Signs and wide format growing as profit centres for printers according to major NPOA survey in the U.S.

The recently completed National Print Owners Association (NPOA) 2015-2016 Signs & Wide Format Pricing Study found that signs and wide format are becoming increasingly important profit centres for small commercial printers. The study, which surveyed 230 printing firms, showed that sign and wide format accounted for an average of 9.8% of total sales. “There’s no doubt sign and wide-format work is an increasingly important part of the job mix,” said NPOA Executive Director and study author John Stewart. “Also, because more and more printers enter or continue to grow their sign business, this study offers detailed information on pricing, equipment usage, job mix and more.”
According to Stewart, along with information on equipment use and user ratings for printers, rips, cutters and laminators, the study also reveals the latest pricing practices for 18 of the industry’s most popular substrates. Among the substrates and products covered are standard vinyl, outdoor banners, banner mesh, wall vinyls, foamcore, corrugated plastic, cast vinyl, ACM Panel, art canvas, magnetic and PVC plastic. The study also includes both suggested retail and discounted prices provided by survey participants. Additionally, the study compares the pricing practices of small firms to large-volume firms in terms of annual sign sales.
Pricing information is also included for many of the more popular products such as banners, foamcore, Coroplast and aluminum signs. Square-cut and contour-cut decals are priced based both on various sizes and quantities ordered. Pricing for simple vehicle decals, flat surface vehicle wraps, and window perfs are also covered. “This is an industry first and provides printers with a real-world look at pricing, products and practices they can use to fine tune and build their sign and wide-format business,” Stewart added.
All survey participants received a free copy of the study. NPOA members who did not participate can purchase the study for $117 (USD). The non-member price is $195. The study is available as a PDF download or in hard copy form and can be ordered at the NPOA Bookstore at www.printowners.org. NPOA members can also download a free PDF copy of the 44-page Executive Summary of the study at the NPOA.
NPOA is the fastest growing non-profit trade association serving the North American printing industry. It has grown from 19 original members in late December of 2012 to almost 400 as of late summer 2014.