Revisiting Niche Markets: What’s Changed Since Episode 200?

We’re diving into the archives for Episode #586! This week, Terry and Aaron take a trip back to April 7, 2017, Episode #200, where they shared 200 Niche Markets for garment decorators. A lot has changed since then—COVID reshaped businesses, new trends emerged, and DTF printing disrupted the industry—so how do those niche markets hold up today? Which ones are still goldmines, and which have faded away? Join us as we revisit, rethink, and refresh some of our past ideas while discussing how today’s technology and trends impact niche market opportunities. Plus, we’d love to hear from YOU—what niche markets are thriving in 2025? Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening! Your business’ SVPs—Strengths, Values, and Passions—are the foundation for long-term success. When aligned with these, you can move from feeling overwhelmed by daily operations to gaining clarity and control. Take the SVP Business Alignment Assessment News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [e-mail]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flwGcSFhBR4 Dad Joke Aaron: Be patient with geologists. They have their faults. Niche Markets Aaron: Terry we got in the way back machine and went back to 2017. https://www.2regularguys.com/200-niche-markets/ This was a little bit of a play on a seminar you were teaching at the time called 52 niche markets in 52 minutes, and we had some fun with the fact, we all know you didn’t get to 52. Since it was our 200th episode back then we wanted to celebrate. We were talking about the show for today, and we have not done a Niche show for a while. Terry: Yes, so we thought it would be good to look back at some of those niche ideas and discuss any updates, changes or new perspectives on them based on what has happened in 7 to 8 years. 2 things happened since this list was compiled - Covid and DTF transfers. 1. Marijuana Dispensaries Legal cannabis markets have expanded significantly since 2017, making branded apparel a huge opportunity. Dispensaries now focus more on lifestyle branding, and DTF has made it easier to produce vibrant, small-batch designs. 2. Event Staff With live events making a strong comeback post-COVID, there’s a resurgence in demand for event staff shirts. DTF allows for quick, on-demand customization. 3. Promotional Products Distributors With businesses prioritizing brand awareness more than ever, high-quality, low-minimum promotional apparel has become essential. DTF makes it easier to fulfill small orders without screen setup costs. 4. Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties Social media and custom experiences have driven demand for unique, high-quality event wear. DTF allows for intricate, full-color designs, making this a hot niche. 5. Fishing Charters Outdoor recreation saw a huge boost during the pandemic. Charter companies increasingly look for apparel that enhances the customer experience, and DTF makes printing on demand for customers easy. 6. Corporate Awards & Recognition Wear Employee engagement has evolved, with many companies using branded gear for retention and team-building, especially for remote workers. Short-run customization is easier than ever with DTF. 7. Boutique & Resort Wear