Top 8 Reasons to Hire a Local Printer versus a Chain

You might be surprised to learn the benefits of hiring a local printer versus a chain store. As a followup to our post on local shops vs. corporate shops, check out the tips all in one place.

1.  Price

Unlike with many big box retailers and their local independent counterparts, as far as print and design jobs go, hiring a local firm is likely much less expensive than hiring a big firm.  Corporate shops are often set up for small jobs, and indeed, can be cheaper if you’re only looking to make a couple copies or print 1 sign. Local firms become ideal for saving money when you start printing large jobs for a business, a meeting, an event, etc.

2.  Relationships

At a corporate shop, you’re likely to deal with a new employee every time you visit. At local printers, employees have been around a while, allowing you to form business relationships, not only with the designer and printer, but with support staff like accounting personnel.  This will not only speed up your print jobs, since they know exactly what you’re looking for, but will also allow you to order on terms rather than paying up front. The staff, in turn, will be more likely to work with you to make you happy, lest they have to deal with an unhappy customer the next time you order.

3.  Flexibility

Flexibility in papers, coatings, inks, and products is only part of the reason. A local shop that values your business is more likely to put in the overtime to get your work done on time.

4.  Local

Keeping your business local means more tax dollars for your city and helps to maintain a vibrant business community. A local firm mean you also save money on delivery costs and can reach out to friends and colleagues in the business community to inquire about the quality of the firm. Local businesses have more at stake when you hire them, since their smaller customer list means each customer means a lot.

5.  Customer Service

Local firms have superior customer service and will often bend over backwards to meet your needs (provided they are reasonable, of course). You’ll get to know your customer service representative and they’ll get to know you, ensuring the best possible service and product.

6.  Expertise

Large corporate stores often hire young people without much work experience in order to pay them minimum wage. Local firms pay their employees more and their employees tend to stay put longer. Additionally, small firms rely upon their limited staff to have a vast knowledge of their products and services, meaning you have an expert working on your project rather than someone with only  a basic knowledge.

7.  Options and Innovation

Local firms often have more options and are more likely to innovate for your orders. Things like embossing, die-cutting, and specialty papers can be ordered without extra hassle.  There are no bureaucratic impediments to innovation, and cutting edge software and equipment are more prevalent.

8.  Community

Tying it all together, working with a local print firm helps to create a community that benefits everyone involved.