Embracing Sustainable Textile Printing Innovation ─ Friedmans in Paris with Epson
At Friedmans, staying at the forefront of digital textile printing means continuously seeking out the latest advancements in technology.
As part of this commitment, we recently had the privilege of joining Epson in Paris during Haute Couture Fashion Week for an exclusive two-day event showcasing the future of sustainable textile printing.
The visit was hosted by Epson’s Head of Sales for the UK, Phil McMullin, and provided valuable insights into the company’s ongoing technological innovations, particularly in the textile space.
The agenda featured a private demonstration of the Monna Lisa digital textile printer a revolutionary machine that combines precision, efficiency, and sustainability.
This direct-to-fabric printer reflects a vision of streamlined manufacturing with significantly reduced water and energy consumption, supporting our shared goal of lowering environmental impact in the textile industry.
From the showroom tour to the backstage experience at Yuima Nakazato’s couture show, every moment reinforced Epson’s commitment to what they call Monozukuri the art and science of manufacturing.
This philosophy, rooted in craftsmanship and continual improvement, aligns strongly with our own values at Friedmans.
The trip also spotlighted Epson’s Heat-Free Technology and innovations such as the Eco-Tank and Paper-Lab solutions that illustrate a future where high-performance digital printing and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
Notably, Epson has pledged 100 billion yen over the next decade to develop technologies that reduce carbon emissions and enable resource recycling.
We were especially inspired by the “Waterways” sustainable fashion campaign, which brought attention to the critical need for change in the fashion industry.
With fashion waste projected to reach 134 million tonnes by 2030, it’s never been more urgent to embrace digital, localised, and eco-conscious solutions
As we return from Paris, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose.
At Friedmans, we remain dedicated to integrating the most advanced, sustainable practices into our offering, ensuring that we not only meet the demands of today’s fashion industry but also contribute meaningfully to its future.
Looking to innovate your textile production?
Discover how Friedmans can support your journey with state-of-the-art, sustainable custom fabric printing solutions tailored to your creative and commercial goals.
Together with partners like Epson, we continue to move forward embracing change, championing innovation, and designing with conscience.
About Friedmans
Our story began in 1962, Rose Friedman started trading as a wholesaler of general household fabrics.
In 1989, under new leadership, we made a bold pivot toward stretch fabrics, a move that would go on to help revolutionise the UK stretch fabric market.
Based in the UK, we specialise in high-performance materials including spandex, Lycra, nylon, and polyester elastane — fabrics trusted by top brands across swimwear, dancewear, gymnastics, and active sportswear industries.
Driven by a passion for innovation, we continue to invest in advanced textile technologies and skilled personnel.
From state-of-the-art inkjet printing for fabric to the latest CAD/CAM systems, our digital tools allow us to create precise, vibrant, and fully custom fabric designs.
At the heart of everything we do is a customer-first mindset. We’re responsive, collaborative, and committed to helping you bring your creative vision to life — without ever compromising on quality.
Whether you're looking for premium stretch fabric solutions or industry-leading digital fabric printing services, Friedmans is your trusted partner.
