In an effort to solve the problem of small merchants and designers lacking access to manufacturing and supply chains, The/Studio is offering on-demand manufacturing and design services. The company, founded in 2013, is among a number of firms providing these services to small merchants, large merchants, and even individuals. The idea is to connect firms wishing to manufacture relatively small batches of products – The/Studio says 100 units is a “sweet spot” for profit margins – with manufacturers and supply chains. This type of design-to-supply connection has the potential to cut significant amounts of waste from manufacturing and supply chains while also supporting the quick turnaround times and small batch requirements of modern merchants.
