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Why offer ancillary services? Many printers find that their core print business has become commoditized, and profits from print are declining. These printers recognize the changing landscape, and develop a new self view away from being printers to being communications solutions providers.
The future for the savvy printer involves diversification into ancillary services, and the adoption of digital technology to augment the core business of traditional commercial printing. In essence, the printer must redefine his or her business by: reassessing the entire product/service offering; unbundling services previously included free in the price of the print job, such as data management and creative services; creating new services such as facilities management, Web page development, CD-ROM fulfillment, kit fulfillment, and digital photography, and embracing new technology.
Despite the challenges facing printers, this is still a huge industry. There are significant opportunities to thrive by adjusting to changing realities of the market.
Source: William Smythe, NPES News, June 2006
