23 Small Manufacturing Business Ideas with Examples — Katana

4. Textile producer

How about some manufacturing business ideas that involve supplying other manufacturers? Now that’s going off the beaten path.  

A textile-producing business manufactures textiles and materials made from natural or synthetic fibers. The most common textile fibers are:  

• Cotton 

• Linen 

• Wool 

• Silk 

These fibers can be used to make a variety of products, including clothing, upholstery, and carpets. 

Textile production is a complex process that involves spinning the fibers into yarns, weaving or knitting the yarns into fabric, and then finishing the fabric to achieve the desired properties. The type of fiber, the type of yarn, the type of fabric construction, and the finishing treatments all play a role in the final performance of the textile. 

The market value of the textiles industry 

Even though the industry’s market share in 2022 was $42.4 billion, there’s been a downward trend in the market’s growth over the past few years. Between 2017 and 2022, it decreased by 1.4%.   

When it comes to the best manufacturing business to start (that’s easy to set up to boot), many point fingers toward the apparel and footwear manufacturing industry, which comprises establishments that make finished products, such as:   

• Clothing  

• Footwear  

• Accessories   

Here are just some items you can consider manufacturing to become the next Tim Gunn:    

• Belts  

• Garments   

• Jeans  

• Jute bags   

• Leather goods

      

• Clothing production  

The market value of the apparel and footwear industry

The apparel and footwear manufacturing industry is a major contributor to the global economy.  

Retail sales of apparel and footwear goods worldwide exceeded more than $1.5 trillion in 2021. The forecast of this figure is expected to increase to $2 trillion by 2026.  

6. Brewery production

Brewery production, or microbrewing, is a small, independent brewery that produces a limited amount of beer.  

These small-scale manufacturing ideas are usually family-owned and operated and often sell their beer directly to consumers.  

There are many benefits to starting a microbrewery business. For one, you will be able to create unique beers that reflect your taste. You’ll also be able to build relationships with customers and get feedback about your products. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to grow your business over time by expanding your brewing operations and selling your beer in more locations.  

The market value of the brewery industry

In 2021, the beer market share reached $100 billion in the US. However, what will be interesting for you to know specifically — as someone who wants to turn small manufacturing business ideas into a reality — is that 13.1% of that market share came from small and independent brewers.  

Cheers to small-manufacturer beers! 🍻  

7. Sports equipment manufacturer

Small manufacturing ideas like a sports equipment manufacturer typically design, manufacture, and sell sporting goods equipment.   

This can include everything from balls and bats to gloves and protective gear.  

In many cases, a sports equipment manufacturer will specialize in a particular type of sport or group of sports. For example, some companies focus solely on baseball or football equipment. Others may produce a wide range of products for different sports.  

Sports equipment manufacturers often work with professional athletes to design products that meet their specific needs. In some cases, the manufacturer may even produce custom-made equipment for an athlete — ensuring that the athlete has the best possible gear for their sport.  

The market value of the sports equipment industry

In 2022, the revenue of the sports equipment industry reached $17.44 billion in the US, with the market expected to grow annually with a CAGR of 4.86%. One thing to keep in mind is that the Chinese market is massive in the industry, accounting for $34,610 million in revenue in 2022.  

8. Furniture maker

A furniture maker is one of those manufacturing opportunities that produces and sells furniture for your home, office, and anywhere else you can think furniture is required.  

The furniture maker may use various materials to create their products, including wood, metal, glass, and upholstery. Some furniture makers also offer custom-made furniture services to their customers. Furniture making is a centuries-old craft that has been passed down through generations.   

There are many different types of furniture that you can make. Some popular options include:  

• Chairs 

• Tables 

• Beds 

• Dressers 

• Cabinets  

• Picture frames  

• Jewelry boxes (it surprised us too)  

If you offer custom-made furniture services, your customers can choose their furniture’s style, material, and finish. This allows you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that they will cherish for years.  

The market value of furniture making

In 2022, the furniture-making industry’s revenue reached a massive $25.7 billion in the US. However, since 2017, there has been a decline in the market size by 1.6%.