How to Start a Printing Business in the Philippines

Printing has come a long way from manual labor to the automated press. While the digital age might have reduced the amount of paper needed to be printed, it has not made printing obsolete as companies still prefer tangible documents stored at their office for security purposes. Not only that, there are still processes that require printed documents at government offices and educational institutions.

Furthermore, there are people who use printing to personalize their stuff! Not only is the concept ever enduring, it is considered as one of the money makers in the country considering the amount of work is done every day from businessman to students at various institutions!

If you are wondering if you should start a printing business in the Philippines, then keep on reading to know what you need to know before you start printing money at a profitable venture!

Know your target market

Check Who Are Your Customers

Let’s face it, there’s a lot of printing shops nowadays all around the country. A lot of commercial printers used at print shops can print any kind the customer wants. That is why you need to set yourself apart from the competition.

Aside from specializing, you can also determine what your customer wants the most and work on that instead. Cheap printing? An attractive deal for anyone passing by!

Know the investment capital you need

The money needed to start your printing business in the Philippines

Printing machineries cost from P10,000 to P200,000 depending on the amount of printing you are going to do in day. Worry not, you can opt for a smaller printing machine at first. Eventually, when you are able to afford a bigger machine, you can upgrade then.

Printers have four types: laser, inkjet, offset, and screen. Inkjet printers are good for labels and signages. Laser printers are better for business cards. For large amounts of documents (businesses), the offset printer is good at handling large loads without reducing quality in the print. Screen printers are made to print ink on fabric such as t-shirts.

Additionally, a computer is needed to run the printing software on. You don’t need the highest performance in the market: a simple one will do, provided that it is tailored for business.

Acquire software for design printing

Some clients prefer personalized items, you may want to get one to design prints on t-shirts and business cards. Advanced programs enable you to render graphics and design them on your own. Whatever design software you get, always check first if your computer is able to handle running it.

On that note, going this route, you will need to have a constant stock of cards to let customers assess what they want in terms of texture and quality.

Obtain a stock of inventory

Inventory to keep your printing biz afloat

All the types of printers mentioned before have a specific type of surface to be printed on. T-shirts, vinyl signs, and business cards are needed to be at hand whenever customers want to inquire about it. Always replenish your inventory and bring enough variety that customers are able to have options.

Don’t forget your equipment for cutting!

If you are going to print multitudes of business cards, scissors will not do. You will have to get a cutting system, preferably a hydraulic cutter. If you are not able to get your hands on one of these babies, then a simple cutter and cutting mat will do!  However, signages made from vinyl should only be cut by cutters specifically made for adhesive vinyl.

Register your business

Paperworks needed for your printing business in the Philippines

On that note, a business name that is relevant and timely will make your business stand out. Once that is done, you should figure out what kind of business you want to operate.

Sole proprietorships are registered at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), while partnerships and corporations are registered to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other permits you need are the mayor’s permit, BIR certificate, and barangay clearance, all of which can be obtained at the nearest barangay office and BIR office nearest to where the business is established.

On obtaining a good deal

All of the things you need as a printing business – paper, business cards, fabrics – are things you will have to negotiate with a supplier. One that is able to provide consistent quality at various quantities. More so, do not think of your supplier as just another expense. This is part of your investment and would determine the reputation you get from your customers.

A good provider always stays true to their values and has a good supply chain. What’s more, if any technology makes your printing business obsolete, it is their duty to inform you of better and effective ways of doing business but at the same time saving money and ensuring efficiency at your day to day operations.