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A Q&A with Michelle from MCC Manufacturing

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Image taken at a site visit to MCC Manufacturing 
Hey Michelle, please tell us about yourself!

Hi! I’m Michelle McClure, I was born in the Philippines and moved to Australia when I was four. Growing up, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to be or study, but I always knew I wanted to work in the creative industries. I discovered fashion at TAFE, where I learned the practical skills needed for the industry. After working in the manufacturing industry for over 10 years, I started my business, MCC Manufacturing, in 2021 in my double garage-turned-studio. 

Now based in Annerley, Brisbane, I’m proud to have expanded in April 2024 into a shared space with another accredited business, Ethical Edge Collective. At MCC Manufacturing, we focus on ethical and transparent garment production, collaborating with amazing Australian fashion labels. When I’m not in the studio, I love exploring new ideas and technologies. 

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Michelle speaking on a panel as part of Brisbane Fashion Month and Ethical Clothing Australia Week. 
Can you tell us a bit about your business, MCC Manufacturing?

MCC Manufacturing is a garment production studio specialising in small-batch manufacturing, pattern making, and sampling. We collaborate with Australian fashion labels, helping them bring their unique designs to life with precision and care. Our services range from initial concept development and pattern creation to sampling and full production runs. 

We work with a diverse range of products, including everyday wear, custom pieces, and niche collections, tailoring our services to meet the specific needs of each brand. Our clients include startups, established labels, and those looking to explore sustainable and ethical manufacturing options. 

We are committed to upholding quality and ethical practices in everything we do. By focusing on local production, we not only support Australian businesses but also ensure transparency. We take pride in fostering strong relationships with our clients and helping them create garments that reflect their brand’s vision and values. 

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Image taken at a site visit to MCC Manufacturing 
What led you to work in the textile, clothing and fashion industry in the first place?

I’ve been in the sewing and manufacturing industry for over a decade, and it’s always felt like a natural fit. Growing up, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do, but I was drawn to creative industries. When I discovered I could study fashion at TAFE, it opened a world of practical skills and opportunities that aligned with my passion for creating and problem-solving. 

This wasn’t a path passed down through family tradition—I discovered and fell in love with it on my own. Over time, I’ve realised how much I value working with my hands to produce something tangible and meaningful. It’s incredibly rewarding to see ideas come to life and know that my work helps other brands achieve their vision. 

Why is it important to you that your business manufactures locally and ethically?

Manufacturing locally and ethically is about more than just creating clothes—it’s about building a sustainable future and fostering a sense of responsibility in the fashion industry. Supporting local businesses strengthens our community, provides jobs, and contributes to the local economy. 

Ethical practices ensure that everyone involved in the process—from fabric cutters to machinists—are treated fairly and with respect. It’s a way to challenge the fast fashion model and promote transparency, sustainability, and quality. For me, it’s not just a business choice; it’s a personal commitment to doing things the right way. We’re proud to be part of a movement that values people and the planet as much as the products we create. 

What is a milestone or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?

Being accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia is a milestone I’m incredibly proud of. It’s a validation of the hard work and dedication we’ve put into creating an ethical and transparent manufacturing process. For me, it’s not just a certification—it’s a reflection of our values and a commitment to doing things the right way, every step of the way. 

Another achievement I’m proud of is moving from my home garage studio to a shared space in Annerley with the Ethical Edge Collective. This transition has allowed us to expand our capabilities, collaborate with like-minded businesses, and continue to support local designers in a more dynamic and professional environment. 

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Image taken at a site visit to MCC Manufacturing 
What is a challenge you’ve faced in your business and how did you overcome it?

Scaling the business while staying true to our values has been one of our biggest challenges. There’s always external pressure to cut corners, take on more clients, or compromise on quality to grow quickly. However, I’ve learned that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of our values. 

The key has been clear communication with clients and setting realistic expectations from the start. We focus on quality over quantity and ensure that each project receives the time and attention it deserves. Building strong relationships with clients who share our vision has helped us grow sustainably while staying aligned with our mission.

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Image taken at a site visit to MCC Manufacturing 
MCC Manufacturing is coming up for its first anniversary in April 2025–congratulations! What does being accredited with Ethical Clothing Australia mean to you?

Thank you! Being accredited with Ethical Clothing Australia is both an honour and a responsibility. It’s a testament to our commitment to ethical practices and a reflection of the values that guide our business. This accreditation shows our clients and community that we prioritise fair treatment, transparency, and sustainability in every aspect of our work. 

For me, it’s a reminder of why I started MCC Manufacturing in the first place: to create garments that not only meet high standards of quality but also positively impact the people and processes behind them. It’s about proving that ethical fashion is not just a possibility but a necessity for the industry’s future. 

Any final thoughts?

I’d love to highlight how collaboration has been a cornerstone of MCC Manufacturing. Working with talented Australian designers and other local businesses has been both inspiring and instrumental in shaping how we operate. 

It’s also worth mentioning how important it is for clients and manufacturers to work together with transparency and mutual respect. Together, we’re proving that ethical and local manufacturing can thrive in an industry dominated by fast fashion. We’re building a community that values creativity, sustainability, and quality.