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Print Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

print shop business plan

Print Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their print shop companies.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a print shop business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a print shop business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your print shop business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a print shop business or grow your existing print shop company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your print shop business to improve your chances of success. Your print shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Print Shop Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a print shop business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for print shop companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a print shop business.

If you want to start a print shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your print shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of print shop business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a print shop business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of print shop businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

  • Give a brief overview of the print shop industry.
  • Discuss the type of print shop business you are operating.
  • Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
  • Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
  • Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of print shop business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of print shop businesses:

  • Digital printing : This type of printing is one of the most cost-effective and fast printing processes available today. Electronic files and digital images replace the need for paper, press set-up and ink, which helps reduce the carbon footprint on the earth.
  • Offset lithography printing: Used for magazines, circulars, brochures and books, this type of print shop specializes in larger volumes and includes traditional methods of binding.
  • Screen printing: Any material that is not flat is a candidate for screen printing: shirts, hats, fabric bags, etc. Screen printing forces ink through a screening process that is replicated onto fabric or other materials used.
  • 3D printing: This type of printing is performed through design, initiated by a computer program, followed by the print process in a 3D printer. The 3D printer is calibrated and outfitted with special plastics to fulfill the specifications of the 3D computer program.

In addition to explaining the type of print shop business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of printing projects completed, the amount of revenue earned, or reaching X number of clients served, etc.
  • Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the print shop industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the print shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your print shop business plan:

  • How big is the print shop industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your print shop business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your print shop business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, charitable organizations, corporations, and innovators.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of print shop business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other print shop businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. Stores that house copy machines or overseas service companies may be examples of indirect competitors. You will want to mention any direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What type of print shop business are they?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide bundled services including printing and binding?
  • Will you offer large 3D printing projects that your competition doesn’t?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a print shop business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of print shop company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide cover design, book layout and digital printing to create a niche service for authors?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your print shop company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your print shop business located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your print shop marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
  • Reach out to websites
  • Distribute flyers
  • Engage in email marketing
  • Advertise on social media platforms
  • Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your print shop business, including answering calls, planning and providing printed items or 3D printed items, billing customers and assisting with maintenance of equipment, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth print project , or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your print shop business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your print shop business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing print shop businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a print shop business or successfully running a small co-op of screen printers.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 new customers per day, and/or offer discounted packaged pricing? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your print shop business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a print shop business:

  • Cost of equipment and office supplies
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a list of corporations on a monthly printing contract.

Writing a business plan for your print shop business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the print shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful print shop business.

Print Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my print shop business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your print shop business plan.

How Do You Start a Print Shop Business?

Starting a Print Shop business is easy with these 14 steps:

  • Choose the Name for Your Print Shop Business
  • Create Your Print Shop Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Print Shop Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Your Print Shop Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Print Shop Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Print Shop Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Print Shop Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Print Shop Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Print Shop Business
  • Open for Business

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Print Shop business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.  

Click here to see how a Growthink business plan writer can create your business plan for you.

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Digital Printing Business Plan Sample

MAR.30, 2018

Digital Printing Business Plan Sample

Do you want to start digital printing business?

There are many benefits of starting a digital printing business. You can start it with a very low initial investment from your home, or you can increase its magnitude to any size depending on your investment. Moreover, it gives an incredibly high ROI as compared to other businesses started from comparable investments. Before you move on to starting this business, you will have to prepare comprehensive printing business plans which will establish the basis of your company’s future operations and decisions. If you are wondering how to write one then here we are providing you the business plan for printing company business startup named ‘Junes Printing Services’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Junes Printing Services will be a digital printing startup located in the main commercial market of Downtown Manhattan. The company will be owned by Elia Junes, a passionate Graphic Designer.

2.2 Management

The success of a startup heavily depends on its staff and management that’s why Junes planned it before starting a print shop . The main management of the company will comprise sales executives, graphic artists, technicians, and customer representatives.

2.3 Customers

Our target market is the corporate sector located in Manhattan. We will provide all sorts of digital printing services and our high-quality services will outperform our competition.

2.4 Business Target

Our target is to balance the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the first year and to achieve the net profit margin of $10k per month by the end of the first year.

Digital Printing Business Plan - 3 Years Profit Forecast

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Junes Printing Services will be owned by Elia Junes, a business graduate from the University of Illinois. She is also an adept designer and is known for her exceptional graphics skills and innovative designs.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

Junes has always been passionate about starting her own printing shop business plan . Although she is a business graduate, her interest in graphic designing led her to start print shop business .

3.3 How the Business will be started

The printing shop business plan will be located in a 100-square-feet leased building in the main commercial market of the Downtown Manhattan. The company will initially procure twenty commercial printers, assorted office stationery, five filing cabinets, five work desks, a round table with chairs for meeting area and couch and chairs for customer waiting area. The startup summary is as follows:

printing business plans - startup cost

Services for customers

If you are writing a business plan for printing services , make sure to pay special attention to what services will you offer to your customers because the planning of many subsequent components depends on your services .

The value of a digital printing business can be increased significantly if you also offer basic level graphic design services to your customers because many customers tend to modify and revise their designs after seeing them in print form.

Junes Printing Services will offer following printing services to its customers:

  • Booklets and guides
  • Restaurant menus
  • Event flyers
  • Marketing brochures
  • Invitations and business cards
  • Newsletters

Marketing Analysis of digital printing business

The most important component of an effective digital printing business plan is its accurate marketing analysis that’s why it is advisable to seek the help of marketing experts. If you are starting this venture on small scale, you can take help from this digital printing business plans sample and carry out a marketing analysis yourself. For the marketing analysis before starting her venture, Junes acquired the services of marketing experts to help her through this phase. Marketing analysis is extremely important because it gives you an idea of your position in the market. Therefore, it must be considered before developing the printing shop business plan .

5.1 Market Trends

There are about 7000 digital printing businesses in the United States, which generate about $10 billion every year. The industry is expected to grow at 1.9% every year. Despite the huge number of existing businesses, this market has a lot of potential provided that one plans and executes this business efficiently.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

It is very important to analyze the market segmentation of the future customers of your services before developing a printing stote business plan because a successful and efficient marketing strategy can only be developed after we completely know our potential customers. Our target market is the corporate sector located in the Central Business District of the Manhattan which provides many opportunities to us. Manhattan houses more than 300,000 businesses as of 2014, including local, national and multinational businesses. Our experts have identified the following type of target audience which can become our future consumers:

Digital Printing Business Plan - Market Segmentation

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Corporate Sector:

The biggest consumer of our services will be the corporate sector located in the Downtown Manhattan. The corporate sector includes product manufacturers and distributors, real estate owners, hotels, restaurants and food companies, IT and software development firms, branding and advertising agencies. These companies and businesses need digital printing services for mass printing their brand messages or for other purposes. This target group will contribute the biggest portion of our revenue hence our marketing strategy for business will be specifically tailored to attract this customer group.

5.2.2 Institutions & Organizations:

Our second target group comprises of various institutions and organizations located in Manhattan including government and public-sector organizations, schools, colleges and universities, political parties, religious and sports organizations, and non-profit organizations. These organizations also need digital printing services for promoting their messages and other purposes.

5.2.3 Print & Digital Media:

Our third target group consists of print and digital media companies located in Manhattan. These companies include but are not limited to television studios, video production companies, publication companies.

5.3 Business Target

  • To achieve the net profit margin of $10k/month by first year, $15k by second year, and $25k by third year
  • To balance the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the first year

5.4 Product Pricing

Product pricing is one of the most important factors in deciding the strategy for any business plan for printing company . After considering the market demands, we have priced all our products in similar ranges as of our competitors.

Alex provided prompt reply and good…

Alex provided prompt reply and good understanding and research, thank you

Like marketing analysis, sales strategy is also an important component of a printing shop business plan  as it determines how the business will grow.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

As of 2018, there are about 7000 business plan for printing company in the United States, so we can say that we have a tough competition ahead. Although we have a lot of competitors, but none of them provides as high-quality services in the same price as provided by us. Secondly, we will facilitate our customers with online orders and free delivery service.

6.2 Sales Strategy

  • We will ensure at least a 20% increase in website traffic each month and will ensure at least an 80% conversion rate, i.e. to turn 80% of our website visitors into our customers.
  • We will advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and social media.
  • We will offer a 20% discount on our services for the first three months of our launch.

6.3 Sales Monthly

Digital Printing Business Plan - Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

Digital Printing Business Plan - Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Digital Printing Business Plan - Unit Sales

Personnel plan

Personel plan shows information about the staff of a company along with their salaries. If you don’t know how to make one, you can take help from this sample business plan for a printing company . Junes has developed the following personnel plan for her company.

7.1 Company Staff

Junes will act as the General Manager of the company and will initially hire following people:

  • 1 Accountant to maintain financial and other records
  • 2 Sales Executives responsible to market and discover new ventures
  • 2 Graphic Artists to design and modify print media
  • 3 Technicians to operate the printing machines
  • 2 Managing Assistants to manage the company’s official website and social media pages
  • 4 Customer Representatives to interact with customers and record their orders
  • 4 Drivers to transport or deliver printed materials
  • 1 Front Desk Officer to act as a receptionist
  • 1 Security Officer

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

The success of a business heavily depends on its accurate financial analysis so make sure to pay special attention to your financial plan before opening a print shop .

8.1 Brake-even Analysis

Digital Printing Business Plan - Brake-even Analysis

8.2 Projected Profit and Loss

8.2.1 profit monthly.

Digital Printing Business Plan - PROFIT MONTHLY

8.2.2 Profit Yearly

Digital Printing Business Plan - PROFIT YEARLY

8.2.3 Gross Margin Monthly

Digital Printing Business Plan - GROSS MARGIN MONTHLY

8.2.4 Gross Margin Yearly

Digital Printing Business Plan - GROSS MARGIN YEARLY

8.3 Projected Cash Flow

Digital Printing Business Plan - Projected Cash Flow Diagram

Download Digital Printing Business Plan Sample in pdf

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OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

business plan for a digital printing company

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Starting a Digital Printing Business 101: A Comprehensive Guide

business plan for a digital printing company

The digital printing industry is booming, driven by a surge in demand for on-demand printing, personalization, and the need for environmentally sustainable practices. For entrepreneurs looking to tap into this lucrative market, starting a digital printing business could be a viable option. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through this journey.

Understanding the Market

The first step in establishing your digital printing business is to understand the market. Conduct thorough market research to identify your potential customers, their needs, and what your competitors offer. Understanding the demand in your local market or the niche you want to target will inform your business strategy and service offerings.

Crafting a Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan is your roadmap to success. It should outline your business objectives, target market, marketing and sales strategies, projected financials, and operational plans. A business plan will not only guide your daily operations but will also be crucial if you need to secure funding from investors or financial institutions.

Investing in the Right Equipment

Your printing equipment is the backbone of your operation. You’ll need to invest in high-quality digital printers that can deliver excellent print quality and handle the volume of work you anticipate. Depending on your business model, you might need different types of printers – for example, inkjet for high-quality color prints and laser for high-speed monochrome prints. Or depending on the focus of your product you might order only one type of printers. For example there are services that provide business card printing only.

Don’t forget about finishing equipment like cutters, folders, and binders, and software for design and print management. Also, consider your space requirements; you’ll need a location that can accommodate your equipment, supplies, and finished products.

Building a Skilled Team

In the digital printing business, the quality of your products is largely dependent on the skills of your team. Hiring experienced designers and print technicians will ensure your prints meet the highest standards. Training opportunities should also be provided to keep your team abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the industry. Your team training and selection should be based on your USP and focus. For example if you provide one-day printing services you need to take that into consideration.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Ensure you meet all legal and regulatory requirements for starting a business in your location. This might involve registering your business, obtaining necessary permits or licenses, and understanding your tax obligations. It’s advisable to consult with a business advisor or legal professional to ensure you’re fully compliant.

Marketing Your Business

Once your business is ready to launch, you’ll need to attract customers. Develop a robust marketing strategy that includes both online and offline methods. Having a professional website, engaging in social media marketing, and leveraging SEO can help you reach a wider audience online. Traditional marketing methods like networking, attending industry events, and direct mail can also be effective.

Offering Exceptional Customer Service

In a competitive industry like digital printing, providing exceptional customer service can set you apart. Strive to exceed your customers’ expectations with high-quality prints, fast turnarounds, and personalized service. A satisfied customer not only brings repeat business but can also become a powerful advocate for your brand.

Starting a digital printing business involves careful planning and execution, but the potential rewards are significant. With a clear understanding of the market, the right team and equipment, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, your business can carve a niche in this exciting and evolving industry.

Innovating and Adapting to Change

The digital printing landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging regularly. As a business owner, it’s crucial to stay ahead of these changes and be ready to adapt your business model accordingly. Whether it’s embracing eco-friendly printing methods, adopting the latest design software, or integrating AI technology for improved efficiency, being innovative will help you stay competitive and relevant in the market.

Building Partnerships

Forming partnerships with other businesses can be a powerful strategy to grow your digital printing business. For example, partnering with graphic designers, marketing agencies, or event planners can lead to a steady stream of work. Also, consider working with suppliers who can offer quality materials at competitive prices. These relationships can enhance your service offering, improve your bottom line, and expand your network.

Monitoring and Improving Business Performance

Finally, it’s essential to regularly monitor your business performance against your goals. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) such as revenue growth, customer satisfaction rates, and production efficiency to gauge your success. Regularly reviewing these metrics will help you identify areas where you’re doing well and where improvements are needed. In addition to that you can find new opportunities that way for expanding your product portfolio. For example numerous businesses saw there is demand for lettering stickers and started providing that at scale.

Moreover, don’t be afraid to seek feedback from your customers. They can provide invaluable insights into your product quality, customer service, and overall performance. Use this information to continually refine your operations and services, ensuring your digital printing business remains a cut above the rest.

Starting a digital printing business can be a complex process, but with the right planning, team, and an adaptive mindset, you can position your enterprise for success in this dynamic industry.

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Printing Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Printing Business

Written by: Howard Tillerman

Howard Tillerman is the Chief Marketing Officer for Step By Step Business and an award-winning marketing professional.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on August 11, 2021 Updated on November 30, 2023

How to Start a Printing Business

Investment range

$8,100 - $32,200

Revenue potential

$100,000 - $200,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$50,000 - $100,000 p.a.

Industry trend

The global printing industry is worth more than $800 billion and presents a wealth of opportunities amid the shift to digital and 3D printing. You could grab a slice of this vast and growing market, but you may have to work hard and acquire the relevant entrepreneurial knowledge first.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place, as this in-depth guide lays out every step you’ll take to develop and launch your own successful printing business.

Let’s dive right in!

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

The first step is market analysis, to understand what’s happening in the industry and the prospects of building a successful business.

Pros and cons

Before you open a print shop, it’s best to weigh the pros and cons to help you determine if the risk is worth it.

  • Highly profitable
  • High customer retention rate
  • Easy to start; work from home if needed
  • Broad and exciting market
  • Little experience required
  • Cutthroat competition
  • High overhead costs

Printing industry trends

The printing industry is seeing a rebirth. For starters, research firm Mordor Intelligence expects the global printing market to see steady annual growth of nearly 2.5% for the next five years.(( https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/commercial-printing-market )) 

That’s nothing compared to the explosive forecast for 3D printing, which is becoming more common in many sectors, including healthcare and manufacturing.

Industry size and growth

  • Industry size and past growth – The US printing industry has seen a gradual decline in recent years and is valued at about $79 billion as of 2022, according to market analyst IBISWorld.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/printing-united-states/ ))  
  • Growth forecast – The US digital print market is headed toward impressive annual growth of almost 7% through 2026(( https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2021/05/10/2226163/0/en/The-digital-printing-market-size-is-expected-to-grow-from-USD-24-8-billion-in-2021-to-USD-34-3-billion-by-2026-at-a-CAGR-of-6-7.html )) while the 3D printing market is seen to grow from $14 billion in 2021 to $51 billion in 2028 — a more than 350% expansion in just seven years.(( https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/3d-printing-industry-analysis ))
  • Number of businesses – There are nearly 45,000 printing businesses in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/printing-united-states/ ))
  • Number of people employed – The industry employs more than 350,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/printing-united-states/ ))

printing industry size and growth

Trends and challenges

Trends shaping the printing industry include:

  • Growing preference for 3D and digital printing
  • Emergence of erasable printing technology, security printing, and cloud printing

Challenges in the printing industry include:

  • Declining demand due to adoption of digital technology
  • High level of competition

printing industry Trends and Challenges

What kind of people work in printing?

  • Gender – Around 66% of all printers are male, while 34% are female.(( https://www.zippia.com/printer-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
  • Average level of education – 36% of printers have a high school diploma and 28% hold a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/printer-jobs/education/ ))
  • Average age – The average age of an employed printer is 48 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/printer-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

printing industry demographics

How much does it cost to start a printing business?

The cost of starting a printing business depends on location, initial equipment, and upfront supplies.

You should expect to spend at least $40,000 for a barebones operation and up to $400,000 on the higher end. However, most in the printing business spend about $200,000 for a well-rounded print shop.

Signing on with a franchise such as the UPS Store boosts income. But if you’re not getting a franchise, your startup investment as an independent printing business will cover the following:

How much can you earn from a printing business?

Depending on industry segment and size of operation, a printing business tends to generate $100,000 to $200,000 in annual revenue, at a 50% profit margin. After costs, such as design software subscriptions, equipment maintenance, supplies, salaries, rent, and insurance, you’ll have a pre-tax profit of $50,000 to $100,000 per year.

Of course, if you add another printer, move to a larger space, or open a second and third location, you can make significantly more.

printing business earnings forecast

What barriers to entry are there?

The biggest barrier to entry in the printing industry is the high level of competition. Printing is a relatively popular market, attracting a lot of entrepreneurs. Your ability to offer competitive pricing and custom print options can help you gain a share of the market.

The high cost of equipment is another barrier. Printing equipment is expensive, and unless you have adequate capital, you’ll have a problem running a well-rounded service or outperforming your competitors.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

The second step to starting a printing business is to get more clarity about what you need to do to achieve success. Here’s what you need to do during this phase:

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Your competition will be other businesses offering the same services in your area. You will also be competing against larger companies with a nationwide presence, such as American Printing.

One of the easiest ways to establish a strong presence quickly in the printing industry is to leverage franchising. Partnering with printing franchises such as The UPS Store can provide your business a steady stream of business cards, brochures, and other marketing materials to boost income.

These materials are an integral part of fostering relationships during seminars, trade shows, and other promotional events.

What? Determine your products or services

Running a print shop typically involves providing one or more printing services, including screen, offset, 3D printed products , or digital printing. You could also offer a combination of services, such as screen and digital. Most printing businesses offer various specialized services such as T-shirt printing, signage, brochures, magazines, business cards, catalogs, and more.

Knowing which commercial printing service to start will help you determine your target customers, competition, and how to stand out.

  • Digital printing involves creating designs on a computer and then printing it on various materials, including paper, canvas, fabric, and more. The leading digital printing technologies include inkjet and laser. Inkjet is commonly used for signages, short print runs, and posters. Laser printers are used for direct mails and brochures.
  • Traditional offset printing, also known as lithography, is ideal for high-volume commercial jobs. Ever seen a video of newspapers running through big rollers? That’s offset printing.
  • Screen or silk printing involves pressing ink through a stenciled mesh screen to create a printed design. It is popular for T-shirts, mugs, and billboards.
  • The newest and fastest growing market segment is 3-D printing, which involves the construction of a three-dimensional object from a computer design. This is not your grandfather’s printing method.

business plan for a digital printing company

With a niche strategy, you can leverage your expertise in a particular area to stand out from your competition.

Think of it as a way to help you focus on printing services that your competitors aren’t offering in your area.

Decide whether you want to provide digital, screen, or offset printing services, or a combination of these services. That way, you won’t have a problem identifying your ideal customers.

While most print shops run from Monday through to Friday, operating hours depend on your current orders, which means you might work on weekends and late hours if you have a deadline to meet.

How much should you charge for printing?

Your pricing structure can make or break your printing business. Here are a few pricing strategies you can use:

Cost + markup pricing

This model involves determining the price by forecasting the cost of printing for a specific project then adding the desired profit markup on top.

Gain market share pricing

This strategy involves setting low prices to gain market share against competitors. The model works well if you’re offering multiple printing services.

For instance, you may lower prices for 3D printing to attract new customers knowing that you’ll later sell these clients more profitable services such as long-run offset printing. Research industry rates to help you determine the best pricing model for your business.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

You’ve chosen your niche. The next thing you want to do is pinpoint your target customers. Targeting specific groups of potential clients can help reduce your marketing costs and maximize profits.

For instance, if you run a 3D printing business, your target customers would be display companies, ad agencies, marketing firms, and manufacturers. If you’re operating a screen printing business, your customers would include college students and T-shirt design firms.

When you know the printing customers to target, you can easily reach them, not to mention that you’ll be in a better position to provide quality services.

Where will your business be based?

While you can run your printing service from home, you’re better off with a storefront location. Ideally, you’ll want an area that’s visible and accessible.

Even if you don’t plan to attract many walk-in customers, a visible location can help spread the word about your business to local customers. You’ll also need a site that offers quick access to clients picking up their orders and people delivering supplies.

Also, as you evaluate a potential location for your print shop, consider zoning regulations to ensure that your chosen site allows for the legal operation of your business. Lastly, make sure that the cost of renting and running your selected location is within your budget.

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on Craigslist , Crexi , and Commercial Cafe . When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

  • Central location accessible via public transport
  • Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
  • Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
  • Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

printing business idea rating

Step 3: Brainstorm a Printing Company Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

  • Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
  • Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
  • The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
  • Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
  • Including keywords, such as “printers” or “digital printing”, boosts SEO
  • Choose a name that allows for expansion: “Inkwell Printing Solutions” over “T-Shirt Printing Hub” or “Business Card Printing Solutions”
  • Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
  • Use online tools like the Step by Step business name generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity. 

Step 4: Create a Printing Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

  • Executive Summary: A concise overview of the business plan, summarizing key points and objectives.
  • Business Overview: A detailed description of the printing business, including its mission, vision, and core values.
  • Product and Services: Clearly outline the printing services offered, such as digital printing, offset printing, and additional services like graphic design.
  • Market Analysis: Research and analysis of the printing industry, including target market demographics, trends, and potential opportunities.
  • Competitive Analysis: Assessment of competitors in the printing market, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to gain a competitive edge.
  • Sales and Marketing: Strategies for promoting and selling printing services, including pricing, advertising, and sales channels.
  • Management Team: Introduction to key members of the management team, highlighting their skills and roles in the business.
  • Operations Plan: Details on the day-to-day operations of the printing business, covering production processes, equipment, and workflow.
  • Financial Plan: A comprehensive financial forecast, including startup costs, revenue projections, and a break-even analysis.
  • Appendix: Supplementary materials, such as resumes, additional market research, or legal documents, supporting the information presented in the business plan.

what to include in a business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to printing. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your printing business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

  • Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
  • General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
  • C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
  • S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

types of business structures

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2023

business plan for a digital printing company

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

business plan for a digital printing company

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

  • Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
  • SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
  • Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
  • Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
  • Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
  • Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
  • Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a printing business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

types of business funding

Step 8: Apply for Printing Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a printing business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your printing business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

  • General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
  • Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
  • Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
  • Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
  • Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
  • Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

types of business insurance

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You can use design software such as The Print Shop , Canva , and Printavo , to create professional print layouts, adding flair to your projects.

  • Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
  • If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Launching a printing business can be a lucrative venture, and success hinges on strategic marketing. Here are some practical tips beyond website development and networking to ensure your printing business thrives.

  • Local Partnerships: Forge partnerships with local businesses, such as event planners, schools, and restaurants, to offer exclusive printing services, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
  • Sample Kits: Develop eye-catching sample kits showcasing your printing capabilities and distribute them to potential clients, leaving a lasting impression and tangible evidence of your quality.
  • Social Media Engagement: Leverage social media platforms by regularly sharing visually appealing content, highlighting your printing projects, and engaging with your audience through contests or polls to build a strong online presence.
  • Referral Programs: Implement a referral program where existing clients receive discounts or perks for referring new business, turning satisfied customers into advocates for your printing services.
  • Specialized Packages: Create specialized printing packages for occasions like weddings, corporate events, or product launches, demonstrating your ability to tailor services to specific needs.
  • Community Events Sponsorship: Sponsor local events or community gatherings to increase brand visibility, and consider providing on-site printing services to showcase your capabilities directly to potential customers.
  • Interactive Workshops: Host workshops or seminars on printing techniques, design trends, or DIY printing projects, positioning your business as an authority in the field and attracting a diverse audience.
  • Customer Loyalty Programs: Develop loyalty programs offering discounts or exclusive deals for repeat customers, fostering long-term relationships and incentivizing clients to choose your printing services consistently.
  • Targeted Direct Mail Campaigns: Design and execute targeted direct mail campaigns to specific industries or demographics, showcasing how your printing services can meet their unique needs.
  • Testimonials and Case Studies: Collect and showcase client testimonials and case studies that emphasize successful collaborations, building trust and credibility with potential customers.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your printing meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your printing business could be:

  • Fastest printing service in town!
  • If you can design it, we can print it
  • No job is too small, or too big

unique selling proposition

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a print shop, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in printing for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in printing. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from home, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a printing business would include:

  • Designers and Printers
  • General Manager
  • Marketing Lead

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Printing Business – Start Making Money!

In the near future, 3D printing and digital printing will likely come to dominate the market. Other trends to look out for include erasable printing technology, security printing, and cloud printing. A smart entrepreneur would get in now while the market is still taking shape.

You’re now ready to start printing and making money! Thought you might want to bookmark this page, just in case.

  • Printing Business FAQs

Yes, you can. However, you’ll need to partner with the right people and stores. Also, you must have a well-thought-out marketing plan and, of course, sell high-demand products. One of the critical determinants of how much money you can make with a print-on-demand business is the quality of your designs – so create high-quality designs to attract customers.

The amount of revenue you can generate with a t-shirt business depends on several factors, such as your customer base and location. You can make about $573 with an average order of 72 custom t-shirts which takes one hour to print. Wages and materials cost about $169, leaving you with a profit of $304.

Yes, it is. Even so, revenue may vary depending on your target market and location. Industry insiders say the prospects look good since 3D printing is still at its infant stage. The trick is to invest in the right equipment to produce work that customers can buy at a premium price.

Printing companies can acquire clients through networking, referrals, online presence, direct marketing, local partnerships, and participating in industry events.

Digital prints can be profitable due to cost efficiency, quick turnaround times, and the ability to offer customized prints, but profitability may vary.

To make a printing business successful, focus on high-quality products/services, excellent customer service, strong branding and marketing, staying updated with industry trends, building relationships, expanding service offerings, efficient operations, and continuous improvement.

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  • Decide if the Business Is Right for You
  • Hone Your Idea
  • Brainstorm a Printing Company Name
  • Create a Printing Business Plan
  • Register Your Business
  • Register for Taxes
  • Fund your Business
  • Apply for Printing Business Licenses and Permits
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get Business Insurance
  • Prepare to Launch
  • Build Your Team
  • Run a Printing Business - Start Making Money!

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How to write a business plan for a printing shop?

printing shop business plan

Putting together a business plan for a printing shop can be daunting - especially if you're creating a business for the first time - but with this comprehensive guide, you'll have the necessary tools to do it confidently.

We will explore why writing one is so important in both starting up and growing an existing printing shop, as well as what should go into making an effective plan - from its structure to content - and what tools can be used to streamline the process and avoid errors.

Without further ado, let us begin!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a printing shop?

  • What information is needed to create a business plan for a printing shop?
  • How do I build a financial forecast for a printing shop?

The written part of a printing shop business plan

  • What tool should I use to write my printing shop business plan?

Having a clear understanding of why you want to write a business plan for your printing shop will make it simpler for you to grasp the rationale behind its structure and content. So before delving into the plan's actual details, let's take a moment to remind ourselves of the primary reasons why you'd want to create a printing shop business plan.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

Running a small business is tough! Economic cycles bring growth and recessions, while the business landscape is ever-changing with new technologies, regulations, competitors, and consumer behaviours emerging constantly.

In such a dynamic context, operating a business without a clear roadmap is akin to driving blindfolded: it's risky, to say the least. That's why crafting a business plan for your printing shop is vital to establish a successful and sustainable venture.

To create an effective business plan, you'll need to assess your current position (if you're already in business) and define where you want the business to be in the next three to five years.

Once you have a clear destination for your printing shop, you'll have to:

  • Identify the necessary resources (human, equipment, and capital) needed to reach your goals,
  • Determine the pace at which the business needs to progress to meet its objectives as scheduled,
  • Recognize and address the potential risks you may encounter along the way.

Engaging in this process regularly proves advantageous for both startups and established companies. It empowers you to make informed decisions about resource allocation, ensuring the long-term success of your business.

To get visibility on future cash flows

If your small printing shop runs out of cash: it's game over. That's why we often say "cash is king", and it's crucial to have a clear view of your printing shop's future cash flows.

So, how can you achieve this? It's simple - you need to have an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your printing shop business plan already includes a financial forecast (which we'll discuss further in this guide). Your task is to ensure it stays current.

To accomplish this, it's essential to regularly compare your actual financial performance with what was planned in your financial forecast. Based on your business's current trajectory, you can make adjustments to the forecast.

By diligently monitoring your printing shop's financial health, you'll be able to spot potential financial issues, like unexpected cash shortfalls, early on and take corrective actions. Moreover, this practice will enable you to recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities, such as excess cash flow enabling you to expand to new locations.

To secure financing

A detailed business plan becomes a crucial tool when seeking financing from banks or investors for your printing shop.

Investing and lending to small businesses are very risky activities given how fragile they are. Therefore, financiers have to take extra precautions before putting their capital at risk.

At a minimum, financiers will want to ensure that you have a clear roadmap and a solid understanding of your future cash flows (like we just explained above). But they will also want to ensure that your business plan fits the risk/reward profile they seek.

This will off-course vary from bank to bank and investor to investor, but as a rule of thumb. Banks will want to see a conservative financial management style (low risk), and they will use the information in your business plan to assess your borrowing capacity — the level of debt they think your business can comfortably handle — and your ability to repay the loan. This evaluation will determine whether they'll provide credit to your printing shop and the terms of the agreement.

Whereas investors will carefully analyze your business plan to gauge the potential return on their investment. Their focus lies on evidence indicating your printing shop's potential for high growth, profitability, and consistent cash flow generation over time.

Now that you recognize the importance of creating a business plan for your printing shop, let's explore what information is required to create a compelling plan.

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Information needed to create a business plan for a printing shop

Drafting a printing shop business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast, and convince the reader that there is a viable commercial opportunity to be seized.

Below, we'll focus on three critical pieces of information you should gather before starting to write your plan.

Carrying out market research for a printing shop

As you consider writing your business plan for a printing shop, conducting market research becomes a vital step to ensure accurate and realistic financial projections.

Market research provides valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other key factors that can significantly impact the commercial success of your business.

Through this research, you may uncover trends that could influence your printing shop.

You might find that customers may be increasingly interested in non-traditional printing options, such as vinyl prints, canvas wraps, and other specialty products. Additionally, customers could be looking for more eco-friendly printing options, such as recycled paper or water-based inks.

Such market trends play a significant role in forecasting revenue, as they offer valuable data about potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By incorporating these findings into your financial projections, you can present investors with more accurate information, helping them make informed decisions about investing in your printing shop.

Developing the marketing plan for a printing shop

Before delving into your printing shop business plan, it's imperative to budget for sales and marketing expenses.

To achieve this, a comprehensive sales and marketing plan is essential. This plan should provide an accurate projection of the necessary actions to acquire and retain customers.

Additionally, it will outline the required workforce to carry out these initiatives and the corresponding budget for promotions, advertising, and other marketing endeavours.

By budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that the right resources are allocated to these vital activities, aligning them with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and equipment needs of a printing shop

As you embark on starting or expanding your printing shop, having a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) is essential for ensuring your business's success.

Both the recruitment and investment plans must align with the timing and level of growth projected in your forecast, and they require appropriate funding.

The staffing costs for a printing shop might include wages for a manager, customer service representatives, and production workers, as well as payroll taxes and benefits. The equipment costs might include the purchase of printing presses, paper cutters, computers, and software, as well as ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the machinery.

To create a realistic financial forecast, you also need to consider other operating expenses associated with the day-to-day running of your business, such as insurance and bookkeeping.

With all the necessary information at hand, you are ready to begin crafting your business plan and developing your financial forecast.

What goes into your printing shop's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your printing shop's business plan will enable you to assess the growth, profitability, funding requirements, and cash generation potential of your business in the coming years.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a printing shop are:

  • The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
  • The projected balance sheet ,
  • The cash flow forecast ,
  • And the sources and uses table .

Let's look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a printing shop shows how much revenue and profit your business is expected to make in the future.

example of projected profit and loss statement in a printing shop business plan

A healthy printing shop's P&L statement should show:

  • Sales growing at (minimum) or above (better) inflation
  • Stable (minimum) or expanding (better) profit margins
  • A healthy level of net profitability

This will of course depend on the stage of your business: numbers for a startup will look different than for an established printing shop.

The projected balance sheet of your printing shop

The balance sheet for a printing shop is a financial document that provides a snapshot of your business’s financial health at a given point in time.

It shows three main components: assets, liabilities and equity:

  • Assets: are resources owned by the business, such as cash, equipment, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
  • Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers) and loans.
  • Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the cumulative profits and losses of the business to date (called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

example of projected balance sheet in a printing shop business plan

Examining the balance sheet is important for lenders, investors, or other stakeholders who are interested in assessing your printing shop's liquidity and solvency:

  • Liquidity: assesses whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to honour its liabilities due over the next 12 months. It is a short-term focus.
  • Solvency: assesses whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debt over the medium-term.

Looking at the balance sheet can also provide insights into your printing shop's investment and financing policies.

In particular, stakeholders can compare the value of equity to the value of the outstanding financial debt to assess how the business is funded and what level of financial risk has been taken by the owners (financial debt is riskier because it has to be repaid, while equity doesn't need to be repaid).

The projected cash flow statement

A cash flow forecast for a printing shop shows how much cash the business is projected to generate or consume.

example of cash flow forecast in a printing shop business plan

The cash flow statement is divided into 3 main areas:

  • The operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the operations (running the business)
  • The investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.)
  • The financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to investors and lenders

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to ensure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

It is also a best practice to include a monthly cash flow statement in the appendices of your printing shop business plan so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The initial financing plan, also known as a sources and uses table, is a valuable resource to have in your business plan when starting your printing shop as it reveals the origins of the money needed to establish the business (sources) and how it will be allocated (uses).

printing shop business plan: sources & uses example

Having this table helps show what costs are involved in setting up your printing shop, how risks are shared between founders, investors and lenders, and what the starting cash position will be. This cash position needs to be sufficient to sustain operations until the business reaches a break-even point.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what goes into the financial forecast of your printing shop business plan, let's shift our focus to the written part of the plan.

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The written part of a printing shop business plan plays a key role: it lays out the plan of action you intend to execute to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified on the market and provides the context needed for the reader to decide if they believe your plan to be achievable and your financial forecast to be realistic.

The written part of a printing shop business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

  • The executive summary
  • The presentation of the company
  • The products and services
  • The market analysis
  • The strategy
  • The operations
  • The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The executive summary, the first section of your printing shop's business plan, serves as an inviting snapshot of your entire plan, leaving readers eager to know more about your business.

To compose an effective executive summary, start with a concise introduction of your business, covering its name, concept, location, history, and unique aspects. Share insights about the services or products you intend to offer and your target customer base.

Subsequently, provide an overview of your printing shop's addressable market, highlighting current trends and potential growth opportunities.

Then, present a summary of critical financial figures, such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Lastly, address any funding needs in the "ask" section of your executive summary.

2. The presentation of the company

In your printing shop business plan, the second section should focus on the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide an overview of the business's legal structure, details about the owners, and their respective investments and ownership shares. This clarity is crucial, especially if you're seeking financing, as it helps the reader understand which legal entity will receive the funds and who controls the business.

Moving on to the location part, you'll offer an overview of the company's premises and their surroundings. Explain why this particular location is of interest, highlighting factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your printing shop, you may emphasize the potential benefits of the area. You could highlight the area's access to a large customer base, its business-friendly environment, and its potential for growth. You might mention that the area has transportation links which could facilitate the delivery of goods, and is well-positioned to reach other markets. Additionally, you could point out the proximity to amenities such as restaurants, entertainment, and other services. Overall, you may present the area as an attractive destination for businesses that could realize a good return on their investment.

Finally, you should introduce your management team. Describe each member's role, background, and experience.

Don't forget to emphasize any past successes achieved by the management team and how long they've been working together. Demonstrating their track record and teamwork will help potential lenders or investors gain confidence in their leadership and ability to execute the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your business plan should include a detailed description of what your company offers, who are the target customers, and what distribution channels are part of your go-to-market. 

For example, your printing shop might offer services such as full-colour printing, large format printing, and custom design to its customers. Full-colour printing is an ideal choice for businesses that need to create promotional materials, such as brochures, flyers, and posters. Large format printing is perfect for producing banners, signs, and posters, and custom design can help customers create unique visuals with the help of a professional designer. All of these services are designed to help customers create marketing materials that will help attract more customers to their business.

4. The market analysis

When presenting your market analysis in your printing shop business plan, you should detail the customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and any regulations that may apply.

The goal of this section is to help the reader understand how big and attractive your market is, and demonstrate that you have a solid understanding of the industry.

You should start with the demographics and segmentation subsection, which gives an overview of the addressable market for your printing shop, the main trends in the marketplace, and introduces the different customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

The target market section should follow and zoom on the customer segments your printing shop is targeting, and explain how your products and services meet the specific needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include small businesses. This segment would include those who need high-quality printing services in order to create materials for their business operations, such as brochures, business cards, and flyers. Additionally, they may need more specialized printing services such as large-format printing or specialty papers.

Then comes the competition subsection, where you should introduce your main competitors and explain what differentiates you from them.

Finally, you should finish your market analysis by giving an overview of the main regulations applicable to your printing shop.

5. The strategy section

When you write the strategy section of your printing shop business plan, remember to cover key elements such as your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

In the competitive edge subsection, elaborate on what makes your company stand out from competitors. This becomes especially important if you're a startup, aiming to carve a place for yourself amidst established players in the marketplace.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you plan to maintain profitability while offering competitive prices to attract customers.

Outline your sales & marketing plan, detailing how you'll reach out to new customers and retain existing ones through loyalty programs or special offers.

For the milestones subsection, outline your company's achievements to date and your main objectives for the future, complete with specific dates to set clear expectations for progress.

Lastly, the risks and mitigants subsection should address the main risks that could affect your plan's execution. Explain the measures you've put in place to minimize these risks, assuring potential investors or lenders.

Your printing shop may face the risk of a decrease in demand for print products, as more businesses switch to digital formats. This could mean that your shop has to adjust its services to accommodate new technologies, or risk losing customers. Additionally, your shop might face the risk of a disruption in its supply chain, either due to a natural disaster or an unexpected increase in demand. This could lead to delays in the delivery of materials, resulting in a disruption of your operations.

6. The operations section

The operations of your printing shop must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your printing shop - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

You may have key assets such as a large printing press and a variety of inks and papers. These items could be considered intellectual property of the printing shop, as they are integral to the operations of the business. Additionally, the shop might have a portfolio of designs that it has produced over time, as well as customer databases and contacts, which could be considered intellectual property as well.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will present the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of what goes in your printing shop business plan, let's look at the solutions you can use to draft yours.

What tool should I use to write my printing shop's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating a printing shop business plan:

  • Using specialized online business plan software,
  • Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your printing shop's business plan

The modern and most efficient way to write a printing shop business plan is to use business plan software .

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

  • You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
  • You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
  • You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
  • You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
  • You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
  • You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
  • You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
  • You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Need a solid financial forecast?

The Business Plan Shop does the maths for you. Simply enter your revenues, costs and investments. Click save and our online tool builds a three-way forecast for you instantly.

Screenshot from The Business Plan Shop's Financial Forecasting Software

Hiring a business plan writer to write your printing shop's business plan

Outsourcing your printing shop business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

Business plan writers are experienced in writing business plans and adept at creating financial forecasts without errors. Furthermore, hiring a consultant can save you time and allow you to focus on the day-to-day operations of your business.

However, hiring business plan writers is expensive as you are paying for the software used by the consultant, plus their time, and their profit margin of course.

From experience, you need to budget at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax for a complete business plan, more if you need to make changes after the initial version (which happens frequently after the initial meetings with lenders or investors).

You also need to be careful when seeking investment. Investors want their money to be used to grow the business, not spent on consulting fees. Therefore, the amount you spend on business plan writing services (and other consulting services such as legal services) needs to be negligible relative to the amount raised.

The other drawback is that you usually don't own the business plan itself: you just get the output, while the actual document is saved in the consultant's business plan software - which makes it difficult to maintain the document up to date without hiring the consultant on a retainer.

For these reasons, outsourcing the printing shop business plan to a business plan writer should be considered carefully, weighing both the advantages and disadvantages of hiring outside help.

Ultimately, it may be the right decision for some businesses, while others may find it beneficial to write their business plan using online software.

Why not create your printing shop's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a printing shop business plan is not advisable. Allow me to explain the reasons.

Firstly, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel or any spreadsheet demands technical expertise in accounting principles and financial modelling. Without a degree in finance and accounting and significant financial modelling experience, it's unlikely that the reader will fully trust your numbers.

Secondly, relying on spreadsheets is inefficient. While it may have been the go-to option in the past, technology has evolved, and software now performs such tasks much faster and more accurately.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Moreover, software offers ease in comparing actuals versus forecasts and maintaining up-to-date forecasts for clear visibility on future cash flows, as we discussed earlier in this guide. Such tasks are cumbersome when using spreadsheets.

Now, let's address the written part of your printing shop business plan. While it may be less prone to errors, using software can significantly boost productivity. Word processors lack instructions and examples for each section of your business plan. They also won't automatically update your numbers when changes occur in your forecast, and they lack automated formatting capabilities.

In summary, while some entrepreneurs may consider Word or Excel for their business plan, it's far from the best or most efficient solution when compared to specialized software.

  • A business plan has 2 complementary parts: a financial forecast showcasing the expected growth, profits and cash flows of the business; and a written part which provides the context needed to judge if the forecast is realistic and relevant.
  • Having an up-to-date business plan is the only way to keep visibility on your printing shop's future cash flows.
  • Using business plan software is the modern way of writing and maintaining business plans.

We hope that this practical guide gave you insights on how to write the business plan for your printing shop. Do not hesitate to get in touch with our team if you still have questions.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

  • In-depth business plan structure
  • Key steps to write a business plan?
  • Free business plan template

Know someone who owns or wants to start a printing shop? Share this article with them!

Guillaume Le Brouster

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Before you write a business plan, do your homework. These sample business plans for online print shops, print shop websites, print brokers, and printing services brokers will help you get started.

If you’re looking to develop a more modern business plan, we recommend you try LivePlan . It contains the same templates and information you see here, but with additional guidance to help you develop the perfect plan.

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business plan for a digital printing company

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How to Start a Printing Business

Last Updated: January 31, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Helena Ronis . Helena Ronis is Co-founder and CEO of AllFactors, a unified web analytics software to drive company's marketing and business growth. She has worked in product and marketing in the tech industry for over 8 years, and studied Digital Marketing & Analytics at the MIT Sloan School of Management Executive Program. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 22 testimonials and 85% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 505,955 times.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most printing business enterprises employ fewer than 10 people. As more printing business owners utilize digital printing equipment, fewer skilled technicians will be needed to operate this machinery. Modern digital printing equipment is smaller and more affordable than ever before and practically anyone with capital can purchase and operate digital printing equipment, even from a home office.

Finding a Printing Niche

Step 1 Find a niche within the printing industry.

  • One of the best examples of this strategy can be seen by the success of franchise sign printing businesses, which target budget-minded business owners who only need occasional signs and banners, which can be spotty (inconsistent demand) or loaded with competition. They do not attempt to offer anything but quick-turnaround signs and leave brochures and envelope printing to traditional offset printing businesses. [3] X Research source

Step 2 Familiarize yourself with the business standards.

  • Product match, excellent quality – very precise color, hue, and tone for high end products.
  • Color match, excellent quality – usually precise Process Matching System (PMS Colors) by screen values (tones created by dot sizes) of the 4 process colors (cyan, magenta, process yellow, and black).
  • Or just pleasing color , of medium quality – which is not so precisely matched. Caution : that means pleasing to the customer , not to you.
  • Commercial quality printing is probably a cut above desktop publishing, done in your-office (above typical office printer, copier, or duplicator quality). It requires sharp line art and text – fineness of line work does not vary from page to page, screen color or halftone detail is consistent.
  • Any choice of printing process (or brand of paper) shown on a quote to your customer is for them to choose. No, you can not substitute a more profitable method or material. Unless they agree in writing to a change, they can demand that it be redone at your expense -- if you did not follow written specifications precisely.

Determining What Equipment You’ll Need

Step 1 Research the competition and their equipment.

  • At the very least, you’ll need a desktop computer, some design software, and a high-quality digital printer that is able to handle jobs up to 11in x 17in. [4] X Research source

Step 3 Research and obtain any necessary approval or documentation.

  • You should familiarize yourself with Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, including their and other agencies such as Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) “postings” (required posters about safety and employment opportunity, etc.).
  • If you only use independent, outside printing contractors to do occasional printing that you cannot do personally, then you could be a "printing broker" (non-affiliated, wholesaler) and not have employees.
  • Quarterly estimates of income, record keeping, reporting of actual proceeds, and paying your personal proprietorship or corporate (limited liability corporation [LLC]) taxes and social security for yourself is your responsibility to learn and complete each year.

Step 4 Secure funding.

  • After you become established and have enough credit and show volume and potential, you might be able to lease equipment, which can bring flexibility, but leases may have penalties and balloon notes, etc. to return or to keep the item, respectively.

Offering Profitable Services

Step 1 Choose a business location.

  • You can look at locations online via realtor websites or hire a realtor to help you find the perfect location for your new printing business.

Step 2 Turn printed items into products by creating a menu of what you offer.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • Plan to outsource complimentary services you cannot do in-house. If you can print business cards but lack a good paper cutter, establish relationships with a local print shop who has one. Instead of competing with one another for business, learn how to work together to partner on jobs and create more prosperity for both printing businesses. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

business plan for a digital printing company

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Prepare a Bill of Quantities

  • ↑ http://graphicartsmag.com/articles/2009/07/niche-print-markets
  • ↑ http://www.technifoldusa.com/bindery-success-blog/bid/34727/How-Can-I-Generate-More-Sales-in-My-Printing-Business
  • ↑ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140829080534-39488528-the-emerging-digital-printing-business-versus-offset-printing/
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/businessideas/digital-printing-service
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/pick-your-business-location
  • ↑ http://www.noobpreneur.com/2012/06/11/how-to-start-a-successful-printing-business-with-minimal-investment/

About This Article

Helena Ronis

To start a printing business, start by finding a niche that fulfills a specific need for your customers, such as digital printing or budget-friendly sign printing. Then, find a location for your business that’s easy to get to and is large enough for your equipment. Once you have a storefront, research the equipment that you’ll need to buy, such as a computer, design software, and a high-quality printer. Next, create a menu of services to offer customers exactly what they need, such as a portable tabletop sign that can be used for events or sales meetings. For advice on how to promote your printing business online and in your community, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Best Digital Marketing Blog

Starting a digital printing business in 2023, digital advertising | feb 27, 2023.

Starting a digital printing business in 2023 can be a lucrative venture given the increasing demand for print-on-demand services, personalized marketing, and the rising trend toward e-commerce.

However, like any other business, starting a digital printing business requires planning, strategy, and investment. In this article, we will explore the essential steps and a checklist that you need to consider when starting a digital printing business in 2023.

What to Consider When Starting a Digital Printing Business in 2023:

Step 1: conduct market research.

Before starting any business, you need to understand the market and the competition. Conduct market research to identify the current trends, target market, and competitors. Determine the types of printing services that are in high demand, such as leaflet printing , apparel printing, promotional printing, or signage printing. Consider conducting a SWOT analysis to identify your business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Step 2: Create a Business Plan

A business plan is essential for any business, including a digital printing business. A business plan outlines your business objectives, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategy. It is a roadmap that guides you through the process of starting and running your business. Your business plan should include the following sections:

  • Executive summary
  • Business description

Starting a Digital Printing Business in 2023 | DMC

  • Product and service description
  • Marketing and sales strategy
  • Management and organizational structure
  • Financial projections

Step 3: Register Your Business

Register your business with the relevant authorities. Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a business license, tax identification number, and other permits. Consult a legal professional to ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.

Step 4: Choose Your Printing Equipment

Invest in high-quality printing equipment that meets your business needs. Consider the types of printing services you plan to offer and the volume of work you expect to handle. Research the available printing technologies, such as direct-to-garment printing, dye-sublimation printing, and inkjet printing, to determine the best equipment for your business.

Step 5: Develop Your Brand Identity

Develop a brand identity that reflects your business values and distinguishes your business from competitors. Your brand identity should include your business name, logo, website, and marketing materials. Consider working with a graphic designer to create a professional and memorable brand identity. You can even showcase your products with your branded materials. For instance, some businesses that provide PVC stickers tend to showcase their brand with the same type of products.

Starting a Digital Printing Business in 2023 | DMC

Step 6: Establish Your Online Presence

In today’s digital age, an online presence is essential for any business. Establish a website and social media accounts to promote your business and showcase your services. You can brand your services and focus on one service or one type of client. For example, there are a lot of printing businesses that provide only same day sticker printing . Your website should be user-friendly and include information about your services, pricing, and contact information.

Step 7: Hire Staff

Hire staff with the necessary skills and experience to operate your printing equipment and manage your business operations. Depending on your business needs, you may need to hire graphic designers, sales representatives, and customer service personnel.

Step 8: Develop Your Pricing Strategy

Develop a pricing strategy that covers your costs and ensures profitability. Consider the cost of materials, equipment, labor, and overhead when setting your prices. Research the pricing strategies of your competitors to ensure that your prices are competitive.

  • Conduct market research to identify the current trends, target market, and competitors.
  • Create a business plan that outlines your business objectives, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategy.
  • Register your business with the relevant authorities.
  • Choose your printing equipment based on the types of printing services you plan to offer and the volume of work you expect to handle.
  • Develop a brand identity that reflects your business values and distinguishes your business from competitors.
  • Establish an online presence through a website and social media accounts.
  • Hire staff with the necessary skills and experience to operate your printing equipment and manage your business operations.
  • Develop a pricing strategy that covers your costs and ensures profitability.

In conclusion, starting a digital printing business in 2023 can be a rewarding venture if you plan carefully, invest wisely, and provide high-quality services to your customers. Conducting market research, creating a business plan, registering your business, choosing the right printing equipment, developing your brand identity, establishing an online presence, hiring skilled staff, and developing a pricing strategy are all critical steps that you need to consider when starting a digital printing business.

By following this checklist and implementing these steps, you can successfully launch your digital printing business and establish a reputation for excellence in the industry. With dedication, hard work, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, your digital printing business can thrive and succeed in 2023 and beyond.

Market Research

Marketing & sales departments, online presence, amy harrison.

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How to Start a Profitable Digital Printing Business

Do you want to start a small digital printing business? Find here a detailed guide to the sample plan, advantages, cost, and profitability of the digital printing press business.

Digital printing is a specific method of printing from a digital-based image directly to a variety of media. Digital printing is a newer option than the most popular and older offset printing. Due to several advantages, digital printing is becoming highly popular.

You can start a small digital printing unit with a moderate startup capital investment. You need a retail location, digital printing machine, consumables, and skilled manpower for quality work.

For the small customized printing requirements, people prefer digital printing to offset. In addition to that, it reduces the cost too.

Why Digital Printing Business?

  • First of all, you can start a digital printing venture with a comparatively lower startup capital investment. So, you take a minimum financial risk of starting a printing business.
  • With the upgraded digital printing machine, you can provide great work quality. It is as good as offset printing.
  • As far as print time is concerned, it takes less time. Digital label printing doesn’t require plates which means a shorter setup time so your labels are printed faster.
  • With digital printing, you can enjoy design flexibility. As you don’t need to use plates and you print directly, you can change the shades and designs often and frequently.
  • Finally, you can address the customers who need small-quantity printing. And the number of this type of customer is far more than the customers who need bulk quantity printing.

10 Steps to Start a Digital Printing Business 

1. learn the skills of digital printing.

The business demands specific skills and knowledge about the work process and industry. If you have some experience, then it is the perfect opportunity for you. And if are a beginner, then you must gain some experience first. It is better to work with other organization that offers digital printing services.

Specifically, you need to understand the printing process, the pricing strategy, and the way of advertising. Every industry has some internal tricks. Until and unless you don’t go deep down, you won’t be able to understand the inside factors. Simply, you need to learn the nitty-gritty of the business.

2. Understand the Local Market

Like any other business, it is essential to gather as much information as possible. Do market research , and know more about digital market volume, degree of competition, scope, and threats.

This market information will help you not only create an effective business plan but also explore the available gaps.

3. Find Your Niche

For a startup company, deciding on the product is a make-or-break decision. And for deciding the products, you need to understand the exact demand in your locality. Generally, there are plenty of options you can explore. Some of the most popular items are business cards, photos, leaflets, brochures , banners, letterheads, t-shirts, signs, and books.

However, it is better to research the market. You need to get as much information about the present printers in your locality. And try to find out the gap. Try to figure out what services they are lacking.

Related: How to Start a 3D Printing Business

4. Craft a Digital Printing Business Plan

Now you can craft the business plan. Crafting a business plan is the most important step you need to take before starting the business. A financial analysis and marketing strategy are the most important aspects of a business plan.

You must include the startup cost including the machinery, equipment, and other necessary consumables. Additionally, calculate the working capital cost including shop rent, manpower cost, raw material, and other administrative expenses.

If you are planning to start on a small scale, some of the basic topics that your digital printing business plan document are as follows:

  • Initial and Recurring Costs
  • Market Competition
  • Target Customers
  • Pricing plan
  • How do you plan to sell your digital printing services?

5. Name Your Digital Printing Company

It is extremely important to choose a catchy and attractive name for your digital printing venture. You can check our detailed guide on the steps to be followed to name a business to learn more.

A correctly coined name for your digital marketing company not only contributes n overall brand growth but also fetches more customers.

6. Legal Considerations

Register your business and obtain all the necessary licenses and permits required in your locality. It is advised to consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with local regulations.

7. Select the Right Location for Your Digital Printing Unit

To make the business successful, you must have a great business location that ensures enough footfalls. And even if you need to pay more for that don’t hesitate. According to the product range, you want to offer to determine the area Sq Ft you want. You will need to have space for machine operation, equipment keeping, and admin jobs. If you want to address large-scale requirements, then you must secure a bigger space.

8. Equipment Needed to Set up Digital Printing Unit

The most important tool that you need to run a digital printing unit is the printer. The type of printer will largely depend on the type of printing you are going to deliver. It can be an inkjet, laser screen, or offset. For large production, a laser printer is a better option.

Other than a printer, you will also need ink toner, cartridge, and other necessary consumables. Also, you need a computer attached to the printer. According to the design requirements, you may need to use some design software solutions like CorelDraw and Photoshop. Try to use every inch of the space effectively.

9. Create a Website

Create a professional website showcasing your services, portfolio, and contact information. In addition, implement online ordering and payment systems to make it convenient for customers to place orders.

10. Promote your Business

Start promoting your business from day one. You need to concentrate on the B2B promotion. Generally, business houses and corporates are the major buyers of this type of product.

Develop a strong brand identity, including a memorable logo and consistent branding across all marketing materials. You can utilize digital marketing strategies such as social media advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing to reach potential customers.

Attend local business events, trade shows, and networking functions to promote your digital printing business. Build relationships with local businesses and potential clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is digital printing business profitable.

Though offset printing dominates the printing industry, the demand for digital printing is increasing rapidly. The cost-effective nature of digital printing against traditional analog printing is the major reason.

Currently, digital printing accounts for 16.2% of the global print market value and 2.9% of the volume. According to industry experts, the previously dominant offset litho will decline in terms of value.

Inkjet is the fastest-growing print process. It is increasingly being adopted in more applications as the quality, reliability, and economics of the process improve. Additionally, the expenditure on R&D bears fruit in this industry.

What is the Cost of Starting a Digital Printing Business?

The investment required will depend on the size and number of customers you’re planning to handle. On average, the cost of starting a small digital printing business will be around $ 10,000 to $20,000 in the United States. It includes business registration fees, license fees, insurance premiums, software expenses, manpower costs, website fees, and marketing costs. The office rent is not included in the digital printing start-up cost as it depends on the location. However, if you are planning to start from home, the cost will be much less.

What types of digital printing services can I offer?

Digital printing encompasses a wide range of services, including business cards, banners, posters, brochures, promotional materials, personalized items (e.g., mugs, T-shirts), and more. Consider your target market and equipment capabilities when determining your service offerings.

What equipment do I need to start a digital printing business?

Essential equipment includes digital printers, large format printers, cutting machines, and graphic design software. The specific equipment may vary based on your services. Invest in high-quality, reliable machines from reputable suppliers.

How can I differentiate my digital printing business from competitors?

Differentiate your business by specializing in a niche market, offering unique services, providing exceptional customer service, and maintaining a strong online presence. Consider environmentally friendly practices or quick turnaround times as additional differentiators.

How do I set pricing for my digital printing services?

Determine your pricing by considering production costs, competitor pricing, and market demand. Offering package deals, discounts for bulk orders, or loyalty programs can attract and retain customers.

Do I need a physical storefront for my digital printing business?

While a physical storefront can enhance visibility, it’s not strictly necessary. Many successful digital printing businesses operate online, using a professional website to showcase services and facilitate online orders.

What software should I use for graphic design in a digital printing business?

Popular graphic design software includes Adobe Creative Cloud (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and CorelDRAW. Choose software that aligns with your team’s expertise and the specific design needs of your business.

business plan for a digital printing company

About the Author: 99businessideas.com led by Rupak Chakrabarty is committed to helping beginners, entrepreneurs, and small business owners in starting, managing, and growing their businesses.

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How to build a marketing strategy for printing businesses - A complete guide in 2021

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In the United States alone, the 2021 print business is estimated to be $68.7 billion. In addition to being incredibly competitive, print enterprises also have to deal with constantly changing technology and trends. Many print businesses fail because of the intense competition they face. However, to stand out in a time when many printing companies are lowering their marketing expenses, it seems that increasing spending is the better option.

Even the print industry has found the tsunami of digital business to be unsettling. Businesses that had previously thrived have had to implement budget cuts or perhaps close their doors. Some things still need to be printed, but the days of corporate communication and advertising being primarily via printing are long gone. Most of the most effective print marketing methods are digital. In this modern digital age, these are the most effective techniques to promote your printing firm.

A few basic steps to build an overall marketing strategy for printing companies

Printing companies are good at helping their clients advertise and get results, but they don’t do a good job of promoting themselves. Marketing appears complicated and time-consuming, but it isn’t. The following key rules are important: understanding your clients, deciding what you want to communicate to them, and choosing the appropriate approaches.

Step 1: Determine your target audience

The first step of any successful marketing initiative is to understand your customers. Research your customers and develop profiles of the clients you wish to target. You might also consider the things they value, what they require, and what they are expecting from you. You can formulate more successful strategies by understanding the client’s needs.

The following are some approaches for determining the target customer and some suggestions on whom to target. To begin, consider a few inquiries.

  • Are you the kind of shop that sells a lot of print to specific industries? If that’s the case, it’s important to treat them as prime target consumers.
  • Examine the job titles of your customers. Is there a pattern or are there several instances of the same job title? They are one of your customers.
  • What type of item do you wish to put on the market? What sector employs this product in an unusual way? This is an ideal customer (if you promote that product)

Step 2: Refine your message

Decide regarding what you will inform your clients about. What makes you stand out as a graphic designer? According to the marketing professionals, this is your messaging. You can express your thoughts in several ways. It can be organized in regards to overall branding or a specific campaign, such as your new large-format division.

The two most crucial parts of every marketing campaign are knowing your customers and developing your message. These are steps that will shape your strategies. A consultant at this stage may assist you in getting your thoughts in order and increasing your ROI.

Step 3: Decide on Your Budget

Decide on Your Budget

Knowing how much you can spend is straightforward. Many people believe it is going to be difficult and time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be.

You already do it if you generate a marketing budget each year. If you don’t, then estimate how much you’ve spent on marketing in the past year, regardless of whether you used money or materials. If you’re happy with that number for the upcoming year, go ahead and use it. If you believe you can invest a little more, do so. It doesn’t have to be a complicated process.

If you are going to have a booth, participate in events, or travel, you’ll probably want to put more thought into these decisions, but in general, you just need to work backward from your channel efforts and then use that number to determine your overall budget.

Step 4: Establish a Unique Value Proposition

One of the more difficult aspects of the printing industry is that most businesses provide comparable services. All services produce similar technology and final results.

It is imperative to offer a unique value proposition to stand apart. You may have a sort of printing in which you excel, and may even have special technology in that field. To emphasize it, explain it in your description.

Some manufacturers do very well in microbreweries, sports clubs, and municipalities. You may be able to help the business messaging evolve if you have marketing knowledge to assist them with marketing materials (often the most difficult part).

Step 5: Reach agreement on channels

Though there are plenty of suitable marketing avenues for print companies, there are three basic options: offline, online, and email (Existing Customers).

Reach agreement on channels

National or local trade shows, local events, and direct mail are all ways to advertise offline. When dealing with sponsorships, don’t do those that merely include your name and brand because they aren’t useful. If you have decided to do trade fairs, you are either already an expert or you are obtaining all the information you need.

Local events are quite successful in their own right. When targeting specific customers, select a target group that visits and works at nearby local events. Have your samples ready for those customers to see and make a connection with them. In a similar vein, if they are packaging people, they bring sample containers.

You may increase your chances of success in the digital world by optimizing your website to appear in search engines, posting blogs, sharing on social media, running advertising, and sending an email.

If you’re sending out emails, do so as part of your internet marketing activities, but try to reach out to your previous and present consumers via email. If they can see you, they’re more likely to spend money. Your ability to be more strategic and creative in your email will increase their buying rate.

Step 6: Build the Infrastructure & Launch

That pretty much sums it up. After that, you’ll just build out your resources for each of your planned channels, targeting the specific individuals you selected and carrying out the themes you determined within the budget you outlined. Then start, go live, wait, etc.

Some tips for developing a printing business marketing plan in 2021

#1 keep an eye on your competitors.

The availability of instant access and visibility over the internet has significantly intensified printing companies’ competition. You don’t compete with only a few local companies anymore. You also have to think about worldwide brands.

Keep an eye on your competitors

Therefore, keeping your competition constantly monitored is the next thing you need to do to attract consumers for printing. Innumerable factors affect your print sales. Your competitors play an important influence in your company’s success. Therefore it is crucial to take the right actions to achieve a competitive edge by continuously upgrading and learning from your competitors.

Once you know how your competition offers it, you just have to ask yourself the following questions: “What makes your firm unique?,” “What characteristics will enable you to stand out?” Once you correctly answer these questions, you’re good to go!

*Tip: Don’t go against VistaPrint

Many people who start printing are asking whether they should try to replicate a business such as VistaPrint, especially with the feature to develop and process print orders completely on their websites.

The response to the ordinary neighborhood print shop is no. The major problem is that it is prohibitively costly and complicated to create a website like VistaPrint. It’s a big investment that a little local shop won’t get back. The second concern is that Vista Print is already available. If you wish to enter the industry, how are you going to get market share? Have you the resources to market them? How are you going to distinguish your services?

A website is a leading generation tool for the local print shop. The aim is to have prospects for early work phases. You can list basic rates and explore different design aspects, but aim at your local market, not the national internet markets where you must fight against major players such as VistaPrint.

#2 Release in local newspapers and industry publications

Release in local newspapers and industry publications

Publishing in local newspapers, magazines in the industry, and so forth is yet another wonderful digital marketing approach for printers. Rather, the aim is to develop valuable content for websites or news publications that are informative and make you a leader in printing.

In this manner, the website that you publish gets high-quality material and a do-follow link to increase your domain authority. You can boost the domain authority of your website by gaining links in local and online publications, also referred to as link building or backlinking, that in turn improve your rank on Google’s results.

However, it can pay a little more than occasionally simply gaining a link. Digital PR focuses on the posting of articles that might contribute to brand awareness and which do not only rely on a do-follow link for value. For printing companies who are trying to survive in the declining printing sector, this is highly crucial. For example, the Community Q&As which spotlight small company owners raise awareness of brands, and secure a link from a relevant, official source to your website.

#3 Develop a strong website

Like all today’s companies, a printing service requires a nicely designed website that is professional and experienced. Since printing is a design service, your site is an integral element of your portfolio. Your website should be clean and current. Also, whether on-page photos or PDFs, your actual work portfolio needs to be easy to browse.

Develop a strong website

Make sure that your website contains a strong call for action to encourage them to contact you. Keep your navigation straightforward especially if you have a lot of print services on your site.

Ensure that it is easy to download designs and photos in all the formats with which you deal. Provide explicit instructions on how to transmit downloads and test the process to ensure that there are no crashes.

#4 Start promoting content with an insightful blog

You probably heard this saying: content is king when it comes to marketing. According to the Content Marketing Institute, a remarkable 92% of marketers consider the content of their companies to be an asset. So valuable material is for a company.

By providing high-quality instructive material that answers potential customer inquiries or discloses tips and methods, you may improve the traffic of your organic website and lead.

#5 Optimize the search engine (SEO)

Optimizing the search engine is the process of boosting the visibility of a website in search engines. This means more inbound leads for print enterprises, without having to house the bucks for costly sponsored advertising.

Any SEO plan of quality begins with a detailed SEO audit. You can only find out what problems your site has in communicating with search engines through an audit. SEO tactics are based on research in industry, competitive analysis, keyword research, and more; however in the end an effective plan to boost your online presence comes to fruition.

Then SEO helps to upload search engine results pages through content marketing, backlinking, local SEO services, and a lot of other strategies (SERPs). Technical SEO also enables you to optimize site speed, user experience, internal links and so much more to ensure that you never lose out on organic internet traffic. SEO is the foundation for any good marketing approach. It helps and improves all other parts of digital marketing and is noted for its quality ROI provision.

#6 Create and improve your Google My Business profile

One of the fastest and most efficient ways to boost your Internet presence is to just create and maintain a Google My Business Profile (GMB).

Create and improve your Google My Business profile

GMB profiles allow your business to be shown on Google maps and local results. For ordinary search inquiries, you are included in sponsored advertising, but above organic results.

GMB accounts also allow your company to appear on Google Maps, an ideal place to acquire local customers. And a conspicuous quote that contains not only an exact name, address, and telephone number (NAP), but also a link to your site can be sent.

GMB accounts also allow your company to appear on Google Maps

An updated GMB profile is essential if you want to boost your online presence and see the marketing strategy of your printing firm succeed.

#7 Master Market Research

You want to demonstrate the traffic to your website for print-related searches in your location. There are three techniques to control the results of the search.

The first is pay-per-click publicity. These adverts run on auction-based platforms such as Google Adwords and Bing Ads. The key advantage here is that you can present the copy and the landing page on the top slots (reserved for paid ads). For example, you may want to run a business card ad. Your ad and your website page may match that offer.

Next, you have to set up Google My Business and rank it. This is the Google map listing and review site for geospatial searches. This is a free listing that may be optimized with your descriptions and client reviews.

Then you have the listings on the organic website. These are free clicks, with your site optimizing for keywords, acquiring links, social media traffic, and material added to your blog.

#8 Manage your reputation

Although your content is significant, there is another sort of internet content that is equally valuable: an online review. Consumers today consult online reviews, including print services, for most services. What’s said about you in the reviews influences your decision to work with you.

This begins with your own service. All you do with customers has an impact on your marketing. Today, a company needs to include customer service in its culture. In case of doubt, put the demands of the consumer first and amaze people with your service.

Manage your reputation

Furthermore, the follow-up urges individuals to examine you. Mention it in follow-up phone calls. Try to receive reviews on major platforms, including Google, Facebook, and Top Rated Local. Keep a close eye on what you’re saying and answer anything unpleasant. Reviews are also a good area to receive customer input to improve your service.

*Pro tip: Put your website with testimonials

Another fantastic technique to make customer feedback proactive is to include your testimonials on your website. This is a strategy to receive good feedback before consumers go to third-party websites.

You can have a testimonials page, but the most efficient way to diffuse your content is next to your calls for action. Video accounts are also very effective. Furthermore, there are widgets to insert reviews of Google or Facebook, and the Top Rated Local badge links to the site with a rating score of all of your reviews.

#9 Partner with local networks

One thing you can do is use your local networks. As a printing company, you can take benefit of local references. Each business with which you work can become a connection where you refer to new customers.

Partner with local networks

As a printer, it extends your reputation management in numerous ways. You must receive local references. However, because you are connected to so many companies, you can also refer customers for certain services. Do that to them, and they will do the same thing for you.

#10 Create a business page for Facebook

Facebook offers excellent marketing prospects with the visual components of a printing business. The public (including your guides) is on Facebook. Many people ask for advice and find Facebook companies. There you need a presence.

Create a business page for Facebook

This presence is your business page on Facebook. Half a website, half a social media update. It is a website that allows you to put all your business information, call for an estimate, and even chat via messenger directly with leads.

You also post on your schedule so that people can feel their employees, work, and daily life inside and out of your enterprise. You should connect and remark on your contributions with your partner companies.

Final Words

Building a marketing strategy can be easier said than done for a printing company. It takes a lot of time and works if you want to do it correctly.

Ensuring that you offer specialty printing services can assist your clients to grow their businesses and attract new customers. Furthermore, several of these services are required for each of these seven customer groups described. Instead of offering a few things, which may or may not be what your consumers want, you offer a selection of solutions based on your customers’ current and future demands.

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