Episode 14. Debbie McKeegan from Texintel

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, a primary resource for knowledge sharing and innovation within the textile and interior decor industries .  With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Debbie shares her journey from working as a designer in vertical manufacturing to pioneering digital textile printing in the UK .  We dive into the evolution of CAD, the early days of printing fabric on desktop HPs, and how her manufacturing background gave her a unique perspective on the entire product journey from design to the retail shelf .       We explore the current state of the industry, which Debbie describes as being at a tipping point where digital technology and consumer behaviour are finally aligning .  We discuss the growing demand for customisation and on-demand manufacturing, as well as the critical need for circularity and transparency in the supply chain .  Debbie explains why the biggest disconnect currently sits between design and production and how savvy printers can bridge that gap by sharing more technical data and specifications with their creative clients .       Finally, we look toward the future, touching on the upcoming Digital Product Passport and the importance of remaining naturally curious in an ever-changing landscape .  Whether you are a traditional large format printer looking to move into decor or a creative wanting to understand the production floor better, this episode is packed with practical insights on staying ahead of the competition and making print less wasteful .  Key Takeaways Texintel's Mission: A hub for knowledge sharing and innovation designed to help the industry navigate the complexities of textile and decor printing  A Tipping Point: The industry is accelerating into a phase where technology and consumer demand for personalisation have reached a perfect alignment  Closing the Gap: The most significant disconnect in the industry is between the design process and the production floor   Waste Reduction: Up to 15% of material is often wasted on the cutting table; digital cutting and on-demand printing are essential for recapturing that profit   The Future of Ink: True circularity may involve inks that do not last forever, allowing for easier recycling of the underlying components   The Digital Product Passport: A major regulatory shift is coming that will require printers to provide detailed data to their customers regarding sustainability   On-Demand Benefits: Manufacturing on-demand eliminates stock waste, but it requires deep collaboration to avoid causing chaos in the plant  Democratisation of Print: Modern technology allows for a high-end textile mill setup to exist within the footprint of a standard garage   Staying Curious: To move forward in this market, professionals must remain in a state of continual learning to stay ahead of the competition   Defining Sustainability: The term is often overused; genuine responsibility involves efficient technology, collaborative knowledge flow, and innovation