The printing industry is thriving. According to the Commerce Department, commercial printing shipments recently exceeded $7 billion in market value. With the sector on the rise, entrepreneurs looking for a business to invest in may want to think carefully about a printing and copying franchises.
FedEx Office Print and Ship Services Inc. — formerly Kinko’s — may be a leading global name in the printing and copying industry, but there are plenty of other options available.
Benefits of Owning a Copying and Printing Franchise
Buying into a copying and printing franchise offers several advantages that make it an attractive business opportunity. The most significant benefit is the brand recognition that comes with an established franchise. Customers are more likely to trust and use services from a known brand, providing a steady stream of clientele. Franchises often come with a proven business model, reducing the risk and uncertainty that come with starting a business from scratch. This model includes established operational practices, marketing strategies, and supplier relationships, making it easier to run the business efficiently. Additionally, franchisees receive ongoing support and training from the franchisor, which is invaluable for navigating challenges and staying competitive in the market.
Benefits of buying into a copying and printing franchise include:
- Brand Recognition: Leverage the established reputation of the franchise to attract customers.
- Proven Business Model: Follow a tested and successful operational blueprint.
- Supplier Relationships: Leverage established connections with suppliers to secure improved deals and access high-quality materials.
- Marketing Support: Access to pre-designed marketing strategies and materials.
- Training and Support: Receive ongoing training and support from the franchisor for business operations and growth.
- Network of Franchisees: Connect with a network of other franchisees for advice and shared experiences.
- Technology and Innovation: Stay current with the latest industry advancements provided by the franchisor.
- Reduced Risk: Lower risk compared to starting a new business independently.
Methodology for Choosing the Best Copying and Printing Franchises
Copying and printing franchises are integral for businesses, especially in sectors where physical documentation and branding materials are essential. We used the following criteria to rate each franchise on our list. The importance of each factor is rated on a scale of one to ten, with ten being the most essential. Here’s our approach to evaluating these franchises:
1. Range of Services
- Importance Scale: 8/10
- Why It Matters: A diverse range of services, including digital printing, large format printing, and copying, is crucial. We look for franchises offering a wide array of options.
2. Quality of Output
- Importance Scale: 10/10
- Why It Matters: The quality of printing and copying is paramount. We assess the clarity, color accuracy, and material quality of the final products.
3. Pricing and Cost Efficiency
- Importance Scale: 9/10
- Why It Matters: Affordable pricing is key for small businesses. We evaluate the cost-effectiveness of services in relation to quality.
4. Speed and Turnaround Time
- Importance Scale: 8/10
- Why It Matters: Fast turnaround times are essential for meeting business deadlines. We consider the efficiency and reliability of service delivery.
5. Customer Service and Support
- Importance Scale: 7/10
- Why It Matters: Responsive and helpful customer service enhances the overall experience. We look at the availability and quality of support offered.
6. Technological Advancements
- Importance Scale: 6/10
- Why It Matters: Franchises utilizing the latest technology in printing and copying tend to offer better quality and more options.
7. Eco-Friendly Practices
- Importance Scale: 7/10
- Why It Matters: Sustainability is increasingly important. We prioritize franchises that employ environmentally friendly practices and materials.
8. Brand Reputation and Reviews
- Importance Scale: 7/10
- Why It Matters: A solid reputation, along with favorable customer reviews, signifies dependability and high-quality service.
9. Location and Accessibility
- Importance Scale: 6/10
- Why It Matters: Conveniently located franchises ensure easier access for frequent printing needs.
10. Franchise Support and Training
- Importance Scale: 5/10
- Why It Matters: For entrepreneurs buying into a franchise, ongoing support, and training are critical for successful operations.
Copying and Printing Franchises
Take a look at the following copying and printing franchises to conquer FedEx.
Allegra Marketing Print and Mail
Allegra was founded in 1976 in Michigan and started franchising a year later.
For entrepreneurs looking for professional independence and personal balance, an Allegra franchise might be just up their street. Allegra Marketing Print and Mail is a recognized leader in business-to-business opportunities.
Through ongoing franchise support and training, Allegra franchisees can successfully provide digital and print marketing communication services.
An initial franchise fee of $25,000 to $45,000 is required to own a franchise with Allegra.
Only Proforma
Founded in 1978, Only Proforma is experienced in providing printing and promotional services to businesses of all sizes. The company has been franchising since 1985 and is a $500 million leading network of printing and promotional products distributors.
The company provides franchise owners with the education and resources required to gain customers, build sales and improve profits.
Investors are required to make an initial investment of between $5,000 and $40,000.
Better Deal Printing
Better Deal Printing was established in 2001 with the aim of providing high-quality, low-cost printing and graphic design services to local clients.
Better Deal Printing franchise owners can enjoy many benefits, including having their franchise listed on the company’s industry-leading website. Franchisees must invest between $5,000 and $80,000 initially with Better Deal Printing.
Sir Speedy
For decades, Sir Speedy has proudly stood by the slogan “Got a challenge, go to Sir Speedy.” Since its establishment in California in 1968, Sir Speedy has delivered high-quality printing services. Sir Speedy’s franchises provide a range of printing and marketing services, including copying and printing franchises, as well as copy and mailing solutions.
An initial investment of $229,981 is required. Successful candidates receive 80 hours of training and additional training at regional meetings. To own a franchise with Sir Speedy, entrepreneurs need to have “unshakeable ambition, a dedicated work ethic and a deep desire to succeed.”
Minuteman Press Inc.
Minuteman Press proudly asserts to be the world’s largest and number one rated printing franchise. The company has been serving businesses for over 44 years, providing professional design, print and promotional services.
The firm opened in 1973 by a father and son team in New York. The first franchise was established two years later and today Minuteman Press has more than 950 centers throughout the world.
Franchisees must make an initial investment of $64,000 – $164,000. Three employees are required to run each franchise. Ongoing support is provided to Minuteman Press franchisees.
Goin Postal
Goin Postal has built a network of enthusiastic, proactive, and positive entrepreneurs dedicated to achieving the company’s financial objectives. Since starting its franchising journey in 2002, Goin Postal has expanded to approximately 244 operational units, positioning itself prominently in the realm of copying and printing franchises.
A cash investment of $20,000 is required to be the owner of a Goin Postal franchise.
AlphaGraphics
AlphaGraphics boasts a network of around 300 like-minded business owners. In 2016, AlphaGraphics witnessed strong growth, with median sales of over $900,000.
The company opened its first store in Arizona in 1970 and began franchising nine years later. It now operates franchises across the US and in seven different countries. AlphaGraphic centers offer printing, marketing communications, and document management.
An investment of $261,000 – $394,000 is required to be an AlphaGraphics franchisee.
FastSigns
Explore a “win-win franchise opportunity” with FastSigns. Established in 1985, the company has rapidly evolved into one of the most reputable names in the franchise industry.
FastSigns now has more than 120 corporate employees serving in over 650 locations. A cash investment of $80,000 is required to become a FastSigns franchisee.
PIP Printing and Marketing Services
PIP Printing has been creating and supporting entrepreneurs for over 40 years. The company was established in 1965 and started franchising four years later. Today, PIP has more than 1,200 printing and business services centers worldwide.
Successful candidates of PIP Printing will receive training seminars, a dedicated business management team and what it claims to be the most comprehensive marketing and sales support in the business.
An initial investment of $228,000 0 $278,000 is needed to own a PIP Printing franchise.
Bizcard Xpress
Bizcard Xpress was established in 2006 and began franchising in 2009. The core of Bizcard Xpress’s ‘One Stop Business Improvement Shop’ is providing custom-designed and printed business cards to busy entrepreneurs within one hour or less.
Entrepreneurs can join in the success of Bizcard Xpress’s superfast printing and signage services by becoming a Bizcard franchisee.
After an initial investment ranging from $114,000 to $197,000, owners of Bizcard Xpress franchises benefit from continuous training and marketing support.
| # | Franchise | Founded | Franchising Since | Initial Investment | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Allegra Marketing Print and Mail | 1976 | 1977 | $25,000 - $45,000 | B2B opportunities, ongoing support |
| 2 | Only Proforma | 1978 | 1985 | $5,000 - $40,000 | Printing and promotional services, education resources |
| 3 | Better Deal Printing | 2001 | Not Specified | $5,000 - $80,000 | High quality, low cost printing |
| 4 | Sir Speedy | 1968 | Not Specified | $229,981 | Printing and marketing services |
| 5 | Minuteman Press Inc. | 1973 | 1975 | $64,000 - $164,000 | World's largest printing franchise |
| 6 | Goin Postal | 2002 | 2002 | $20,000 | Network of proactive entrepreneurs |
| 7 | AlphaGraphics | 1970 | 1979 | $261,000 - $394,000 | Printing, marketing, document management |
| 8 | FastSigns | 1985 | 1985 | $80,000 | Trusted name in the franchise industry |
| 9 | PIP Printing and Marketing Services | 1965 | 1969 | $228,000 - $278,000 | Over 1,200 centers worldwide |
| 10 | Bizcard Xpress | 2006 | 2009 | $114,000 - $197,000 | Superfast printing and signage services |
This article, "Profitable Copying and Printing Franchise Options to Explore" was first published on Small Business Trends
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