Sustainability is a major driver in garment printing
A recently launched European study from Roland DG has revealed that an increased focus on environment, societal and governance (ESG) factors inside Europe’s corporates and SMBs is driving a sustainability boom amongst its garment printers.
Conducted just a month before COP26, the study polled 200 garment printers serving a cross-section of large businesses and SMEs in Europe. It revealed that more than two-thirds (64 percent) had observed an increase in customers ordering sustainable garments, and the majority (51 percent) reported a sharp increase of 30 percent or more.
The survey also reveals that this spike in interest is driving commercial opportunities for the sector. Nearly half (48 percent) of those polled classify sustainability as a ‘major commercial opportunity’ for their business. A third believe customers are willing to pay more money for sustainable garments, and a quarter says they generate bigger margins.
Rosie Lees, founder and MD at The Embroidery Barn in the UK commented: “When I relaunched the business in 2018, I decided to focus on the sustainability of our garments and printing practices and expected that within five to seven years it would pay off. In reality, I haven’t had to wait that long. During the last 18 months, it’s been our major growth driver and 95 percent of our customers mention sustainability when they enquire.”
There is strong evidence that customers believe printing practices play a critical role in sustainability. Two-thirds (64 percent) of those polled reported an increase in enquiries about the eco-friendliness of these practices.
Garment printers are responding by investing in environmentally-friendly printers, inks and equipment. Despite the economic downturn caused by COVID-19, a massive 47 percent of garment printers had taken steps to increase the sustainability of their printing practices.
Encarna Luque, Textile Lead at European print company Roland DG commented: “ESG is firmly in the spotlight and, as a result, we’ve observed a major shift in customer priorities away from price and towards sustainability. Garment printers are some of the most entrepreneurial business owners in our sector, and it’s no surprise to see them investing in this emerging opportunity despite the challenging macroeconomic environment.”
For further information, visit: www.rolanddg.eu
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About Roland DG Corporation
Roland DG Corporation is the world’s leading provider of digital printing solutions. The company’s inkjet printers, printer/cutters and cutting machines are widely used to create a broad range of promotional items including banners, signs, vehicle graphics, stickers, and labels, and to provide customisation services for apparel and personal items like smartphone cases. Recently, Roland DG has embarked on a promising new retail frontier by capitalising on individuals’ increasing desire to create their own, uniquely designed, and decorated items. The company has developed proprietary design and print management software which enables customers to design their own gifts, apparel, and treasured mementos, and to enjoy an unforgettable creative experience.
For more information, please visit rolanddg.eu.
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