Printing Industry Commentary & Analysis

Adapting to Today's Virtual World: An Interview with EFI's Frank Mallozzi

Published December 7, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended many things, not the least of which are trade shows and other in-person events. EFI's Chief Revenue Officer Frank Mallozzi talks about the company's decision to pull out of drupa 2021, its creation of a virtual event, EFI Engage, to replace EFI Connect 2021, and shares an update on the EFI BOLT including talking about its recognition with an InterTech Award. (Note: This video was recorded before drupa announced its cancellation of the 2021 event.)

OnPoint Manufacturing and Gerber Join Forces to Launch Eloise.Fashion

Published December 7, 2020

Entrepreneur and innovator Kirby Best has been working with Gerber to make on-demand fashion design and manufacturing tools more accessible to designers and brands, especially smaller organizations that have found the cost of these tools to be a barrier. The result is Eloise.Fashion, where designers can leverage tools and technology to create designs, prepare them for manufacturing, and connect with manufacturing facilities such as OnPoint Manufacturing. Kirby explains it all in this video.

Sustainability Efforts Escalate in the Textiles and Apparel Supply Chain

Published November 30, 2020

As we wrap up 2020, let’s take a few minutes to look back over what has been a difficult year and highlight a bright spot for the textiles and apparel industry: increased efforts to reinvent the textiles and apparel supply chain, which has been hard hit by the pandemic and the resulting economic disruptions. Inside that effort is an increased focus on sustainability from both establish brands and suppliers and new emerging players.

How ISAIC Is Moving the Textiles Industry Forward

Published November 30, 2020

Jennifer Guarino, CEO and Chair of the Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), based in Detroit, explains the multitude of programs the organization has in place to attract and train new industry talent, manufacture sewn goods such as masks and gowns, T-shirts, sweatshirts, and more, and to implement the newest technologies.

Printing Industries Releases 2020 Wage and Benefit Report

Published November 19, 2020

Printing Industries released its annual Wage & Benefits Report and it contains a wealth of great information for print service providers, with input from more than 500 companies across North America. In this video, Teresa Campbell, President of PIA Mid America, and Steve Bonoff, President of Printing Industries of the Midwest, explain some of the trends uncovered. More information will be provided in a webinar on December 15, 2020.

John Lacagnina on the Past, Present, and Future of Digital Print

Published November 17, 2020

John Lacagnina is a digital printing pioneer whose company Entire, founded in the 1980s, was the first to connect high-speed production digital printers to networks for document printing where before they had been connected only to mainframes. He has a rich heritage of innovation between now and then, and most recently started a 3D printing company. Here what he has to say about the past, present, and future of digital print.

Graphco’s Chris Manley Paints a Positive Picture for the Printing Industry

Published November 16, 2020

The pandemic and the economic and political uncertainty have cast a pall on many aspects of our lives. But it’s not all bad news. Graphco President Chris Manley joins the chorus of voices that sees growth and opportunity in printing—some going as far as to call it the Golden Age of Printing. Here’s how Manley explains it.

Ricoh Ups Its DTG Game with the Ri-2000 Printer

Published November 16, 2020

Christian Compera, Deputy General Manager, Industrial Print Business Group, Ricoh, shares his thoughts on the digital printing opportunity in textiles, why Ricoh chose to enter the direct-to-garment (DTG) space, the family of printers it now offers, and where Ricoh may go in the future with regard to digital textile printing.

Fabscrap Founder & CEO Jessica Schreiber Talks Sustainability

Published November 12, 2020

And she's doing a lot more than just talking. Schreiber participated on a Smithers Digital Textile Printing Conference panel, sharing her thoughts on recycled fabrics, textile waste and sustainability. In this video, she explains how Fabscrap is working in a number of creative ways to minimize the amount of fabric waste that goes to landfills.

Chris Manley of Graphco Shares a Positive Industry Outlook

Published November 10, 2020

In this interview with Senior Editor Cary Sherburne, Chris Manley, President of Graphco, shares his business experiences during the pandemic, including equipment sales driven by growth in book printing and direct mail, as well as the company's unique Ready to Rebound program.

Digital Textile Printing 2020 Overview: AATCC and PRINTING United Alliance Digital Textile Printing Conference Goes Virtual

Published November 9, 2020

There is no question 2020 has been an unusual year across the board, and especially in the textiles and apparel industry. As the year comes to a close, be sure to attend the 2020 Edition of AATCC and PRINTING United Alliance’s Digital Textile Printing 2020 conference, packed full of the information you need to finalize your plans for a successful 2021 and beyond. Check out the details.

Seattle-Based RPI Finds Business Success in B2B and B2C Personalized Products

Published November 9, 2020

In this interview, CEO Rick Bellamy talks about how his company is structured, some of the recent acquisitions he has made and why, the impact of the pandemic on his business, and why he thinks we are in "the golden age of print."

Digital Technology Changing the Face of Fabric Printing

Published November 5, 2020

At the Digital Textile Printing Conference hosted by Smithers, Jena Nesbitt, Product Strategy Director for Oregon-based Pine Crest Fabrics, presented a session on how digital printing has affected the ability of small manufacturers and direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands to develop trend right textile designs quickly and inexpensively. In this video, she talks about how digital printing technologies have changed the game for her business and her brand owner customers.

Springs Creative Team Shares Latest Developments for Designers and Brands (Part 2)

Published November 3, 2020

In part 2 of this video interview, Kathryn Lawrie, Kathy Phillips and Cathy Valent share more of the latest developments at Springs Creative, including new acquisitions for its Baxter Mill archive, an increased focus on fabrics and designs for home decor, and its ability to help designers and brands find inspiration when traveling around the world to find new ideas has become difficult during the pandemic.

Lilly Pulitzer Gains Valuable Capabilities with Digital Fabric Printing

Published November 2, 2020

The story of how Lilly Pulitzer got started as a fashion designer is fascinating, and so is the story of how the company has leveraged digital printing technologies to streamline its workflow and unleash increased design creativity. Senior Editor Cary Sherburne spoke with Margaret Getty, Lilly Pulitzer Senior Associate for Woven Fabric and Trim, to learn more.

North Coast Litho Continues Digital Journey with iJetColorPro Envelope Press from Printware: Investment Decision Fueled by Need for Quality, Productivity

Published November 2, 2020

North Coast Litho devoted a great deal of time and effort in assessing digital printing options, waiting until it could find solutions that met its extremely high quality requirements and that of its customers. It found that quality level in digital presses, acquired in 2011 and 2016, but only recently was able to find the same level of quality in an envelope press, acquiring the iJetColorPro from Printware in 2020. General Manager Bob Strohmeyer explains in this article, sponsored by Printware.

Lilly Pulitzer Increases Agility, Reduces Lead Time with Digital Technologies

Published November 2, 2020

Margaret Getty, Senior Associate, Woven Fabric and Trim, for Lilly Pulitzer, shares the company's founding story and talks about how it has evolved over the years, most particularly, how digital design and print technologies have helped the company carve significant cycle time out of its go-to-market process.

A Wrinkle in the Plan: Is Cut-and-Sew a Barrier to Reshoring in the Textiles Industry?

Published October 28, 2020

Fashion and apparel brands are trying to reshore textile production, but the finishing part of the process is proving challenging: cut-and-sew. Automation has its limitations, and skilled sewists are hard to come by domestically. Cary Sherburne looks into some of the solutions to these challenges.

How the Pandemic is Affecting the Textiles Supply Chain...Or Is It?

Published October 26, 2020

Even before the pandemic, there was lots of discussion about how the textiles and apparel industry needed to re-examine its supply chain both for increased efficiencies and to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. Has the pandemic accelerated this? Learn more.

Springs Creative Team Shares Latest Developments for Designers and Brands (Part 1)

Published October 26, 2020

In the first part of a two-part video interview, Kathryn Lawrie, Kathy Phillips and Cathy Valent share the latest developments at Springs Creative, including new acquisitions for its Baxter Mill archive, an increased focus on fabrics and designs for home decor, and its ability to help designers and brands find inspiration when traveling around the world to find new ideas has become difficult during the pandemic. (Look for part 2 of this interview next Monday, 11/02.)

Talking Textiles: The Supply Chain, Sustainability, and the Impact of Digital Technologies

Published October 21, 2020

The COVID-19 crisis has upended the fashion industry, but it has also given the industry an unprecedented opportunity to reinvent itself for the better. Texintel CEO Debbie McKeegan discusses the supply chain, sustainability, and the impact of digital technologies on textile production.

Ricoh Expands its Direct-to-Garment Offerings with New Ri 2000 Printer

Published October 19, 2020

Back in early 2016, Ricoh acquired AnaJet, a leader at the time in direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. Since that time, the company has continued to develop its DTG portfolio, recently adding a new, more productive printer to its line. We spoke with Deputy General Manager for Ricoh’s Industry Print Business, Christian Compera, to learn more.

AATCC Update: What's New and What's Coming

Published October 19, 2020

AATCC Executive Vice President Diana Wyman shares the latest AATCC updates, including initiatives that will be considered at the association's November virtual committee meetings, the availability of a PPE monograph on efficacy of various types of masks, sustainability, and more.

Why RPI’s Rick Bellamy Thinks We Are in the Golden Age of Print…and Much More

Published October 12, 2020

Seattle-based RPI recently made several acquisitions, actions that caught our eye in light of the uncertain times we find ourselves in. We reached out to CEO Rick Bellamy to get an update on RPI, the strategy behind the acquisitions, and Bellamy’s general feelings about the industry at large.

Independent Digital Printer ISS Discusses Its Conversion to an AlphaGraphics Franchise

Published October 12, 2020

Jeff and Eric Schwarz chose to convert their independent digital printing company, ISS, to an AlphaGraphics franchise in the summer of 2019. In this interview, they share their reasons for making the change and what it has meant for their business.

Softwear Automation Sewbots: The Future of Apparel Manufacturing?

Published October 5, 2020

The sewing process has often been described as the "last mile" of apparel manufacturing automation. In this interview, Palaniswamy "Raj" Rajan, Chairman & CEO, Softwear Automation, talks about how sewbots, and in particular the sewbots the company is manufacturing, have the ability to automatically manufacture T-shirts today in amazing quantities, with a few toward being able to expand this capability to other apparel types in the future. He also shares projections about when the technology will be more commercially available.

AATCC Webinar Series Sheds Light on Textile-Related Testing for PPE

Published September 28, 2020

The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) has a robust program of educational webinars. Most recently, the organization has sponsored a series of three important sessions related to testing and standards for PPE, especially important during this COVID-19 pandemic which shows no signs of ending. Of particular interest to our readers is a Duke University research project that developed a low-cost method for testing the efficacy of facemasks.

Innovations in Textiles: Viscose Made from Recycled Cotton

Published September 28, 2020

Lux Research Analyst Anthony Schiavo reports on the work being done by Europe-based Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research and Swedish company re:newcell to create viscose filament yarns from recycled cotton, a process that can help reduce textile waste that ends up in landfills and improve the industry's sustainability. These yarns, he says, can be seamlessly inserted into existing fabric manufacturing processes in place of viscose fibers created using a less sustainable process.

Saint Louis Fashion Fund: Driving the Fashion Industry Forward

Published September 24, 2020

Susan Sherman, Co-Founder and Former Board Chair of the Saint Louis Fashion Fund, and Jon Lewis, who heads up Evolution St. Louis—a knit manufacturer— joined Senior Editor Cary Sherburne to discuss how the Saint Louis Fashion Fund is helping revitalize the fashion industry in St. Louis, once a fashion hub. The Fund also attracted Evolution and its advanced 3D knitting capabilities to the city.

Spoonflower CEO Michael Jones Shares Insights on Future of On-Demand Textiles

Published September 23, 2020

Spoonflower was a pioneer in the field of on-demand textile printing and production. As the rest of the industry races to catch up, new CEO Michael Jones is aiming to take Spoonflower to the next level. Cary Sherburne talks with Jones and senior vice president of research and development Kerry King about their vision for the future.

Are Living Clothes in Your Future? Designer Royal Aghighi Thinks They Should Be!

Published September 21, 2020

The textiles industry is a huge polluter. Although there are many sustainability initiatives at play, there is still more that can be done. Just ask multidisciplinary researcher Roya Aghighi. She’d like you to reimagine your wardrobe as living things. Find out what that means!

Long-time Marketing Expert David Murphy Shares Digital Marketing Strategies

Published September 21, 2020

David Murphy, who has run marketing for a number of industry companies including most recently HP, has founded a digital marketing agency, Nvent Marketing. In this video, he discusses the various ways smaller to mid-sized companies can leverage increased Internet usage to keep leads coming into the business during the pandemic and beyond.

Attracting New Talent: A 2020 Imperative

Published September 16, 2020

Jeff White, Director of Development for the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF), provides an update on the status and activities of the organization in its efforts to educate students about the benefits of a career in print and graphics (including textiles), as well as the scholarships that are granted to those students. PGSF awarded 226 scholarships this year!

HP Indigo Ups the Ante for Quality and Productivity in Digital Print

Published September 15, 2020

In this article, sponsored by HP, Senior Editor Cary Sherburne provides an overview of the latest features of the HP Indigo 12000 and HP Indigo 15K digital presses, including innovations that take digital printing to a new level of quality and productivity. She also cites on-site experiences of two customers, L&L Printers and New London.

Long-Time Print Innovator and Serial Entrepreneur John Lacagnina Shares Thoughts on Past, Present, and Future of Print

Published September 14, 2020

I first crossed paths with John Lacagnina when he brought to market the world’s first network production printing solution through his company at the time, Entire. Over the ensuing years, he has continued to innovate and bring dynamic change to the industry. Learn more about his story, his thoughts about the industry, and what he’s up to today.

Mohawk Paper's Chris Harrold Explains the Renewal Line of Papers

Published September 14, 2020

Mohawk Paper, which has a long history of working toward sustainable manufacturing of fine papers, has introduced its Renewal line of papers. It is using hemp and straw fibers in two paper lines, with 30% hemp or straw content. Even more interesting is its 100% cotton fiber Renewal paper. Senior Vice President of Marketing & Creative explains how the line came about and its contribution to Mohawk's sustainability footprint.

Sewing Automation: Where Are We Now and Where Are We Going?

Published September 10, 2020

Frank Henderson of the Henderson Sewing Company is the third generation running this family business and has been doing so for the last 40 years. He has an extensive amount of experience to share, including what's being done to accelerate reshoring of manufacturing of sewn products, how his company interacts with others in the industry to create innovative workflows, and what he sees as future developments in sewing, robotics, and workforce development.

Industry Veteran Aviv Ratzman Founds Compack, a New Web-to-Pack Portal

Published September 8, 2020

Aviv Ratzman, who spent time at HP Indigo and co-founded Highcon, starts a new venture today. Compack (Com-Pack.net) is an online solution that enables brand owners to compare and choose suppliers who provide on-demand custom packaging services for both primary and secondary packaging. Ratzman explains the strategy behind the business in this video discussion.

Bringing Fashion Back to St. Louis

Published August 31, 2020

Did you know that St. Louis, Mo., was a fashion hub from the turn of the 20th century until the end of World War II? Now there are significant efforts to reestablish the city’s fashion prominence, led by the Saint Louis Fashion Fund. We spoke with co-founder Susan Sherman, and the CEO of high-tech knitting manufacturer Evolution St. Louis, Jon Lewis, to learn how their initiatives are progressing.

Tailored Industry: Revitalizing Knitting in Brooklyn

Published August 31, 2020

Alex Tschopp founded Tailored Industry with the vision of using 3D knitting machines to produce knitted garments on demand. After a period of educating brands and retailers about they benefit of on-demand production, they are now starting to take advantage of the service. He talks about progress to date and plans for the future.

“Circular Is the New Black”: Redefining the Fashion Industry

Published August 27, 2020

There has been a great deal of discussion here and elsewhere about how the pandemic has accelerated efforts to restructure the textiles and apparel supply chain, resulting in both companies exiting China for destinations such as Vietnam and India, as well as reshoring of textiles and apparel in the US and Europe facilitated by the growing availability of digital technologies that enable new ways to design, manufacture and distribute textiles and apparel. This article contains a review of a report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation: “A New Textiles Economy: Redesigning Fashion’s Future.” Well worth reading in full!

Michael McDonald Shares Insights on Current and Future Sewn Products

Published August 27, 2020

Michael McDonald, President of Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA), provides background on the organization and discusses the latest developments in cut-and-sew automation with an emphasis on the "last mile" of sewing. He also discusses the need to attract new talent to the industry and cites some of the activities that are helping to do so.

Augmented Reality: Revolutionizing the Value of Print

Published August 26, 2020

Augmented reality (AR) has played a somewhat limited role to date in the world of print and packaging, with its largest footprint in the digital world—but that may be about to change. Cary Sherburne looks at some recent AR-enabled catalogs developed by Paris and Montreal’s ARGO.

Pete Santora Shares Insight into the Future of Apparel Automation

Published August 24, 2020

Pete Santora has been working across a variety of industries to examine how automation can help reshore manufacturing and strengthen supply chains, especially post-pandemic. He shares his thoughts on automation in textiles and apparel in this video interview.

Epson Launches Its First Industrial-Class Dye-Sublimation Printer

Published August 20, 2020

Epson’s new SureColor F10070 sports new features and capabilities, sure to help spur growth in digital textile fabric printing. Cary Sherburne takes a look at this new printer.

More Innovation from Tom O'Brien: Flexible Packaging On Demand

Published August 17, 2020

Tom O'Brien, founder of AccuLink, now has a new business added to the mix. AccuFlex Packaging is producing flexible packaging on demand with a unique combination of an HP Indigo 20000, Color-Logic print embellishments, E-Beam lamination and pouching. This is a must-watch video for anyone in the packaging industry or any brands looking to produce vibrant and sustainable flexible packaging.

Managing Through the Pandemic: A Conversation with Frank Mallozzi, EFI's Chief Revenue Officer

Published August 12, 2020

Many employees at EFI, including Frank Mallozzi, have been working from home since March 14th, but it hasn't dimmed their enthusiasm for the company, their teammates, and their customers. Mallozzi shares some of the innovative ways EFI has turned to virtual work and offers advice to others who may be struggling with this during the pandemic.

EU Graphene Flagship Initiative Explores Innovative Graphene Uses

Published August 10, 2020

We’ve been following some of the research on graphene for some time now. Developments and innovations are continuing, especially in the European Union. Here we review the EU Graphene Flagship Initiative and some of the developments related to the textiles and apparel industry, including how graphene can affect advances in wearables.

How Much Do Your Jeans Mean to You?

Published August 3, 2020

Do you know how much water it takes to make a single pair of jeans? The answer will likely shock you. In this article, Senior Editor Cary Sherburne explores how a commitment to zero-waste fashion—and some emerging technologies—can save precious water and protect our planet yet still let us enjoy those comfortable jeans and other fashion items.

How Will the Pandemic Affect the Global Textiles & Apparel Supply Chain?

Published July 27, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare many frailties in the global textiles and apparel supply chain but may also be a driver for brands, retailers and manufacturers implementing significant changes as we move into the post-pandemic "new normal," according to textiles expert Debbie McKeegan.

How Effective is Your Cloth Mask?

Published July 20, 2020

Most people understand there is a benefit to wearing a cloth mask to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. But with so many mask types available, how do you choose the most effective type? Senior Editor Cary Sherburne digs into the latest research on this topic.

Debbie McKeegan Talks Textiles Sustainability

Published July 20, 2020

Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and CEO of Texintel, shares her thoughts on how digital technologies can help ameliorate the huge sustainability problem facing the textiles and apparel industry, suggesting that coming out of the pandemic, there may be unique opportunities to change operating practices.

Factory Automation for Printing Fabric On Demand Translates to Big Business for Raspberry Creek Fabrics

Published July 13, 2020

Diana Rammell wanted better fitting clothes but was disappointed in the selection of fabrics she could find. So she took matters into her own hands, founding Raspberry Creek Fabrics in 2010 to create more compelling fabric designs. When her dreams got a little out of control, her attorney husband, Justin, stepped in to help. Today, the company produces some 40,000 yards of custom fabrics every month and continues to grow.

Looking to Hire or Be Hired? Here's Some Expert Advice!

Published July 13, 2020

Senior Editor Cary Sherburne spent time speaking with PrintLink executive search and professional placement experts for the graphic communications industry. Arnie Kahn, President, and Dino Scalia, Senior Vice President, shared their thoughts on a wide range of subjects, including what's changed with recruitment, skills that employers should be looking for, what candidates should focus on when looking at opportunities, and much more. They also discuss why it's important to consider hiring even during this difficult period.

Scott Schinlever Returns to EFI

Published July 8, 2020

In this video interview, Scott Schinlever, now COO for EFI's Global Inkjet Business, discusses his decision to return to EFI after 2.5 years with Gerber Technologies, what his organization looks like, what he learned at Gerber that will help him execute his new duties, and what the future looks like for EFI's inkjet business.

Trends Update: Textiles and Apparel

Published July 6, 2020

As we proceed into the second half of 2020, Cary Sherburne rounds up some of the top textile and apparel trends we have seen thus far this year.

The SGIA/PIA Merger Explained

Published June 23, 2020

On May 1, 2020, the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and the Printing Industries of America (PIA) merged to become PRINTING United Alliance (PUA). Ford Bowers, President and CEO of the combined organization, reveals many of the details of the merger and what it means for members.

Will On-Demand Manufacturing Be the New Normal Post-Pandemic for Textiles and Apparel?

Published June 22, 2020

How much of the post-pandemic “new normal” will involve on-demand manufacturing for textile-based products? Already we are hearing from on-demand manufacturers that their businesses are seeing increased demand, both due to the pandemic-related supply chain disruption and a general move in the industry to more efficiency, less waste, and more sustainability. In this story, we provide examples of how an on-demand manufacturer is helping both startups and brands achieve these goals.

What Is the Role of the RIP in Process Automation and Supply Chain Efficiencies?

Published June 15, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the fragility of the global supply chain for textiles and apparel. This is driving brands and retailers to give more thoughtful consideration to how they can streamline that supply chain, bringing production closer to the point of use and eliminating at least some of the inventory risk inherent in the current process. In this article, we explore the role of the digital front end (DFE or RIP) for digital textile printers in making this a viable alternative to the current offshore bulk manufacturing of printed textiles and apparel.

Spoonflower Community Responds to COVID-19 Pandemic

Published June 8, 2020

With more than 1.8 million design options in its library, and with the availability of easy-to-use mask kits, Spoonflower and its designer community have responded in force to the need for masks, making more than 150,000 non-medical-grade fabric masks. Senior Editor Cary Sherburne spoke with Michael Jones, Spoonflower’s new CEO, and Kerry King, Senior Vice President of R&D, to learn more about this outstanding response and to get an update on what’s new at Spoonflower.

Why Implement a Hybrid Flexo/Digital Printing Solution? G2 ID Solutions Has the Answer

Published June 2, 2020

Colordyne 3600 Series AQ – Retrofit Printer Powered by Memjet offers increased flexibility and 3X increase in job throughput for Florida-based label and packaging printer G2 ID Source.

Tailored Industry Converts 90% of Knitting Capacity to Unique Knitted Masks

Published June 1, 2020

Since it appears that masks will be part of our wardrobe for the foreseeable future, we continue to look for unique yet functional mask solutions and the companies that are converting their manufacturing operations to help address this critical need. We wrote about Tailored Industry last year, and recently heard they were knitting masks, so we checked in to get more detail.

Mattoon High School Student Abigail Carter Wins PGSF Poster AND T-Shirt Design Contest

Published May 26, 2020

Each year the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (www.pgsf.org) conducts poster and T-shirt design contests, accepting submissions from students around the country that are pursuing a career in graphic communications or a related field at a U.S. technical school or college. In 2020, Abigail Carter, a high school junior at Mattoon High School in Mattoon, Ill., won in both categories.

AFFOA Continues to Make Progress on Fiber Computing Technologies

Published May 18, 2020

It’s been almost two years since we wrote about the work that Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) is doing to develop functional fiber computing solutions that will likely be the basis for moving us into Industry 5.0. Seems like we don’t even have Industry 4.0 under our belts, but technology does move fast these days! We spoke with the AFFOA team, including CEO Alexander (Sasha) Stolyarov, Chief Marketing Officer Eric Spackey, Senior Director of Business Development Natasha Spackey, and Chief Technology Officer Jason Cox, to get an update on what has transpired in the past two years.

Mimaki Expands Product Portfolio with 3D Printer, OKI Partnership, Dual-Ink-Set Textile Printer

Published May 11, 2020

In light of event cancellations during the pandemic, many companies are turning to virtual events to get their news out. Mimaki held a virtual press event recently, packed with industry news and announcing a five-week Virtual Print Festival to keep the industry informed and ready to move forward. We tuned in to learn more.

Ceramics Printing Goes Digital

Published May 6, 2020

Printing on ceramic objects is a great business opportunity for printers and sign shops of all sizes. Although there are multi-million-dollar ceramic printing systems on the market, the good news is that it can be easy and affordable to enter the market for short to mid-sized runs of decorated ceramic products. Senior editor Cary Sherburne explains how.

Kornit NeoPigment Robusto Softener Addresses Hand Feel Issues with Pigment Inks

Published May 4, 2020

As the textiles and apparel industry works to improve supply chain management and reduce its environmental footprint, many view pigment inks as the Holy Grail—print on any fabric, no need for pre- or post-treatment in many cases. What’s not to like? The hand feel, that’s what. Here’s what Kornit is doing to address that issue.

PrintFactory Offers Alternative Workflow for Display Graphics and Textile Printers

Published April 27, 2020

PrintFactory offers a RIP-based workflow for wide format printers in a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. The company has about 17,000 active installations, supports more than 2,000 physical devices, and has about 40 employees. Find out more.

2019 Annual Print Franchise Review

Published April 22, 2020

Cary Sherburne provides our annual review of the print franchises. As these organizations work to adjust to the changing industry and business environment, they are all aggressively working with their franchises to add infrastructure for more efficiency, encourage the addition of new products, provide training and help franchisees looking for an exit strategy look for new potential owners. Combined, these five organizations generated $1.34 billion in revenues.

The Battle to Save the News Media in the Age of COVID-19

Published April 21, 2020

Access to honest news and investigative reporting is important in the best of times, but even more so in the worst of times, such as the battle against COVID-19 that is underway around the globe. While virtually all media organizations are under stress due largely to the evaporation of advertising revenue, none are seeing more stress than local news organizations, resulting in what is being called local news deserts. In this article, we look at some of the efforts underway to relieve some of this stress.

If the Shoe Fits… Volumental Uses 3D Scanning to Deliver Perfect Fit

Published April 20, 2020

As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, brands and retailers are looking for ways to enhance the customer experience and to reduce product returns when the product the consumer receives doesn’t fit or otherwise doesn’t meet expectations. Volumental has an answer for shoe retailers and brands.

Neenah Coldenhove Brings Digital Transfer on an Industrial Basis to Natural Fiber Fabrics with Texcol® Digital Transfer Paper

Published April 6, 2020

One of the more popular means of digitally printing to fabrics is heat transfer dye sublimation where images are printed on a sublimation transfer paper and then processed through a heating unit (calender) to sublimate the image into fabric. Until now, this process has been limited to polyester or polyester blends. Neenah Coldenhove is addressing this shortfall with its new digital transfer paper for natural fibers.

Equipe Offers Custom Apparel for Brands, Sports Teams

Published March 30, 2020

A growing number of companies are popping up in North America that offer custom apparel produced on demand. This is an important supply chain shift, both from an environmental and economic perspective as weaknesses in global supply chains have increasingly come to the forefront. Not everything, of course, can be produced on demand. But companies like California-based Equipe are demonstrating that local production is not only feasible, but a viable alterative for a growing variety of apparel and home décor items.

Xeikon 2020: New Products in Every Supported Market Segment

Published March 30, 2020

On March 30, Xeikon unveiled its extensive plans for what was to be its drupa 2020 exhibit in an exclusive briefing for the media. Following the briefing, we spoke with Filip Weymans, Xeikon’s Vice President of Marketing, to gain deeper insight into the strategy behind these developments, how being part of Flint Group has benefited the company, and more. In light of the postponement of drupa till April of 2021, Xeikon is putting plans in place to support the industry with continued innovation during the balance of 2020.

Making Masks and Other PPE to Help with the COVID-19 Pandemic

Published March 26, 2020

One thing about a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic is that it can bring people together to come up with creative ways to help. We are starting to hear stories about how players in the textiles and apparel industry are doing just that, converting operations to the production of much-needed masks and other PPE, and we wanted to share these inspiring stories with you.

Catalyst Fabric Solutions Leverages Automation for On-Demand Production of Home Décor

Published March 23, 2020

The continued evolution of digital technologies, including printing, for textile-based products has opened the door to more reshoring of manufacturing as well as on-demand production, ease of customization and more. Florida-based Catalyst Fabric Solutions is taking advantage of all of these trends for business growth.

The Cannabis Gold Rush: New Business Opportunities in Packaging and Apparel Are Here for the Taking

Published March 17, 2020

The first in a series of articles about the current cannabis landscape. While this is a high-growth market opportunity for packaging converters, it is also still a Wild West environment, and there are many misunderstandings about what it is comprised of, what’s legal and what’s not, and what the actual benefits of cannabis-derived products are from a health and well-being perspective. In this introductory feature, Cary Sherburne provides an overview of the current state of the market, including definitions, and applications, as well as developments in packaging and even apparel.

Denim Reimagined: A New, More Eco-Friendly Way to Think About Denim

Published March 16, 2020

We all love our blue jeans. They are comfortable, often stylish, but what about their impact on the environment? What if you could have a pair of jeans with an almost indistinguishable look on the outside, but silky soft on the inside, with a 97% water footprint reduction? Sound impossible? With new fabric printing technologies, it’s totally achievable. Read what Dalton Cheng of Intech has to say on this subject and more.

Advances in Smart Textiles Add Functionality to Apparel, Home Décor, Health

Published March 9, 2020

Expect to see accelerating developments in smart textiles through 2020 and beyond. A few of the more recent developments are explained in this article by Senior Editor Cary Sherburne, who is keeping tabs on this market segment and the exciting news coming out almost daily. Be sure to check out WhatTheyThink’s Around the Web every Friday for additional smart textile news.

What’s the Dresscode? Smart and Savvy CashCuff® Wearables!

Published February 24, 2020

As the market for wearable technology continues to evolve, UK-based Dresscode has taken a unique approach with CashCuff, the world’s first smart payment shirt. See what founder and CEO Andy Boothman has to say about the origin of the company and its strategy for the future.

Lucent Botanicals Offers Unique CBD Mints in Equally Unique Packaging

Published February 18, 2020

As we continue to cover the burgeoning cannabis market and the business opportunities it offers, we spent time talking with Chris Cooper, CEO of California-based Lucent Botanicals, who has taken a different approach to CBD that is taken orally—mints enhanced with a variety of herbs and essences to tune their effects to different consumer requirements. He also shared his packaging strategy for these unique products.

All Flags Signs and Banners Leverages EFI Inkjet and Other Technologies for Double Digit Growth

Published February 18, 2020

Peter Wagner, Managing Director of Australia-based All Flags Signs and Banners, explains how his company has gone from needing four people over three weeks to produce 400 banners in 1998, to its capacity today to output 54,000 square meters of printed media today with its fleet of EFI VUTEk printers. The company serves a large portion of the Asia Pacific region with flags, banners, branding for sporting events, vehicle wraps, carpets, and more.

Pang-Wangling to Fashion Success

Published February 17, 2020

To pang-wangle is to live or go along cheerfully in spite of minor misfortunes. That’s exactly what Jennifer John is doing with her Pang Wangle fashion business, creating sustainable fashion ideal for hot, buggy climates such as is experienced in her home state of Louisiana. We spoke to Jennifer to learn more about her background, her growing business, and the challenges she faced finding just the exact right fabric for her unique creations.

The Sourcing Group Brings Technology Expertise to Corporate Clients

Published February 10, 2020

At the recent EFI Connect 2020 conference, Lynn Smith from The Sourcing Group spoke on the customer panel, sharing The Sourcing Group’s unique story. We followed up with her afterward to get more details on this print-related Business Process Optimization (BPO) company.

Dave Johannes Brings 40+ Years of IT and Mail Experience to Moore DM Group

Published February 6, 2020

Dave Johannes, now with the Moore DM Group, a group of companies focused on fundraising initiatives for the non-profit space, talks about the IT infrastructure the company has in place to manage the scale and scope of its offerings. He identifies the efforts the company is undertaking to place the organization—which has done a number of acquisitions—on a common IT infrastructure, and why that is important.

EFI’s Ken Hanulec Looks Ahead to drupa 2020

Published February 4, 2020

Ken Hanulec, VP of Worldwide Marketing for EFI, looks ahead to some of what drupa 2020 will have in store: automation, inkjet, and the digitization of packaging, as well as the elements of “Industry 4.0”—connectivity, software, and the cloud—which will drive efficiency and effectiveness.

How George Brown College Is Addressing Workforce Needs and More in Textiles and Apparel

Published February 3, 2020

You can’t attend any textiles and apparel events or speak with industry professionals without the subject of workforce challenges arising. Senior Editor Cary Sherburne spoke with Marilyn McNeil-Morin about the Fashion Exchange program at Toronto’s George Brown College that has programs in place to help address these issues.

EFI’s Adele Genoni Identifies Today’s Textile Trends

Published February 3, 2020

Adele Genoni, Senior Vice President and General Manager of EFI Reggiani, talks to Cary Sherburne about the most important trends in textiles as the industry continues its analog to digital transformation—including sustainability, data management, and AI and technical textiles. She also provides an update on EFI BOLT installations.

“In Spirit, I Am Always with EFI”

Published January 31, 2020

Cary Sherburne talks to Guy Gecht, former CEO of EFI, about what he has been up to since leaving EFI. He talks about the corporate boards he has joined, and discusses his adventures in home-building, where he hired himself as his own general contractor.

EFI Connect 2020 Rounds Out a Year of Dramatic Change for the Company

Published January 30, 2020

EFI Connect 2020 marked the 21st year this user conference has been held, and the 13th year it has been hosted at the Wynn Hotel & Resort in Las Vegas. This edition marked a year of dramatic change for the company, with the departure of long-time CEO Guy Gecht, a short-lived CEO in Bill Muir, and an acquisition by Siris Group that took the company from public to private. EFI Connect 2020 was an opportunity for customers to gain first-hand insight into what these changes might mean for them.

Industry Veteran Doug Edwards Joins EFI

Published January 30, 2020

Cary Sherburne talks to Doug Edwards, EFI’s Chief Technology Officer, who has been on the job for two weeks and last week attended his first EFI Connect. Edwards has been in the industry for 30 years and comes to EFI from Xaar and Kodak. He talks about what attracted him to EFI—namely, the company’s broad product portfolio.

Prima-Tex Helps Customers Understand Differences Between Digital and Analog Textile Printing

Published January 27, 2020

At last month’s AATCC/SGIA Digital Textile Printing Conference 4.0, I had the pleasure of meeting Jonathan Tio and his brother Patrick of California-based Prima-Tex. His active and informed participation in the conference discussions were an inspiration, and he agreed to a subsequent interview for this article.

Siris Executive Al Zollar Shares Thoughts About EFI Acquisition

Published January 23, 2020

Al Zollar, Executive Partner at private equity firm Siris and a 34-year veteran of IBM, attended EFI Connect 2020 and took the time to share his thoughts about the event, the industry, and the EFI acquisition overall.

The Importance of Customer Obsession

Published January 23, 2020

EFI's Chief Revenue Officer Frank Mallozzi shares his thoughts about leveling up from thinking about the customer experience beyond simply customer satisfaction to building a culture of customer obsession. He explains some of the impact and effect this approach has had on EFI's customer community.

EFI CEO Jeff Jacobson Shares Thoughts on Building for Success

Published January 22, 2020

EFI Connect 2020 is the 21st edition of this users group event. As new EFI CEO, Jeff Jacobson explains the event theme: "The Now and Future Pendulum," as well as the importance of a "stratactical" approach to business.

Springs Creative Leverages 133 Years of Textile History for Today’s Digital Printing

Published January 20, 2020

At the AATCC/SGIA Digital Textile Printing Conference 4.0 last December, one of the high points was a presentation by Kathy Phillips, Vice President of Design/Trend at Springs Creative, a show-and-tell that highlighted the company’s rich history in textiles, beginning with the founding of the Fort Mill Manufacturing Company in 1887 by Samuel Elliot White. We talked with Phillips to get more detail on this fascinating story to share with our readers.

David Gross of Conde Systems Explains How Easy and Affordable It Is to Enter the Product Decoration Market with Heat Transfer Dye Sublimation

Published January 16, 2020

David Gross of Conde Systems explains how his passion for heat transfer dye sublimation has grown into a highly diverse business that provides everything customers need to decorate just about any product, not only creating and producing items but helping them with marketing strategies as well. Users can enter this market with a minimal investment.

Heidelberg Gears Up for drupa

Published January 14, 2020

Sonja Mechling, Chief Marketing Officer for Heidelberg, talks to Cary Sherburne about Heidelberg’s plans for drupa 2020, which include artificial intelligence (AI) applications to help improve productivity, as well as its digital solutions.

unspun Delivers Size-Free Green Jeans On Demand

Published January 13, 2020

If you grew up, as I did, watching Captain Kangaroo, you’ll remember Mr. Green Jeans. These days, Green Jeans has an entirely different meaning, and San Francisco/Hong Kong based unspun set out to define the category.

ColorZone’s Joshua Feller Is a Technology Early Adopter

Published January 13, 2020

Cary Sherburne talks to Joshua Feller, owner of ColorZone. Feller bought ColorZone 15 years ago and began to acquire wide-format equipment—as much as $8 million worth—in order to reduce the amount of work he had to outsource. An early adopter of printing technologies, he has expanded from wide-format to label printing, which has proven highly successful

Articles by Cary Sherburne