The onslaught of the death of large commercial printing companies had been widely publicized. That is because their demise was like a plague that hit the printing industry all over the world. Picture this: a big commercial printer has enjoyed success over the decades, with the business getting passed down from one generation to the next. Some printing companies have even been under the same family ownership for more than 50 years already.

But suddenly, with the advent of computers and the internet, they have become irrelevant as more and more people are starting to discover the many advantages of ordering their printing requirements from online companies.

While the larger companies are closing shop, it does not mean that you could no longer start a small commercial printing shop. You have to understand that these big companies are closing down because of their very high operational costs that include salaries and benefits, electricity, and commercial space rental.

But if you plan to start up a small printing company, that just might be more feasible in the present times. That is because big companies set very high minimum standards for their printing outputs. Some institutions however just need a few copies to be printed for their material and this is where you can come in. You will have to accommodate small print orders and this will be your niche in order for your business to stay afloat.

When you start up your printing business, closely monitor your start-up capital, especially when looking for your office and production plant. If you only have one printer unit, you can run it in your garage and therefore save on monthly rentals. You will also save on electricity because residential areas charge lower electricity rates as compared to commercial zones. You just might need a stand-by generator in case of power fluctuations and interruptions.

Purchase one or two desktop computers as well as a good quality but inexpensive printer for your new company. One computer with high specifications can be used for the layout and design. A lower grade computer could be used for the business operations such as making emails, keeping the financial records, etc.

While this may be a home-based printing business at the start, make sure that you have the proper documents and permits to start your operations. This will enable you to accept business clientele that would require you to issue official receipts. As compared to selling enterprises, a printing enterprise might need additional permits to operate in the community. So go to the different government agencies and ask the necessary documents that you need to fulfill.

Purchase stocks for your printing needs from different suppliers such as papers and finishing materials before opening your business. You may also want to get samples of special papers for business cards and invitations so that when people ask for suggestions, you can show them the materials that are available. You will also need cutters, book-binding equipment and accessories, and other tools that will be needed to fulfill different kinds of printing requirements.

Go around your community and promote your new commercial printing venture. You have to outline the advantages if they will seek you out as compared to an existing large scale commercial printer in the city. Prepare a business proposal with a personal note explaining your objectives and capacities as a new printer.


Morgan Phair is a business man using postcards in his coffee shop from commercial printing company, that’s why he love to write an articles about postcard printing.