Since Full Press Apparel opened in 1997, we have worked tirelessly to provide outstanding products and customer service at the best prices possible. That commitment continues today, but like everyone else in our industry, we are not immune to recent price increases and extended delivery times from our suppliers. From T-shirts and hats to the inks we use to create the designs you love, virtually everything is costing more.
1. Global Supply and Demand
Many experts have advised that a number of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have caused inflation to rise, increasing the cost of goods. As a result, the cost of clothing in the U.S. has already increased 5.6 percent in the last year, according to Fast Company.
2. The Price of Cotton
Cotton is an important staple of the apparel industry. According to Global Trade, the textile industry as a whole struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic and is set to bounce back this year. The global demand for cotton is expected to exceed the supply in 2021, however, which means the price of cotton is rising.
3. Transportation Costs
Nearly 80 percent of all goods are transported via the sea – and the apparel industry is no exception. In recent months, a shortage of containers, ships and dock workers have caused the price of ocean freights to skyrocket. According to Time, many industries are bracing for the inflation that will likely follow these rising costs.
4. Labor Shortages
Recentlabor shortages in the U.S. have caused additional issues with the supply chain. From truck drivers to factory workers, these shortages have the potential to impact the price of goods in the coming year. Additionally, the contagious nature of COVID-19 means that many employed workers are out of commission for weeks at a time to quarantine, self-isolate or recover from the virus itself.
Each of these factors, added one on top of another, is projected to cause significant supply issues in our industry through 2021 and beyond. And prices are rising. In June, U.S. consumer prices reportedly hit the largest annual increase since 2008. We greatly value your business and know you would rather hear about this now than be surprised when a reorder or new quote is higher than expected – or it takes a little longer to receive your order.
We have done our best to absorb these increased costs, but you may notice some changes in our quotes and the availability of products moving forward. Please keep this in mind when planning for and ordering future projects. We continue to seek the best products and prices available without sacrificing the quality and service you have come to expect from Full Press Apparel. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
If you have any questions or specific pricing concerns, we would be happy to speak with you. Please click here to send us a message.
