Most companies rely on outside commercial printing companies to produce their printed marketing materials. This can be a sound strategy for companies that require several thousand printed pieces but even then it’s worth noting that approximately 75% of all commercially printed marketing materials are never used because the pieces become obsolete and outdated before they are ever distributed. The price per piece for commercially printed materials can initially seem attractive but if you are only using 20% of what you pay for than it’s worth asking what is the actual price per piece for the materials that are actually used?
Still, it’s worth noting that if you plan to print 1,000+ of the same marketing piece than outsourcing that print job to a commercial printer is likely your most cost effective solution. This still leaves us with the question; what about those companies that need high quality, printed materials but don’t have need for more than a few hundred pieces or less? There are some great options available to produce professional quality marketing materials in your own office by using a high quality, small business copier such as the Konica Minolta Bizhub models. Most of the Konica Minolta Bizhub models and many other competitive brands offer the following capabilities that can help you create cost effective, high quality marketing materials in your own office. This is not only convenient but it allows companies to produce marketing materials based on whatever volume is needed without the motivation to print more than needed which will help to eliminate materials from becoming obsolete and outdated.
Did you know your office copier likely offers the following features;
- Print sell sheets and brochures on glossy card stock often in excess of 100lb paper weights
- Paginate and print booklets of up to 80 pages with automatic folding and saddle stapling
- Store marketing pieces with all print settings to be recalled and re-printed directly from the machine.
- Print postcards for pennies a piece on heavy, glossy card stock
- Print thank you cards and invitations with customized, saved messages
Contact your copier account representative to find out how to utilize these features on your existing office copier and start saving money on your marketing materials today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Business Printing Solutions
What is the best way for a small business to print marketing materials in-house?
Using a high-quality small business copier like the Konica Minolta Bizhub can be an excellent option for small businesses looking to print fewer than 1,000 pieces. These copiers allow you to print brochures, postcards, and other materials on glossy cardstock, eliminating the need for outsourcing. Plus, you’ll save on print costs and reduce waste by printing only what you need. Around 75% of printed marketing materials go unused, making in-house printing more efficient for smaller runs.
How can printing in-house reduce marketing material waste?
When companies rely on commercial printers, they often print large quantities to get a lower price per piece, but this leads to waste—75% of printed materials are never used. By printing in-house, you can produce the exact number of pieces needed, reducing waste and keeping your materials relevant. Using your office copier to print on demand ensures no more marketing brochures become outdated before they’re distributed.
Can in-house copiers produce high-quality marketing materials?
Yes! Many modern office copiers, such as the Konica Minolta Bizhub series, can print on heavy, glossy cardstock, allowing you to create professional-looking brochures, sell sheets, and even postcards. You can print thank-you cards, invitations, and booklets of up to 80 pages. With advanced features like automatic folding and saddle stapling, you get commercial-quality materials without leaving the office.
What are the cost benefits of printing marketing materials in-house?
Printing marketing materials in-house can drastically reduce your per-piece cost, especially if you’re printing less than 1,000 pieces. Commercial printing companies often require large minimum orders, which can result in overproduction. Printing with your office copier saves you money by eliminating these minimums and avoiding wasted prints. Plus, producing materials as needed ensures you only pay for what you’ll actually use.
What types of marketing materials can be printed using a business copier?
Your office copier can handle a wide variety of materials, including brochures, sell sheets, postcards, and booklets. Most advanced models can print on glossy cardstock and even handle heavier paper weights, perfect for high-end marketing pieces. You can also store templates on your copier, making it easy to recall and print materials on demand without having to set up the print job each time.
Is in-house printing environmentally friendly?
Yes, in-house printing can be more eco-friendly because it reduces waste by only printing the exact amount needed. Commercial printing often leads to excess prints that end up unused—around 75% of all printed materials go to waste. In-house printing also allows you to choose eco-friendly paper and reduce the carbon footprint associated with large-scale production and shipping.
How can I improve the quality of my printed marketing materials using a copier?
To improve print quality, use high-quality paper like glossy or heavy cardstock for a professional finish. Many office copiers offer features such as high-resolution printing (up to 1200 x 1200 dpi), automatic color calibration, and duplex printing. You can also use your copier’s template storage to save time on formatting, ensuring consistency across all your printed pieces.
What are the advantages of printing brochures and postcards in-house?
Printing brochures and postcards in-house gives you flexibility in production, allowing you to print only what you need. This minimizes waste and ensures your marketing materials remain relevant. Additionally, in-house printing lets you experiment with different designs, paper types, and finishes without the high costs and long wait times often associated with commercial printers.
How does printing marketing materials in-house impact your bottom line?
Printing in-house can have a significant positive impact on your business’s bottom line. By eliminating the need for bulk printing, which results in up to 75% waste, you reduce both upfront costs and long-term storage expenses. Plus, the ability to print on-demand means you’re only paying for materials you’ll actually use, which can save thousands over time.
What features should I look for in a copier for printing marketing materials?
Look for copiers with high-resolution printing, duplex options, and the ability to handle various paper weights and finishes like glossy or matte. Advanced features like automatic folding, stapling, and booklet printing are also important if you’re producing more complex marketing pieces. Be sure your copier has enough memory to store templates for easy reprints, saving you time and ensuring consistency.
