The recent slowdown in denim manufacturing has been caused by inventory backups, but unit sales were up for the first nine months of 1993, aided by the continuing growth in demand of denim shorts. Product diversity has helped increase sales, with such innovations as light weight denims, fabrics made with ring spun yarns, and new colors, washes, and finishes. Lightweight denim and chambray fabrics continue to grow in the fashion market. Executives from denim mills in the United States discuss production trends, new products, and factory upgrades.