SHERMAN, MS — Premier Prints is riding a wave of increased demand for wet prints by every segment of the fabrics industry according to Zeke Hodges, one of the three brothers who started the business in 1991.

The company is adding 22,000 square feet to its warehouse, bringing it up to 50,000 square feet and the possible addition of a second Stork Rotary Screen Printer.

Zeke, 58; Johnny, 66 and Billy, 64 run the business with their children, nieces and nephews. It originally started as a supplier of foam, fiber and nonwovens to the furniture trade but 12 years ago, the trio bought a Stork Rotary Screen Printer and their lives have never been the same since. Hodges Bros. - Johnny and Billy Hodges (seated) Zeke Hodges (standing)

In fact, Zeke said they are considering the purchase of a second Stork printer to meet demand for their line of 800 prints in seven to eight colors. “We could print up to 12 colors but the customer is happy with the seven to eight,” Zeke pointed out. The print line sells for $4-$7.00 a yard. Recently, an outdoor line of prints was added which Zeke said is water repellant.

Sales have increased every year, Zeke said. Premier competes with the likes of Brittany, Santee and Swan. There is actually a reduction of print suppliers in the USA so with any uptick in business, Premier benefits as it is doing so now. It supplies prints to the children’s furniture business; outdoor awnings, party rentals, dog beds, drapery, bedding and handbag manufacturers. “We are very diversified and that is our strength,” Zeke said. He I considering expanding his growing export business as well. Premier does business in Russia, New Zealand and Australia currently.