The market size of direct to garment printing is expected to reach USD 873.5 million in 2025 and is further expected to increase to up to USD 1,343.6 million by 2035. Sales are expected to surge at 4.4% CAGR over the forecast period between 2025 and 2035. Revenue from direct to garment printing was valued at USD 847.3 million in the year 2024.
The direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is one of the most used printing methods for clothing and apparel, as it allows you to create colorful and detailed designs without any setup costs. This allows to customize, small-lot production and ensures a soft fabric feel. DTG is best for cotton, and it is incredibly durable with great color accuracy, making it a top choice for fashion brands and print-on-demand stores.
Hence, on account of these suitable benefits of direct to garment printing for clothing & apparels, the clothing & apparels sector is anticipated to hold a market share of over 57% in the end use segment over the forecast period.
Direct to Garment Printing Industry Forecast
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 873.5 Million |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 1,343.6 Million |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.4% |
Reactive ink is the most commonly used ink for direct-to-garment printing as it chemically bonds with natural fibers, resulting in long-lasting prints with vibrant colors. It penetrates the fibers deep down, improving wash resistance and softness. Printers prefer reactive ink for its superior colorfastness and high-definition detailing on cotton garments. Therefore, reactive ink will capture a significant share of more than 56% in the upcoming years.
The market for direct to garment printing will grow with promising opportunities during the forecast period. The market will provide an incremental opportunity of USD 496.3 million during the forecasted period, and it will be increased 1.6 times the current value by 2035.
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The below table presents the expected CAGR for the global direct to garment printing market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 1.7% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 3.2% (2024 to 2034) |
| H1 | 3.0% (2025 to 2035) |
| H2 | 4.3% (2025 to 2035) |
In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2024 to 2034, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 1.7%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 3.2% in the second half (H2) of the same decade.
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2025 to H2 2035, the CAGR is projected to decrease slightly to 3.0% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 4.3% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed a decrease of 130 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of 110 BPS.
Rising Demand for Personalized Clothing & Apparels Fuels Demand for DTG Printing
The global direct-to-garment (DTG) printing market is largely driven by changes in consumer preferences for personalized and customized apparel. This technology allows brands, businesses, and independent creators to make unique, high-quality designs on demand without the need for excess inventory. E-commerce platforms, social media and digital design tools have made it easier for customers to request custom prints - adding to the appeal of DTG’s flexibility.
DTG is used by small businesses and start-ups to provide single and short-run printing to satisfy demand of niche markets with quick turnaround times. Fashion-savvy consumers are looking for exclusive, limited-edition designs, increasing adoption even more. And as the need for self-expression via clothing increases, DTG printing will further increase, being scalable and cost-effective for the personalized apparel on-demand industry around the globe.
Increased Demand for DTG Printing for Custom and Limited Edition Home Décor Designs
The majority of interior design studios utilize DTG printing for the production of small order fabric prints on upholstery, decorative fabrics, and wall hanging. DTG allows designers to create single-run exclusive custom home textiles collections without the initial investment outlay of mass production. This versatility appeals to boutique firms and independent designers who want to offer unique products with intricate patterns, brilliant colors, and personalized designs.
As customer demand for bespoke home décor grows, DTG printing offers small businesses an efficient and cost-effective way to provide tailored, on-demand designs. This trend is increasing the global acceptance of DTG printing in the interior design industry.
Competition from Other Printing Methods & Maintenance Challenges May Impact DTG Printing Growth
One of the most significant problems that can prevent the growth of the Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing business is competition from lower-priced conventional printing technologies and DTG technology-related maintenance problems. While DTG is ideal for small, custom orders, screen printing, heat transfer printing, and sublimation are cheaper and more cost-effective for large orders.
Furthermore, DTG printers must be serviced, calibrated, and are prone to technical problems such as clogged ink, which results in downtime and higher cost of operation. All these factors combined can make DTG non-competitive for firms looking for fast, low-cost solutions for bulk orders.
| Key Investment Area | Why It’s Critical for Future Growth |
|---|---|
| Advanced Ink Technology | DTG applications will grow as a result of ongoing advancements in ink formulations that improve color accuracy, durability, and fabric compatibility. |
| Automation & Workflow Optimization | Automated methods will streamline manufacturing, lower costs, boost speed, and improve scalability, enabling DTG to compete for larger contracts. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Investing in eco-friendly inks, energy-efficient machines, and waste reduction strategies will help to address growing environmental concerns. |
| Customized Software Solutions | Development of specialized design and print management software will enhance the user experience, enabling more intricate, efficient production workflows. |
| Textile & Material Innovation | Exploring new fabric types, such as blends and synthetics, to make sure that DTG technology may be used for a wider range of products. |
The global direct to garment printing market recorded a CAGR of 3.0% during the historical period between 2020 and 2024. Market growth of direct to garment printing was positive as it reached a value of USD 847.3 million in 2024 from 750.1 million in 2020.
The global direct to garment printing industry has been continuously expanding, and the need for customized and small batch production has been increasing. The on-demand printing trend has been supported by the expansion of online stores, as businesses offer custom products through them. The industry has thus expanded, with businesses focusing on enhancing print speed and image quality.
| Market Aspect | 2020 to 2024 (Past Trends) |
|---|---|
| Market Growth | E-commerce and customization have driven consistent growth. |
| Technology Advancements | Continuous improvement in print quality and speed |
| Consumer Demand | Rise in demand for customized apparel and small runs |
| Market Penetration | DTG printing gained popularity among small enterprises and startups. |
| Competitive Landscape | The emergence of new businesses and low-cost printers. |
| Market Aspect | 2025 to 2035 (Future Projections) |
|---|---|
| Market Growth | Demand for personalized and on-demand printing services is expected to increase significantly. |
| Technology Advancements | Adoption of faster and more eco-friendly DTG printers, with advancements in ink technology |
| Consumer Demand | Increased demand for personalized fashion and promotional products, driven by sustainability trends |
| Market Penetration | Larger brands and organizations are likely to use DTG for large, on-demand production. |
| Competitive Landscape | Market consolidation may occur when significant businesses invest in sophisticated equipment and services. |
DTG printing will continue to increase in demand in the future since technology will improve and consumerism will shift. As businesses become increasingly interested in green and eco-friendly operations, low wastage on-demand printing will be an added selling point. The market will also be sustained by increasing use in other markets outside apparel, including home furnishings and accessories.
Tier 1 companies comprise market leaders capturing significant market share in global market. These industry leaders stand out for having a large product variety and a high production capacity. These industry giants stand out for having a wide geographic reach, a wealth of production experience in a variety of package styles, and a strong customer base.
They offer a variety of services, such as recycling and manufacturing, using state-of-the-art equipment, according to legal requirements, and offering the best possible quality. Among the well-known businesses in tier 1 are MIMAKI ENGINEERING CO., LTD., Brother International Corporation, Ricoh Company, Ltd. and Seiko Epson Corporation.
Tier 2 companies include mid-size players having presence in specific regions and highly influencing the local market. They are distinguished by having a significant international presence and in-depth industry expertise. These market participants may not have cutting-edge technology or a broad worldwide reach, but they do guarantee regulatory compliance and have good technology.
Among the well-known businesses in tier 2 are Kornit Digital., Sawgrass Technologies Inc., Magnum Industrial Partners, S.L., The M&R Companies, Polyprint., aeoon Technologies GmbH, ColDesi Inc., Digitech UV Printer, HGS Machines, Guangzhou Shinmar Science And Technology Co., Ltd. and KingJet(Guangzhou) Digital Technology Co., Ltd.
Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche markets Due to their specialization in serving the demands of the local market, these companies are classified as belonging to the tier 3 sharing sector.
They only operate on a small scale and within a limited geographic area. Within this specific context, Tier 3 is categorized as an unstructured market, denoting an industry that is significantly less formalized and structured than its organized rivals.
| Region | 2020 to 2024 (Past Trends) |
|---|---|
| North America | E-commerce and personalized clothes generate strong growth, with an increase in demand for print-on-demand services. |
| South Asia | Rapid adoption, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, driven by e-commerce and custom apparel. |
| Europe | There is a huge demand for customized clothing and environmentally friendly printing techniques, especially in the UK, Germany itself, and France. |
| Asia Pacific (APAC) | Rapid market expansion in China, Japan, and Australia, driven by desire for individualized garments and fashion. |
| Latin America | Rising e-commerce and increased demand for customized items are driving adoption, particularly in Brazil. |
| Middle East & Africa | Consistent growth in Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE on account of demand for tailor-made products and the rise of e-commerce. |
| Region | 2025 to 2035 (Future Projections) |
|---|---|
| North America | Continued expansion of custom apparel and sustainable printing, driven by technical innovation and increased demand for personalized products. |
| South Asia | Significant growth, led by urbanization, rising incomes, and the expanding e-commerce market, especially in India. |
| Europe | There will be an increased demand for sustainable and customized fashion as well as use of eco-friendly technologies. |
| Asia Pacific (APAC) | Robust growth in demand for personalized fashion and continued technological advancements in printing speed and efficiency. |
| Latin America | Rising disposable incomes, broader e-commerce platforms, and greater demand for bespoke items have all helped to drive consistent development. |
| Middle East & Africa | Consistent growth, particularly in urban cities, on account of demand for tailor-made clothing and promotion of products. |
The section below covers the future forecast for the direct to garment printing market in terms of countries. Information on key countries in several parts of the globe, including North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe and MEA is provided. USA is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 3.2% through 2035. In Western Europe, Germany is projected to witness a CAGR of 2.1% by 2035.
| Countries | Value CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| USA | 3.2% |
| Germany | 2.1% |
| China | 5.6% |
| UK | 2.0% |
| Spain | 2.3% |
| India | 6.1% |
| Canada | 2.7% |
The print-on-demand system has been well-adopted in the USA, particularly by small business owners and entrepreneurs, due to the benefits introduced by DTG printing. The system eliminates the need for extensive initial investment in inventory, which allows businesses to offer personalized products without inventory.
The print-on-demand feature of DTG allows entrepreneurs to deliver orders on the spot without wasteful production costs. Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon enable small businesses to reach a larger market and earn new clients. Print-on-demand businesses save waste by manufacturing only what is ordered, while also providing a low-risk, flexible inventory management method.
Germany's strong textile industry is a prime reason for Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing uptake. Germany has an extremely technology-based fashion and textile industry, an industry which has been the backdrop for technology and high-standard manufacturing for decades. With consumers demanding more unique and short-run products, Germany's textile businesses are adopting DTG printing as an economical and adaptable solution.
DTG allows rapid production of customized clothing, a good match for the fast-fashion industry. With German companies trying to keep pace with consumers' desire for customized, on-demand products, DTG printing allows them the ability to provide customized, high-quality clothing without maintaining high levels of inventory.
The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. In terms of printer type, industrial DTG inkjet printer are estimated to account for a share more than 70% by 2035. By ink type, reactive ink is projected to dominate by holding a share of 56.2% by the end 2035.
| Printer Type | Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Industrial DTG Inkjet Printer | 68.6% |
Industrial DTG inkjet printers are used most widely for direct-to-garment printing due to their efficiency, speed, and high-quality output. These printers, such as the Epson SureColor F-Series, use advanced inkjet technology to print detailed, full-color designs directly onto fabric, with high detail and color accuracy.
They can print on a variety of fabrics, especially cotton, and are thus versatile. With greater print speed and capacity to print larger volumes, they are best for companies with tight deadlines and high-volume production. With fewer setup costs and less waste, they are also less expensive for increased operations.
| Ink Type | Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Reactive Ink | 52.2% |
Reactive inks are particularly popular for Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing due to their superior bonding capabilities with cotton fibers. The inks chemically adhere with the cloth, resulting in deep, long-lasting prints that will not peel or fade quickly. The process ensures exact color accuracy, which makes it perfect for complex, multi-colored designs.
For instance, a customized T-shirt with detailed design will keep its quality even with multiple washes. Reactive inks also provide soft-to-the-touch prints, which are a bonus for added comfort without compromising on depth of color. Their durability and long-lasting prints make them the most suitable for DTG printers in need of high-quality apparel printing.
| Manufacturer | Vendor Insights |
|---|---|
| Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd. | Mimaki is known for producing high-quality, innovative DTG printers with advanced print head technology that prioritize ease of use and vibrant color output. |
| Brother International Corporation | Brother’s DTG printers offer reliability, versatility, and excellent print quality, suitable for small to large businesses, with strong after-sales support. |
| Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Ricoh's DTG printers are designed for high precision and environmentally friendly printing, resulting in consistent quality and lower production costs. |
| Seiko Epson Corporation | Epson is recognized for its high-definition, eco-conscious DTG printers that deliver vibrant, durable prints, supported by strong customer service. |
| Kornit Digital | Kornit specializes in industrial DTG solutions, emphasizing eco-friendly, high-quality prints with quick turnaround times and scalability for huge operations. |
Leading companies in the direct to garment printing market are expanding their geographic reach and merging with other companies. Few of them are also working together to develop new products in partnerships with start-up businesses and regional brands.
Key Developments in Direct to Garment Printing Market
In terms of printer type, the industry is segmented into industrial DTG inkjet printer and desktop DTG inkjet printer.
In terms of ink, the industry is segmented into reactive, acid, disperse and pigment.
In terms of substrate, the industry is segmented into cotton, silk, rayon, linen, polyester, polyamide and others (wool, etc.)
End uses for direct to garment printing are clothing & apparels, household, technical textiles and others (flag, banners, etc.). Clothing & apparels include t-shirts, pants, leggings, caps, sweatshirts, hoodies, shorts, golf t-shirts and others (jackets, tie, etc.). Household includes bed liners, carpets & curtains and others.
Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa are covered.
The direct to garment printing industry is projected to witness CAGR of 4.4% between 2025 and 2035.
The global direct to garment printing industry stood at USD 847.3 million in 2024.
Global direct to garment printing industry is anticipated to reach USD 1,343.6 million by 2035 end.
South Asia & Pacific is set to record a CAGR of 5.9% in assessment period.
The key players operating in the direct to garment printing industry are MIMAKI ENGINEERING CO., LTD., Brother International Corporation, Ricoh Company, Ltd. and Seiko Epson Corporation.
| Estimated Size, 2025 | USD 7.8 billion |
| Projected Size, 2035 | USD 12.1 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.5% |
| Market Value for 2024 | USD 3.2 billion |
|---|---|
| Market Value for 2034 | USD 4.0 billion |
| Market CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 2.3% |
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