problems with print on demand

Print on demand has become an intriguing production & distribution option for many startup brands, it promises a faster, cheaper & easier method of entry into clothing “production”, however it comes with a lot of negatives.

Before opting for this method, consider the following downsides.

PRINT QUALITY

Often times, print on demand services offer relatively cheap graphic printing methods in order to cut cost & achieve fast turnaround on orders, neglecting the quality which should be prioritized for any brand.

CHEAP BLANKS

Typically, print on demand services offer very cheap quality blank garment options to print on, which means your brand will be offering the same cheap garments to customers, which will inevitably be disappointing & lead to negative brand reputation.

LACK OF USP

One of the most important unique selling propositions for a clothing brand is the identity of design including garment fit, colors, labels, etc.

When you opt for print on demand services, you will be using only the blanks which they offer.

What this means is, the fit & colors of the garments you offer will also be offered by every other brand that is using the print on demand service, and therefore you will not stand out from generic market competition.

SHIPPING PROBLEMS

Most print on demand options today also offer shipping direct from their production facility to your customer, as a way of enticing startup brands.

The problem is, typically print on demand facilities choose the cheapest shipping services possible in order to cut cost, resulting in your customers being disappointed by untimely deliveries.

CONCLUSION

These are only a few of the problems we see with the print on demand method, however they often result in high return rates from disappointed customers based on the quality of the product or their overall experience, therefore we don’t recommend this method to anyone who is serious about creating a successful brand, as the customization & quality of the garments is essential to creating a unique identity.

As with anything in this industry, what you put in is what you get out & choosing cheap methods to cut cost will only return cheap results.