In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Ian Hinckley from <a href="https://www.dgiapparel.com/">DGI Apparel</a> to tackle the tough questions everyone in the custom apparel game is asking. From rising tariffs and supply chain chaos to the tech-driven shakeup in how shops order and operate — Ian breaks it all down.🧵 Hear how DGI evolved from software development into a powerhouse in the print world, and what that journey reveals about the future of our industry. 💰 Learn why understanding market dynamics and pricing strategies isn't just smart — it's survival. 🛠️ Discover how small shops can streamline their operations with automated purchasing, supplier integrations, and smarter buying habits.If you're wondering how to keep your shop competitive, cut through the noise, and actually grow in this unpredictable market — this is the conversation you can't afford to miss.Powered by <a href="https://www.seps.io">seps.io</a> and <a href="https://www.merchtroop.com">Merch Troop</a>takeaways<ul>
<li>DGI Apparel was founded by college roommates with a simple name choice.</li>
<li>DGI aims to be a one-stop shop for blank apparel, similar to Expedia for hotels.</li>
<li>Tariffs are causing significant uncertainty in the apparel industry.</li>
<li>Suppliers are adjusting inventory strategies to mitigate tariff impacts.</li>
<li>Hats and bags are expected to face the most significant price increases due to tariffs.</li>
<li>Nearshoring is becoming a trend to reduce supply chain risks.</li>
<li>U.S. manufacturers may benefit from increased demand as tariffs raise import costs.</li>
<li>Pricing dynamics are shifting, with some costs decreasing while others rise.</li>
<li>Small shops should explore different pricing tiers to optimize costs.</li>
<li>Building a comprehensive marketplace requires significant technical effort and understanding of user needs. We have a high standard for what the shopping experience needs to be like.</li>
<li>The autopilot feature will optimize purchasing processes.</li>
<li>Building processes and systems is crucial for business growth.</li>
<li>Investment decisions can shape the trajectory of a startup.</li>
<li>Understanding customer needs is key to product development.</li>
<li>Supplier relationships can impact purchasing efficiency.</li>
<li>Automation can save time and improve productivity.</li>
<li>Scaling requires outreach beyond existing customer networks.</li>
<li>Adapting to industry changes is essential for survival.</li>
<li>The custom apparel industry is ripe for innovation.</li>
</ul>Chapters00:00Introduction to DJI Apparel01:43Tariffs and Their Impact on the Apparel Industry06:11Supplier Strategies Amid Tariff Changes11:11Market Trends and Pricing Dynamics17:20Optimizing Pricing for Small Shops22:15Building a Comprehensive Apparel Marketplace23:39Optimizing the Purchasing Experience25:48From Software to Custom Apparel29:57Navigating Investment and Growth34:27Industry Dynamics and Supplier Relationships37:29Enhancing Supplier Integration39:45Scaling from Small to Large BusinesseskeywordsDJI Apparel, tariffs, apparel industry, pricing strategies, supplier relationships, market trends, small business, t-shirt printing, inventory management, apparel marketplace, purchasing experience, automated purchasing, custom apparel, Y Combinator, investment, industry dynamics, supplier relationships, business growth, scaling, efficiency

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Episode 97: Tariffs and Rising Prices in the T-Shirt Industry with Ian from DGI

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