Just wondering about all of the insider knowledge that is out there that people would be surprised to know. I'll go first but I'm interested to know what others know.
There are some pretty big sports brands that specifically manufacture stock that is only destined to be sold in outlet stores. This stock was never available in normal stores at 'full price' and was never intended to go there. The items imitate the stock that was sold in the normal stores but are generally poorer quality. For a example the company may manufacture two types of plain black leggings, a normal customer would probably not notice the difference but someone with textile knowledge would notice the difference in the material and stitching. The most prolific brands for manufacturing outlet stock are in general brands that will franchise out the outlets and one of the reasons for manufacturing is because they have to be able to guarantee their franchise partners enough stock to fill their stores which they are unable to do if dependant on the leftovers from the normal stores.