Buying Print? - Why prices vary

[Boss Hog]

There are many reasons why printer A may be cheaper than printer B, it's not neccessarily that printer B is just making more profit which some people tend to think, it can be as a result of many things, such as...

1) Printer A specialises in this particular product, finish or printing method.

2) The quote is not like for like as the method of production is different (digital v litho).

3) The quote is not like for like as the printing method is different (digital v cmyk v spot colours).

4) The quote is not like for like as the quality/weight/finish of the stock is not on a par.

5) Printer A may have less overheads to Printer B. As a result it could be that printer A has a 15 year old press that produces rubbish and Printer B has invested heavily in top of the range kit.

6) The product in question is a loss leader to draw customers in, who's going to compete with a price where there is no profit!

7) The printer/reseller may be sourcing the product from overseas (namely Eastern Europe/Germany).

8) The job is more suited to a B1 press than a B2 press.

9) Printer A has the volume to batch print where printer B doesn't.

10) Printer B may outsource some of the finishing where printer A can do it in-house.

Just a few reasons off the top of my head, hopefully they will enlighten some of you and obviously feel free to add some more if you can think of any...

[printbar]

11) Printer A has had a slow month and just wants to get something on the books. Printer B is looking at his numbers and thinking they ain't too shabby.

12) Printer A employs sales staff who make commission on turnover, not profit (you laugh, but it happens).

[opalprint]

so true!!
Its amazing how many "estimators" dont even know their true costs.
Guess thats why so many printers go bust...