NovaTomato vs Gelato: Fashion AOP Producer vs Global POD Network
One specializes in AOP/cut-and-sew fashion pieces that plug into your existing store. The other routes orders to a global network of facilities for speed and localized shipping. Here’s how to decide.
Quick Verdict
- Choose NovaTomato if your brand is design-led and you want AOP/cut-and-sew garments, coordinated sets, and fashion silhouettes that go beyond basics.
- Choose Gelato if you value speed, global coverage, and localized shipping across a broad catalog (apparel, wall art, cards, photo products) with simple publishing flows.
At a Glance
| Category | NovaTomato | Gelato |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | AOP/cut-and-sew apparel, fashion-forward collections | Global fulfillment, fast local delivery, broad merch mix |
| What it is | POD producer/supplier that integrates with your store | Worldwide POD network that routes to nearby facilities |
| Catalog focus | AOP tees/hoodies, cut-and-sew, activewear, fashion pieces | Apparel, wall art, mugs, photo books/cards, accessories |
| Integrations | Built for Shopify/Woo + standard POD flows | Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy & more; order routing & API |
| Fulfillment angle | On-demand fashion with panel-aware production | Local production in many countries to reduce cost/ETAs |
Overview
NovaTomato serves brands that want to stand out with all-over prints, cut lines, and coordinated sets. If your designs rely on wraparound graphics and fashion silhouettes (beyond basic blanks), this gives you room to build a distinct look.
Gelato emphasizes global reach and speed. Orders are produced close to the customer when possible, which can improve delivery times, cut shipping costs, and reduce damage/returns—especially useful for wall art and gifts.
Design & Quality Notes
NovaTomato: treat AOP like pattern-making—watch seams, collars, cuffs, and grain lines. Build bleed generously and sample a size run to verify color and panel alignment before scaling.
Gelato: color management can vary by local facility and substrate. Order regional samples of key SKUs (tee + poster + mug) to lock pricing and PDP photography to the quality you’ll actually deliver.
Workflow & Stack Fit
NovaTomato plugs into your existing Shopify/Woo stack—ideal if you already have themes, apps, and traffic and just need a fashion-capable producer.
Gelato connects to major carts and handles routing/production. If you want to roll out many locales (US/EU/AU) with simpler ops, Gelato’s network effect is compelling.
Pricing & Margin Angle
NovaTomato: lean on perceived value—AOP silhouettes and coordinated sets support premium pricing. Use limited drops and lookbooks to lift AOV.
Gelato: margin improves with local production (lower ship costs) and smart SKU selection. For wall art and gifts, test sizes/finishes to find the price-elastic sweet spot.
Who Should Choose Which?
Pick NovaTomato if you:
- Build fashion-forward, AOP/cut-and-sew collections
- Already run Shopify/Woo and want a capable producer
- Plan capsules, coordinated sets, or runway-style drops
Pick Gelato if you:
- Want fast local fulfillment for global buyers
- Sell a mix of apparel, wall art, and giftables
- Prefer streamlined ops with robust integrations
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