Print Solutions IndPrint
Oxford based Shirtworks is implementing a Kornit Digital direct to garment (DTG) production system for sustainable, on-demand fulfilment. In addition to implementing DTG technology, Shirtworks has also purchased the new Kornit Workflow software solution, a product resulting from Kornit’s recent acquisition of UK based Custom Gateway.
The software, which provides end to end management capabilities of the production process (from online store to shipping logistics), helps brands and fulfillers streamline their operations, for increased efficiency, accountability, control, and visibility – an ideal match for the speed, versatility, and retail quality demands of the e-commerce consumer market in which Shirtworks operates.
Shirtworks services brands and consumers on five continents, and in addition to delivering superior quality in rapid time, prides itself on being one the first European print shop accredited ‘organic’ by the Soil Association for both embroidery and screen printing, using ‘fair trade’ materials, and paying all employees the real living wage rather than the national minimum living wage.
The company offers a wide variety of personalised apparel and workwear, including sportswear, sweatshirts, caps, jackets, children’s wear, and other pieces.
‘Shirtworks supplies decorated garments to all industries,’ said managing director Arron Harnden. ‘We have a very diverse customer base, from consumers ordering one-offs to small brands and ethical conscious business to businesses needing up to a thousand pieces or more. We are known as an ethical decorator, GOTS approved for both screen and embroidery.’
Having supplemented its screen printing capabilities with embroidery, Shirtworks believes Kornit will enable it to produce lower volumes of garments it would traditionally screen print, in a manner that meets its quality standards and is profitable in all quantities. Arron expects the Kornit system to help reduce wage costs, while meeting the very high quality control standards necessary to maintain strong customer service.
Kornit’s DTG technology uses a proprietary single step print process and eco friendly pigment inks that produce no waste water, imprint a variety of fabrics at the push of a button, and deliver vibrant, photorealistic digital impressions with a durability for wash, rub, and light fastness. As the system requires virtually no set up time or labour, print costs are low and consistent, making runs profitable from the first piece, simplifying the production of samples, and making any design specifications repeatable with precision. A piece can be imprinted, dried, and ready to ship or wear in mere minutes.
‘We turned to Kornit because it offered a one process solution, and its inks are GOTS approved, which is very important to us,’ said Arron. ‘Being able to match Pantones is also very important to us, and key to moving our screen print clients over to DTG. We also wanted a retail ready product that would enable us to expand into drop shipping.’
‘Shirtworks was one of the first screen print shops to establish its own website, and it is that spirit of looking forward and anticipating customer needs that led it to supplement its production capabilities with efficient, eco friendly Kornit systems,’ said Chris Govier, KDEU managing director. ‘Kornit prides itself on developing technology that offers speed, quality, and versatility, while answering the demand for more sustainable and responsible business practices. We are proud to give Shirtworks the capabilities it needs to grow its operation in the on-demand, e-commerce marketplace, while staying true to its mission and reputation.’
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