Business leaders, take note: 10 risks that can ruin your sign, LFP, and print business

20 January 2025

1. Without real-time insight into production costs, you’re giving away your margins

In the print and sign industry, not knowing your detailed costs is a luxury you can’t afford. Without these insights, every quote becomes a gamble. By understanding the exact cost of your print orders, you can systematically improve your margins.

2. Manual processing of quotes, orders, and invoices is burning money on overheads

You already know it: manual administration and production processes lead to errors, delays, and frustrated customers. Did you know 40% of a print order is administrative work? Stay ahead of the competition by exploring software solutions that drastically reduce manual work.

3. Lack of insight into partners’ financial stability can cause cash flow issues

You’ve likely faced it before—a client that doesn’t pay. One setback can seriously strain your cash flow. Monitoring the financial health of your customers is essential to protect your business from unnecessary risks. With tools like Creditsafe, you can avoid gambling on good intentions.

4. Slow delivery of print quotes loses customers and revenue

Customers expect fast, clear quotes. Print businesses with slow, inefficient processes not only lose deals but also credibility. Say goodbye to orders, customers, and revenue if you don’t act quickly.

5. Neglecting CO2 sustainability will cost you strategic clients

Print orders are increasingly judged by their ecological footprint. Without the ability to demonstrate the sustainability of your productions—including CO2 emissions per print order—you risk losing major projects. Clients prefer companies that take responsibility.

6. No insight into your production machinery’s energy use means you’re overpaying

Energy costs are among the biggest expenses in the print and sign industry. Think of the power consumption of presses, cutting machines, and drying units. Gain control of your energy use and stop overpaying, or you’ll fall behind in the race for sustainable production—and your market position will suffer.

7. Failing to leverage customer data means giving away market share

Customers expect increasingly personalised solutions. Print companies that use their data effectively know exactly what their clients need and can adapt accordingly. Know your customers to offer them the best possible service.

8. Relying on outdated business software sabotages your growth

Legacy systems are a silent killer for many print businesses, increasing costs and stifling innovation. While competitors embrace AI, digitalisation, and automation to cut administrative expenses and deliver better service, outdated methods hold businesses back. Don’t let your company fall behind.

9. Inability to deliver digital invoices risks frustration, delays, or loss of trust

Digital invoicing is becoming essential for large clients and governments. Smooth and error-free processing of invoices is critical to meet their expectations. If your business can’t provide this, it risks delays, frustration, and missed opportunities. Is your invoicing process ready to meet customer demands?

10. An unsecured IT infrastructure is playing with fire

Cyberattacks can happen to anyone—even your print business. Outdated software makes you vulnerable to data breaches or production shutdowns. Have you considered what would happen if your systems were targeted tomorrow? The solution is simpler than you think.

Don’t let these risks become a reality

The print and sign industry is evolving rapidly. These risks could spell disaster for your business, but they don’t have to. MultiPress MIS/ERP helps you avoid these pitfalls, cut unnecessary costs, and improve your margins. Discover how MultiPress can transform your print business—request your free personalised demo today!