On demand manufacturing, also known as print on demand or made to order manufacturing, is a production model in which products are only manufactured once an order has been placed, rather than producing a large quantity in advance and storing it in a warehouse. This model has been gaining popularity in the textile industry in India in recent years, as it allows for greater flexibility and efficiency, and reduces the risk of excess inventory.
One of the main benefits of on demand manufacturing in the textile industry is the ability to offer a wider range of products and customize them according to customer preferences. With traditional manufacturing, companies often have to produce a minimum quantity of a particular product in order to justify the cost of production. This can lead to a lack of variety and the risk of excess inventory if the products do not sell as expected. On the other hand, with on demand manufacturing, companies can offer a greater variety of products and customize them according to customer specifications, without having to worry about the risk of excess inventory.
Another benefit of on demand manufacturing is the ability to reduce waste and improve sustainability. Traditional manufacturing often leads to excess inventory, which can result in a large amount of unused materials and finished products. This not only leads to waste, but also increases the cost of storage and handling. On demand manufacturing, on the other hand, allows companies to produce only what is needed, reducing the risk of excess inventory and waste.
There are a number of companies in India that are offering on demand manufacturing in the textile industry, including international players such as Printify and Redbubble, as well as home-grown companies such as Oowia (previously), Printrove, etc. These companies offer a wide range of customizable products, including clothing, accessories, and home decor, which can be designed and ordered online.
One of the challenges facing on demand manufacturing in the textile industry in India is the high cost of shipping, which can be a deterrent for customers located in remote or rural areas. Some companies are addressing this issue by offering free or discounted shipping for orders above a certain value, or by partnering with local couriers to reduce delivery times and costs.
Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for on demand manufacturing in the textile industry in India, as the demand for customized and personalized products continues to grow. As more businesses and individuals embrace the convenience and flexibility of this production model, it is likely that we will see further expansion and innovation in this sector.
