CMYUK is to build a ‘Digital Textile Development Facility’ as an extension of its existing demonstration and training centre in Shrewsbury and in line with its aims for growth in the textile digital print market, both on production equipment and on the development of new textile materials for the décor, design and fashion markets.
The news follows last month’s announcement that the company had appointed Brett Platt to the new role of digital textile manager, a position created to reflect the significant investment CMYUK is making in the textile sector.
The new facility, which will showcase digital textile printing equipment and associated technologies, will also enable CMYUK to evaluate new products for a wide range of textile printing technologies.
Platt will work closely with commercial director Michael Crook, and textile material business development specialist Joel Willcock in establishing the research and development infrastructure to bring new fabrics to market.
CMYUK group director Robin East said of the latest development: “We’re really excited to announce this further investment into our infrastructure, setting out our stall to become the UK’s market-leading supplier for digital textile production equipment and materials.”
Platt added: “Our objective will be to develop a comprehensive range of natural and man-made fabrics from cottons, linens and polyesters. We will be a one-stop supplier for equipment and material for companies of all sizes.”
CMYUK will be developing and proving coatings to support its expanding range of natural fabrics, working closely with chemical companies to formulate solutions. Research and development will play a large part in the growth of the new division, including advancement with pigment printing that will help customers achieve the best possible colour and fixation when printing directly onto natural fabrics.
East concluded: “We will also be partnering with designers and production companies to showcase solutions for textile market sectors including contemporary wall and ceiling systems, décor and fashion, hosting many innovation days for customers within the business and educational sectors.”
