Small-Unit Digital Print Shop

Local businesses, event organisers, estate agents, schools, charities and walk-in customers needing quick or one-off jobs.

Per-job pricing by size, quantity and finish, with extra for rush work and design. Regular business accounts give steadier income than one-off walk-ins.

• Operating and maintaining print equipment
• Design and artwork preparation
• Quoting, sales and managing deadlines

• Commercial lease terms, business rates and any planning or use-class requirements, so check with the landlord and your council
• Public liability insurance, equipment cover and employer's liability insurance if you hire staff
• Equipment finance and servicing costs, which can be large compared with early sales
• Health and safety around machinery, inks, toners and ventilation
• Copyright and trademark issues when printing customer artwork
• Check whether waste such as ink cartridges and offcuts needs particular disposal arrangements

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit, the press and finishing equipment you choose, and fit-out. Treat this as an estimate, and remember equipment finance and servicing can be large compared with early sales.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on your location, equipment and how many business and walk-in customers you win. The estimate assumes from about 35 hours a week, so results will vary.

Check commercial lease terms, business rates and any planning or use-class requirements with your landlord and council. Check public liability, equipment cover and employer's liability if you hire. Also check machinery, ink and ventilation safety, copyright on customer artwork, and waste disposal.