Delta Apparel Launches On-Demand Printing Model

Delta Apparel, a top 40 supplier (asi/49172), has increased its digital printing business by adding four high-volume direct to-garment printers and four DTG facilities. It is also collaborating with Fanatics, a global platform for sports merchandise.

Delta Apparel’s DTG2Go business unit has invested in new direct-to-garment technology to meet market demands of Fanatics’ real-time licensed sports merchandise business model.

Duluth, GA-based Delta has installed Polaris machines, a new industrial high-speed DTG system from manufacturer M&R Printing Equipment in four of its DTG2Go centers. The new technology is designed to meet “digital first” market demands of Fanatics’ real-time licensed sports merchandise business model. Custom orders can be manufactured, packaged, and delivered to consumers within 24 hours after receipt of the technology.

“It’s truly been a pleasure working alongside the Fanatics team to combine our prior experiences in systems, technology and apparel to build an integrated process that meets the high quality and repeatability standards that Fanatics’ passionate customer base demands,” said Robert W. Humphreys, chairman and CEO of Delta Apparel.

He added that the new technology significantly increased Delta’s capacity, enabling it to meet high demand for garments after the Los Angeles Rams won the Super Bowl earlier this year. Delta plans to install more equipment this quarter to further expand DTG2Go’s print capacity in preparation for future growth with Fanatics.

“After months of teamwork to develop this integrated process, we’re looking forward to a long-term relationship with Fanatics as they continue to service their markets with excellence,” Humphreys said.

M&R’s new Polaris DTG system is designed to handle an array of automation needs and quality requirements, according to M&R’s website. The machine features an integrated pretreatment system that saves time and minimizes touches. It also has dual digital printing engines for bright colors and multiple heat presses. Flashes are used to create a smooth print surface. It also features a high-definition barcode scanner, which can be customized to integrate with order management systems. This allows you to place orders either locally or remotely.

“The Polaris is the new north star of high-volume direct-to-garment printing, and we were very excited to demonstrate its exceptional throughput that provides a retail-quality product worthy of Fanatics’ standards,” said Danny Sweem, CEO of M&R. “Delta and their DTG2Go team have been great partners throughout the development of the Polaris, and we look forward to strong growth together.”

Delta Apparel is ranked 35 with an estimated North American promotional product revenue of $40.8 Million in 2020.^Th on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry.