Spectrum Designs brings autism awareness to TJ Maxx with new neurodiverse apparel line
The six-style collection, designed by artists with autism, will be available in 500 stores across the US.
500 T.J.Maxx stores now carry Spectrum's neurodiverse-designed apparel. / Credit: Spectrum Designs
Today, Spectrum Designs, a nonprofit that empowers adults on the autism spectrum with employment in custom apparel and promotional products, unveiled its first in-store partnership with off-price retailer TJ Maxx.
Each piece in the six-style collection has been designed, crafted and packaged in-house by Spectrum’s neurodiverse team, with support from Bioworld, an apparel manufacturer known for collaborating with brands like Disney and Warner Bros.
“This collaboration showcases the extraordinary talents of our team and brings their designs to a national audience, furthering our mission to transform perceptions of those on the autism spectrum,” said Patrick Bardsley, co-founder and chief executive of Spectrum Designs.
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The timing of the initiative aligns with National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a campaign that advocates for disabled employees in the workforce. For Spectrum Designs, for whom 65% of its workforce is on the autism spectrum, this retail partnership highlights both the potential and talent of neurodiverse individuals.
“We are proud to be a part of the global community working to increase positive change throughout the marketplace,” said Jason Mayes, senior director of marketing and intellectual property at Bioworld. “This collaboration is a testament to the power of inclusion and creativity.”
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In recent months, Spectrum Designs has seen widespread support, including a viral social media moment where a video posted by Spectrum’s social media manager, who is on the autism spectrum, reached over 23m views. That momentum helped Spectrum land over 200 new business requests from major companies like Microsoft, Home Depot and Yeti, making 2024 its most successful year to date with projected sales reaching $6.2m.
The new lineup, which will be available through the holiday season, is featured in 500 TJ Maxx stores nationwide, with a strong presence on the East Coast.
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