<p>INKTAVO LAST CHANCE 2025 DEAL <a href="https://bit.ly/4jABUZ6">https://bit.ly/4jABUZ6</a><br><br>In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with <strong>Ian Hinckley from </strong><a href="https://www.dgiapparel.com/"><strong>DGI Apparel</strong></a> to tackle the tough questions everyone in the custom apparel game is asking. From <strong>rising tariffs</strong> and <strong>supply chain chaos</strong> to the tech-driven shakeup in how shops order and operate — Ian breaks it all down.<br><br></p><p>🧵 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.<br> 💰 Learn why understanding market dynamics and pricing strategies isn't just smart — it's survival.<br> 🛠️ Discover how small shops can streamline their operations with <strong>automated purchasing</strong>, <strong>supplier integrations</strong>, and smarter buying habits.<br><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br><strong>Powered by </strong><a href="https://www.seps.io"><strong>seps.io</strong></a><strong> </strong>and <a href="https://www.merchtroop.com"><strong>Merch Troop</strong></a><br><br><strong>takeaways<br></strong><br></p><ul> <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><p><br></p><p><strong>Chapters<br></strong><br></p><p>00:00<br>Introduction to DJI Apparel</p><p>01:43<br>Tariffs and Their Impact on the Apparel Industry</p><p>06:11<br>Supplier Strategies Amid Tariff Changes</p><p>11:11<br>Market Trends and Pricing Dynamics</p><p>17:20<br>Optimizing Pricing for Small Shops</p><p>22:15<br>Building a Comprehensive Apparel Marketplace</p><p>23:39<br>Optimizing the Purchasing Experience</p><p>25:48<br>From Software to Custom Apparel</p><p>29:57<br>Navigating Investment and Growth</p><p>34:27<br>Industry Dynamics and Supplier Relationships</p><p>37:29<br>Enhancing Supplier Integration</p><p>39:45<br>Scaling from Small to Large Businesses<br><br><strong>keywords<br></strong><br></p><p>DJI 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</p>