Why on-demand direct-to-garment? Why now?
The world is shifting to online. E-commerce is exploding. That’s a fact, and it’s only going to increase. Why wouldn’t it? It’s a world of comfort and control at the click of a fingertip. It’s endless options, 24/7. According to industry experts, it is estimated that by 2024 two-thirds of apparel in the U.S. will be purchased online.
The rise of eCommerce has created a new kind of consumer; one that wants more variety with every click, and one that wants it fast. This is forcing brands to rethink production and turn to on-demand digital production — and turn to textile printers who can answer the bell, both in terms of speed and quality.
Direct-to-Garment On-Demand Production
Direct-to-garment (DTG) is fast, arguably the only mode of production capable of keeping pace with the market demands. Furthermore, with new workflow solutions that integrate Point-of-Sale, product catalogues, production floor, and shipping logistics, textile printers can now offer their clients a truly end-to-end solution that is aligned with the world of eCommerce.
It’s a personal world
As today’s consumers spend so much time on social media, inspired by celebrities, social causes and time sensitive events, it’s only natural they want to purchase that t-shirt they just saw and tell the world what they’re all about right now.
DTG lets you translate what you just saw on social media 5 minutes ago into something you’ll be wearing by tomorrow (thank you Amazon next day delivery). With the push of a button, any inspiration appearing on Etsy can appear on any garment you want; DTG printing recreates images and memes in photo realistic detail. This opens new revenue streams for individual creators as well as the many creative online entrepreneurs and marketplaces.
Green is the new Black
Consumers are increasingly demanding responsible and sustainable production practices, while brands are looking to put an end to their chronic over-production and excess inventory problem.
DTG delivers on both fronts. By printing only what is truly needed, on-demand is the most practical solution to eliminating inventory waste, making it highly desirable for brands. By removing harmful plastisol and byproducts from production, and using water-based inks, DTG answers the widespread demand for sustainable, eco-friendly (low carbon footprint) practices that comply with the strictest regulations.
Driving growth, increasing margins with the hybrid model
Textile printers no longer have to choose between DTG and Screen printing. By using the hybrid model, they can keep their screen printing for long runs and enjoy the benefits of DTG for short runs, gaining greater operational flexibility and making every order profitable, regardless of run length.
DTG delivers superior quality, handles complex designs on multiple fabrics, and offers an advanced color gamut to address the latest fashion trends.
When you can take on every job, you can capitalize on every opportunity. Waste less, and optimize every resource—labor, capital, and materials—to generate greater profit for your shop.
