SDC Member spotlight – Pincroft
Howard Martin, Dyehouse Manager at Pincroft caught up with the society to discuss Pincroft’s 100-year expertise in textile dyeing, printing and finishing and the important role colour, innovation and sustainability play in the company’s operations.
Thanks for talking to The Colourist! Please tell us about your company and the role of colour in your day-to-day operations.
At Pincroft, colour is not merely an aspect of our operations; it is the essence. Our day-to-day activities are entrenched in the meticulous art and science of textile dyeing and printing, where we transform fabrics into vibrant expressions of colour. With the capability to print intricate designs including infrared signatures, match shades to precise references and ensure colour fastness, our operations are a testament to the critical role colour plays in our business.
What makes you stand out among peers?
Our distinction lies in our heritage of over 130 years, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence and sustainability. We are not just dyers, printers and finishers; we are innovators, utilising state-of-the-art equipment and eco-friendly methods to deliver outstanding quality while minimising our environmental footprint. Our expertise in handling a variety of dyes and our commitment to fast delivery and high standards set us apart in the industry.
How important is it for an organisation like yours to have experts in coloration on board?
It is absolutely vital. The intricacies of colouration and IR printing demand a high level of expertise, which is why our team comprises seasoned professionals who are adept at navigating the complexities of dyeing processes. Their proficiency ensures that we can achieve the exact hues and camouflage print patterns our clients envision, with consistency and quality at the forefront.
Tell us about your commitment to sustainability?
Sustainability is at the core of our ethos. We have implemented one of the industry’s largest heat recovery systems, significantly reducing our CO2 emissions by more than 4,000 tonnes annually. Our water usage is well below industry benchmarks, and we have achieved substantial reductions in chemical consumption. These ongoing improvements reflect our dedication to an environmentally responsible business model.
What is your relationship with the Society of Dyers and Colourists and how is this supporting you?
Our affiliation with the Society of Dyers and Colourists is a valued partnership that enhances our knowledge base and supports our commitment to excellence in the field of colouration. The SDC’s focus on education and their degree-level qualifications resonate with our own dedication to continuous learning and development within the coloration profession.
What are your colour aspirations for the future?
Looking ahead, our aspirations are to push the boundaries of colour innovation while reinforcing our sustainable practices. We aim to expand our palette of eco-friendly dyeing solutions and continue to lead the industry not just in the spectrum of colours we offer, but in the way we care for our environment and serve our customers.
We’d like to welcome London Metropolitan University as the SDC’s latest Education Provider Member — watch this space to find out more in the next edition of The Colourist.
If you’re an SDC member and would like to be featured in upcoming editions of the Colourist, please contact clarem@sdc.org.uk