The Minuteman Press franchise started by John and Diana Sim in Midland, Perth has turned four with the business winning awards and hitting sales milestones.
They believe using promotional items to promote their business locally was an important strategy for showing what they can do in terms of designing and printing customized promotional products to existing and potential clients.
One promotional item that has really stood out was a Minuteman Press branded bottle opener. They say the first order received paid for the bottle openers and has continued to help with sales. They also regularly give away note pads with their branding also.
The couple started the business four years ago and moved to purchased premises 500 metres from their original shopfront in 2017. They have also taken on one extra staff member to help with design and customer service.
Having lived in the area for almost 20 years they say they receive great satisfaction from serving the local community with high quality print products as well as supporting many local clubs and organisations.
Prior to starting the franchise Diana worked in sales and marketing and events management, while John worked as a print, production management and in sales. They were also drawn to the structure and support afforded by buying a franchise.
“We chose Minuteman Press because John loves his profession and had experience in the industry. My customer service, sales and admin skills meant that we both had a role in the business that matched our skillsets,” Diana said.
“We realised that many small independent printers were not successful due to lack of structure, supplier support, estimating and database software, marketing, systems, and procedures. Minuteman Press International has provided all of these vital elements as well as local support to help ensure our business success, and the rest was up to us.”
Diana and John are always on the lookout for new products and services to add to the business such as dye sublimation printing as well as possible acquisitions from the surrounding area.
“John and Diana have really taken their Minuteman Press centre to new levels through their hard work and following the Minuteman Press franchise system," Glenn Coyle, Minuteman Press International Area Manager for Western Australia.
“They are growing their business tremendously by marketing, networking and adding new customers each week on a regular basis and more importantly, referrals from current customers who are very happy.”
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