The Future of DTF

In recent years, DTF (direct-to-film) technology has rapidly developed, characterized by high cost-effectiveness, versatility, and recognized durability of printed designs. DTF printing has gained increasing attention in the textile printing industry.

From April 16th to 17th, 2024, the virtual event Innovate: Direct-to-Film Printing, organized by WTiN (World Textile Information Network), was held. Allen Liu, General Manager of Hanrun Paper, was invited to participate. During the event, Allen shared Hanrun Paper's commitment to sustainable production management philosophy and experience, introduced innovative DTF apparel decoration solutions, and discussed with industry professionals the influencing factors and development directions of the industry's future.

The conference mainly discussed the following topics:

Development and Market Potential of DTF Technology

It is well-known that in the past, the digital printing industry was dominated by traditional methods such as dye-sublimation printing, screen printing, and DTG printing. However, with the emergence of DTF, this situation has changed. Direct-to-film (DTF) printing is almost suitable for any fiber type, including polyester and blends. Experts indicate that it also offers convenience, requiring no pretreatment or weeding, and is widely applicable, economically efficient, and easy to use. DTF printing is also recognized for its durability, making it one of the most exciting developments in the digital textile printing market in recent years. While initially gaining attention in China, it has become increasingly popular in Europe and North America since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Allen pointed out that DTF coexists with other printing technologies, each serving different purposes based on order size and quality requirements. He stated, "DTF is a very new technology," and "it appears to be growing rapidly, but in reality, its market share in the digital textile printing field is still small." With the rise of online shopping and the impact of COVID-19, there has been a significant shift in consumer demand towards smaller orders and increased demand for faster delivery. This has led to the rapid adoption of DTF technology, as it offers a cheaper, simpler, and quicker way to produce custom products such as T-shirts. He believes that DTF will continue to grow in the next three years.

Growth Potential of DTF

According to the Global Outlook and Forecast for the Direct-to-Film Printing Market report for 2024-2030, the entire DTF printer market reached $353.7 million in 2023 and is projected to reach $627.8 million by 2030, with an overall growth rate of 8.6% from 2023 to 2030. Another important statistic is the forecasted global CAGR of DTF machine numbers from 2022 to 2027, with SLA (Latin America) reaching 10.2%, NA (North America) reaching 14.7%, EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) reaching 13.3%, and AP (Asia Pacific) reaching 12.2%. In summary, the entire DTF technology and market remain a blue ocean, requiring collective efforts and progress.

DTF printing is almost suitable for any fiber type, including polyester and blends. It also offers convenience, requiring no pretreatment or weeding, and is widely applicable, economically efficient, and easy to use. DTF solutions are economically efficient and widely applicable; they are very suitable for printing promotional items, novelty clothing, workwear, and personalized clothing. Additionally, it provides an innovative business model, as mentioned by Gabriela at the conference, where you can sell not only the printed apparel but also the transfer itself. Small businesses such as e-commerce stores have already implemented this technology to leverage on-demand printing models. The flexibility of DTF printing technology demonstrates its enormous potential for future development.

From Hanrun Paper's sales data, it is evident that there is enormous potential in the European and American markets. Environmental protection is a global focus. To address the issue of dust inhalation harmful to humans, all our EVO series machines are equipped with built-in circulation systems. The EVO series has been well-received in the European and American markets.

Additionally, we have a technical team providing on-site machine maintenance services for the European and American markets, conducting on-site visits for customers, and closely monitoring customer experiences. More importantly, we have embarked on the path of localization to make DTF consumer purchases more convenient. Currently, DTF is gradually moving towards industrial printing to meet the needs of different groups.

Future Business Models, Technological Innovations, and Market Trends

Regarding future development issues, participants reached a consensus on the direction of "more automation and industrialization." DTF technology has been around for several years and is an evolving technology. To achieve sustainable growth, technology must continue to develop, increase productivity, and attract a broader customer base. Currently, many manufacturers are attempting this.?Although some technologies are still facing challenges, such as innovative powder-free DTF solutions, inks, and more automated equipment, this is still our common development goal.?Axel also emphasized that "the textile industry is a very price-driven market". Addressing the technological issues of automation and industrialization would be more conducive to reducing production costs and increasing production efficiency.

Allen introduced Hanrun Paper's DTF industrial application solution, the EVO A-1200 series DTF printer, which can print a width of 1.2 meters, equipped with 5 Epson i3200 printheads, and a printing speed of up to 50 square meters per hour. He believes that entering industrial applications with DTF requires not only high-production printers but also a high-speed automated workflow, including rapid heat pressing after printing and automation of garment packaging, which are essential issues.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of environmental protection in future development. Apart from protecting the natural environment, issues related to protecting the work environment and employee health should not be overlooked. The integration of purification systems is considered a solution to maintaining worker welfare.

Regarding the development of the DTF market in the next 5 to 10 years, Allen believes that several factors will contribute to future growth, including existing printers and customers, increasing awareness and adoption of DTF technology, the entry of major brands into the market, and the importance of a good business model for success. He emphasized the need for collaboration among global industry participants to make DTF technology successful.

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