Over the past 30 years I have heard the statement “we’re not the bank” used hundreds of time by various printers. This statement did not become crystal clear to me until I owned my own business.

In today’s marketplace, if you are printing a standard single color trade book on a sheet fed press, you are either paying too much or dealing with a company that can’t possible stay in business.

There is only one industry that I enjoy “ragging on” as much as the Vanity Presses and that is the paper industry. The short answer is, yes, paper prices are increasing.

Good question. Until just recently I would have given you a dozen reasons why you couldn’t but things have changed. I am now able to offer Hong Kong pricing but printed in the USA on most full color book projects.

I guess that matter with what holiday you are referring to. Columbus Day? A definite no. Thanksgiving? You’re getting real close. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza? SURE, depending on the type of book you are printing.

Generally the answer is no. Paper, plates, and inks “the main materials in the printing process” cost the same here as they do anywhere else in the world.

An unexpected stay in the hospital gave me new insight into understanding trade customs and their application in all of our business dealings. I think you’ll like it.