10 MINUTES ON SUSTAINABILITY WITH CARY SHERBURNE OF WHAT THEY THINK
Debbie McKeegan Talks Textiles Sustainability
Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and CEO of Texintel, shares her thoughts on how digital technologies can help ameliorate the huge sustainability problem facing the textiles and apparel industry, suggesting that coming out of the pandemic, there may be unique opportunities to change operating practices.
Published on July 20, 2020
“The textiles industry is the world’s second largest polluter behind the petroleum industry. And making it more sustainable is closely linked with improving the supply chain. Digital technologies have an important role to play here. From a printing perspective, we are only at about 6.9% of all printed fabrics being printed digitally” - DEBBIE MCKEEGAN | TEXINTEL.
The story of what happens when young designers access digital technology is still being written.
What once was a theoretical sustainability goal seems to have shifted into an active regulatory reality.
Is the Textile Market Finally Recovering?
After a difficult few years, there are genuine reasons for optimism. Duncan was candid about the challenges: "The market for textiles has been very difficult over the last three years. I'm not going to hide the truth there. But the tide is turning.“
A profound shift is currently reshaping the sector
Changing consumer expectations demand greater design diversity, faster turnaround times, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
To thrive, interior brands must adapt their supply chains, bringing production closer to the end consumer and moving away from bulk manufacturing.
Digital textile printing offers a definitive solution to these operational bottlenecks.
Digital transformation doesn't announce itself.
It accumulates - one innovation at a time - until an entire industry looks back and realises the ground has shifted beneath its feet. That's precisely where textiles stands today.
The conversations happening now about AI, automation, sustainability, and digital product passports are not theoretical. They are shaping decisions being made on factory floors and in boardrooms right now.
“By leveraging advanced digital textile printing, Marylene Madou has successfully merged traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Her approach offers a blueprint for how independent designers can scale their brands globally while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.”
From Helsinki's printing mill to Paris's Le Marais, discover how Marimekko is scaling a design-led brand with purpose, craft, and bold innovation.
But what makes Marimekko's story compelling is not just its aesthetic legacy?
The textile industry is undergoing a vital transformation. As the insights from Techtextil and Texprocess reveal, the path forward relies on a combination of sustainable hardware, intelligent chemistry, and seamless digital workflows.
From Zimmer's industrial-scale energy reductions and Stratasys's on-demand 3D embellishments, to Kornit's single-step technical printing and the unified digital ecosystems of NedGraphics and Optitex, the tools for change are here. To stay competitive, brands and manufacturers must adopt these innovations, moving away from fragmented, wasteful processes towards a truly connected, circular economy.
Friedmans stands as a testament to the power of combining traditional textile knowledge with forward-thinking innovation.
“Operating from their UK headquarters, Friedmans now serves a diverse array of sectors, including swimwear, dance, entertainment, sportswear, interior decor, prosthetics, and even pet apparel. With a strategic supply chain that reliably serves clients worldwide”
The apparel decoration industry is decisively moving away from isolated, analogue production tools toward connected digital manufacturing environments.
"Kornit’s unwavering commitment to transformative technology continues to disrupt the status quo. For business leaders and innovators ready to capture the future of apparel manufacturing, the path forward is clear”
The Urgent Need for Sustainability at Scale
The transformation at Coats provides a vital blueprint for the wider textile and apparel sector. True sustainability cannot be achieved in silos. As Dearing emphasised:
“Cross-industry collaboration is the engine of meaningful change. Brands, machinery suppliers, chemical providers, and fibre producers must act as an interconnected ecosystem”
Today’s customers demand superior product quality, real-time data visibility, and lightning-fast turnaround times.
For large-scale garment decorators, managing these expectations while balancing seasonal demand fluctuations - such as the massive surges seen during Black Friday - presents a monumental challenge.
"Relying on transactional vendor relationships and outdated legacy equipment is no longer sufficient to secure long-term stability and growth.”
Printing method is never a secondary detail. It shapes the entire life cycle of a product, from concept to customer. In today’s fashion industry, where margins are tighter and speed matters more than ever, technical knowledge has become a competitive advantage.
“The future of textile design belongs to professionals who can combine creativity with execution, aesthetics with practicality, and vision with production reality”.
Are we witnessing the reinvention of Merch driven by adaptive, digital technologies?
The commercial opportunity presented by printed, personalised merchandise is already a lucrative revenue stream; it is the core driver of growth in a multi-billion-pound industry. And the mandate for print businesses is clear: automate, adapt, and offer undeniable added value, or choose to gradually lose market share.
Powderless DTF is an important area of innovation. It deserves research, investment, and thoughtful development.
“But at its current stage, it often feels like the industry is attempting to commercialize the concept ahead of the underlying chemistry and system readiness”.
All Apparel Manufacturers face an Urgent Mandate: “Automate or be Left Behind”.
Industry leaders like Super Nova Sports and Ryozo International were struggling with severe pre-press bottlenecks and unsustainable fabric waste. By integrating AI Sublimation Software into their workflows, these forward-thinking businesses eliminated manual variable data entry, boosted fabric efficiency to over 80%, and reduced delivery times by more than half, establishing a highly profitable, agile, and environmentally responsible production model.
The Future of Manufacturing belongs to those who Embrace Connected Digital Ecosystems
“Whether you produce garments, car interiors, or home furnishings, the transition from creative concept to production-ready product often remains fragmented. Design teams work tirelessly to develop compelling materials, yet technical teams struggle to interpret these visions without losing data along the way.”
The European digital wallcovering marketplace is expanding at an impressive rate.
“For print professionals and interior designers, this transition presents a distinct set of challenges. Achieving flawless colour consistency, managing complex substrates, and meeting stringent environmental standards are no longer optional extras; they are fundamental requirements for commercial success.”
If you're looking to optimize your website for AI search, hang onto your cowboy hat. It's the Wild West out there. Former (and current) SEO companies see the handwriting on the wall as more search moves from traditional SEO to AEO (answer engine optimisation). Opportunists are popping out of the woodwork.
(There are good options out there, but vet them carefully.)
A swimsuit might start life as a sketch. By the time it reaches the shop floor, dozens of hands have touched it - designers, dye houses, printers, trim manufacturers, quality controllers. Each one interprets colour in their own way, under their own conditions, with their own tools. The result is often a product that looks nothing like the original vision.
The invention, a dark adsorbent material that can be added to wastewater and separated with a magnet, builds on the team’s 2022 breakthrough in microplastics removal, extending performance to much smaller particles and more complex wastewater.
Microplastics are an increasing global concern, with growing evidence of their presence in water systems.
The researchers say the ability to remove micro‑ and nano‑plastics under practical conditions sets this work apart.
Winterthur – Switzerland - July, 2026 – Recycling Powerhouse Ltd. was established in July 2026 to industrialize, standardize and scale textile recycling.
Based in Switzerland, the venture will operate a franchise-driven business model that enables the production of high-quality, certified recycled yarns.
The project is supported by the following partners: Rieter Group, the world’s leading system supplier for natural and man-made fibers, Säntis Textiles, a Swiss textile engineering company, and Valvan, a Belgian sorting technology company.
Singapore, July 2026 – DyStar, a leading specialty chemicals company with more than a century of expertise in product development and innovation, today announced the release of its FY2025 Sustainability Report, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey and reinforcing its commitment to long-term value creation
Germany, France and the Netherlands are advocating coordinated European action against ultra-fast fashion.
The three Member States raised the topic at today’s EU Environment Council in Luxembourg, and called on the European Commission to make existing and planned EU provisions more effective against short-lived, low quality textiles.
Their call was supported by other Member States, including Slovenia and Denmark.
LONDON, June 11: Textile Exchange has published its new polyester Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study, providing robust, accurate, and credible data to strengthen the fashion, textile, and apparel industry’s understanding of the impacts of different types of polyester production.
The study is the second in a series of LCA studies led by Textile Exchange and addresses key gaps and limitations in the LCA data currently available for polyester.
Widnes, Cheshire - 5 June 2026 – On World Environment Day, Roberts Group International has announced a pioneering partnership with St Helens Council, Seamster & Shepherd, and Hope Academy.
The initiative, titled Hope for the Earth: From Reclaimed Textiles to Sustainable Student Fashion Show, empowers students to transform reclaimed textiles into original fashion pieces ahead of a summer showcase event in July.
The collaborative project addresses the urgent need for circularity in the fashion industry by bringing the sustainability message directly into the classroom.
Shenzhen, June 2026 – To address the urgent need for sustainable practices and digital transformation within the global fashion industry, the Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics and Yarn Expo Shenzhen will return from 9 to 11 June 2026.
Held at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center, the event will host over 600 international exhibitors across 45,000 square metres.
The innovative washing process SMART WASH represents a modern, high-performance, and environmentally conscious approach to textile care.
The targeted combination of the products BEIPLEX GREEN, BEICLEAN ECO, BEIPUR ANP, BEIBLEACH WP 35, and BEIACID CIT creates a holistic, sustainable washing and bleaching concept.
Stuttgart, Germany – May 2026 - Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification continued to grow in 2025, with nearly 18,000 certified facilities worldwide, despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and rapidly evolving regulatory requirements across global textile supply chains.
New figures released today in the 2025 Annual Report for Global Standard, the nonprofit that owns and operates GOTS, show that uptake of robust, independently governed sustainability standards remains a priority for companies seeking to manage risk, substantiate claims and meet rising expectations on transparency and due diligence.
Kyocera Document Solutions has highlighted its FOREARTH, a pioneering water-free textile production concept designed to drastically reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
By addressing the critical need for sustainable manufacturing, this innovation sets a new standard for the textile industry, minimising environmental impact while streamlining the entire printing process.
ECCO, in partnership with Spinnova, announces the launch of the limited edition ECCO BIOM® 720, a first-of-its-kind shoe utilising an often overlooked leather by-product, transformed into a protein-based fibre.
The fibres are produced using patented technology that advances material innovation while reducing waste and supporting full resource use across the leather and textile industry.
Newark - Delaware - May 2026 – The global digital textile printing market is set for a substantial transformation, having crossed a valuation of USD 6.1 billion in 2025.
According to recent market forecasts by FMI, the sector is projected to surpass USD 6.6 billion in 2026, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 7.7 per cent.
Driven by the urgent need for sustainable production and fast fashion customisation, the market is on track to reach a total valuation of USD 13.9 billion by 2036.
Cagliari - Italy – May 2026 – To address the escalating crisis of water scarcity in the Mediterranean basin, the Interreg NEXT MED Programme has officially announced the launch of the SWAMED project.
This international initiative introduces smarter irrigation systems and modern agricultural technology to farming communities across the region. By deploying innovative, data-driven solutions, the project seeks to safeguard the future of agriculture in areas where every drop of water is critical for survival and economic stability.
The SWAMED project is spearheaded by the Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" in Italy, operating in close collaboration with a strategic coalition of partners from Tunisia, Egypt, Greece, and Türkiye.
Washington DC - 24 April 2026 – The Bezos Earth Fund has announced a $34 million commitment to advance breakthrough sustainable materials for the global fashion and textile industry.
Working with leading scientists across the United States, these new grants aim to reinvent the fabrics used in everyday clothing, focusing on next-generation materials that replicate the feel of rayon, silk, and cotton while drastically improving upon the environmental impact of conventional manufacturing.
ISTANBUL, Türkiye – April 2026 – In a critical step towards securing a sustainable and ethical future for the global textile industry, Textile Exchange and the Organic Cotton Accelerator have officially announced the comprehensive agenda for the upcoming Organic Cotton Summit.
This vital industry event is scheduled to take place from the 2nd to the 4th of June 2026 at the Istanbul Marriott Hotel Sisli in Türkiye.
By bringing together global stakeholders, the summit aims to urgently address the pressing challenges facing agricultural supply chains and to build organic cotton systems that are resilient, fair, and economically viable for all participants.
Manchester, UK – April 2026 – John Hogg Technical Solutions has announced a strategic minority equity investment in SwitchDye Limited, a University of Leeds spin-out.
This vital partnership aims to rapidly scale SwitchDye's pioneering CO2-responsive, drop-in dyeing system, answering the urgent industry need to significantly reduce chemical intensity, energy use, and water consumption in the dyeing of polyester and other synthetic fibres.
April 2026 - As sustainability expectations rise across the fashion industry, Lectra has announced the publication of a new document aimed at helping brands reduce their environmental impact while remaining competitive.
The newly released insights detail how fashion brands can overcome the four main barriers to sustainable product development, providing the necessary data clarity to make better, environmentally conscious decisions.
London - April 2026 – In a decisive response to the escalating global need for urgent climate action, Ricoh today announced a comprehensive revision of its environmental, social, and governance targets.
Launched as a cornerstone of its fiscal 2026 mid-term strategy, the company is significantly accelerating its efforts to realise a decarbonised society.
By raising its greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals and renewable energy adoption targets, Ricoh is firmly linking sustainable innovation with its global business operations to lead the industry toward a greener future.
The organisation has elevated its fiscal 2030 target for reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from 63 percent to 75 percent, compared with fiscal 2015 levels.
Zhanjiang, China - 26 March 2026 – BASF today announced the official inauguration of its state-of-the-art Verbund production site in Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province.
Covering four square kilometres, this €8.7 billion facility represents a paradigm shift in sustainable chemical manufacturing.
Fully powered by renewable electricity, the site reinforces BASF’s market position in China whilst addressing the urgent global need for decarbonised industrial processes.
Employing over 2,000 people, the Zhanjiang site produces a highly diversified portfolio of basic chemicals, intermediates, and speciality chemicals.
Stockholm – Sweden – March 2026 – The H&M Foundation has announced the launch of a practical, open-source workshop toolkit designed to help organisations across the textile industry apply its innovative System Map.
Introduced earlier in 2024, the System Map is a visual framework that reimagines the fashion industry as an interconnected ecosystem.
Now, this comprehensive toolkit empowers brands, suppliers, policymakers, and investors to turn systemic insights into actionable strategies, identifying crucial leverage points to halve greenhouse gas emissions every decade until 2050 while enabling a just transition.
March 21st 2026 – To mark the International Day of Forests, Lenzing Group has announced its continued and unwavering dedication to global forest conservation and ecological resilience.
As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the company is taking decisive action to ensure that the preservation of healthy forests remains firmly embedded in its sourcing strategy and product innovations.
San Francisco – March 2026– The Apparel Impact Institute (Aii) has today announced the launch of its innovative Energy and Carbon Benchmark.
This vital new tool is designed to provide fashion brands and their global suppliers with a unified reference point for measuring energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across textile manufacturing facilities worldwide.
London – March 2026 – The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) has announced a new collaboration with global non-profit the Soil Health Institute (SHI) and national ag-tech provider Growers Guide to support cotton producers across the United States in strengthening their soil conservation practices.
The partnership will fund intensive on-farm data collection to equip producers with actionable, data-driven insights aimed at improving soil health and reducing chemical inputs.
Amsterdam - March 2026 - Sappi Europe, a leading provider of sustainable paper and packaging solutions, represented the company at this year's AWA Global Release Liner Summit in Amsterdam.
Under the theme of "Innovation and Sustainability," Sappi's Director of Sustainability Sarah Price and Manager of Technology & Development Wolfgang Hoffmann led a well-received session titled "Navigating Sustainability: Accelerating Together."
Nottingham, UK - 6 March 2026 – Worn Again Technologies has announced the start-up of its Textile-to-Fibre Accelerator plant in Winterthur, Switzerland, marking a major step towards commercialising its chemical recycling technology.
The facility provides real-world validation of a process designed to recover and regenerate polyester and cellulose from end-of-life textiles, proving the technical and economic feasibility of polycotton recycling at scale.
Oban – Scotland – February 2026 - OCEANIUM has highlighted OCEAN INK®, the world's first fully biodegradable, water-based ink derived from sustainably farmed seaweed.
This groundbreaking innovation is poised to transform the luxury textile, printing, and packaging industries by offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional harmful inks.
As industries worldwide face mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices, OCEAN INK® addresses a critical gap in the market.
BIRMINGHAM, UK – February 2026– Hollywood Monster, a prominent leader in large format print and signage, has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by aligning its core service offerings with rigorous Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.
The initiative is designed to ensure that bold visual branding supports, rather than hinders, corporate sustainability goals, offering a definitive solution for businesses navigating complex compliance landscapes.
February 2026 – Printful, a leading on-demand printing and fulfilment company, has released comprehensive insights detailing how the shift towards on-demand manufacturing is critical in addressing the fashion industry's contribution to global textile waste.
The company highlights that traditional manufacturing models, which rely on volume-based assumptions, are the primary drivers of the millions of tons of garments sent to landfills annually.
The traditional fashion supply chain is often optimised for speed and volume at the expense of environmental responsibility.
Lenzing / Stockholm, February , 2026 – The Lenzing Group is taking another strategic milestone by acquiring a controlling majority in the Swedish innovation company TreeToTextile AB.
This step strengthens Lenzing’s position as a leading provider of sustainable, wood‑based specialty fibers and expands its innovation pipeline with a highly scalable, patent‑protected technology platform.
The transaction is executed through the issuance of new shares
Eerbeek, February , 2026 – Paper mill Coldenhove in Eerbeek has made a significant investment in sustainability with the purchase of an electric boiler (E-Boiler).
This innovative electric boiler was installed alongside the existing steam boiler, giving Coldenhove a hybrid system for steam generation.
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The story of what happens when young designers access digital technology is still being written.
What once was a theoretical sustainability goal seems to have shifted into an active regulatory reality.
Is the Textile Market Finally Recovering?
After a difficult few years, there are genuine reasons for optimism. Duncan was candid about the challenges: "The market for textiles has been very difficult over the last three years. I'm not going to hide the truth there. But the tide is turning.“
A profound shift is currently reshaping the sector
Changing consumer expectations demand greater design diversity, faster turnaround times, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
To thrive, interior brands must adapt their supply chains, bringing production closer to the end consumer and moving away from bulk manufacturing.
Digital textile printing offers a definitive solution to these operational bottlenecks.
Digital transformation doesn't announce itself.
It accumulates - one innovation at a time - until an entire industry looks back and realises the ground has shifted beneath its feet. That's precisely where textiles stands today.
The conversations happening now about AI, automation, sustainability, and digital product passports are not theoretical. They are shaping decisions being made on factory floors and in boardrooms right now.
“By leveraging advanced digital textile printing, Marylene Madou has successfully merged traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Her approach offers a blueprint for how independent designers can scale their brands globally while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.”
From Helsinki's printing mill to Paris's Le Marais, discover how Marimekko is scaling a design-led brand with purpose, craft, and bold innovation.
But what makes Marimekko's story compelling is not just its aesthetic legacy?
The textile industry is undergoing a vital transformation. As the insights from Techtextil and Texprocess reveal, the path forward relies on a combination of sustainable hardware, intelligent chemistry, and seamless digital workflows.
From Zimmer's industrial-scale energy reductions and Stratasys's on-demand 3D embellishments, to Kornit's single-step technical printing and the unified digital ecosystems of NedGraphics and Optitex, the tools for change are here. To stay competitive, brands and manufacturers must adopt these innovations, moving away from fragmented, wasteful processes towards a truly connected, circular economy.
Friedmans stands as a testament to the power of combining traditional textile knowledge with forward-thinking innovation.
“Operating from their UK headquarters, Friedmans now serves a diverse array of sectors, including swimwear, dance, entertainment, sportswear, interior decor, prosthetics, and even pet apparel. With a strategic supply chain that reliably serves clients worldwide”
The apparel decoration industry is decisively moving away from isolated, analogue production tools toward connected digital manufacturing environments.
"Kornit’s unwavering commitment to transformative technology continues to disrupt the status quo. For business leaders and innovators ready to capture the future of apparel manufacturing, the path forward is clear”
The Urgent Need for Sustainability at Scale
The transformation at Coats provides a vital blueprint for the wider textile and apparel sector. True sustainability cannot be achieved in silos. As Dearing emphasised:
“Cross-industry collaboration is the engine of meaningful change. Brands, machinery suppliers, chemical providers, and fibre producers must act as an interconnected ecosystem”
Today’s customers demand superior product quality, real-time data visibility, and lightning-fast turnaround times.
For large-scale garment decorators, managing these expectations while balancing seasonal demand fluctuations - such as the massive surges seen during Black Friday - presents a monumental challenge.
"Relying on transactional vendor relationships and outdated legacy equipment is no longer sufficient to secure long-term stability and growth.”
Printing method is never a secondary detail. It shapes the entire life cycle of a product, from concept to customer. In today’s fashion industry, where margins are tighter and speed matters more than ever, technical knowledge has become a competitive advantage.
“The future of textile design belongs to professionals who can combine creativity with execution, aesthetics with practicality, and vision with production reality”.
Are we witnessing the reinvention of Merch driven by adaptive, digital technologies?
The commercial opportunity presented by printed, personalised merchandise is already a lucrative revenue stream; it is the core driver of growth in a multi-billion-pound industry. And the mandate for print businesses is clear: automate, adapt, and offer undeniable added value, or choose to gradually lose market share.
Powderless DTF is an important area of innovation. It deserves research, investment, and thoughtful development.
“But at its current stage, it often feels like the industry is attempting to commercialize the concept ahead of the underlying chemistry and system readiness”.
All Apparel Manufacturers face an Urgent Mandate: “Automate or be Left Behind”.
Industry leaders like Super Nova Sports and Ryozo International were struggling with severe pre-press bottlenecks and unsustainable fabric waste. By integrating AI Sublimation Software into their workflows, these forward-thinking businesses eliminated manual variable data entry, boosted fabric efficiency to over 80%, and reduced delivery times by more than half, establishing a highly profitable, agile, and environmentally responsible production model.
The Future of Manufacturing belongs to those who Embrace Connected Digital Ecosystems
“Whether you produce garments, car interiors, or home furnishings, the transition from creative concept to production-ready product often remains fragmented. Design teams work tirelessly to develop compelling materials, yet technical teams struggle to interpret these visions without losing data along the way.”
The European digital wallcovering marketplace is expanding at an impressive rate.
“For print professionals and interior designers, this transition presents a distinct set of challenges. Achieving flawless colour consistency, managing complex substrates, and meeting stringent environmental standards are no longer optional extras; they are fundamental requirements for commercial success.”
If you're looking to optimize your website for AI search, hang onto your cowboy hat. It's the Wild West out there. Former (and current) SEO companies see the handwriting on the wall as more search moves from traditional SEO to AEO (answer engine optimisation). Opportunists are popping out of the woodwork.
(There are good options out there, but vet them carefully.)
A swimsuit might start life as a sketch. By the time it reaches the shop floor, dozens of hands have touched it - designers, dye houses, printers, trim manufacturers, quality controllers. Each one interprets colour in their own way, under their own conditions, with their own tools. The result is often a product that looks nothing like the original vision.
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In this podcast episode, James Watson, Managing Director of Surface Print, discussed the evolution of his fourth-generation family business in Lancashire.
Surface Print combines traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation- investing £2 million in a hybrid rotary screen Gravure machine and £600,000 in new HP digital printers.
The company achieved ISO 14001 accreditation, introduced solar panels, and plans to install a new boiler and water recirculation system. Watson emphasised the importance of balancing traditional techniques with modern technologies to maintain quality and sustainability. The company also leverages AI for efficiency and marketing, while maintaining a family-oriented work culture.
Listen to learn more >>
From Dongles to Digital: Future‑Proof Licensing for Global Creative Teams
Host Debbie McKeegan talks with NedGraphics President Frank Maeder and 10Duke CEO Neil Fenton about the shift from hardware dongles to secure, user‑centric cloud licensing.
They discuss how this transition reduces friction for designers, supports hybrid and global workflows, strengthens security and resilience, and even contributes to sustainability by eliminating physical keys and their shipping footprint.
If you’re in fashion, design, CAD/CAM, or any creative production environment and want to future‑proof your software delivery, this discussion is packed with insight and real‑world examples.
Listen to learn more >>
In this insightful interview, Dave Conner, Director of Product Marketing at Stahls and Fulfill Engine, shares his journey into the textile industry.
The commercial opportunity presented by printed, personalised merchandise is already a lucrative revenue stream; it is the core driver of growth in a multi-billion-pound industry. And the mandate for print businesses is clear: automate, adapt, and offer undeniable added value, or choose to gradually lose market share.
This is not merely a shift in consumer demand; it is the fundamental evolution of the printed surface. By leveraging adaptive manufacturing, 3D added value, and sustainable surface effects, digital printers can secure their future by offering unique print applications across apparel, interior décor, accessories, and bespoke objects.
Discover how automation, materials, and community collaboration are shaping the future of on-demand garment decoration and fulfilment.
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast episode, Ulrich Scherbel, CEO of AMSilk, discusses the innovative production of bioengineered spider silk protein and its applications in the textile industry, going far beyond fibre and with the power to radically transform inks and chemistry.
He explains the challenges of scaling up production, the importance of sustainability, and how AMSilk's technology can significantly reduce carbon emissions. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in protein bioengineering and the future vision for transforming the textile supply chain through collaboration and innovation.
Listen to learn more >>
In this insightful interview, Jon Bailey, COO of Precision Proco, shares his journey into the print industry, leadership philosophy, and how embracing change and innovation has shaped his success.
Discover practical lessons on building a resilient business, nurturing talent, and leveraging AI for future growth.
Listen to learn more >>
In this conversation, Meike Nieuwenhuis shares her multifaceted approach to fashion design, emphasising the importance of collaboration, upcycling, and engaging with cultural heritage.
She discusses her experiences with digital printing and the Epson Innovation day at the NautaSign micro-factory, highlighting the need for sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Listen to learn more >>
In this episode, MeiLin Wan, founder of GenuTrace, discusses the critical importance of traceability in the textile industry, particularly in light of increasing regulations and consumer expectations. With nearly a billion pounds of materials tracked under her leadership, MeiLin emphasises the shift from marketing claims to scientifically substantiated proof of sustainability. She highlights the need for both physical and digital verification methods, such as DNA testing and isotope analysis, to ensure that products are ethically sourced and compliant with regulations like the UFLPA. The conversation also touches on the evolving relationships between manufacturers and retailers, the challenges of integrating new technologies, and the necessity of transparency throughout the supply chain.
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast, we explore the innovative world of sustainable inks with Punch Perrasin, founder of GrowInk and a 2025 graduate of Central St.Martins, London.
The conversation delves into the environmental challenges posed by traditional inks and how GrowInk’s research is redefining the printing industry with biodegradable inks derived from natural sources. Punch shares his journey from studying Material Fusion at Central Saint Martins to developing inks that not only provide colour but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration between science and design, the challenges faced in research, and the potential for a shift in consumer perception towards temporary inks. Ultimately, the podcast emphasises the need for a more sustainable approach to printing and the role of the next generation in driving this change.
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast episode, Carry Somers discusses her book, 'The Nature of Fashion,' which explores the deep connections between fashion, nature, and sustainability. She emphasises the importance of understanding fashion's botanical past to envision a more sustainable future. The conversation delves into the impact of natural fibres, the exploitation within the fashion industry, and the lessons we can learn from history. Carry shares inspiring stories of individuals working to revive traditional textile practices and highlights the need for a balance between modern innovation and ancient wisdom. Ultimately, she calls for a shift in perspective, urging listeners to see the deeper connections behind the materials we use in fashion.
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Frank Maeder, president of NedGraphics and Optitex to discuss the latest 2026 software release and its significance in the textile design industry.
They explore the importance of software updates, the integration of AI in design tools, and the introduction of new features like AI-assisted tagging and colourway generation.
The conversation also delves into realism and simulation in textile design, highlighting the launch of the OPTINED Academy for training users on these advanced tools. Overall, the episode emphasises the need for continuous adaptation and learning in a rapidly evolving industry.
Listen to learn more >>
In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Lisbeth Lyons Black, the director of the Women in Print Alliance, about the organisation's mission to support women in the printing industry.
They discuss the challenges women face, the importance of community and networking, and the various educational programs offered to empower women.
The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and AI on the workforce, the need for continuous learning, and the future initiatives of the Women in Print Alliance.
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews David Williamson, CEO at Modern Meadow, discussing the revolutionary advancements in biomaterials and their impact on sustainable textiles. They explore the concept of bio-design, the innovative production processes of Innovera, and how these materials compare to traditional leather. The conversation also delves into the sustainability challenges facing the textile industry, the role of luxury brands in adopting biomaterials, and the importance of trust and transparency in the supply chain. Williamson shares insights on the future of biomaterials, emphasising the need for scalable production and circularity in material design.
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews the design team from Mini Moderns, Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire.
They discuss their journey from branding to product design, the evolution of their product offerings, and their creative process.
The conversation also touches on the challenges faced in the design industry, the importance of colour and pattern, the impact of digital technology on their work, and the significance of strong manufacturing relationships.
They share valuable advice for aspiring designers and look ahead to future collections and celebrations for their 20th anniversary.
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews the inventor Cam Myers the founder of CreateMe
A technology company focused on automating the assembly of apparel using adhesive technology. They discuss the challenges in the apparel industry, including the skills gap, labour availability, and the inefficiencies of traditional sewing methods.
Cam explains how their innovative approach not only improves efficiency but also addresses sustainability concerns.
The conversation explores the future of automated apparel production, the role of robotics, and how automation can enhance creative design in the fashion industry.
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews Marta Naranowicz, the creative director at Caro and online brand Feeby based in Poland. Together they explore the evolution of digital wall coverings, and the impact of the latest technologies alongside AI creativity for the printing industry. Marta shares insights on sustainability, customisation, and the importance of innovation in design, as well as offering practical advice for designers and brands looking to expand into the lucrative wall coverings marketplace.
In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, Brooke Roberts-Islam, and Anja Sadock discuss the critical topic of compliance in the fashion industry, focusing on the increasing number of regulations and the importance of data management in ensuring compliance. They explore the challenges faced by smaller businesses in navigating these regulations and highlight the opportunities that arise from embracing compliance as a positive step forward.
The discussion emphasises the need for a structured approach to data collection and the importance of mapping supply chains to improve transparency and accountability.
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews Kate Hills, founder of Make It British, discussing the state of UK manufacturing, particularly in the fashion and textile industry. They explore the Leicester Made event, the challenges faced by fashion manufacturers in Leicester, the importance of local production, and the need for a national campaign to promote 'Made in Britain'. The conversation highlights the benefits of choosing UK manufacturers, the issues of onshoring, and the necessity for a fairer industry that values Quality over Quantity.
In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, Fespa Textile Ambassador and Mike Scrutton of Adobe discuss the latest innovations in textile printing, focusing on Adobe's PDF print engine 7 update and its impact on the industry. They explore the challenges of colour management, the importance of automation, and the future of on-demand manufacturing and personalisation in textile printing. The discussion also highlights the need for better visualisation tools to meet customer expectations and the potential for exciting advancements in the field. Listen to learn more…
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Guy Yaniv, President of EMEA at Kornit Digital about the future of personalised fashion.
They discuss the shift in consumer demand towards individuality and self-expression, the technological advancements in garment decoration, and the impact of their Apollo technology on production processes. The conversation highlights the importance of agility in the apparel industry and the need for organisations to adapt to changing market demands. They also explore the challenges of digital transformation and the role of technology in empowering creativity within the fashion ecosystem...
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews Suzi Ward, the Managing Director of Fespa UK, discussing the evolution of the association, its role in supporting the print industry, and the importance of community engagement.
They explore the growth of membership, sustainability initiatives, and the Next Generation programs aimed at engaging youth in the industry.
The conversation highlights the challenges faced by small businesses, the need for government support, and the significance of networking within the print community.
Suzi emphasises the mantra of making a difference in all initiatives and the importance of collaboration for the future of the industry.”
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan talks with Michael Mayr, a co-founder of Silana a Robotic sewing technology company based in Vienna, Austria.
Michael discusses the challenges and innovations in the textile industry, particularly focusing on robotic sewing and automated, sustainable production. He shares insights from his background in fashion, the need for automation, and the role of AI in revolutionising garment manufacturing.
The conversation highlights:
The importance of nearshoring production,
The challenges faced in the industry, and
The vision for a more sustainable future in fashion…
Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan and April Holyome – head of Product at the luxury Italian brand 16Arlington discuss the evolving landscape of fashion at the Epson Textile Academy. They focus on sustainability, career paths, and the importance of understanding the supply chain. April shares her journey from a print graduate to head of product at 16 Arlington, emphasising the need for creativity and business acumen in the fashion industry. They explore the significance of internships, the role of sustainability in design, and the importance of confidence and knowledge in navigating the fashion world. Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan and Bobby Grauf discuss the rise of product personalisation in the printing industry and the software that enables on-demand customisation. They explore how consumer demand for personalised products has surged and how this trend is reshaping market opportunities and the software the print industry must invest in to meet expectations.
The conversation delves into the importance of technology in enhancing customer experiences and the role of AI in streamlining the personalisation process. Bobby shares insights on how businesses can leverage these trends to create unique offerings and improve customer satisfaction. The discussion also highlights the importance of optimising production and fulfillment processes to meet customer expectations in the evolving printing industry. Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan hosts a roundtable discussion with Guy Alroy of Early.Vision, Oliver Mustoe Playfair of Prinfab and Phil McMullin of Epson UK. Their discussion explores the paradigm shift in the fashion industry from fast fashion to personalised fashion, highlighting the challenges, solutions, and benefits for the manufacturing community. Looking at all aspects of production to share their knowledge and expertise on how automation software in tandem with smart technology offers a solid solution for optimised apparel manufacture.Experts from Printfab, Epson, and Early Vision share insights on the role of technology, sustainability, and the future of apparel production. Listen to learn more >>
“In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Michael Chramtchenko, Chief of Staff - Sales and Marketing at Fiery. They discuss the company's innovative software solutions for the print industry, particularly in garment decoration. They explore the disruption caused by direct-to-film technologies, the importance of colour management, and the future potential of automation and AI in print technology. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in on-demand apparel production and the evolving landscape of the textile industry…Listen to learn more >>
“In this engaging conversation, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Kathryn Sanders, founder of Western Sensibility, about her journey in the textile and digital printing industry. They discuss the innovative services offered to the interior design industry by Western Sensibility, including custom printing for various materials, the launch of their Innovation Lab, and their commitment to sustainability. Kathryn shares her passion for democratising design, the evolution of textiles and wallcoverings, and the importance of creative collaborations. The conversation concludes with insights into the future aspirations of Western Sensibility and the exciting projects on the horizon”.
In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Frank Maeder, president of NedGraphics and Optitex, discussing the evolution of textile design, the integration of technology, and the importance of sustainability. They explore how designers' roles have changed, the impact of digital tools like NedHub and their latest software release, plus the necessity of partnerships in the industry. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in design and the need for seamless workflows to enhance creativity and efficiency. Listen to learn more >>
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews Viktor Lazzeri, COO of Barbieri Electronic, to discuss the critical role of spectrophotometers in achieving colour accuracy in digital printing. They explore the science behind colour measurement, the importance of consistency, and the challenges of matching colours across different materials. Viktor shares insights on minimising waste and reducing reprints through effective process control, emphasising the need for standards and colour accuracy in the printing industry.” Listen to learn more >>
"In this podcast we meet Adam Root, founder of Matter Industries and his innovation Regen™ , a capture technology to remove microfibres from the textile manufacturing process for the benefit of human and environmental health. We also meet Lewis Shuler of Paradise Textiles who are collaborating on research and the application of Matter’s technology for textile manufacturing. The retrofittable technology reduces microfibre emissions and operating costs for textile factories, offering a scalable solution for the industry. Backed by Regeneration.VC - the Leonardo DiCaprio supported climate tech fund – with the announcement made at its Annual Meeting during New York Climate Week. The first installation is planned at Paradise Textiles’ sustainable textile facility in Egypt by Q4 2025.”
"In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Francesco Nozza, the business development manager at Epson Italia, together they discuss the future of industrial direct to textile printing. They explore key market insights for Autumn 2024, the impact of e-commerce on fashion and sportswear, and the innovative solutions Epson offers to meet the changing demands of the textile industry. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability, the shift from traditional to digital printing, and the advancements in Epson's Monna Lisa suite of machines. " Listen to learn more >>
TexIntel CEO talks Design + Digital Print in a Personalised World
TexIntel CEO Debbie McKeegan, talks Design and Digital Print in a Personalised World...at the Fespa Uk Textile Conference 2018
Talking Textiles, as an Award Winning Designer and Digital Print Expert, Debbie shares a unique insight through the advent of Digital Print, our Need for Speed, Design process, Automation, New Markets, and how you meet the Expectations of your Client....across multiple industries.