In many ways, incorporating large format options in to your commercial printing workflow is a simple addition.

Depending on the size and type of business you’re in, this may lead to little or no alternations to your day-to-day operations, while potentially leading to great results. Depending on your customer base, and your goals with capitalizing on the large format option, choosing this type of printing may be viable.

However, there are a number of factors to consider before making the plunge.

  • Will you be leasing, owning, or outsourcing your commercial printing?
  • How frequently will you need large-format commercial printing?
  • Will your commercial printing operation benefit from the large format option?

These questions are in many ways interrelated, but the first one is arguably the most important, as it will directly relate to the financial investment necessary for entry into the field.

Purchasing a Large Format printer, for commercial printing operations, is one viable option. This would be best for a large-scale operation which would depend on a high-volume output, and who would have the right capital support.

Remember, supplementary purchases are also essential, such as rolls of paper and replacement inks. Additionally, large format commercial printers typically require software subscriptions which generally need to be updated annually.

With this in mind, leasing options may be better for your commercial printing needs. That being said, outsourcing your commercial printing to companies which provide large format options is also something to consider. In this situation, shopping local is generally the best option to make proofing convenient.

The frequency of your large format needs is an important thing to consider, especially if you are looking to lease or own a printer.

The main reason for this is because unlike many other sizeable financial investments, large format printers actually require constant use to remain in good working condition. This is a factor both for the amount of ink which is used to clean and calibrate, as well as the necessity of replacing the print head.

Generally speaking, investing in a large format printer is probably best for a commercial printing outfit which is already outsourcing large format production. Otherwise, unless you have a set plan to enter into the field, it is likely a better option to remain in the outsourcing arena.

Ultimately the decision comes down to your business’ focus. If you’re simply looking to offset overhead costs of regular advertising assets required for a single stand-alone store, owning your own equipment may not see a return on investment.

In such a case look to established large format commercial printers, such as Brant InStore, to fulfill your printing needs.