In a digital-first world, the tangible nature of high-quality print marketing can make a powerful and lasting impression. However, the effectiveness of your beautiful new print depends heavily on the quality of the final printed product. Choosing the right print supplier is a critical decision that can impact your budget, your timeline, and, most importantly, your brand’s reputation.
The choice often comes down to two main options: a large online printing company or a local print shop. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and project. This guide will help you navigate the decision and select the perfect print partner for your business.
Online Printers: The Pros and Cons
Large online printing companies (like Vistaprint or Moo) have become incredibly popular due to their convenience and competitive pricing. They operate on a large scale, allowing them to offer lower prices for standard items like business cards and flyers.
Pros:
•Cost-Effective: For standard, bulk orders, online printers are often significantly cheaper.
•Convenience: You can upload your designs and place an order 24/7 from the comfort of your own office.
•Wide Range of Products: They typically offer a huge variety of standard products and finishes.
Cons:
•Limited Customisation: If you have a unique or complex project, you may be limited by their standard templates and options.
•Lack of Personal Service: You will not have a dedicated person to talk to about your project. Customer service is often handled through call centres or online chat.
•No Physical Proofs: You cannot see and feel a physical sample before you commit to the full print run, which can be risky for colour-sensitive projects.
Local Print Shops: The Pros and Cons
A local print shop offers a more traditional, hands-on approach. You can build a relationship with the people who are actually producing your materials, which can be invaluable.
Pros:
•Expert Advice and Personal Service: You can discuss your project in person, get expert advice on paper stocks and finishes, and have a dedicated point of contact.
•Quality Control: You can often request physical proof to check colours and quality before the full run, giving you peace of mind. 72% of people judge a company by the quality of its business cards, so getting this right is crucial.
•Support for the Local Economy: Working with a local supplier keeps money in your local community.
Cons:
•Higher Cost: For simple, standard jobs, a local printer will likely be more expensive than a large online competitor.
•Less Convenient: You may need to visit the shop in person to discuss your project and approve proofs.
•Limited Operating Hours: You are restricted to their 9-to-5 business hours.
Key Questions to Ask Any Potential Print Supplier
Whether you are considering an online or local printer, there are several key questions you should ask:
1. Can you show me samples of your work?
A reputable printer will be proud to show you examples of their previous work. This allows you to assess the quality of their printing and finishing.
2. What are your turnaround times?
Make sure their production and delivery times align with your project deadlines.
3. What are your file requirements?
Ensure you understand exactly how they need your design files to be formatted (e.g., PDF, CMYK colour mode, with bleed) to avoid any technical issues.
4. Can you provide a physical proof?
For any large or important project, being able to see and approve a physical sample is essential for ensuring the final product meets your expectations.
5. What happens if I am not happy with the final product?
Understand their policy on reprints and refunds in case of any errors or quality issues.
Making the Right Choice
There is no single best answer for every business. The right choice depends on your priorities:
•If your project is a standard format (like A5 flyers) and your main priority is low cost, an online printer is likely the best choice.
•If you have a custom or complex project, require specific colours, or value personal service and expert advice, a local print shop is the way to go.
Many businesses find that a hybrid approach works best, using online printers for their simple, bulk orders and building a relationship with a trusted local printer for their more important, bespoke projects. By carefully considering your needs and asking the right questions, you can find a print partner that helps your brand shine.
About Dead On Digital
Dead On Digital supports UK small businesses with practical websites, digital marketing and smart automation that help improve and strengthen their online presence. Everything we do is focused on keeping things clear, simple and aligned with how real businesses actually operate day to day.
We believe your website and online presence should keep working for you as your business grows, not be built once and forgotten. If you are reviewing where you are now or thinking about ways to improve things online, we are always happy to offer friendly, honest advice.