This month, Andover MBG learnt all about Eco-Printing. Jez Scott, director of Andover based Paperfrog delivered his “save money, save the environment and look good doing it” presentation, which focused on how and why members can print efficient and ecologically.
Top tips to save on printing costs included setting a brief in writing and distributing to a range of suppliers, asking other people to proof-read as a double check and not to wait until
the last minute.
To ensure we are as Eco-friendly as possible, Jez focused on the importance of 100% recycled paper, avoiding metallic or fluorescent colours, minimising paper waste and going back to vegetable-based inks.
Finally, Jez helped the group by demonstrating how members should help assist their printers with a series of useful marketing questions – what does your business do, what are your goals and who is the target market.
Each member of the group received a free guide printed in a Eco-friendly process, and a copy is available to anyone who calls Jez on 01264 36 35 24.
Paperfrog’s Top Tips for Saving Money on Print Costs
1. Shop around using a written brief so the prices you get are all based on the same information, making them easier to compare.
2. Ask about run ons: when you extend the initial print run it could be cheaper than printing again at a later date.
3. Take your printer’s advice to help save time, trouble and money, they are experts and will be able to offer suggestions you may not have considered.
4. Keep it clear and simple, ask your printer to explain any terms they use that you don’t understand and be sure to ask for confirmation of your order and when it will be processed.
5. Always ask for a proof, even on repeat print jobs as this is your very last chance to correct any details.
6. When checking proofs look out for phone numbers and addresses that are vital to customers being able to contact you. If your printer offers a proofreading service consider it as the more eyes that check your document the better.
7. Paper comes in different thicknesses, thicker ones give a quality feel, and may not be much more expensive. Ask your printer what costs different papers would add to the bill.
8.Consistent use of colour and the same paper throughout your business stationery will help consolidate your brand identity.
9. Ask your printer about job banking, if there is any space left on the printing plates could you squeeze in some business cards? So long as the paper is suitable for both jobs you could
save money.
10. Don’t leave it until the last minute to arrange printing, it leads to a rush that can create mistakes. Arranging print in advance your printer may be able to save you time and money.
Find out more at www.paperfrog.co.uk.