Small commercial print shop

Local businesses, councils, schools, not-for-profits, event organisers and agencies that need regular print work.

Quoted jobs and repeat contracts priced by quantity, stock and finishing, with ongoing accounts for regular stationery and marketing runs.

• Print production and finishing knowledge
• Pricing and quoting
• Sales and account management
• Managing staff and deadlines

• Check zoning and council approval for a print workshop in your chosen unit
• Public liability, property and equipment insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
• Equipment lease and rent commitments can be heavy if work is slow
• Safe handling and disposal of inks, toners and cleaning chemicals, so check your state's rules
• Large clients may want credit terms, so plan for slow payers

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your unit, the digital presses and finishing equipment you buy or lease, and your starting stock. Lease and rent commitments can be heavy if work is slow.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the number of regular business clients and the type of print work. That is revenue before costs, and the estimate assumes at least about 35 hours a week.

Check zoning and council approval for a print workshop in your chosen unit, and your state's rules on safe handling and disposal of inks, toners and chemicals. Also check public liability, property and equipment insurance, and workers compensation once you hire.