31331 - Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills

The NAICS code 31331 represents a vital segment within the manufacturing sector—Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills. This industry plays a crucial role in adding value to textile products by improving their appearance, texture, and performance. Whether for fashion, upholstery, or industrial applications, finishing mills are the artisans behind the vibrant colors, durable coatings, and unique fabric textures we rely on every day.

What is NAICS Code 31331?

NAICS 31331 encompasses establishments primarily engaged in finishing textiles and fabrics. These finishing processes include:

• Bleaching: Removing natural color to prepare fabrics for dyeing or printing.
• Dyeing: Adding color to textiles to achieve desired hues.
• Printing: Applying patterns or designs using various printing techniques.
• Coating and Laminating: Enhancing fabric durability, texture, or functionality by applying chemical or polymer layers.

By performing these specialized finishing steps, these mills transform raw textiles into enhanced materials suitable for numerous applications.

Sector and Business Activities within NAICS 31331

• Sector: Manufacturing
• Industry Group: Textile Mills
• Subsector: Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills

Common Business Types and Activities:

• Textile bleaching and dyeing mills
• Fabric printing mills
• Textile coating and laminating mills

Businesses in this classification often serve clients ranging from apparel manufacturers to automotive and home furnishing companies, supplying them with high-quality finished textiles.

Size Standards for Small Business Eligibility

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), eligibility is determined primarily by employee count or annual revenue. For NAICS 31331:

• Size Standard:
  • Typically 1,000 employees or less to qualify as a small business.

This standard helps define eligibility for government contracts and assistance programs, fostering opportunities for smaller, specialized finishing mills.

Examples of Businesses in NAICS 31331

• A regional textile mill specializing in fabric dyeing for fashion brands.
• A printing mill applying custom prints for upholstery fabrics.
• A coating facility enhancing outdoor fabric durability with water-resistant laminates.

These examples illustrate the diversity and specialization within textile and fabric finishing operations.

NAICS Code 31331 - Code Details Table

Code	Title	Sector	Description	Size Standard
31331	Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills	Manufacturing	Establishments primarily engaged in finishing textiles and fabrics, including bleaching, dyeing, printing, coating, and laminating	1,000 employees or less

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of finishing processes are included in NAICS code 31331?

The code includes bleaching, dyeing, printing (such as screen printing or rotary printing), coating, and laminating of textiles and fabrics to enhance their properties.

How does textile finishing impact the textile industry?

Finishing processes improve fabric qualities like colorfastness, texture, durability, and water resistance, making textiles suitable for diverse applications—from fashion to industrial use.

Who are the typical customers of textile and fabric finishing mills?

Customers range from manufacturers of apparel, upholstery, automotive interiors, to companies producing technical textiles for medical or protective equipment.

How can small businesses benefit from this NAICS code?

Businesses meeting the size standards can qualify for government contracts, grants, and programs designed to support small manufacturers within this sector.

Where can I find government contracting opportunities related to NAICS 31331?

Platforms like SAM.gov regularly post federal contracts seeking textile finishing services under this NAICS code, especially for military and governmental textile needs.

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Conclusion

NAICS code 31331 - Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills represents an essential manufacturing niche focused on enhancing textiles through expert finishing services. From dyeing vibrant colors to applying protective coatings, these mills provide the finishing touches that make textile products both beautiful and functional. Understanding this NAICS classification is crucial for businesses seeking government opportunities, industry insight, or strategic partnerships within the textile manufacturing sector.

For businesses operating in or alongside this industry, leveraging the specific expertise of finishing mills can open new avenues in product innovation and market expansion. Whether you're a contractor, manufacturer, or supplier, keeping NAICS 31331 in mind can help unlock the potential of quality textile finishing.