TEXINTEL LIVE INTERVIEW - FESPA Barcelona: How TidyMerch Doubled Revenue with Gelato Connect - We interview Charlie Saunders

Debbie McKeegan, FESPA Textile Ambassador, interviews Charlie Saunders, founder of Tidy Merch, a Swedish print-on-demand company that has transformed its business by shifting from hardware to smart software with Gelato Connect.

Discover how they doubled revenue, kept their team intact, and improved work-life balance by investing in integrated production software instead of more machines.

Watch to learn more >>


KEY TAKEAWAYS

Software over more machines

Tidy Merch started like many print shops—buying multiple machines (mug press, screen print, DTG, sticker machine) and struggling to keep up.

The turning point came when they stopped focusing on new hardware and started investing in software, treating software like a core production asset rather than an add-on.

Gelato Connect as a growth catalyst

After engaging with Gelato in 2022 and implementing Gelato Connect in 2024, Tidy Merch saw exponential growth.

The platform unified their key decoration techniques—sublimation, embroidery, DTG, and DTF—under one system.

One connected system for the entire workflow

Tidy Merch now runs one system for all staff and all processes—shipping, picking, quality control, and production.

This replaced fragmented, legacy setups (multiple apps and windows) and created a more efficient, agile, and profitable operation.

Doubling revenue without layoffs

They currently employ six people and haven’t laid off anyone after introducing more automation and software.

Instead, they doubled revenue with the same headcount, improving staff financial wellbeing, working hours, and work health.

Technology as an investment in people, not a threat

While many fear AI and automation, Tidy Merch shows that with a curious, growth-minded workforce, software can enhance jobs rather than replace them.

Modern, integrated tools have allowed the team to expand their skills, maintain a healthier work-life balance, and build a strong, positive company culture.



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