Producing On-Demand Embroidery
We have seen massive leaps forward in the world of print on demand. Producing one-off garments, at high quality, and with a quick turnaround is now very much achievable. Technology has been leveraged in such a way, that selling a virtual product on-line and then producing it, is simple and reduces waste, slow moving stock and maximises profitability.
Why should we not consider embroidered products in the same way? Are we assuming that every design would need to be digitised ‘in flight’ to make this a viable opportunity? Do we think it is just too complex a process?
The truth is, consumer demand for an embroidered product actually exceeds that of a printed product, but accessibility is what is holding it back. Embroidery fulfillers, on the whole, are not able to produce embroidery ‘on-demand’ for the following reasons.
- They operate predominantly multi-head machines.
- They don’t have the technology to enable it.
- They don’t have the knowledge on how to do it.
Another consideration should be your current average order size. Do you know what this is?
We helped an industry leading embroiderer with exactly this problem.
Initially they ‘assumed’ their average order size was between 36 and 42 units. Their actual average order size was less than 6 units. This number had significantly shifted in the last 5 years and without realising it, their customers were giving them a very clear message. Times have changed. We want smaller orders, and we want them more often.
Whether your focus is pure on-demand, or whether you have a mix of workwear, schoolwear, sportwear etc., being able to produce smaller quantities, at pace is what every embroiderer needs to be able to deliver today. And it is possible.
Melco have been aware of this market shift for some time and have carefully orchestrated their products to not only be able to accommodate on demand orders, but to thrive with them. With a unique combination of hardware and software, we can help you meet the expectations that your customers are demanding.
The new Melco Summit is designed to enable ‘on-demand’ production. It has many unique features to help you simplify production from integrated barcode/QR code readers to automated colour set-up and hoop selection.
The Melco EMT16 X which has been the machine of choice for the last few years, also has the ability to handle any order size, has barcode set-up options and with Swiss technology and build quality you can give your business the production predictability that any ambitious embroidery business needs.
To summarise, consumer buying habits drive change in any marketplace. Right now, embroidery fulfilment companies are seeing a change in order quantities and delivery expectations from their customers. The Melco range of products are perfectly placed to handle bulk production, but what most others can’t offer, is a total solution to embroidery ON DEMAND. At Amaya we can show you how.
Click here to learn more about the Melco embroidery machines.
