Retainer vs. Project-Based: What’s the Best Model for Apparel Production?
When you’re building a collection, your designs aren’t the only big decision; you also need to decide how you’ll work with your production partners. At AJG Fashion Consulting, we support brands in two main ways: through retainer-based partnerships and project-based engagements.
Both can get you to launch day, but the right choice depends on how often you’re developing products, your budget, and how much strategic oversight you need along the way.
Retainer: Your On-Call Development & Production Team
A retainer means you pay a fixed monthly fee for ongoing support. We function like an extension of your in house team managing design, sourcing, development, and production on a continuous basis.
Best for brands who:
Launch multiple drops or seasonal collections each year.
Want a consistent partner overseeing all moving parts.
Value efficiency, continuity, and long-term strategy.
Benefits of a Retainer:
Predictable Costs – No surprise invoices for every request just one monthly rate.
Faster Timelines – We stay on top of factory communications, material lead times, and sampling schedules so launches stay on track.
Brand Consistency – Because we’re involved across collections, we keep your fit, quality, and sourcing aligned from season to season.
Proactive Problem Solving – We see issues coming before they land on your desk and work with suppliers to resolve them early.
Example: A luxury activewear brand we work with launches four to five capsules per year. On retainer, we handle everything from tech packs to sourcing sustainable fabrics, coordinating with factories weekly so their creative team can focus on marketing and retail partnerships.
Project-Based: Defined Scope, One Collection at a Time
A project-based engagement is priced per deliverable like building a tech pack, sourcing trims for one style, or conducting fit sessions after each round of samples.
Best for brands who:
Have one style to produce and launch.
Are testing a new product category or a short run capsule.
Need expert guidance for a clearly defined task.
Benefits of Project-Based Work:
Clear Deliverables – You know exactly what’s included and what it costs.
Lower Upfront Commitment – Ideal for new or quick-turn production.
Flexibility – Engage us only when you need specific expertise.
Example: A startup swimwear label came to us to review the fit of their first prototype samples from their manufacturer. Our team hosted a live fit session, carefully evaluated each size to identify areas for improvement. We then provided a detailed fit analysis with actionable recommendations and adjustments to ensure their designs fit and performed as intended.
Which Model Fits Your Brand?
If you’re launching regularly and want a partner who knows your brand inside and out, a retainer will keep your production smooth and scalable. If you’re testing the waters or focusing on one drop at a time, project-based might be the smarter investment.
At AJG, we tailor every engagement to your launch goals, growth stage, and budget so you’re set up for efficiency, consistency, and results.
Contact us to talk through your next launch and find the right fit.