Starting a design and printing business. Need some advice.

[keithster]

Dear all, I am a newbie here. Hope to have your guidance.

I have the idea of starting a design and printing business. Currently intend to partner with a friend to do so.

My offered services design and printing of namecards, flyers, packaging as our core business etc.

I need advises on, whether this business is still viable? Any additional services you think can do?

How much capital you think minimum need to come up with? A rough estimate.

Having a shopfront a must?

Thanks for all who contributed your ideas. Very very much appreciated.

[yoongf]

I suggest going to Peace Centre along Selegie Road to check out the competition. That's the hub for such businesses.

[Humanpilot]

Any business is "workable" provided you work hard and know where is your core market.
The printing business is still a sustainable business although competition is high. For a start target your potential customers or clients on the property companies, reason being that
1) They have a huge network of agents printing namecards.
2) Large quantity of flyers, brouchure printing is required.

Target them by approaching individual agents first and then suggest an incentive scheme for them if they recommend other agent...etc

You can start by being a broker (meaning you outsource printing job to other printer) so you just mark up whatever price the printer charge you. Of course you will get a better price if you pay cash..

You do not need a office first as you will ususally meet your clients in their office as yours is not a showroom type business. As long as your price is reasonable and your serviuce is good..There will be business..

Well if you need more advise, you can emaiul me at watson@agroupofpeople.com. Although I am not in the printing business. I am just giving my 2 cents worth...

Cheers & Good Luck

[Richard]

hi,

You have an interesting concept. Might want to work closely with this company, Bideas International. Printed my flyers with them recently when they are having their CNY Promotion: 15,000pcs of flyers, A5, Full Colour on 1 side for only $288.00. Their designing charges start from $50 onwards.... Very reasonable pricing and very good and efficient service. You might want to check out their website and contact them if you are interested to be in this line.

Cheers
Richard

[Richard]

Oops... their website is www.b-ideas.com.sg

[Guest]

Design has more added value for the customer than printing, printing is just a commodity with a huge overcapacity.

But design requires knowledge fo the business you are in, knowing your customers demands, branding etc. (like any business actually...).

Being a print broker will not give you any turnover most likely, as there is no added value from you as a broker. Here in Asia every customer goes directly to the printer.

If you'd consider setting up a printing facility, think twice, as the investments are high and the market is changing rapidly.

All in all, think ahead and opt for something else...

Been in this business for the last 10 over years, marketing communcations, seen it rising and now falling down deeper and deeper...

cheers,

Eric