(Entertainment-NewsWire.com, September 25, 2013 ) Oxford, UK -- Oxford-based screen printing and embroidery specialists, Shirtworks, have been awarded a contract to supply National Union of Students affiliated stores with printed and embroidered clothing. Due to the NUS’ rigorous selection programme, Shirtworks are now one of the only four UK printers and embroiderers to be awarded the contract.
The extremely limited number of suppliers in this marketplace with an NUS contract is in some part due to the rigour of the vetting process. One of the most important aspects of supplying through the NUS and in meeting their strict ethical and environmental mandate has been the ability by Shirtworks to demonstrate a fully transparent and auditable supply chain.
Becoming involved with the NUS affiliated outlets provides a valuable opportunity for Shirtworks to reach an audience of University students across the whole country. The NUS’ own figures report that the average spend by a student each year on clothing is £572. The University ‘hoody’ is widely considered the memento of choice for many undergrads and forms part of that spend. Furthermore, with 31% of first year students taking part in sports clubs, there is an opportunity to supply teams with customised printed kits.
Being based in such a famous University town as Oxford means that Shirtworks have always enjoyed a close association with the student population. Their long-established links with Oxford University have allowed the company to better understand the requirements for supplying into student establishments. This experience has provided Shirtworks with the ‘window’ into the youth market, which has enabled them to keep pace with the evolving trends and fashions.
Furthermore, the introduction of ‘direct to garment’ digital printing has spearheaded fast development in the printing industry over the last 5 years with Shirtworks reporting a surge in enquiries for digitally printed products. Digital printing is most effective on 100% cotton fabric, and produces an extremely high quality finish. This has proved popular with student customers, as digital printing also allows for smaller minimum order quantities.
The approval of their NUS tender together with the successful incorporation of enhanced digital printing techniques heralds an exciting future for the team at Shirtworks.
Along with the recent NUS supplier approval, Shirtworks hold the admirable claim to be the world's only printer and embroiderer to be formally recognized with official Soil Association accreditation. This highlights their commitment to contribute to a healthier planet through better working practices and a responsible approach to the environment in what they do every day.
According to one of the Shirtworks’ owners, Andy Timmins, “We are receiving an increasing number of enquiries regarding our ethically sourced products, which highlights the growing awareness of environmental issues in Britain. These enquiries tend to increase when the economy is in better shape and I suppose there is some confidence returning again if you believe the press. The accreditations represent the character of our organization, and we’re delighted to have been recognized for our efforts.”
The team at Shirtworks are now turning their attention to the new academic year, and with thousands of students arriving at universities across the UK, they are looking forward to another successful year in 2013-2014.
For more information about Shirtworks and the services that they provide, get in touch by calling 0800 072 5334.
About Shirtworks Ltd.:
Established 25 years ago, Shirtworks are the UK’s undisputed t-shirt printing specialists. The team delivers a fast, efficient and affordable service to ensure that their customers are 100% satisfied with their personalised clothing. To know more, kindly visit http://www.shirtworks.co.uk/
