Knitting Machine Market By Machine Type (Weft Knitting [Circular, Flat Bed], Warp Knitting [Tricot, Raschel]); By Application (Apparel, Home Textiles, Medical, Automotive, Technical Textiles); By End User (Large Manufacturers, SMEs, Institutions); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Knitting Machine Market is projected to witness a robust CAGR of 6.9% , valued at $5.1 billion in 2024 , and is expected to appreciate and reach $7.6 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research. The market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by advancements in textile automation, rising demand for smart clothing, and the resurgence of regional manufacturing hubs.

 

Knitting machines are integral components of the textile manufacturing sector, enabling high-speed and automated production of knitted fabrics for diverse applications—ranging from fashion apparel and sportswear to industrial textiles and medical garments. These machines offer significant efficiency over manual or semi-automatic processes, especially in high-volume production settings.

 

Strategic Relevance:

• Reshoring and Automation : The reshoring of garment manufacturing in Western countries post-COVID has accelerated investments in automation tools like flat-bed and circular knitting machines.

• Sustainable Manufacturing : Demand for eco-friendly processes and waste-reducing machinery has positioned digital knitting systems as preferred solutions, especially among fashion brands with ESG mandates.

• Customization and On-demand Production : The rise of fast fashion and direct-to-consumer models has created demand for modular and programmable knitting machines that can handle quick design iterations.
   

Macroeconomic and Technological Drivers:

• Labor Cost Inflation in Asia-Pacific has incentivized producers to adopt advanced knitting technologies to reduce operational costs.

• IoT and Industry 4.0 Integration : Smart knitting machines equipped with real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and cloud connectivity are reshaping how textile factories operate.

• Government Incentives : Various national textile missions, including India’s PLI scheme and China's Made in China 2025, are fostering the upgrade of legacy textile machinery to energy-efficient alternatives.
   

Key Stakeholders in the market include:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of knitting machines

• Textile manufacturers and vertically integrated fashion brands

• Industry associations like the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

• Investors and private equity firms active in the automation and textile sectors

• Government bodies and export councils promoting domestic textile production

As global fashion brands seek speed, sustainability, and scalability, knitting machine innovations are expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of textile manufacturing.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The global knitting machine market is segmented based on machine type , application , end user , and geography . These segments provide a structured view of market dynamics and help identify high-growth pockets for strategic investment and innovation.

By Machine Type

• Weft Knitting Machines

• Circular Knitting Machines

• Flat Bed Knitting Machines

• Warp Knitting Machines

• Tricot Machines

• Raschel Machines

Weft knitting machines , especially circular knitting machines , dominate the market due to their high-speed production and lower operational cost, making them ideal for mass manufacturing of apparel. In 2024 , circular knitting machines are estimated to contribute over 40% of total revenue due to their application in t-shirts, sportswear, and innerwear.

Flat bed knitting machines , on the other hand, are gaining traction in premium apparel and customized knitwear segments. Their programmability and compatibility with advanced yarns make them vital for short-run, high-margin products.

 

By Application

• Apparel

• Home Textiles

• Technical Textiles

• Medical Textiles

• Automotive Textiles

The apparel segment is the largest contributor, driven by fast fashion cycles and demand for functional wear. However, technical textiles , especially in the medical and automotive sectors, are emerging as the fastest-growing sub-segments, thanks to rising demand for engineered fabrics with moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and fire-resistant properties.

 

By End User

• Large-Scale Textile Manufacturers

• SMEs and Boutiques

• Research Institutions & Fashion Schools

While large-scale manufacturers remain the backbone of demand—especially in China, India, and Bangladesh—there is a growing base of boutique fashion labels and startups investing in flat bed knitting machines for rapid prototyping and small-batch production. This segment is growing rapidly across Europe and North America due to shifts toward local, made-to-order garment creation.

 

By Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia-Pacific

• LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa)

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global market, primarily due to strong manufacturing bases in China, India, and Bangladesh. However, Europe is seeing a resurgence driven by sustainability policies and demand for local sourcing.

Segment-wise strategic outlook :

• Fastest-growing machine type : Flat bed knitting machines

• Fastest-growing application : Technical and medical textiles

• Emerging demand zone : SMEs and independent brands in developed markets

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The knitting machine industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by automation, digitization, material innovation , and customization . Manufacturers are prioritizing flexibility, energy efficiency, and digital connectivity to meet the needs of a dynamic textile market.

1. Digitization and Smart Manufacturing

One of the most transformative trends is the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies in knitting machines. Sensors, PLC-based controllers, and cloud-based analytics platforms are now standard in advanced machines. These innovations enable remote monitoring, predictive maintenance , and real-time production feedback , enhancing operational efficiency.

For example, leading OEMs are offering IoT -enabled flat knitting systems that allow fabric designers to adjust patterns and parameters remotely—dramatically reducing time-to-market for custom garments.

 

2. Rise of Seamless and 3D Knitting Technology

The market is seeing increased demand for seamless knitting solutions, particularly in the production of sportswear, underwear, and medical compression garments . These machines reduce material waste, enhance comfort, and require minimal post-processing.

Additionally, 3D knitting technology is being applied in both fashion and industrial contexts. With CAD/CAM integration, designers can develop complex structures and embed functionalities directly into the fabric. This is especially valuable in smart textiles, orthotic garments , and wearable technology applications .

 

3. Eco-Friendly and Energy-Efficient Designs

Amid growing concerns over environmental impact, manufacturers are launching low-power consumption machines with better waste management systems. There is also a shift toward machines capable of working with recycled or biodegradable yarns , addressing ESG goals in fashion supply chains.

For instance, several EU-based OEMs now offer flat-bed knitting machines that reduce energy use by up to 30%, aligning with the textile sector’s decarbonization goals under the EU Green Deal.

 

4. Innovations in Yarn Compatibility

Modern knitting machines are increasingly being developed to handle innovative and functional yarns , such as:

• Phase change yarns (for temperature regulation)

• Conductive yarns (for wearable electronics)

• Biodegradable yarns (for sustainable fashion)

This flexibility is opening new doors in technical textile manufacturing for aerospace, defense, and automotive applications.

 

5. Partnerships and Collaborations

There’s a growing trend of collaboration between textile OEMs and fashion tech startups . These alliances focus on developing customized platforms, integrating machine learning into design workflows, and creating on-demand micro-factories.

As per industry insights, these partnerships will play a critical role in reshaping supply chains to be more responsive, local, and data-driven by 2030.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The global knitting machine market features a blend of established players and innovative challengers, each leveraging distinct strategies to expand their footprint. These companies compete on technology, customization capabilities, after-sales service, and global distribution . Below is a profiling of key participants shaping the competitive landscape.

Key Companies in Focus

1. Karl Mayer Group
A Germany-based pioneer in warp knitting machines , Karl Mayer has built a robust global presence through technological leadership and acquisitions . The company focuses heavily on digitalized machine interfaces, modular machine construction , and energy efficiency . It also supports integrated solutions with its own software suite for smart production planning.

 

2. SHIMA SEIKI Mfg., Ltd.
A Japanese leader in flat-bed knitting machines , SHIMA SEIKI is renowned for its WHOLEGARMENT® technology , which enables seamless garment production in one process. Their machines feature 3D knitting, real-time yarn monitoring, and CAD design integration , positioning the firm as a go-to provider for fashion-tech innovators.

 

3. Mayer & Cie .
Specializing in circular knitting machines , this German company is known for innovation in high-speed knitting for sportswear and leisurewear . Its recent focus has been on offering IoT -based upgrades and low-lubricant machines , which reduce downtime and enhance sustainability.

 

4. Santoni S.p.A. (part of Lonati Group )
An Italian giant in seamless knitting technology , Santoni is widely used in the production of underwear, shapewear, and performance wear . Their competitive edge lies in high-speed circular machines with reduced wastage and ergonomic design .

 

5. Terrot GmbH
Another key German player, Terrot focuses on circular knitting with double jersey and jacquard capabilities . It has gained traction in export-heavy markets like Turkey and India due to its cost-effective models and quick lead time delivery systems .

 

6. Pailung Machinery Mill Co., Ltd .
Based in Taiwan, Pailung is a vertically integrated manufacturer offering both circular and warp knitting machines . Their strategic investments in AI-driven pattern programming and hybrid yarn adaptability help them cater to premium and technical textile markets.

 

7. Fukuhara Industrial & Trading Co., Ltd.
A long-standing player in circular knitting , Fukuhara has differentiated through its niche focus on premium knitted fabric , catering to luxury fashion and functional wear. The company also maintains a strong aftermarket service presence in Southeast Asia.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The adoption of knitting machines varies widely across global regions, shaped by factors such as labor cost, manufacturing maturity, government policy, textile export strength, and sustainability regulations . While Asia-Pacific remains the production hub, other regions are catching up fast, either through reshoring or premium segment specialization.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the global knitting machine market , accounting for over 55% of total machine demand in 2024 . This dominance stems from a strong textile manufacturing ecosystem in China, India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam , where low-cost labor and high-volume garment exports continue to drive machinery purchases.

• China : The largest consumer and producer of knitting machines. Government programs such as "Made in China 2025" incentivize adoption of automated textile machinery .

• India : A growing market due to Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and rising export ambitions in technical textiles.

• Bangladesh and Vietnam : Investing in circular knitting machines for mass-market apparel due to their strong ties with global fashion brands.

Despite its dominance, the region faces headwinds in the form of labor cost escalation and stricter environmental regulations, prompting a shift toward energy-efficient models.

 

Europe

Europe is witnessing a revival in knitting machine adoption , especially in Germany, Italy, and the UK , driven by:

• Demand for sustainable and local textile production

• Focus on premium and customized fashion

• Government support for circular economy initiatives

Italy and Germany remain both technology providers and high-end textile producers , with localized clusters supporting SME adoption of advanced flat-bed knitting systems.

European firms are also investing in R&D for medical textiles and technical fabrics, making the region a hub for innovation-intensive applications.

 

North America

North America is characterized by selective reshoring and automation-heavy investments , primarily in the U.S.

• The demand is driven by on-demand apparel production , micro-factories, and 3D knit customization in the luxury and sportswear sectors.

• Tech-focused fashion startups and defense textile suppliers are key users of programmable flat knitting machines .

Government-backed reshoring initiatives and consumer preferences for “Made in USA” goods are also encouraging regional manufacturers to upgrade legacy equipment.

 

LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa)

This region represents an emerging opportunity zone for knitting machine manufacturers, especially in:

• Turkey , which has a well-established textile export sector and strong demand for circular and jacquard machines

• Brazil and Egypt , where local production is supported by protective tariffs and growing domestic consumption

However, limited access to skilled operators, higher import duties , and inconsistent infrastructure remain barriers in parts of Africa and the Middle East.

The region holds significant potential, particularly if local manufacturing policies continue to mature and incentivize machinery investment.

Strategic Outlook :

• Asia-Pacific remains the volume growth engine.

• Europe and North America are focused on premiumization, sustainability , and technical applications .

• LAMEA is the next frontier for market expansion but requires ecosystem support.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The global knitting machine market caters to a wide spectrum of end users, ranging from large-scale textile manufacturers to independent designers, research institutes, and high-tech textile labs . Each user group has distinct purchasing motivations, technology requirements, and operational constraints that shape their machine selection and usage behavior.

1. Large-Scale Textile Manufacturers

These are the primary consumers of high-capacity circular and warp knitting machines , particularly in Asia-Pacific and Turkey . Their key priorities include:

• High-speed production

• Energy efficiency

• Low maintenance downtime

Such manufacturers typically operate in export-heavy segments (e.g., t-shirts, leggings, undergarments) and require knitting machines with automated tension control, continuous monitoring systems , and bulk fabric roll handling .

Strategically, many of these firms are investing in machinery with IoT capabilities to reduce energy use and meet environmental compliance norms, especially for Western buyers.

 

2. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) & Independent Designers

This segment has seen significant growth in developed markets like Germany, France, the U.S., and Japan . SMEs are increasingly investing in flat bed knitting machines due to their:

• Compact design

• Lower upfront cost

• Programmable design features

SMEs value rapid prototyping, fabric versatility, and small-batch flexibility . Machines with built-in CAD software and compatibility with sustainable yarns are in high demand here. Many companies in this segment serve niche categories such as custom streetwear, knit art, and technical accessories .

 

3. Research Institutions and Fashion Schools

Institutes such as MIT Media Lab (U.S.), London College of Fashion (UK), and Donghua University (China) use advanced knitting machines for textile innovation and wearable tech research . Their priorities include:

• Open-source design compatibility

• 3D structure knitting

• Conductive yarn integration

These institutions play a critical role in advancing smart textiles and often collaborate with machine manufacturers for R&D pilot testing.

 

4. Niche Industrial and Medical Textile Manufacturers

This group includes companies focused on:

• Compression garments

• Orthopedic braces

• Automotive textile linings

• Protective clothing

Machines deployed here must support multi-yarn feeding , technical knit structures , and compliance with durability and safety standards .

 

Use Case Highlight

A tertiary hospital-linked rehabilitation center in South Korea partnered with a local smart textile company to develop custom compression garments using SHIMA SEIKI’s 3D flat-bed knitting machine. The garments, designed for stroke recovery patients, were tailored to each patient’s limb shape using a combination of digital body scans and CAD input. This integration resulted in a 25% improvement in post-rehabilitation outcomes due to better fit and mobility support, while cutting production time by 40%.

This use case underscores the power of knitting machine innovation in medical-grade applications, especially when paired with digital customization tools.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

1. SHIMA SEIKI Launched New WHOLEGARMENT® Models with AI-Based Optimization
In 2023, SHIMA SEIKI introduced next-gen models equipped with AI-based production control systems , enabling intelligent yarn selection, defect detection, and performance-based adjustments during operation.

2. Karl Mayer Acquired STOLL to Expand Its Flat Knitting Division
Karl Mayer’s acquisition of STOLL—a leading flat knitting brand—was finalized to strengthen its digital flat knitting capabilities and expand into on-demand and smart textile production .

3. Mayer & Cie. Introduced Eco-Balance Circular Knitting Machines
Focusing on sustainability, Mayer & Cie. launched machines with lubricant reduction technology , offering up to 30% lower energy consumption , aimed at reducing lifecycle emissions in apparel production.

4. Santoni and Lenzing Collaboration for Bio-Based Knitwear
In 2024, Santoni partnered with Lenzing to produce seamless garments using TENCEL™ branded fibers , highlighting the push towards biodegradable yarn compatibility in knitting machine design.

5. Government Support in India and Vietnam for Knitting Machine Modernization
Textile parks and fiscal incentives under India’s PLI Scheme and Vietnam’s textile export infrastructure push have directly boosted demand for automated knitting machinery in these regions.

 

Opportunities

1. Expansion into Technical and Medical Textiles
The rising need for functional fabrics (e.g., antimicrobial, compression, flame-resistant) is opening up avenues for knitting machines capable of multi-material and complex structure fabrication .

2. Integration of AI and Digital Twins
There is growing momentum toward digital twin-based machine modeling , enabling virtual testing, failure prediction, and design prototyping before production. This adds tremendous value for smart factories and R&D labs .

3. Localized On-Demand Manufacturing
As fashion trends shift toward mass customization and sustainability , opportunities are emerging in urban micro-factories equipped with programmable flat-bed knitting systems for local production.

 

Restraints

1. High Capital Investment for Smart Machines
Advanced knitting machines embedded with IoT , sensors, and automation features come at a significant cost—limiting adoption in cost-sensitive or informal textile clusters , especially in Africa and Latin America.

2. Shortage of Skilled Machine Operators
Despite rising automation, there remains a skill gap in managing digital interfaces, CAD software , and multi-functional machines . This issue is particularly acute in developing markets with limited textile training infrastructure.
 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 5.1 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 7.6 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.9% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Machine Type, By Application, By End User, By Geography
By Machine Type	Weft (Circular, Flat Bed), Warp (Tricot, Raschel)
By Application	Apparel, Home Textiles, Medical, Automotive, Technical Textiles
By End User	Large Manufacturers, SMEs, Research Institutions
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAMEA
Country Scope	U.S., China, India, Germany, Italy, Vietnam, Brazil
Market Drivers	• Rise of automation and smart knitting • Growth of functional and medical textiles • Shift to on-demand and sustainable production
Customization Option	Available upon request