How to Get Real Value from Your Print Supplier

When it comes to choosing a print supplier, the conversation often starts and ends with price: “How much does it cost?”

Experienced buyers know that price is not the most important cost driver – value is. And the better question to ask is “What is this actually going to cost me over time?”

In the printing world, the biggest costs rarely appear on the invoice. They show up later, when the wrong material creates delays, reprints, or failed installs.

Real value comes from making the right decisions up front, so you avoid costly mistakes later.

This article explores what “real value” looks like, and why choosing the wrong supplier or media can cost far more than you think.

“Aren’t most print materials basically the same?”

• Inconsistent print quality
• Colour shifts or ink compatibility issues
• Curling, shrinkage, or edge lift
• Difficult finishing
• Reprints and wasted media

That’s why selecting the right material matters just as much as the price tag.

“How does choosing the wrong material affect my costs?”

Most of the cost impact happens quietly. A failed print means more than just replacing a roll of media. It often includes:

• Extra print time
• Additional ink and consumable
• Labour spent reworking
• Delays to production schedules
• Pressure on delivery deadlines
• Damaged customer relationships

Over time, these hidden costs add up and can easily outweigh any initial savings. The “cheapest” vinyl or film that fails halfway through your workflow can easily cost many times more than a properly specified material.

“What should my supplier do to prevent this?”

A good supplier doesn’t just supply materials – they help you reduce risk by asking the right questions:

• Where will this graphic be used?
• How long does it need to last?
• What surface is it going on?
• What printing and finishing equipment is involved?

By understanding the application, a supplier can recommend media that’s proven to work in those conditions, helping avoid trial-and-error decisions that cost time and money.

“Why does consistency matter?”

Consistency is one of the most overlooked aspects of value.

When a material behaves differently from batch to batch, it creates wasted time, adjustments, and unpredictable output.

Consistent and reliable media allows teams to work efficiently, confidently, and with fewer surprises – which directly impacts profitability.

“Is delivery really part of ‘value’?”

Yes. Late or incomplete deliveries can stall production, delay installs and put pressure on teams to rush jobs.

Reliable, on-time keep operations running smoothly, especially when materials arrive in good condition and ready to use.

“Should I still focus on price?”

Price matters, but it shouldn’t be the only factor. Real value comes from looking at the full picture. Instead of asking “What’s the cheapest material you sell?” ask “What’s the right material for this job, and why?”

A supplier that can answer confidently is helping you protect quality, reduce waste, and deliver consistent results.

Choosing a print supplier isn’t just about buying film. It’s about choosing consistency, reliability, and support and that’s where real value is found.

All Print Supplies have been making a material difference for over 40 years. For more tips and advice, take a look at our Tips & Technical Information pages or contact our team for expert technical support.

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We stock all the media you need to complete your graphics projects – whatever you need to fulfil your graphics applications we are here to help you.

For more information, to request samples and to place orders, contact our sales team:
T 01753 696977
T 01709 829800
E sales@allprint.co.uk