If you’re leading an apparel brand in 2025, you’ve probably heard the term WRAP certification tossed around in sourcing conversations. But what exactly is it — and why do so many major retailers, from Walmart to Costco, rely on it when choosing suppliers?
At MakeMine, we connect brands with vetted, high-quality factories, and WRAP certification is one of the most important signals we look for. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is WRAP Certification?
WRAP — short for Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production — is the largest independent certification program focused on apparel, footwear, and sewn products. It verifies that a production facility is operating in safe, humane, and sustainable conditions, following both local laws and internationally recognized standards.
Over 700 buyers, brands, and retailers accept WRAP certification. For many, it’s a prerequisite to doing business.
Why It Matters for Your Brand
1. It Opens Doors to More Buyers
Retailers and wholesalers want to work with factories that meet global compliance standards. WRAP certification can remove a big barrier to entry, especially if you’re pitching to large corporate buyers who don’t have time (or budget) to conduct their own audits.
2. It Protects Your Brand Reputation
Social compliance isn’t just a box to check — it’s a reflection of your values. Working with WRAP-certified factories helps ensure your products aren’t linked to human rights violations, unsafe working conditions, or environmental negligence.
3. It Can Streamline Audits
Some retailers accept WRAP certification in place of their own compliance checks, saving time and money. For example, Walmart recognizes WRAP for both responsible sourcing and supply chain security.
How WRAP Certification Works
While the full process is designed for factories (not brands), knowing the steps will help you vet suppliers:
- Application – The facility applies and pays a fee based on worker count (from $650 for small facilities to $1,550 for the largest).
- Pre-Audit Self-Assessment (Optional) – Factories can review WRAP’s guidelines to prepare.
- Factory Audit – A WRAP-approved monitor inspects for compliance with WRAP’s 12 Principles, covering labor, health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Certification – Most factories earn Gold (valid for one year) or Platinum (valid for two years after three perfect audits).
Gold vs. Platinum: What’s the Difference?
- Gold: Most common, valid for one year, shows full compliance with WRAP’s standards.
- Platinum: Awarded to facilities with three consecutive audits and zero corrective actions — the highest trust level for buyers.
Zero-Tolerance Issues You Should Know
WRAP will not certify factories with serious violations like child labor, forced labor, inhumane treatment, or falsifying audit documents. As a brand, it’s important to partner with suppliers who meet these standards before you place your first order.
How MakeMine Helps
Finding a WRAP-certified factory isn’t always straightforward — and not every certified facility is the right fit for your brand. We:
- Maintain a network of vetted WRAP-certified partners in key sourcing regions.
- Handle all factory communication so you can focus on growth.
- Match you with suppliers who meet both WRAP standards and your quality, cost, and timeline requirements.
The Bottom Line
WRAP certification is more than a compliance badge — it’s a gateway to bigger retail opportunities, smoother audits, and a stronger brand reputation.
If you’re looking to source from WRAP-certified factories without the headaches of managing compliance yourself, MakeMine can help.
→ Talk to our team and start your next production run with confidence.
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