Sustainability in Action: Our Journey to Honduras with SanMar
Boots on the ground. Innovation in motion. Impact that matters.
In March of 2025, members of the Whitestone CSR team traveled to Honduras to see sustainability in action. Our journey brought us to the heart of our Tier 1 Vendor SanMar’s manufacturing facilities, where we met with the team, toured their state-of-the-art factories, and witnessed firsthand what ethical production looks like.
This trip was an opportunity to deepen our partnership, understand their operations at every step of the supply chain, and solidify our shared commitment to people and the planet.
Why We Partner with Tier 1 Vendors
Whitestone makes it a priority to align with partners who share our values. Our goal is to move more than 50% of our annual spend to Tier 1 suppliers–those with strong sustainability certifications–by 2030. That’s why we work with industry leaders like SanMar, a Tier 1 vendor setting the standard for sustainable manufacturing, ethical production, and community impact.
About SanMar
SanMar is a family-owned business that has been shaping the apparel industry for over 50 years. Headquartered in Issaquah, Washington, the company operates with a vast network of distribution centers across the United States, ensuring efficient and responsible supply chain management. With over 5,500 employees worldwide, SanMar is dedicated not only to producing high-quality apparel but also to investing in the people behind their products.
A leader in ethical manufacturing, SanMar is committed to giving back to factory workers, providing essential resources for health, education, and financial literacy. By prioritizing worker empowerment and fair labor practices, they create a more sustainable and equitable supply chain. Beyond the factory floor, SanMar actively invests in community initiatives, supporting clean water programs, education, and local development efforts.
Inside SanMar: Sustainability and Innovation
SanMar isn’t just redefining apparel–it’s setting the standard for responsible business. Recognized as a 2024 U.S. Best Managed Company, SanMar is leading the industry in sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and operational excellence.
Their Honduras facility is among the world’s most efficient, utilizing solar energy, automation, and zero-waste initiatives to create high-quality garments with a lower environmental footprint. Through continuous innovation, SanMar is shaping a more sustainable future for apparel.
Beyond the Factory: Giving Back to the Community
SanMar doesn’t just make better products, they build better communities. From housing and education to local business development, they invest in the people behind the products.
Products That Make a Difference
We believe in products that align with our mission. SanMar’s sustainable apparel options offer good, better, and best choices, so brands can make an impact with every purchase.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. Dive deeper into the stories behind our trip to Honduras: