Kornit and Ricoh Lead the Charge in Eco-Friendly DTG Printing Innovations

The direct-to-garment (DTG) printing industry is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025, with sustainability taking center stage. Major players such as Kornit Digital and Ricoh Printing Systems of America are introducing groundbreaking solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact while improving performance and versatility—particularly in the U.S. market, where demand for eco-friendly practices is surging.

Kornit Digital, a long-time innovator in digital textile printing, recently launched a water-free and pretreatment-free DTG printing system. This development addresses two of the industry’s key environmental challenges: excessive water usage and chemical-intensive fabric preparation. Kornit’s technology eliminates the need for water in the printing process and does away with separate pretreatment steps, which traditionally generate chemical waste and slow down production. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also enhances operational efficiency, making it a compelling choice for American print shops looking to streamline workflows while aligning with sustainability goals.

Meanwhile, Ricoh Printing Systems of America has unveiled a new DTG technology designed specifically for polyester fabrics, a notoriously difficult material to print on with traditional DTG methods. This breakthrough broadens the scope of apparel customization, particularly in the booming sportswear and athleisure sectors. Polyester’s growing popularity in the U.S. makes Ricoh’s advancement a strategic move, opening up new markets for DTG service providers.

Both companies are also integrating artificial intelligence and advanced printhead technologies into their systems, enabling smarter automation, predictive maintenance, and enhanced print accuracy. These upgrades are set to boost productivity and reduce operational costs—key concerns for small- and medium-sized U.S. businesses navigating a competitive landscape.

As sustainability and customization continue to drive consumer preferences, these technological leaps reaffirm DTG printing’s role as a future-ready solution for the American apparel industry.