Rialto Designs, a Leicester-based textile printer whose clients include many of the UK’s leading fashion brands, has installed a Kornit Presto S with Softener Solution as it looks to drive innovation in the printed fashion market.
Brothers Riyaz and Mohsin Omarji, who founded Rialto Designs 25 years ago, have spent recent years reducing their company’s reliance on screen printing, embracing more digital technology. Specifically two Kornit Avalanche HD6 systems have streamlined operations in Leicester, allowing Rialto to produce DTG prints on-demand, opening up access to new markets.
The company says its latest investment, the Kornit Presto S, helps align its roll-to-roll workflow with commercial growth as well as delivering ‘high-quality natural and synthetic pieces, in any quantity and in short order.’
Having recognised that the fashion market was transitioning towards more sustainable and flexible production, Rialto wanted to be ready to meet this need as well as offering a nearshore service during the Covid period.
‘The pandemic has accelerated some key market trends—reshoring in particular,’ said Riyaz Omarji. ‘Clients do not have time to print abroad and are moving their production to the UK. They are also requiring less products and greater variation, which is combining to increase overall volumes.
‘At the same time, the requirements for printed pattern diversity across multiple fibres as well as new product groups have also increased. We want to continue to service the fashion marketplace with millions of metres of dye sublimation prints onto polyester bases while at the same time positioning ourselves for the inevitable market evolution. That is why we have strategically invested in our future with new technology that’s adaptive.’
Speaking about why he opted for the Presto S, which allows customers to order printed of samples across hundreds of fabric bases and to receive their orders within 24 hours, Mr Omarji explained, ‘We needed to invest in new technology to expand our services and simplify the print process. The Kornit Presto supports inline production onto synthetics, natural fabrics, and blends, creating a smoother and more streamlined production process. It has also increased speed of delivery and decreased our environmental impact.
‘Buyers are becoming increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of fashion and the products they buy, so our investment in sustainable technology from Kornit has been a valuable asset during these challenging times. We are also well-placed to service our clients and expand the business.’
In conclusion, Chris Govier, Kornit’s European managing director, added, ‘Rialto is committed to diversification and nearshoring with the sustainable and flexible production of a wide range of fabrics. The responsiveness and productivity of Kornit’s Presto perfectly supports Rialto’s broad and growing customer base. Its ability to address sustainable concerns also ensures it responds to today’s market demands while being ready to address future trends, too. It empowers Rialto to consistently deliver outstanding look and feel using responsible, reliable, and environmentally conscious methods.’
