Contrary to popular opinion, the printing industry isn't going anywhere.
As businesses continually research new ways to market their products and services, more and more of them are returning to the classics: things like flyering, sending postcards and letters, and even printing novelty items to give out at conferences and trade shows.
This means that there's no time like to present to decide to start a printing business.
However, you'll need to do your research and craft a solid, sustainable plan if you want to be successful.
In this post, we'll tell you everything you need to know to create the printing business you've always dreamed of -- and one that will only grow with time.
We'll also discuss the equipment and advertising techniques you need to make it happen.
Create Your Business Plan
The first step you need to take once you decide to start a printing business?
Create a comprehensive business plan. Your plan will help you to win over lenders and investors, and it will also help you to better identify your target market and long and short-term business goals.
Your plan should include information about your previous printing or business experience, a rough timeline and cost estimate, and an analysis of your market.
You should also assemble a sales and management team, conduct research on your competition, and even decide on the locations that you want to serve (hint: setting up shop near large office parks and your city's business district is always a good idea.)
Once you have your business plan, you'll be able to more clearly define your goals and work towards growing your company.
Understand Industry Regulations
The next step in understanding how to start a printing business?
Making sure that you're always following industry regulations, licensing requirements, and standard practices.
You'll need to get your state sales tax permit, certificates from the fire department to prove that your place of business is safe, and even statements saying that you have the proper safety equipment on hand.
You'll also likely need operating, and potentially even zoning, permits from your local and state governments. You'll also need to determine whether or not you'll need a license to operate your printing company if you're planning to run it out of your home.
You'll also need to register your business name with the Secretary of State, and make sure that you complete all the forms required.
You'll also need to prepare your bookkeeping strategies and familiarize yourself with any ongoing training requirements.
Purchase Your Equipment
The next step in learning how to start a printing business?
Making sure that you're clear on the kinds of equipment you'll need to best serve your market.
This can include items like paper trimmers, paper cutters, and large-scale commercial printers. You'll also need to stock up on ink and toner, as well, of course, as lots of different kinds of colors of paper.
You'll also need to invest in some design software to make sure that your printing jobs always look their best. Consider what types of things you'd like to be able to print for your customers outside of just paper.
For example, do you want to help companies make mugs, tee-shirts, or even buttons and flyers?
Finally, make sure that you pick up any binding products you may need if you'd like to be able to compile larger books and packets for your customers.
How To Market Your Printing Services
As a printing business, you'll live or die depending on how well you market your services.
Yes, your printing company provides office supplies and helps businesses to cut and trim paper. But it does much more than that.
Many companies aren't aware of just how successful a direct mail marketing campaign can be. In fact, over 65% of consumers have made a purchase because they received a "snail mail" offer or information from a company.
Additionally, direct mail still offers the highest rate of return on investment out of other advertising methods. It's your job to make sure that these are the kinds of statistics your target market is well aware of.
You also need to stress how your cutting, trimming, and printing services will help to expedite the marketing process. No one has time anyone to spend long hours putting together mailings. Your business will help other companies to get their information in the hands of consumers before their competition does.
Make sure your company has a strong presence on social media, and be sure to frequently check your page's inbox and notifications to respond to customer queries.
Additionally, it's a smart idea to start a blog on your company's website, to prove your expertise in the field. Plus, the more often you blog, the more likely your website is to end up on the first page of search engine results.
Finally, when you first decide to start a printing business, it's important that you pay close attention to your local market. First, have a physical presence in your community by sponsoring a local event or sports team. Additionally, be sure to claim your online listings, like your Google My Business page to help local consumers find you even faster.
You're Ready To Start A Printing Business
Now that you know why you should start a printing business, and what it takes to make it happen, you're ready to get started!
However, the most important thing you need to take into consideration?
The quality of the equipment that your printing business will use. We offer a wide variety of paper cutters and trimmers that are perfect for print shops of any size and target market.
We have manual, automatic, programmable cutters, and much more. We also offer supplies and spare parts in case it's time for you to make a replacement.
Spend some time on our website to find the products that are perfect for you, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions.
