In this guest blog Tom Owers, pro graphics manager at Epson UK, outlines the reasons why now is the time to adopt dye sublimation technology…
The textile manufacturing industry is on the cusp of significant change. It is being shaped by an increased focus on sustainable practices, the move towards reshoring and local production to reduce transportation, and a review of supply chains to deliver the right quantities at the right time.
Digital technology is helping businesses reimagine their working practices to adapt to these redefining issues. It is enabling them to identify ways to minimise their overall impact.
Here are five reasons operations should consider adding dye sublimation capabilities:
Maximising growth opportunities
With just 6% of the world’s printed textiles produced digitally and an increasing demand for personalised goods there is a great opportunity for growth. Interest has been accelerated by the impact the pandemic has had on supply chains. Many companies are considering how reshoring can improve their practices or adapting to an on-demand business model where users print what they have sold. This helps to reduce reliance on waste going into landfill or being sent abroad. Epson is encouraging producers that were previously printing textiles abroad and finishing closer to home, to keep manufacturing local. This allows better control of production in terms of time, quality, cost, and waste.
Production flexibility for a broader offering
Adding dye sublimation enables operations to expand their production capabilities and target a variety of applications such as fashion, sportswear, home textiles, décor and soft signage, as well as rigid substrates aimed promotional goods and photo gifting market.
Many businesses will easily be able to target existing clients with new products and services to further enhance their value as a print supplier and target new business.
Responsive on demand production
Adapting to an on-demand business model allows much greater control of production in terms of time, quality, cost, and waste. It also responds to the growing market for the printing of original and unique images and designs. Print what you need, when you need it rather than sitting on printed stock and take on those small but profitable jobs.
Ease of adoption
Dye sublimation printing is a very straightforward process, and any large format printer will easily be able to adapt their production with just a few additions in their workflow.
Epson entry level dye sublimation printers are ideal for start-ups and small business as you don’t need any specialist skills or knowledge to set up, operate or maintain them. Investment cost are low, and the technology is easily scalable as your business grows.
Reassuring reliability
As with any commercial grade hardware you should look to invest in something that will deliver quality, consistency and reliability, as this will allow you to be competitive when entering a new market.
Those investing in an Epson dye sublimation printer buy a complete Epson solution. We are the only brand that designs, develops, and manufactures every part of our solution, including hardware, software, ink and print heads. This is all backed up by our commercial warranty and CoverPlus extension packs which can be purchased with printers to give you up to 5-years total cover and peace of mind.
The latest dye sublimation solutions in our growing portfolio, that ranges from entry to industrial level, include Epson’s first A4 dye sublimation printer, the SureColor SC-F100. It was developed for small businesses and start-ups looking to expand their product offering into the promotional goods sector when space is at premium. Also joining the portfolio in 2020 was the 255sqm/hr SureColor SC-F10000 76in wide-format printer. It was designed for high productivity, speed, and reliability. It is suited to the production of fashion, sportswear, home furnishings, promotional goods, and soft signage.
