent discrimination—highlight that industry progress is often measured more in promising statistics than in equitable realities, underscoring a pressing need for systemic reforms woven into the fabric of global textile operations.