Hot off the Presses: Break Into the Printing Business With Your Own Franchise

Becky Martin, writer

Published at 15/09/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 7 min

Hot off the Presses: Break Into the Printing Business With Your Own Franchise
Photo © printing-business.jpg

The printing industry is competitive and can be difficult to enter. The traditional commercial printing industry does face some challenges, namely from digital substitution and an increase in environmental concerns. However, Minuteman Press points out that the modern printing industry doesn’t just incorporate traditional printing methods, but also custom branded apparel and promotional materials that are incredibly popular with many companies due to their functionality and ability to help them connect with clients. Also, when it comes to its environmental impact, print is largely produced with sustainable materials. 80 percent of paper is sourced from European forests, which are increasing by over 1,500 football pitches each day (BPIF.pdf>)).

With the help of an established franchise, you have a much better chance of starting your own successful printing business. Not only will you have access to its proven business model and be able to operate under a well-known brand name, but you will also get reduced rates on equipment and supplies due to increased buying power. Here, we take a look at the UK printing industry in more depth, why printing businesses are important, and four of the best printing franchises.

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The UK printing industry- what lies ahead for printing businesses?

As we mentioned earlier, although the world is increasingly digital, there’s still plenty of business for printing franchises. The UK printing industry is the fifth largest producer of printed materials and generates an impressive £14 billion each year (BPIF). It employs approximately 112,000 people and consists of around 8,000 companies of varying sizes.

Why are printing businesses important?

  • It is a highly effective means of communication. Printing is a way for messages to be shared quickly and cheaply.
  • It provides authority, as well as longevity. Printing is a way of grabbing someone’s attention and holding it.
  • It’s impactful. Businesses can use printing in many different forms to persuade and inform their target customers. It’s therefore creative, engaging and versatile. Full-colour digital printing and large format printing are a cost-effective way for businesses to strengthen their brand awareness and trust.
  • It serves all areas of our economy. Whether it’s education, advertising or retail, every sector uses printing as a vehicle for transmitting information.

Tips for entrepreneurs taking the franchise route to printing business ownership

If you're considering opening a printing business and are looking to the franchise system for inspiration, there are a couple of things you need to be aware of.

  • First and foremost, it's vital that you go with a franchisor who's able to provide ample support and guide you through the early stages of business ownership. Without the help of an experienced franchisor, you may struggle to gain a foothold in the market. Therefore, when comparing franchise opportunities be sure to check the level of training and support they provide. It’s also a good idea to speak to existing franchisees to double check that they actually received what was advertised as part of the franchise package.
  • Second, franchisees should be looking for a franchisor with a clear plan for the future and an understanding of where their business and industry is heading. This is particularly important in the printing industry, where digital technologies could have a significant impact on the future of the company.

What printing franchise opportunities are there in the UK?

Several big-name brands are competing for substantial market shares, but the industry is also home to a large number of independents and small-store specialists who are also successful. In regard to franchising, four of our most exciting opportunities are Minutemen Press, FASTSIGNS, Signs Express and DOR-2-DOR.

  1. Minuteman Press

Minuteman is one of the most recognisable printing and marketing brands in the world. It’s originally from the US and the business was founded in 1973 by a father-son business duo from New York State.

Why did it start?

Initially, it dealt only in quick copies. However, as it began to do more and more work with businesses, the owners realised that there was a serious gap in the market for a one-stop-shop that provided companies with all the marketing and printing services they needed in one place.

Too many businesses were suffering because of missed deadlines, sloppy work, and the cost of having to pay a number of different service providers to do a relatively simple job. All they needed was a printer that was reliable and offered excellent standards of service. Minutemen was created to do just that.

Who is the ideal franchisee?

The perfect Minuteman franchisee will be someone who is dedicated to growing a business that’s defined by its high standards and the quality of both its product and customer care. They will be focused on customer service, have developed strong communication skills, and understand how to motivate and manage a small team.

It's also necessary to have a firm grasp of marketing techniques. Finally, all franchisees need to be able to follow the franchisor's business plan to the letter and be comfortable implementing a strict business model.

What do I need to invest?

To become a Minutemen franchisee, you'll need to raise an initial minimum investment of around £25,000. Up to 70 percent of this amount can be financed via an agreement with one of the major high street lenders. However, in total, franchisees will need around £50,000 of capital to ensure that the business has everything it needs to succeed.

This figure includes the property cost and equipment leases, but it is subject to change depending on the size and location of your business premises.

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What do I get in return?

In return for your investment, you'll receive some of the best training in the industry. This includes training in the FLEX business management software that's used to track and control expenditure, marketing, workflow, and pricing, among other things. It also includes the practical skills required to run a printing company, as well as all the business management strategies and other skills it takes to run a successful Minuteman franchise.

  1. FASTSIGNS

If you need a sign, banner, or graphic printed and installed to advertise your business, FASTSIGNS is the business to go to.

Where did it all begin?

Established in Dallas, Texas, in 1985, the company initially offered visual communication products to local customers. However, the founders soon realised that there was a considerable demand for both their product and business model and decided to franchise their business.

A franchise success story

Growth was rapid, and in 1992, the firm set up its first shop in the UK. The franchise now boasts 21 franchise units in the country and is keen to add to this figure.

What sort of franchisee is FASTSIGNS looking for?

FASTSIGNS are looking for individuals with excellent communication skills, the ability to manage a team, and a firm understanding of business fundamentals. The franchisor has a great deal of experience training new franchisees in the art of signage, and practical skills can be taught quickly and easily.

How do I become a franchisee?

To become a FASTSIGNS franchisee, a minimum investment of £25,000 is required. However, further investment and substantial working capital will also be necessary to ensure the success of the business.

Can I get financial support?

Financing options are available, and the franchise has fostered strong relationships with several high street banks, ensuring suitable candidates will be able to borrow if necessary.

What do I get in return?

In return for your investment, you’ll be granted the rights to operate under the FASTSIGNS name and utilise its brand image and trademarks. No previous experience in a printing business is necessary, as all franchisees are provided with sufficient training to see them through the initial set up period.

This includes marketing, sales, and technical training, as well as instructions on how to operate the franchise's digital systems and implement its business model. All franchisees are gifted an exclusive territory, and the franchisor will assist in selecting a suitable business property.

  1. Signs Express

This franchise has earned the title of the largest signs franchise in the UK and Ireland. It’s been in business for around 30 years and since its launch it’s expanded to over 65 centres.

Signs Express asks that its franchisees make a minimum investment of £40,000 and a total investment of £115,000.

  1. DOR-2-DOR

DOR-2-DOR provides a leaflet distribution management franchise opportunity. The brand is currently a leader in the industry, with over 70 offices up and down the UK.

To invest in this lucrative opportunity, applicants need to make a minimum investment of £19,500.

Starting a printing business with a franchise

Minutemen Press, FASTSIGNS, Signs Express and DOR-2-DOR are all examples of franchises that have adapted well to technological developments and industry change. In part, this is due to their strong business and franchise models.

If you're seeking a franchise that's prepared for the future and can provide guidance, support, and assistance, these are the franchises for you. If you like the sound of starting a signs franchise, we also have Countywide Signs on our books looking to expand its UK franchise network, so if you're looking to enter the printing industry, you can see more of their details and opportunities on their page.

Discover other franchise opportunities

Minuteman Press
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    Minimum investment
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Printing.com
Printing.com
  • £950
    Minimum investment
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Cartridge World
Cartridge World
  • £29,950
    Minimum investment
  • £153,000
    Expected revenue after 2 years
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Becky Martin, writer

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