Midcomp installs second HP Stitch S500 at local sportswear manufacturer, Diski Sports
Diski Sports has taken a significant step forward in its production capabilities by installing a second HP Stitch S500 dye-sublimation printer, supplied and supported by Midcomp. Known for its exceptional speed and quality, the S500 doubles the output of Diski Sports’ existing sublimation printers. Moreover, the company has adopted Midcomp’s innovative Pay Per Use (PPU) and PPUGRO® programmes, designed to provide cost efficiency and operational peace of mind.
Transformative Printing Technology
The HP Stitch S500 is a cutting-edge, all-in-one dye-sublimation solution capable of printing on transfer paper and directly on fabric. It features 2 x CMYK user-replaceable printheads with automated compensation for up to 30% of nozzle outages, ensuring consistently high-quality results. Despite its compact design, the printer can significantly increase unattended printing capacity. Businesses can also manage operations efficiently via HP PrintOS which provides real-time insights into printer status, ink usage, and substrate consumption.
Midcomp: More Than Just a Supplier
Midcomp’s expertise in large-format printing solutions is reflected in its extensive service offerings and world-first programmes like PPU & PPUGRO. These tailored solutions allow businesses like Diski Sports to streamline costs, minimize downtime, and maintain production efficiency.
About Diski Sports
Diski Sports is a premier sportswear manufacturer of branded and custom dye-sublimation sportswear and sports equipment. Their diverse product lineup caters to football, rugby, netball, volleyball, and basketball teams, alongside schools, universities, and sports clubs. The company also offers in-house branding services for banners, corporate gifts, t-shirts, and more, utilising techniques like full-colour heat transfers, embroidery, and dye-sublimation.
Production Manager Afzal Sibda shared the company’s evolution: “We started as a retail business with five stores focusing on branded sportswear. Prior to COVID, we transitioned into wholesale and manufacturing, closing our retail stores to focus solely on producing custom sportswear.”
Journey to the HP Stitch S500
Diski Sports purchased their first HP Stitch S500 in early 2020, just before the COVID-19 lockdown. By mid-2023, increased production demand led to the acquisition of a second S500. Sibda explained:
“We were impressed by how the S500 aligned with our sportswear manufacturing needs. Initially, we purchased the first printer outright. However, the costs of maintenance, ink replenishment, and ensuring top-notch print quality were significant. When Midcomp introduced PPU and PPUGRO, we quickly saw the advantages and switched to the programme.”
The PPU programme calculates costs per square meter, providing Diski Sports with predictable expenses and comprehensive technical support. The PPUGRO® package further simplifies operations by bundling the printer, heat press, consumables (excluding media), and service costs into a per-square-meter rate.
Unmatched Speed and Customisation
The HP Stitch S500’s unparalleled speed and reliability have transformed Diski Sports’ manufacturing capabilities. With this printer, the sportswear manufacturer can now create fully customizable garments, meeting the unique design needs of different sports teams. Sibda highlighted: “No two sports teams want to look the same. The S500 allows us to produce bespoke sublimated garments for every client. Its reliability ensures we can confidently take on tight-deadline projects.”
The printer’s high speed nearly double that of their older machines has also opened doors to new markets, including promotional products like branded gazebos, towels, and tablecloths.
Exceptional Service and Support
Sibda praised Midcomp’s proactive and responsive support team: “Midcomp understands the fast-paced nature of our business. They provide timely assistance, whether it’s for urgent maintenance or routine service. With PPU, we always have access to consumables, and their technicians are just a phone call away.”
A Winning Partnership
Diski Sports’ investment in a second HP Stitch S500, supported by Midcomp’s PPU and PPUGRO® programmes, has solidified the sportswear manufacturer as a leader in custom sportswear manufacturing. With state-of-the-art equipment and reliable service, the company is poised for continued growth and innovation in both sportswear and promotional product markets.
MIDCOMP
Tel: +27 11 789 1222
Email: sales@midcomp.co.za
Website: http://www.midcomp.co.za