Companies in the apparel industry manufacture garments made from purchased fabric and from fabric they produce themselves. Despite advances in technology and workplace practices, this industry remains labor-intensive. A growing number of apparel manufacturers are also now performing only the entrepreneurial functions involved in apparel manufacturing, choosing to outsource other elements of the production process. Apparel manufacturers compete on both price and fashion. Companies with a competitive advantage are those that can successfully cater to consumer tastes while managing costs and securing contracts with clothing marketers and retailers. According to McKinsey & Company, global fashion sales are forecast to grow at an average rate of 5.5% per year.