Manchester-based Clothes2order has strategically invested £250,000, marking a significant leap in its growth trajectory. This substantial investment underlines the company’s commitment to enhancing production capabilities and meeting rising demand.
Expansion in Workforce and Machinery
Clothes2order has significantly boosted its operational capacity by investing in new machinery and expanding its workforce with 20 additional production positions. This expansion brings the total employee count to 140, reflecting the company’s response to escalating market demands.
The investment includes acquiring state-of-the-art embroidery and vinyl printing machines. Additionally, the company will upgrade its current direct-to-garment printing equipment, further enhancing the quality and speed of their services.
This strategic move is a response to an increasing demand for bespoke clothing, particularly in workwear for industries such as hospitality, construction, and leisure.
Leadership Perspective
Managing Director Sam Jones has emphasized the importance of this investment in maintaining the company’s industry leadership. “The extra capacity and staff numbers enable us to keep pace with the rapid increase in demand we are experiencing,” Jones stated.
Jones also highlighted the swift evolution of the company, noting, “It took a decade for the business to produce one million logos, and now we are printing or embroidering over a million designs each year.
The focus on innovation and continuous investment in the latest equipment positions Clothes2order at the forefront of the customised apparel industry.
Global Reach and Clientele
With a service reach extending to over 35 countries, Clothes2order caters to a diverse range of clients.
Their clientele includes small businesses, charities, and notable multinational corporations like Google, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft.
This diverse client base underscores the company’s capability to deliver at scale while maintaining quality.
Financial Milestones and Growth
The £250,000 investment is part of a larger growth strategy that has seen the company invest £1.5 million over the past four years. This level of investment showcases the company’s robust financial health and strategic planning, aimed at sustaining long-term growth.
Clothes2order, a key segment of the Quayside Group, is on track to achieve a record turnover exceeding £12 million for 2017, up from £10.7 million the previous year.
Technological Advancements
Continual investment in cutting-edge machinery ensures Clothes2order remains competitive in terms of speed, flexibility, and quality.
The recent acquisitions include the latest embroidery and vinyl printing machines, which enhance the vibrancy and durability of printed designs.
Upgrading existing direct-to-garment equipment further ensures that the company meets customer expectations with precision and efficiency.
Market Demand and Industry Trends
The demand for workwear is particularly strong in sectors like hospitality and construction, influencing market trends towards customised apparel.
Embroidery on caps is noted to be especially popular, indicating a shift in customer preferences.
This ongoing trend highlights the opportunity for further growth and innovation within specialised sectors.
Strategic Outlook
Looking ahead, Clothes2order is poised to leverage its enhanced capacity to capture new markets and expand its client base further.
The proactive approach in updating technology and expanding the workforce aligns with market trends and competitive dynamics.
Clothes2order’s significant investment underscores its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the global apparel industry. By enhancing production capabilities and expanding its workforce, the company is well-positioned for continued growth and success.
