Imagine, one of your top clients is preparing for their annual sales event. They place a massive order for banners, brochures, and flyers with your print shop.
You deliver everything on time, and they are thrilled. But then, they switch to a competitor who offers a seamless website with software experience, automation and customized marketing ideas. What went wrong?
For printers, retaining high-value clients is essential.
Did you know acquiring a new client costs five times more than keeping an existing one? With the increasing competition, simply adopting web-to-print technology is no longer enough. To truly stand out, it’s crucial to integrate it with the MIS, CRM, and ERP systems utilized by your major B2B clients. Implementing integrations such as Single Sign-On (SSO) and PunchOut can significantly enhance this process.
Additionally, integrating digital marketing for printing company strategies can help you stay ahead. Let’s explore the best practices to keep your multi-million dollar clients engaged.
Understand Your Target Market for Printing Services
Do you really know your clients? Understanding your target market for printing services is the first step toward meaningful engagement.
For example, a startup may need print solutions like logo design or business cards. Established companies might want large-scale printing such as posters or packaging. Segment your market based on these needs.
Here’s how to identify opportunities:
- Small businesses: Offer affordable design services and marketing kits..
- Event organisers: Highlight your ability to deliver quick, bulk orders.
- Luxury brands: Provide premium print solutions with unique finishes like gold foiling.
Understanding your clients’ needs allows you to personalise your services, giving you a competitive edge.
Leverage Technology: B2B Private Portals as a Business Solution
Modern web-to-print platform is essential for retaining clients. A powerful website is software that automates processes and enhances user experience can make all the difference.
Technology Feature | Benefit to Clients |
Online Order Portals | Simplifies bulk order submissions. |
Formbase Design Tools | Enables organizations to update their own digital assets. |
Integrations | Integrating with corporate clients’ ERP, MIS is critical. |
Real-Time Tracking | Keeps clients informed about delivery status. |
Easy Pay On Account | Department wise credit limit with transparent reporting. |
Mobile-Friendly Design | Ensures clients can place orders on the go. |
Brand Compliance & Asset Management
For large B2B clients, maintaining brand consistency across all printed materials is critical. Offering solutions that ensure compliance with their brand guidelines can set you apart from competitors. This includes features like pre-approved templates, access-controlled digital asset libraries, and automated brand checks.
By incorporating digital asset management (DAM) into your offerings, you allow clients to securely store and retrieve logos, fonts, and images for consistent use in every project. Such tools empower your clients while reducing approval bottlenecks. This makes collaboration seamless and fosters trust, especially with high-value corporate clients.
Offer Value Beyond Printing
Retaining clients isn’t just about printing. It’s about solving their broader challenges.
Consider this scenario: A restaurant orders menus from your print shop every quarter. Why not help them with store set-up materials like window decals or table tents? Adding value builds loyalty.
Practical ideas to add value:
Provide free delivery for long-term clients.
Be a one-stop supplier collaborating with wholesale printer & promo suppliers.
Include free monthly consultations for understanding new needs & their challenges.
Such efforts demonstrate that you are invested in their success.
Implement Automation & Educate B2B Client
Automation is the backbone of efficient modern print operations. By streamlining manual workflows, businesses can enhance productivity, reduce human error, and maintain competitive pricing. Tools like integrated MIS/ERP systems, real-time tracking, and seamless payment solutions not only improve internal processes but also create a frictionless client experience.
However, it’s equally important to educate your B2B clients about leveraging these tools. Offer tutorials or onboarding sessions for features like order portals or custom design tools. By ensuring clients understand the value and ease of automation, you enhance engagement, loyalty, and their overall satisfaction.
Consult Print Technology Experts
The print industry is ever-evolving with new technologies and best practices. To stay ahead, consulting with print technology experts like PrintDeed is invaluable. PrintDeed specializes in guiding businesses through adopting cutting-edge tools, such as variable data printing, augmented reality integration, or green printing solutions, tailored to specific business and client needs.
Partnering with experts ensures your business remains future-ready and aligned with market trends. PrintDeed’s insights on workflow optimization, cost reduction, and addressing B2B client challenges make it easier to retain high-value customers and scale operations effectively.
Develop a Personalised Marketing Strategy for Printing Company
A well-crafted marketing strategy for a printing company can keep your clients loyal. Clients expect services tailored to their unique requirements.
For example: If a retail chain orders packaging materials from your print shop for festivals, send them suggestions for seasonal themes well in advance.
Key actions to personalise your strategy:
Use a Web-to-Print private portal to track client orders and references.
Send exclusive deals and combo discounts.
Offer customised product recommendations based on past orders.
By focusing on personalised marketing, you show clients that they are more than just a number to you. High-value clients prefer partnerships over transactions. Establishing trust and personalized interactions is essential to client retention & build a strong relationship.
Proactive Problem Solving Builds Trust
Nobody likes surprises, especially when it comes to deadlines. Keep an eye out for potential issues, like equipment failures or supply delays, and address them proactively.
For example, if a New Year bulk order risks delay, communicate early and offer solutions like partial deliveries. This level of transparency and care reassures clients and fosters trust.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your multi-million dollar clients engaged is more than fulfilling orders. It’s about understanding their needs, leveraging technology like setting B2B private portals and building long-term trust.
Ready to transform your print business? Discover the power of retention with Printdeed!
FAQs
- What is the most effective marketing strategy for a printing company?
Personalization and consistent communication are key. - How do I identify my target market for printing services?
Segment by business industry type, order frequency, and specific printing needs. - Where can I find a good print consulting company that sets up B2B private portals?
Consider Web-to-Print solution providers for setting up private portals, though they might lack deep B2B expertise. For specialized support, look for print consultants or dedicated companies like PrintDeed that focus on the printing industry. - What should a marketing plan for a printing company PDF include?
Include client demographics, service offerings, pricing, and marketing channels. - Why is setting up an online store crucial for printers?
It offers convenience and expands your reach to tech-savvy clients.
