KENYA ROBERSON: LEADING CHANGE IN APPAREL SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH ELITE GARMENT DISTRO INC.
In partnership with UBA Media
By Nick Kasmik
Kenya Roberson, the Founder and CEO of Elite Garment Distro Inc., has spent more than a decade mastering the complexities of the apparel industry, from high-end fashion to wholesale logistics. However, her business is far more than a traditional clothing resale company. Elite Garment Distro stands at the intersection of sustainability, philanthropy, and global commerce, transforming discarded clothing into opportunities for communities across the globe. Under Kenya’s leadership, the company has grown into a force for good in an industry known for its environmental impact, creating a circular economy where excess apparel finds new homes instead of landfills.
A Vision Rooted in Intuition and Experience
Roberson’s journey into the world of fashion and logistics started in the fast-paced fashion district of Los Angeles, working with many luxury brands. Her keen sense of style and ability to forge connections with industry leaders quickly set her apart. However, it was her time working for a wholesale export company that sparked her interest in the larger scale of apparel distribution, particularly the environmental cost of excess inventory. This insight laid the foundation for her future business model at Elite Garment Distro Inc.
“Intuition plays a huge role in my business,” says Roberson. “In this industry, you need to be able to look at excess inventory and immediately know where it can go—whether that’s Africa, South America, or another region where that clothing will thrive. Not many people have that trained eye, especially in a male-dominated field like mine.”
Kenya’s sharp business acumen is built on this ability to make quick, strategic decisions. Her expertise in matching excess inventory to the appropriate markets gives her company a competitive edge. Moreover, it serves her greater mission: reducing waste, preserving the environment, and helping those in need.
Elite Garment Distro: Redefining Waste in the Fashion Industry
Elite Garment Distro Inc. operates in a niche market that addresses one of the apparel industry’s most pressing problems: overproduction. Brands often find themselves with millions of units of unsold clothing, which are typically sent to landfills or incinerated. Kenya’s company intervenes by purchasing this excess stock and exporting it to countries where the demand for affordable, quality apparel is high. This not only prevents waste but also provides access to clothing in regions where such goods might otherwise be unavailable or too expensive.
The company’s operational model is both innovative and sustainable. By sourcing apparel that would have otherwise been discarded, Elite Garment Distro is actively reducing the environmental impact of clothing production, which is known for its high resource usage, including water and energy consumption. Roberson explains, “Without my company, millions of units of apparel would end up in landfills or the ocean, contributing to the environmental crisis. What we’re doing is providing a solution that not only makes good business sense but also makes a difference to the planet.”
Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry
The apparel wholesale industry, particularly in the industry of global exports, remains heavily male-dominated. For Kenya, breaking into this field and establishing her credibility was one of her greatest challenges. Early in her career, she found it difficult to gain the respect of her male counterparts. But years of hard work, persistence, and her strong reputation as a reliable businesswoman helped her pave the way.
“It was hard to gain respect in this industry as a woman,” Kenya reflects. “I had to build enough clout to prove that I could not only compete but lead in this space.”
Roberson’s leadership is a testament to her perseverance and her ability to navigate complex business landscapes. Her company is now a go-to resource for brands looking to offload their excess stock sustainably and for global distributors who rely on her expertise to source high-quality goods.
A Business Model Rooted in Philanthropy
Beyond the logistics and business success, Elite Garment Distro is deeply rooted in philanthropy. Kenya’s passion for giving back is evident in the company’s regular contributions to charities and its commitment to providing clothing to those in need across the world. This combination of business and philanthropy has positioned Elite Garment Distro as a socially responsible company.
“We’re not just a business—we’re part of the solution,” says Kenya. “We’re helping to provide affordable clothing to people who may not otherwise have access to it. This is especially important in areas where the cost of new clothing is out of reach for many families. At the same time, we’re addressing a huge environmental issue.”
This commitment to social responsibility not only enhances the company’s brand image but also serves as a key differentiator in a crowded marketplace. Consumers and corporations alike are increasingly seeking out businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices, and Elite Garment Distro has positioned itself squarely within this movement.
Financial and Operational Success
From a financial perspective, Elite Garment Distro operates with a lean, efficient model. By purchasing inventory at low cost and selling it to regions where demand outstrips supply, the company has carved out a profitable niche. The margins on these transactions are healthy, given the low cost of the goods and the strong demand for affordable apparel in developing markets.
Operationally, the company excels in logistics and distribution. Managing the flow of apparel from U.S. brands to overseas markets requires meticulous planning, from inventory management to international shipping. Roberson’s background in logistics has been instrumental in ensuring that operations run smoothly, which in turn allows the company to scale efficiently.
“We’ve built a model that works,” Kenya explains. “It’s sustainable, profitable, and scalable. We’re now looking at expanding our operations and taking on new markets.”
A Legacy of Sustainability and Empowerment
As Kenya Roberson continues to lead Elite Garment Distro Inc., her vision for the company remains focused on sustainability, growth, and making a positive impact. She has transformed a business that could have been just another wholesale distributor into a global force for good—reducing waste, providing affordable clothing, and empowering communities worldwide.
Her story is one of resilience, intuition, and a commitment to making a difference. In an industry known for its environmental toll, Kenya has created a company that not only thrives financially but also leaves the world a better place. Elite Garment Distro’s success is a powerful reminder that businesses can be both profitable and principled, and Kenya Roberson is leading the way in proving that the two are not mutually exclusive.