Softwear Automation, a pioneer in autonomous sewing technology, has closed a $20 million Series B1 funding round, marking a major step forward in its mission to transform sewn goods manufacturing. The round was led by Danish fashion giant BESTSELLER—owner of brands such as JACK & JONES, VERO MODA, and ONLY—through its innovation and investment platform, Invest FWD. Existing investors, including CTW Venture Partners, SRI Capital, and MacDonald Ventures, also participated.
As part of the strategic partnership, BESTSELLER CFO Thomas Børglum Jensen has joined Softwear Automation’s board, strengthening collaboration during a period of rapid progress toward commercializing the company’s fully automated SEWBOT® worklines.
“This partnership with BESTSELLER and support from Invest FWD are not just a vote of confidence in our technology—they are a powerful catalyst for the future of on-demand, localized, and more sustainable apparel manufacturing,” said Palaniswamy “Raj” Rajan, Chairman and CEO of Softwear Automation.
Softwear Automation’s patented SEWBOT® system enables fully autonomous sewing, allowing products to be manufactured closer to consumers with reduced waste, faster turnaround, and improved cost efficiency. The new funding will support expansion into additional product categories and global markets, boost R&D capabilities, and scale production to meet increasing demand.
Highlighting the industry impact, BESTSELLER’s Thomas Børglum Jensen stated, “Softwear Automation is helping address key challenges across fashion—from speed and flexibility to lowering environmental impact. We’re pleased to support their development and explore how this technology can help us move forward.”
The alliance aligns with BESTSELLER’s broader goals to reduce environmental footprint and increase supply chain transparency. By leveraging SEWBOT® technology, the two companies aim to promote circular, demand-driven production models, positioning Softwear Automation at the forefront of the next era in sustainable apparel manufacturing.
