Trade printing

Trade printing is a business model in the printing industry wherein a printer provides printing services exclusively to print brokers, graphic designers, advertising agencies, and other printing companies at wholesale rates. This allows resellers to offer print products to their own clients without investing in expensive printing equipment or production facilities.^[1]

Business model

Trade printers do not usually sell directly to the end customer. Instead, they produce and ship print products on behalf of the reseller, often using blind shipping so that the trade printer's identity remains hidden from the client. This practice helps protect the reseller’s relationship with the end customer.^[2]

Services offered

Trade printers typically offer a wide range of printed materials, including business cards, flyers, brochures, posters, banners, signage, and promotional products. Many also provide finishing services like binding, embossing, foil stamping, and mailing services.^[3]

Technology

Many trade printers have invested in web-to-print technology and online ordering portals. These systems enable resellers to customize designs, get instant quotes, place orders, and track shipments, streamlining the process for both the printer and the reseller.^[4]

Benefits

By partnering with trade printers, small and medium-sized graphic design firms, marketing agencies, and brokers can offer high-quality printed products without the overhead of owning expensive equipment or hiring production staff. This arrangement allows them to focus on design, branding, and customer service while expanding their profit margins through wholesale markups.^[5]