Getting the most from your Print Vendors

Let's face it, in a perfect world, you'd only need one vendor to handle all of your printing and signage needs. They'd always be on time, they'd always give you the best product, and most importantly, they'd always give you the lowest price for your project. However, in reality, that's simply not the case. Based on my experiences in brokering print jobs for an established Casino on the strip, you will find that every printer in Las Vegas has their strengths and weaknesses. Case in point, the printer who has the best price for posters probably won't the best price for business cards.

Finding a particular printer's specialities is key to saving considerable amounts of money on each job. Although they will tell you that they can handle any sort of print job, the same can be applied to most any printer in Las Vegas, and more often than not, they are only competitive on a handful of products and services. More over, the vast majority of reputable printers in Las Vegas have already begun to expand their services lists in effort to keep ahead in an economy that has already devastated numerous printers in the valley. As with most things in life, balance is the key. Often times a price that seems too good to be true often is. Poorly produced printing collateral can have a drastic effect on your company's image.

You need to take into account more than the project itself. Where is it going? What is it for? Does it need to be of the highest quality possible? Take the time to evaluate your company's printing needs.

- Ask for samples and price lists. Price lists are usually customized to your company's specific needs and eliminate the time spent waiting for bids.

- Make sure to meet with your print reps and communicate what your company does and what your needs are, ensuring that you pay the best possible price for only the materials you need.  

- Above of all, let your print vendors know that you are actively collecting bids and looking for the best price.

One of the worst things you can do as a business owner is deny a new Printer the chance to hear their pitch. It's not always easy to find the time to meet with new vendors, but your bottom line will benefit. Don't be afraid to explore what Print Brokers can offer. A print broker may not be limited to a single vendor and can save you the time and hassle of looking for the best possible price. A Print Broker's relationship with print companies can work to your advantage.

Establishing relationships with multiple vendors may seem daunting in the beginning, however as time goes by and you start seeing the value in vendor diversity, you will be glad you did it.