When CIA began collecting our data in 2014,

20% of independent closet businesses outsourced all or part of their manufacturing to nationwide dealerships, or regional and local fabrication shops.

 By 2022, that number doubled to 40%.

We predict that by 2027, 50% of all independents will outsource manufacturing.

There are several reasons for this trend:

• Current in-house machinery cannot keep up with demand.

• Unable to expand shop’s physical facilities when needed.

• Equipment is old and replacement cost are prohibitive.

• Failure to find and/or train qualified shop employees.

• More availability of Outsourcing companies on a local, regional or nationwide scale.

The CIA's Outsource Manufacturers members strongly support the Independent Closet Business Community through their CIAMO membership and many participate in our annual Closet & Storage Summit and Vendor Expo.