Global printing industry market research leader Keypoint Intelligence has published a market forecast for Direct-To-Garment (DTG) printers for the years of 2021 to 2026. The forecast includes devices used exclusively for DTG printing, covering the range from commercial entry-level desktop devices to industrial, high-volume printers with several platens side-by-side – including toner transfer (EP) printers that are competing in the commercial entry-level sector at a low price point. Direct-To-Film (DTF) placement figures are also included as a separate table in the forecast.
DTG printing is a process of digitally printing on textiles and garments using inkjet technology. Typical solutions include print transport and inkjet deposition elements that, when integrated, provide the ability to print on finished clothing. The 2021 market size for DTG printers was established by gathering placement information from key vendors and by analyzing machine capabilities used in commercial and industrial environments. The forecast to 2026 is based on trends gathered in the marketplace and is broken down by the following regions: Asia Pacific (APAC) Europe Middle East & Africa (EMEA) North America (NA), and South & Latin America (SLA). At the time of data gathering and forecasting, the world had emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic, said the report. However, it added that economic disruption remains as the global economy struggles to restart. Labour shortages, as well as global supply-chain and shipping disruptions, also continue to disrupt supplies of consumables, parts, and garments.
“In 2021, direct-to-garment printing worldwide reached $10.5 billion in print value and is expected to reach $21.3 billion by 2026,” said Johnny Shell, Principal Analyst at Keypoint Intelligence. “Digitally printed garments reached 958 million pieces printed worldwide with a projected CAGR of 16.8% through to 2026.” Some trends noted in the study include workflow automation, which continues to be integrated with online marketplaces (Shopify, Amazon, etc.) and is available from both OEMs and third-party providers ‘clouding’ the competitive landscape. Additionally, the ‘speed gap’ between commercial and industrial mid-level printers is closing, and faster industrial high-level DTG printers now dismiss the notion that “digital is too slow.” Growth in global e-commerce is expected to continue, reaching a 24.5% market share by 2025, and digitally printed apparel continues to trend in the e-commerce direction. The 2021-2026 Direct-to-Garment Market Forecast Report can be purchased separately or as part of a subscription to other research provided by Keypoint Intelligence’s Functional and Industrial Printing Service.
