In Episode 111 of the CAS Podcast, we’re joined once again by Mark B. from Contract-DTG.com, a seasoned professional who runs not one, but three custom t-shirt businesses. If you missed his earlier insights, catch up on Episode 86 for valuable context. This time, we dive deep into a conversation every apparel decorator will face at some point: When is it time to upgrade, replace, or explore new equipment?

Mark brings a wealth of experience from both high-volume contract work and small-batch retail orders—giving him a rare, well-rounded view of what makes a production floor efficient, scalable, and profitable.

Topics Covered in This Episode

1. Knowing When to Replace Equipment

Mark shares the real-world indicators that tell him it’s time to retire a piece of hardware. From rising maintenance costs to limited parts availability, he outlines a practical, data-driven approach to determining when older machines start costing more than they’re worth.

2. Deciding When to Upgrade to a Better System

Even if your equipment is still functioning well, that doesn’t mean it’s still the best option for your business. Mark recounts his decision to move from a manual screen printing press to an automatic system—not because he had to, but because it was the smart move for growth. Learn how to assess your production capabilities against current and future business demands.

3. Evaluating New Equipment

When manufacturers want hands-on feedback, they call Mark. Hear how he evaluates new technology based on key metrics like speed, output quality, and consumables cost. He also discusses why being open to testing new gear—even if you’re not ready to buy—can give you a competitive edge.

Why This Episode Matters

Whether you’re running a lean shop or managing a growing team, equipment decisions directly affect your bottom line. Making the wrong move—or no move at all—can cost you time, money, and business. This episode gives you a checklist-like perspective to help you evaluate your next investment with confidence.