PrintRoundTable

Simple Ways To Make Plain Flyers More Appealing!

Filed under Custom Printing Tips and Guidelines , General , Marketing Collaterals

Flyers are a great way to get your message to the public.  Sometimes it can be a challenge to get the results you want.  Here is a simple set of tips to help add visual impact to your flyer printing.   One Simple Message is all you need to draw attention to your flyer. When you try to create a flyer with a ton of information, the message you want to convey almost always gets overlooked. Flyers should have just one main message that is to the point and grabs attention.  For best flyer printing results, make your main message font 2 to 3 times larger than the body copy font. Add Information That Draws the Eye to the Message to provide details. A great way to do this is by adding 3 to 6 bullet points. Bullet points help add short, descriptive details including dates, times, locations, entry fees, or any information that supports the main message.   Colored Text and Images can change boring flyers into more interesting ones. It is important to not overdo on color, but add just enough to grab attention and make it relevant to the main theme.  For example, if you are promoting a sale, you may want to add photos of your sale items on the back of your flyer.  If you are doing a church fundraiser, a beautiful bible verse or spiritual image may help draw people’s attention.   Material optionsare vast; however, a glossy material tends to help color stand out more. Whether you need text or cover material, choose a gloss material, or add a laminate for extra shine so your flyers get noticed!   It is very easy to go from a simple, basic flyer to ones that pop.  Just follow the guidelines above and see what results you can get!  

How Presentation Folders Can Earn Trust and Leave a Great First Impression

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Have you ever wondered why some businesses seem to have this uncanny ability to get customers and keep them coming in the door?  Sometimes it is pricing or customer service or it may be as simple as the feeling they get when they leave your establishment.  It is the little things that can help, or prevent, customers from coming on board.  Presentation Folders have a way of making a customer feel secure.  They show that you take pride in your business, and that you care enough about your customers to want them to be organized. Here are just a few ways different businesses can utilize pocket folders:    ·         Schools – Orientation or financial aid packets ·         Banks – New account paperwork, loan information ·         Tax Preparers – Hold important copies such as W2’s and other paperwork ·         Insurance – Policy information ·         Medical – Procedure information, educational and nutritional information ·         Automotive – Vehicle sale information, warranty information    To create a presentation folder that is perfect for your business, and the message you want to convey, design and concept are key.  A pocket folder can be simple and elegant, with maybe a foil logo, or it can be a high color, glossy, “jump off the page” design.  Whatever your business image or philosophy, it should be easily seen right on the folder.  Adding your contact information is also very important and normally is seen on the pocket or back of the presentation folder.  Both are great areas to put important information.      Budget is always an issue; however, you will find that a good printing company will give you options that can fit into all budgets.  Presentation folders are an investment in your customers, and the payoff for the cost can be more customers, and even more profits.      

Great Ways Print Can Grow Your Restaurant

Filed under Hositality Products

Restaurateurs have many details to arrange when running a successful restaurant.  Making sure the food is fantastic, the service is suburb, and they have a prime location to draw in customers.  The one piece that often gets overlooked is the printing component.  Restaurants need menu’s, both for diners and take out order, receipt tickets, promotions, coupons, business cards, magnets, gift cards and so much more.  There are opportunities everywhere in print to assist with promoting your business.   First there are your promotional materials.  Table Talkers, or table tents, when designed to entice your customers, are a great way to advertise lunch or drink specials, or even an upcoming event.  Because they are made of plastic, they are durable, reusable and can easily be cleaned. Handing out a business magnet and a takeout menu is also another way to keep your customers thinking about you long after they have left your restaurant. Both of these options are fairly inexpensive, and can be designed in such a way to fit into your current budget.   Everyday items, such as cash register tape and business cards can help your business. Pre-print a coupon on the back of the register tape so customers will have their receipt and come back for a free appetizer, or other promotion.  Keep general business cards, with a promotion or QR Code on the back, handy so customers can grab one and take advantage. Some restaurants now use a punch card and offer a free lunch after a specific number of punches.   One last item that has really taken restaurants to the next level is offering gift cards and carriers to their customers.  Everyone loves getting a gift card to their favorite restaurant, and what is especially beneficial are most customers are spending more than what is on the gift card. Plastic gift cards and gift card holders are affordable and are normally very easy to set up with your current point-of-purchase provider.  If your machine takes credit cards, then it should also be easily set up to take gift cards.   Regardless of the products a restaurant chooses to purchase, printing should always be one of the more important items on any restaurateurs list. They will help your business grow, and make life easier long term.

What Makes Integrated Labels So Special?

Filed under Distribution Label Solutions

Any business that has to ship products to customers, regardless of size, faces a unique set of challenges. Whether it is becoming more efficient, making less errors, or just saving money, coming up with a way to ship to customers can be difficult.  With all of the options on the market, which one is the best for your business?  Many are turning towards the Integrated Label Solution.    Integrated labels have been a tried and true method when shipping products.  Because the shipping form has both a label and paper portion, it can be utilized for many things; not just a packing slip/shipping label.  For example, many businesses include return information for their customers.  They can easily pre-print the return authorization label and instructions to include in the package.  A very similar application is used when purchasing replacement items such as toner, printer equipment, or any other item that could be returned for recycling. The label is there so the customer can return the container and just apply the label and ship.  Another great way to use integrated labels is for payment remittance.  It is very easy to print the invoice and have the return label information to apply to the envelope right on the form.     What makes integrated labels so special is its simple construction.  The standard size is 8.5 x 11”; however, 8.5 x 14” are also popular as well as custom sizing.  Because integrated labels come in standard sizes, they run beautifully through laser and inkjet printers.  There are also many different stock label constructions to choose from, allowing companies to tailor their usage.  Some purchase many different variations depending on the process.  If there is a construction needed that doesn’t come standard, it can normally be created.  Another nice feature is having the choice to purchase blank or pre-printed forms.  Both have advantages and disadvantages.  A blank form allows you to customize, and change the integrated label, on the fly.  On the flip side, if you are creating a color form, you may use a lot of toner/ink.  A pre-printed form can help save on the cost toner/ink; however, if you need to change your form, there is inventory that either must be used or discarded.     Each business must evaluate the best options for them.  The nice thing about integrated labels is you can always change your mind if one method isn’t working.  Start with a small number of forms and once the process is perfected, order more and save even more money!      

Look Out Distribution and Fulfillment Centers! Do We Have a New Label For You!

Filed under Distribution Label Solutions

Lowering out of pocket expenses, and maximizing profit, is the goal of every distribution and fulfillment center. They are constantly trying to find the best ways to make their center a more efficient, well-oiled machine.   My1Stop.com has the answer for those facilities trying to do just that; the Auto-Fold Label™.   The Auto-Fold Label™ is a complete shipping document where a packing slip and shipping label combine to make one of the most efficient, cost-saving label on the market.  This innovative label eliminates the need to have a separate poly pouch, packing list, and shipping label for an accurate, faster shipping line with reduced packaging errors.       Top 10 Reasons to Use the Auto-Fold Label™:  Only 1 Item to Stock! No more individual shipping labels, packing slips, or pouches to keep in inventory! Your inventory will be compact, saving storage space.  Increased Pick Rates. Packing slip and shipping label automatically applied in one step saving time for increased efficiency. Increased Personal Security. All personal identifiers are removed from the packaging when the packing slip/shipping label are pulled, leaving only the label “shell” on the carton. Reduce Costly Errors. Since the shipping label and packing list are on one label, there will be no mismatched packing list/shipping information; and never worry about forgetting to enclose the packing slip. No Need to Repackage. NEVER repackage an item just to add a packing slip. No Complicated Programming.  Simplex print the Auto-Fold Label™ with a single print engine and head without complicated programming or timing issues. Simplifies Processes. This labeling system is so simple, there is less employee training required.  Also, with a more efficient process there is a lesser chance of costly mistakes. Save Money! Because all printing is done at the applicator, there is less equipment to purchase and maintain; as well as no need for a computer and printer at the picking station. Make More Money! With faster pick rates, only one label to stock, less equipment and maintenance, and reduction of costly mistakes, the bottom line will see a big difference! Superior Support! My1Stop.com will provide the outstanding customer service that our customers love and expect!   My1Stop.com has teamed up with CTM Labeling Systems, widely known for their innovative equipment solutions, to now offer customers the option of automatically applying the Auto-Fold Label™ using state-of the-art print and apply equipment. Our customers have the choice to either hand apply or automate this fold under label. It is truly one of the most innovative distribution labels on the market!

Start Marketing Off On The Right Foot For 2013

Filed under Custom Printing Tips and Guidelines , Full Color Envelope Printing , General , Marketing Collaterals , OnlinePrinting - Marketing Tips For Small Business

Every year brings new business challenges.  Whether it is budgeting tasks, creating goals and traveling schedules, the one thing that should be at the top of your business to-do list is creating marketing collaterals that will bring interest in your company.  A consistent corporate identity will give your business brand recognition, build trust and bring in current and new customers in the door.  The best way to get the word out is to create flyers, brochures, rack cards, letterhead, business cards, and envelopes that are tailored to your exact needs.  And do all of this on a budget!   Out of all marketing collaterals, business cards, letterhead and envelopes are a must.  Business cards get handed out everywhere.  From trade shows, conventions, sales calls, and just casual run-ins, you need a way for customers to contact you.  If you have a business where there are many products and services, adding an informational brochure, flyer or rack card will give customers valuable information to take with them and have on hand.  Depending on your offering, you may just need a simple rack card, or single sheet flyer, but regardless, giving customers with the information they need that is easily accessible is a must for growing your business.   Another key element is creating marketing collaterals that show a solid corporate image.  Basically, you want everything to match.  A solid corporate identity does many things that businesses sometimes take for granted.  For example, having many different logos may make your business come off as indecisive.  If your brochures have one design and your business card is vastly different, a customer may mistakenly throw one of the collaterals away, not realizing it is the same company. Building trust is one of the hardest things any business does, and customers can be very unforgiving when it is broken.  Keeping all collaterals consistent is key to building a solid, trusting relationship with your customers.   Finally, price shop with caution.  Sometimes cheaper isn’t better.  Having one printer print all of your marketing collaterals may help ensure that your design colors stay consistent.  You may also get discounts for ordering many collaterals at one time.  Turn time is also important. You do not want to waste valuable sales time waiting on your print.  Keeping these points in mind will start your 2013 marketing year off running!  

Starting a Key Tag Loyalty Programs During the Holiday Season

Filed under Plastic Key Tags , Plastic Products

 The holidays traditionally are one of the busiest seasons for many retailers. As businesses gear up with marketing promotions and sales, the off-season is the furthest from their minds.  Starting a new incentive program during your busiest time of the year could keep your sales soaring even when peak is over.  Key Tags are a great way to do this.       First, any incentive or loyalty program that gives customers a reason to shop is a win-win for everyone; and getting something in their hands to initiate this is actually the easy part.  Simply hand them a key tag, or a plastic card key tag combination, packet when they check-out and have them sign up online.  Take it one step further, and have your customer sign up while in the store if they choose. You can even send out a targeted mailing to your customers to further your reach.       A key tag on the customers set of car keys will keep their mind on your business because they look at their keys all the time.  However, coming up with a loyalty program that keeps your customers engaged is probably the hardest part. Ask yourself, what would my customers want to receive from my business in return for their loyalty?  Send out surveys, have your sales associates simply ask them, and reward their candor with a coupon, gift certificate, or a small token of your appreciation.  Many companies offer rewards programs, such as if you spend X dollars, you will get X points to use towards a reward.  Some businesses just have you present the loyalty card or key tag for a dollar or percentage discount.        Regardless of which type of loyalty program you create, or the type of key tags you use, the important thing is to be creative and have fun.  Create internal contests as an incentive for your employees to promote the key tag loyalty program.  Make it easy to understand for both customers and employees, so everyone enjoys what your business is trying to accomplish. And remember, although holiday sales are extremely important, keeping customers year round will ultimately keep your business in a positive place and make customers excited about your business all year! 

Were you Prepared for Black Friday? What About the Next Few Weeks?

Filed under Distribution Label Solutions , General , Plastic Products

Black Friday is always the kickoff to the holiday shopping season, and also when many businesses get a taste of what is to come over the next few weeks. Many are seeing a shift in the way consumers are purchasing.  Instead of fighting in-store sales, customers are going online to purchase their sale items.  And now businesses are choosing to start their sales on Thanksgiving Day, as opposed to the traditional Friday.  And many people are just waiting until closer to Christmas to shop.  Regardless of how customers or businesses choose to purchase, being prepared for the holiday season is a must to keep your business running smoothly and staying profitable.   Retail businesses that use plastic cards and holders also need to keep a healthy supply in stock over the holidays; even more than normal.  Plastic gift cards are the easiest product to push, and they provide a high ROI for most companies, so letting them run out could put a huge strain on a business.  Not to mention they are ongoing marketing pieces that can be recharged and reused. During the holiday season, getting plastic cards printed can be a challenge, so the farther away from Christmas you order your cards, the better your turn times and pricing will be.  In fact, there are times when a business can place orders at the beginning of December, and not get their cards until January.  The demand is that high this time of the year, so ordering early is imperative. Gift card holders are more easily accessible and sometimes even have stock, or off-the-shelf, options to cut down on turn times and cost.   Another way to stay prepared is to stay stocked with every day, general supplies.  Online companies need to keep shipping labels, packing slips, and any other items needed to fulfill orders.  Nothing will shut down your business, and lose repeat business, faster than running out of shipping supplies.  Customers will not purchase again if they cannot get their orders on time.  Also having plenty of business cards, letterhead and envelopes on hand also helps with sales and office functions, keeping things running smoothly.   Marketing is very important to drive in business; however, the best marketing will not help if you do not prepare for the business coming in.  With just a few short weeks left in the holiday season, making sure you have the supplies you need will keep you up and running for a successful holiday season.

Get The Word Out About Your Business With Postcards!

Filed under General , Mailers , Marketing Collaterals

The holiday season is right around the corner and with that many things are going on. Churches are holding special services for their congregations. Retail stores are arranging their promotions. Even hospitals and clinics are holding flu shot clinics.  This time of year is extremely busy and hectic, and with all of these amazing events going on, many forget to market. What good is an event without anyone showing up? Paper and Plastic Postcard mailers may be the cheapest, most fun mail item a person gets in the mail.  Letting your target audience know to visit you will make your project successful, and in some cases very profitable.  Depending on your budget, and goals, will help you determine whether to go with a paper postcard or the plastic version.  Paper postcards are the most economical, fast way to get the word out. Many paper postcards come in very thick materials with a coating, making them withstand the mail environment and arrive as beautifully as they were coming off the printing press.  Choosing a glossy coating also enhances the likelihood of the postcard getting read and not simply tossed in the trash.  Paper postcards generally have very fast production times, so you can rely on a mailing to reach your customers within a few short days.      If you have the budget, a plastic postcard is the best choice for many reasons.  First, they are made of plastic, so they are have a higher chance of being read.  Also, they can have a plastic card built right into the postcard, making them interactive and fun; not to mention a lasting souvenir of your business.  There are also some postcard mailers that allow you to put a magnetic strip on the back, making them a functional card for promotions and discounts. The downside is cost and time.  Plastic postcards do cost more than their paper counterpart; however, because they produce a higher read rate, you may get more sales or response making the cost worth it.  Production times are much higher with plastic postcards, and can run as high as 7 to 10 days, so that is something to consider when planning your event.     Businesses cannot go wrong with either postcard version.  Knowing your budget, timeframe and what you want to convey to your audience, will ensure your project will be a success.  

How to Help Your Distribution Center by Simply Switching Labels

Filed under Distribution Label Solutions

Distribution Centers (DC’s) face their own unique set of challenges compared to other industries.  Specific processes and materials are pre-established so each picking/shipping line is fast, efficient and making money at a specific rate.  Centers large and small rely on these methods to ensure that each line is running; as when one goes down, they lose money.  Sometimes fulfillment centers get so consumed with their specific workflow, that they do not research other distribution solutions that can make them even better.  Labels are the largest variable in the equasion.   Labels dictate everything on a line.  Without the right printers, workers and sometimes applicators, a label has the power to shut down production very quickly.  Many DC’s, mainly small to medium sized, utilize laser printers and labels to effectively keep things up and running; however, a big misconception is because they are smaller, thermal and direct thermals are not cost effective enough for them to switch.  That is simply not the case anymore.   Thermal and Direct Thermal Labels are helping DC’s achieve many things they never thought possible.  First, there are now labels on the market that combine a packing slip and shipping label; eliminating both the need for a “packing slip enclosed” pouch, as well as decreasing costly mismatching errors.  Because these label allow you to peel both the shipping and packing slip label, they are great for keeping a customers identity safe after you throw the carton away.  Two great products for these options are Duplex Shipping Labels and Fold Under Labels. And a nice perk is if a DC cannot afford to invest in direct thermal printers, there are still laser versions of the same product.    Cost is a major inhibitor with some fulfillment centers when transitioning over to thermal or direct thermal applications.  Many businesses forget to calculate per year how much they spend on toner, laser printer maintenance, materials, and employee labor involved when using these applications.  Although there is cost involved when you switch labels, mainly for new printers, normally once a company figures all variables, they end up being more efficient, which speeds up product for a better output.  Even if you choose a thermal application and have to order printer ribbons, a business will still see increased efficieny and more money.    Regardless of what option a DC chooses when it comes to their warehouse labels, there are many on the market to choose from.  Taking the time to calculate all costs involved in current, and future, processes will be the best way to decide if a move over to thermal and direct thermal labels is a good one.