Innovative Involution
Involution expand their product range with help from a PAPI grant
Involution, based in Leeds, supplies workwear, clothing and branded merchandise to business-to-business clients. Founded in 1999, the company grew steadily and in 2019 moved into a new commercial premises that was 6 times larger than the previous location. Involution sells to businesses throughout the UK and exports to the EU, US and Australia.
The new premises allowed the company to expand their in-house embroidery factory with new machinery, which also doubled their workforce. Embroidered and printed garments account for 45% of the company’s sales, and in 2021 they identified an opportunity for further growth through the purchase of new equipment, with the help of a PAPI grant.
Innovation
Involution wanted to purchase a direct-to-garment digital printer and conveyor dryer to expand their decoration and personalisation service. The new equipment would enable them to print more intricate designs, which customers were asking for. Their bespoke online customer portal would allow customers to upload complex designs directly and see the garments in real-time on screen. This would also mean minimal input from the design and production team, leaving them more time to work on multifaceted projects. The new machinery would also allow them to produce samples in house, reducing cost and timescales.
Involution's website
New products
Involution were awarded a PAPI grant of £18,514 to purchase the new machinery. Since purchasing the machinery and launching the new products, Involution’s sales have increased by £144k, which is set to increase further during 2022. They have also reduced subcontracting costs as well as reducing waste by repurposing customers' redundant stock, as well as being able to offer prints without a minimum order amount, allowing customers to order exactly what they need.
This in turn has strengthened their reputation of fast turnaround times and a better quality print option for more complex designs. The company also created 3 new jobs within the business.
The PAPI grant has been a true support to Involution. It has allowed the business to grow further, enhance customer service and recruit local talent. We are excited to see what innovation 2022 brings for Involution.