Building your T-Shirt Empire

Episode 99: Maximizing Efficiency- Insights from Zach Acorn

In this conversation, Zach Acorn shares his journey in the screen printing industry, emphasizing the importance of strategic growth, operational efficiency, and effective employee management. He discusses the significance of documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in maintaining quality and training staff. Zach introduces Print Plugs, a new resource aimed at connecting printers with opportunities and fostering community within the industry. He highlights the need for maximizing equipment utilization and the shift towards contracting as a means to enhance profitability and flexibility. The discussion underscores the importance of investing in youth and education to replenish the workforce in screen printing. In this conversation, Zach, Cole, and Gavin discuss various aspects of the printing industry, focusing on growth strategies, quality assurance, client engagement, and the importance of understanding production capabilities. They emphasize the need for proper certification pipelines, shop readiness, and the significance of establishing business boundaries to ensure profitability. The discussion also highlights the value of networking and education in driving business success.Powered by Merchtroop.com and seps.io Contact Zack HERE

Episode 98: Stanley / Stella: Redefining Premium Apparel

In this episode, Cole and Gavin welcome Jeremy Morillo from Stanley Stella to discuss the brand's unique approach to sustainable fashion, their entry into the American market, and the challenges and strategies involved. Jeremy shares insights on the importance of quality and sustainability in apparel, the sourcing process of organic cotton, and the evolving trends in the industry. He emphasizes the significance of building relationships with customers and adapting to their needs, as well as the importance of sampling programs to showcase the quality of their garments.Chapters00:00Introduction to Stanley Stella and Inktavo Promotions03:03The Unique Selling Proposition of Stanley Stella05:58Navigating the American Market: Challenges and Strategies08:50Understanding the Customer Base and Market Positioning11:57Sourcing and Sustainability: The Journey from Cotton to T-Shirt15:00Trends in Apparel: Colors, Styles, and Market Adaptation18:01Personal Journey: Transitioning to Stanley Stella20:55Sales Strategies: Building Relationships Over Transactions23:57Sampling Programs and Customer Engagement

Episode 97: Tariffs and Rising Prices in the T-Shirt Industry with Ian from DGI

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Ian Hinckley from DGI Apparel to tackle the tough questions everyone in the custom apparel game is asking. From rising tariffs and supply chain chaos to the tech-driven shakeup in how shops order and operate — Ian breaks it all down.🧵 Hear how DGI evolved from software development into a powerhouse in the print world, and what that journey reveals about the future of our industry. 💰 Learn why understanding market dynamics and pricing strategies isn't just smart — it's survival. 🛠️ Discover how small shops can streamline their operations with automated purchasing, supplier integrations, and smarter buying habits.If you're wondering how to keep your shop competitive, cut through the noise, and actually grow in this unpredictable market — this is the conversation you can't afford to miss.Powered by seps.io and Merch Trooptakeaways DGI Apparel was founded by college roommates with a simple name choice. DGI aims to be a one-stop shop for blank apparel, similar to Expedia for hotels. Tariffs are causing significant uncertainty in the apparel industry. Suppliers are adjusting inventory strategies to mitigate tariff impacts. Hats and bags are expected to face the most significant price increases due to tariffs. Nearshoring is becoming a trend to reduce supply chain risks. U.S. manufacturers may benefit from increased demand as tariffs raise import costs. Pricing dynamics are shifting, with some costs decreasing while others rise. Small shops should explore different pricing tiers to optimize costs. Building a comprehensive marketplace requires significant technical effort and understanding of user needs. We have a high standard for what the shopping experience needs to be like. The autopilot feature will optimize purchasing processes. Building processes and systems is crucial for business growth. Investment decisions can shape the trajectory of a startup. Understanding customer needs is key to product development. Supplier relationships can impact purchasing efficiency. Automation can save time and improve productivity. Scaling requires outreach beyond existing customer networks. Adapting to industry changes is essential for survival. The custom apparel industry is ripe for innovation. Chapters00:00Introduction to DJI Apparel01:43Tariffs and Their Impact on the Apparel Industry06:11Supplier Strategies Amid Tariff Changes11:11Market Trends and Pricing Dynamics17:20Optimizing Pricing for Small Shops22:15Building a Comprehensive Apparel Marketplace23:39Optimizing the Purchasing Experience25:48From Software to Custom Apparel29:57Navigating Investment and Growth34:27Industry Dynamics and Supplier Relationships37:29Enhancing Supplier Integration39:45Scaling from Small to Large BusinesseskeywordsDJI Apparel, tariffs, apparel industry, pricing strategies, supplier relationships, market trends, small business, t-shirt printing, inventory management, apparel marketplace, purchasing experience, automated purchasing, custom apparel, Y Combinator, investment, industry dynamics, supplier relationships, business growth, scaling, efficiency

Episode 96: How to be PROFITABLE and not just busy in your print shop.

In this conversation, Cole Lundstrom, Gavin StGeorges, and Nick Gawreluk discuss the common challenges faced by print shop owners in achieving profitability. They explore the importance of understanding costs, pricing strategies, and the contribution margin as key factors in running a successful printing business. Nick shares insights from his extensive experience in the industry, emphasizing the need for clarity in financial data and the role of software in providing actionable insights. The discussion also touches on the future of data and AI in the printing industry, highlighting the potential for improved decision-making and profitability.Interested in Print Profit?https://www.printprofit.com/colePowered by Seps.io and Merch TroopTakeawaysUnderstanding your costs is fundamental to profitability.Sales figures can be misleading without profit clarity.Contribution margin helps determine the true profitability of jobs.Overhead costs must be factored into pricing strategies.Contract printing can fill capacity but should be evaluated for profitability.Data-driven insights can enhance decision-making in printing businesses.Software tools can provide real-time financial insights.A pricing matrix should be flexible based on market conditions.AI can automate data analysis for better business insights.Team alignment on financial goals is crucial for success.Keywordsprinting, profit, pricing strategies, contribution margin, overhead, contract printing, software, AI, financial insights

Episode 95: Buying or Selling the right machine. Nicole Pape | Embellishr

In this conversation, Nicole Pape shares her extensive journey in the screen printing industry, from her early days reclaiming screens to founding her own business, Embellisher. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in the used equipment market, the importance of understanding equipment valuation, and the nuances of contract work. Nicole emphasizes the need for effective marketing and branding while also highlighting her future plans for the industry, including innovative experiences for clients.Powered by Seps.ioMerchtroop.comTakeawaysNicole started in the screen printing industry at 19.She transitioned from production to real estate before founding Embellisher.Embellisher was born out of a need for better equipment representation.Understanding equipment valuation is crucial for both buyers and sellers.Sellers often overestimate the value of their used equipment.Contract work can be low margin and requires careful management.Effective marketing and branding are essential for business growth.Nicole emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for clients.The used equipment market is complex and requires thorough research.Future plans include innovative experiences and proprietary appraisal software.Keywords:screen printing, equipment valuation, contract work, marketing, branding, Nicole Pape, Embellishr, used equipment market, industry insights, entrepreneurship