Rex-Tone Industries Limited, through its brand A.T. Inks, has been at the forefront of innovation in the digital printing market. Founded in 1994 with multiple production facilities in Baroda (also known as Vadodara), Gujarat, the company has expanded its footprint globally, especially in the textile sector. With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, A.T. Inks has set itself apart as a leader in eco-friendly digital printing solutions for a wide range of fabrics.
A.T. Inks, initially known for its digital inks catering to the signage industry, made a decisive move into the textile sector in 2020. The Company has been the first Digital Solvent Ink Manufacturer in India since 2003 and is today the largest manufacturer of Solvent Based Inks in the World. Recognizing the immense potential of digital printing in textiles, the company has concentrated its efforts on this market for the past four years. With India’s burgeoning textile industry poised to drive economic growth, A T Inks sees itself playing a pivotal role in this transformation.
“Digital textile printing is not just about speed and efficiency. It’s about sustainability. By minimizing water usage and reducing chemical waste, we are leading the way toward a greener future for the textile industry,” shared Neerav Goswamy, Managing Director of Rex-Tone Industries Limited.
Innovative Ink Solutions for Diverse Fabrics
A T Inks offers a broad range of specialized inks designed for different fabric types, each meeting the unique needs of its global clientele. Their solutions span across:
Reactive Inks for Cotton: These inks are made using reactive dyes that form a chemical bond with cotton fibers, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting colors. This approach aligns with the company’s sustainability goals, as the process consumes significantly less water than traditional methods.
Dye Sublimation for Polyester: In this method, the design is first printed on paper and then transferred to polyester fabric. This produces sharp, vivid colors ideal for fashion and sportswear, making it a preferred choice for polyester printing.
Pigmented Water-Based Inks for Cotton-Polyester Blends: These inks provide an optimal balance for cotton-polyester blends, ensuring high-quality prints with eco-friendly water-based pigments.
Expanding Global Reach
A T Inks has a well-established export market, particularly in South America, while also serving clients in more than 56 countries. The company’s global expansion continues, with a strong presence in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and the Far East.
“The digital printing industry evolves rapidly, with new technologies emerging frequently. To maintain our leadership, we continuously invest in R&D, ensuring we offer the latest and best solutions to our clients worldwide,” emphasized Goswamy.
Committed to Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of A T Inks’ operations. The company’s manufacturing facilities boast zero liquid discharge systems for their Pigment plant as well as their Ink plants, with wastewater being treated and recycled. They recover/recycle up to 91% of water, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
“Our digital printing technology is inherently sustainable. By using only the required amount of ink and reducing water waste, we are helping to make the world a safer place for future generations,” noted Goswamy.
The Future of Digital Printing in Textiles
While digital textile printing is still in its early stages, A T Inks remains optimistic about its widespread adoption in the near future. The company believes that within the next five to seven years, digital printing will dominate the textile sector, offering numerous advantages such as reduced environmental footprint and increased operational efficiency.
With India’s growth trajectory, A T Inks is confident about the country’s potential as a global manufacturing hub. “We see tremendous opportunities for expansion. By adhering to ethical practices, investing in advanced technologies, and maintaining sustainable operations, we are well-positioned to contribute to India’s economic success,” said Goswamy.
A T Inks’ journey from a signage-focused business to a pioneering force in digital textile printing is a testament to its vision, innovation, and dedication to sustainability. As the company continues to expand its global footprint and invest in cutting-edge technology, it is set to play a pivotal role in the future of digital printing, not just in India but across the world. A T Inks exemplifies how a forward-thinking approach, rooted in quality and environmental responsibility, can lead to long-term success in the evolving textile industry.
