Category: Houston Commercial Printing & Direct Mail

  • 10 Reasons Why EDDM is a Great Marketing Tactic for any Size Business

    10 Reasons Why EDDM is a Great Marketing Tactic for any Size Business

    What is EDDM?

    Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is a bulk mailing preference offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). EDDM enables businesses to reach prospects without knowing their address. 

    How To Use EDDM?

    You choose your preferred mailing route, and the EDDM service provider delivers your mail items to all the active addresses on your selected carrier location. You can also target EDDM depending on the standard demographic of each neighborhood.

    EDDM is a direct mail tactic for any size business that targets every house in a selected neighborhood.

    What size is EDDM?

    There are specific requirements that Every Door Direct Mail must meet.  You can print the mail in any of the three varying sizes approved by the United States Postal Services. 

    They include 6.25”x 9”, 6”x11 and 8.5”x11”. Furthermore, the thickness of the mail should not exceed ¾”.

    All the postcard categories have the same EDDM postage rates regardless of the size. Therefore, you can take advantage of print area coverage by choosing a larger sized print media.

    How to Choose the Right Size EDDM Postcard?

    USPS has already taken care of the sizes of the postcards, which are taller than a regular envelope. Therefore, you don’t have to worry whether the EDDM postcard will stand out in the mailbox.

    The 6.25”x 9” EDDM Postcard

    This print media is the smallest postcard advertisers can mail using EDDM services. It is ideal for small businesses and individuals seeking to cut down on printing costs. However, it is still larger than half an A4-sized paper and can fit any advert for businesses like restaurants, home services, retailers, car wash, and more.

    The 6”x11” EDDM Postcard

    This middle-sized postcard is one of the three approved sizes by USPS. The 6”x11” EDDM card is longer than 10.5” and offers more print coverage than the smaller 6.25”x9”. More so, it doesn’t cost much more than the smaller version.

    One of the advantages of this middle-sized EDDM postcard is that it is ideal for marketing messages and graphics or pictures. It is also beneficial for promoters who wish to use a Business Reply Card on their Every Direct Door Mail print.

    The 8.5”x11” Every Door Direct Mail Postcard

    This Mailpiece is the largest-sized approved EDDM postcard you can send. Your possible clients spot it out of all the other mails because it stands out in size and design. 

    More so, the card allows you a broader print coverage to accommodate your messages, graphics, and maps. It is an ideal choice for marketers who need to express the service or brand in detail, like a menu list and selling proposition.

    This EDDM postcard is favorable for menus, health services, political mailers, and other industries that desire to overshadow the mailbox.

    Types of EDDM Accounts

    Business owners can select either the EDDM Retail Account or the USPS Business Account.

    EDDM-Retail Account permits up to 5,000 pieces of printed mail per zip code. More so, promoters do not require a postage permit to distribute mail under the Retail Account. It is ideal for businesses that issue out limited mail.

    USPC Business Account has a daily allowance of more than 5,000 pieces of mail per Zip code. It also permits marketers to handle the mail online. But unlike the EDDM-Retail Account, this service requires a postage permit from USPS.

    Why EDDM is a Great Marketing Tactic

    Marketing research shows that about 40% of the American population looks forward to going over their mail every day. Today, the current work at home scenario makes people of all ages anticipate receiving their mail more than customary.

    Here are 10 reasons why EDDM is a great marketing tactic for any business size.

    1. EDDM Improves Digital Marketing Strategy

    A study by The Canada Post indicates that you can achieve intelligent marketing, stronger client relationships, and improved sales by integrating digital and physical marketing. By combining print and digital media, you back up a message by reaching prospects across multiple channels.

    More so, the world’s largest digital tech giants like Google use direct mail to help drive its internet promotion and improve its revenue.

    2. High Response Rate Among EDDM Readers

    EDDM recipients are likely to be more responsive if they do not feel the pressure of being treated like isolated consumers. A selective mail list can make some neighbors wonder why they are targets for what ought to be a public campaign.

    Furthermore, statistics show that marketers get a higher response from mail sent to homes than from prospects lists. Up to 5.3% feedback originates from EDDM sent to residences and 2.9% from a predetermined schedule.

    3. High Response Rate Promotes Sales

    A CBR News report indicates that up to 62% percent of consumers purchase in less than three months of EDDM correspondence. EDDM is an excellent marketing strategy for businesses to convert leads to sales.

    For Both Young and Seniors

    Young child and adult mailing a postcard

    The older generation across the globe trust and have confidence in direct mail and read postcards more than other mail. More so, senior citizens also control almost 70% of all disposable income.

    Therefore, businesses take advantage of this remarkable purchasing power to influence this target group with direct mail campaigns.

    What About Millennials and Direct Mail?

    This target market has a whopping 90% who approve physical advertising. The same percentage also thinks that EDDM is a credible source of information. 

    Research indicates that 80% of the American younger generation anticipate checking the mailbox.

    Another 59% of the same target market value the information or ads received by mail more than that through email. 49% of this group choose to purchase from stores that advertise to them by EDDM.

    4. EDDM Is Simple to Target

    Targeting a physical audience may not be as quick as selecting an online audience on a social media platform which you achieve with a few clicks. Even so, finding your direct mail target market is effortless and achievable. 

    EDDM Service

    USPS permits businesses to distribute thousands of mailings to geographical locations of their choice at a lower postage rate.

    The mail carrier drops your mailing to every household along with the targeted zip code or neighborhood. Sometimes, your EDDM service provider can deliver your mail to different routes, to selected age groups, household size, or by income.

    Although EDDM does not require you to have a mailing list, marketers who need specific targets can pay third-party list dealers to obtain one. Mailing list vendors or direct mail service providers can help you target unique demographics like age, gender, income, and more.

    5. Easy to Track Your Postcard Campaigns

    The results of tracking your postcard campaigns provide an ideal business perspective. You can use the outcome to create realistic expectations for your business.

    Use A Distinct Phone Number on Each Direct Mail Campaign

    There are various options you may choose for your leads to contact you. One of the ways is to assign a unique phone number to postcard mailing for different Zip codes.

    As mentioned before, over 60% of individuals who read physical mail are likely to react to it, either by calling or walking to your store and purchasing your brand.

    Even so, you can track your postcard campaigns by counting the number of calls you receive on the unique number printed on specific postcards.

    Create a Landing Page for Your EDDM

    You can create a landing page if your goal is to entice prospects to visit your website or interact with your product. By including the link on your mail, you enable your clients from a specific campaign to contact you on a unique landing page.

    Alternatively, you can add a QR code to your postcard for consumers to scan with their smartphone camera. The code will automatically take them to the landing page you have created for that campaign.

    When visitors click on that page, you can identify the campaign that initiated the visit. 

    6. Physical Mail Has Limited Competition

    Did you know that the average American comes into contact with about 4,000 – 10,000 pieces of adverts per day? This exposure leads to digital fatigue or an experience known as ad blindness. It is the inability of consumers to sight or notice adverts.

    In contrast, the same category of Americans receives about two print media items per day. This notable difference means that the mailbox is free from the congestion of printed advertisements. Your direct mail will likely receive total attention, unlike your email, which has to compete among 10,000 others.

    Direct Mail Stands Out of the Mailbox

    Mailboxes

    In layman’s terms, the internet is swarming with electronic ads.  Consumers receive thousands of emails and videos from numerous marketers on social media whenever an individual interacts with the internet. Not to mention the pop-ups from Google ads, some of which are annoying.

    Mailboxes do not experience the kind of overcrowding witnessed on the internet. Direct mail is easy to manage and read. Consumers do not get burned out or fatigue by responding to 2 or 3 postcards.

    7. EDDM Is Scalable

    Both small and large enterprises can expand or cover a larger area with direct mail campaigns. EDDM allows you to take your marketing across multiple Zip codes. Postcards are ideal for any size business to announce a yearly event in an entire city.

    Organizations that have operations in more than one location can coordinate a nationwide campaign with EDDM. Politicians can use EDDM to effectively take their marketing campaigns from one region to the entire nation.

    8. EDDM IS Affordable

    Besides other factors like availability and scalability, EDDM is a great marketing tactic for all businesses because it is cost-effective. The new postage rates offered by USPS for Every Door Direct Mail are lower than other postage rates. Even small enterprises can easily afford to use the EDDM marketing strategy.

    Lower Cost Per Lead

    Postcards are not costly to print, and the postage rates are at a discount. More so, you do not need to buy a mailing list to deliver your mail items. Unlike other print media channels like magazines, these aspects of the EDDM marketing campaign reduce the cost per lead. 

    What Is the Cost of EDDM?

    The EDDM postage charges come in three categories. 

    • Standard postcard postage cost $0.3. 
    • Commercial first-class costs $ 0.257.
    • EDDM postage per piece costs $ 0.178.

    9. EDDM Increases Brand Awareness

    Brand awareness yields quality leads and improves sales in every business. EDDM does not only allow you to cover a wide area, but the postcards also stay with your prospects for a while.

    Multiple Physical Connection with Direct Mail

    A majority of households reside in the same residence for a year or more, and sometimes forever. If you consistently distribute your postcards across the selfsame locations, you can create a lasting physical connection for consumers with your brand.  

    More so, if you include special offers in your advert, consumers are likely to call back or keep your mail item for future reference. EDDM creates an ideal opportunity for your clients to remember your brand or services.

    10. Physical Mail Is Favorite and Trusted

    EDDM is one of the favorite mail services for the general households in the U.S. With a culture of reading printed material; most adult Americans always look forward to reading some informational or factual news every day.

    Physical Mail Is Convenient

    Research shows that 73% of American consumers prefer EDDM over email.  These consumers say that they can read the postcard at a more convenient time. 

    Physical Mail Facts

    Market research sources also indicate that 69% of the same population enjoy receiving mail and trust the information. 

    Another report by Mail Shark indicates that 59% of Americans have more confidence in print advertising when compared to electronic media.

    These findings indicate that EDDM is a great marketing tactic for any size of business. Even though thousands of marketers have turned to digital marketing, most individuals with movable assets still have confidence in print media and appreciate EDDM.

    Summary

    Every Direct Door Mail is an excellent strategy for any size business to market their brands and services. This service offers a cost-effective means of handling mail for companies that are tight on budget.

    The simplicity of using EDDM enables startups and small businesses to reach out to a vast market without purchasing a mailing list. It is not only pocket-friendly but also a quick way to bring leads to your business. This marketing strategy further improves sales.

    Furthermore, EDDM is flexible and allows you to design and print marketing materials that fit your brand or service. However, your EDDM mail should meet the size requirements in length, width, and thickness as set by USPS. 

  • 20 Best Houston Printing Shops

    20 Best Houston Printing Shops

    What You Need to Know

    There are many companies offering printing services out there. That’s great, but it’s also a problem because you have difficulty selecting the best Houston printing shops. Here are some tips that should help you narrow your search; 

    • Quality

    Check on the quality the company offers because the print quality affects your brand in one way or another. Begin by checking out the samples the company displays on their website. Then visit the company to check the samples personally. The more advanced the print technology they use, the more efficient they are.

    • Trust

    Do the company’s present and past customers trust it? Trustworthiness is quite essential. You have a need, and you want that need met. The best way to check out the reliability is by looking at the company’s ratings.

    • Customer Service

    Look for a company that works hand-in-hand with its customers. You probably have some template in mind, and for it to materialize, there should be constant communication between you and the company. Furthermore, the staff you work with should be friendly and helpful.

    • Reliability

    The company you choose should be one that you can depend on through thick and thin. It should do printing and delivery within your time frame.

    • Reputation

    The printing shop should have been in business for some time. You look for the experience because you want to be sure it is familiar with the industry. Experience is also very critical, and if the company received an award, that’s a plus.

    20 Best Houston Printing Shops

    Check out the tips above and then select one of these companies that fits the description.

    1. Catdi, Inc Best Houston Printing Shops

    Catdi, Inc is one of the best printing shops in Houston. The printing shop has been in service for more than ten years and of course we are a little biased.

    The company is a printing, graphic design, and direct mail shop. It offers its customers services like web design, but they also give their clients free web hosting for two years.

    Catdi, Inc started as a simple printing shop. However, today it has grown, and so have its services. The brand now offers two categories of its commercial printing services;

    • Custom
    • Bundled

    The Bundled plan deals with the basics that every company needs to have a grip on the market. These are things like flyers, business cards, and brochures. The number of pieces and their sizes may vary depending on the size and need of the client’s company.

    Catdi, Inc offers the following services;

    Catdi, Inc serves both small and big businesses. Expanding businesses also enjoy Catdi printing services.

    2. Bay Area Printing Best Houston Printing Shops

    Bay Area printing service provides digital printing, graphic, and copying services. It serves the people in Houston and the surrounding suburbs.

    The printing shop serves individuals, small and large businesses, together with global corporations. Services that Bay Area Printing services provides include;

    • High quality letterheads
    • Brochures
    • Direct mail pieces
    • Business cards

    As one of the best Houston printing shops, Bay Area Printing also provides its customers with logo designing and branding.

    3. BEST Blue Print Best Houston Printing Shops

    BEST Blue Print offers its clients a wide range of both copying and printing services. It serves those in Houston and surrounding areas.

    The company specializes in creating documents and business materials. However, the BEST Blue Print also offers services like creating. 

    • Wedding invitations
    • Catalogs
    • Banners
    • Bumper stickers

    But not only that, but BEST Blue Print also does photo printing, window film, and logo design services.

    4. CME Printing Best Houston Printing Shops

    CME Printing has a combined 100 years of experience. It offers its clients in Houston a wide variety of services, including;

    • Printing
    • Lithography
    • Graphic design
    • Web development
    • Mailing services
    • Bindery services

    The variety of services are the result of the efforts of CME Printing investing in modern technology. The print shop boasts blending creativity with tech to create state-of-the-art printed materials for businesses.

    5. Copy Doctor Best Houston Printing Shops

    Copy Doctor is another printing service shop that has been operating in Houston for quite a while. For over 15 years, Copy Doctor, or “Document emergency room” as commonly known by clients, has helped its customers in;

    • Printing
    • Copying
    • Binding
    • Finishing
    • Graphic design

    The printing service shop has a team of experienced staff who are behind the business’s good reputation. They help their clients with their printing projects. Customers even receive free proofs to evaluate and give feedback long before the project is complete.

    6. DeVine Promotions & Printing Best Houston Printing Shops

    DeVine Promotions & Printing is just what its name suggests. The business helps its customers; firms to get an appearance in the competition. Their method to accomplish this goal is through its printing services. The printing service offers services like;

    • Branded giveaway items
    • Newsletters
    • Direct mail.

    It also prints business documents like;

    • Annual reports
    • Branded envelopes
    • Letterheads

    Devine Promotions & printing offers recycled materials help businesses sustain themselves.

    7. DiPuma Printing Company Best Houston Printing Shops

    DiPuma Printing Company offers its customers both digital and commercial printing services. The company has been in operation for 47 years. Therefore with the experience it has managed to garner over the years, it meets the desires of its customers.

    The company offers printing services like;

    • Brochures.
    • Catalogs.
    • Flyers.
    • Presentation Documents.
    • Direct mail.

    DiPuma Printing Company works with a team of experts who, combined with the experience, do a great job in Houston.

    8. DiscPro Printing & Graphics Best Houston Printing Shops

    DiscPro Printing & Graphics in Houston is one of the biggest businesses that offer commercial printing. DiscPro Printing & Graphics combines expertise and modern technology to meet its customers’ needs with its experts.

    The company offers services in;

    • Bindery.
    • Media Replication.
    • Promotional Products.

    DisPro Printing & Graphics has a full-time operating onsite shipping department. The department aids the business in delivering the projects to its customers fast and safely.

    9. FPG Fast Printing & Graphics 

    FPG Fast Printing & Graphics serves its customers based in Houston and the surrounding environs. As one of the best Houston printing shops FPG Fast is famous for printing custom t-shirts for special events and businesses too.

    The company also prints stickers, signs, posters, and banners for its customers. It also has a graphics design team that works closely with the customers in creating engaging and dynamic custom graphics.

    FPG Fast Printing & Graphics accept rush orders. However, they promise to put quality above anything so that speed does not compromise quality.

    10. Fresh Prints Best Houston Printing Shops

    Fresh Prints is a beautiful place for clients interested in personalized clothing and printing. The business’s custom design studio has a variety of clothing selections and colors. That helps make a client’s custom sweatshirt, t-shirt, or other pieces of clothing to be quite an easy job.

    As one of the best Houston printing shops, the business enables its clients to create t-shirts with their preferred images. The customers also have the option of using the service’s templates.

    Once a client places their order, they receive a personalized quote from a sales representative.

    11. Houston Art Prints Best Houston Printing Shops

    Houston Art Prints specializes in commercial giclee and fine art printing. It has been serving the people of Houston for more than 12 years. The company employs high-quality materials to come up with perfect prints and vibrant colors.

    The printing company serves its customers in printing;

    • Business cards
    • Postcards
    • Flyers
    • Brochures

    Houston Arts Print’s fine prints come complete with matting and framing services included in the package.

    12. Lady Lazarus Best Houston Printing Shops

    Lady Lazarus is an award-winning printing studio whose specialty is in flatbed screen printing for fine art editions and collectible films and music posters. The studio also works with different galleries, merchandising firms, publishers, musicians, artists, and illustrators.

    They help these varying sectors license and publish new fine art print editions, commemorative event posters, and limited edition rock poster series. Its employees dedicate their time to provide unique designs with keen attention to the details required. 

    13. Minuteman Press Downtown

    Minuteman Press Downtown has been in the printing industry since 2001. It is a printing firm that is locally owned and operated. It received the 10 Gold Star Achievement Awards for;

    • Professional Excellence in Customer Service
    • Service Quality
    • Exemplary Business Performance

    The company serves both startup and large businesses by offering a wide range of graphic design, direct mail, signage, and promotional materials. It also prints business cards and state-of-the-art marketing materials.

    14. Neil Jou Productions

    Neil Jou Productions is another award-winning service excelling in graphic design, printing, and photography services. The company name is the name of the founder. It serves its clients in Houston in;

    • Printing services
    • Signage
    • Graphic design
    • Website design
    • Photography
    • Videography

    Neil Jou works with his team of experts in developing visually appealing promotional and marketing materials for businesses dealing in different industries.

    15. Precision Printing

    Precision Printing has been in business for more than 35 years. It is based in Conroe, TX, and offers digital printing, tradeshow, and sign printing in Houston. The company works with a team of experts who work together with businesses that seek their help. 

    They help them design logos and branding messages to develop stunning printed materials that arrest customers’ attention.

    16. Star Copier

    Star Copier is a printing shop in downtown Houston, TX, offering printing services within the area, including its neighborhood, for over 20 years. They offer black and white and color copying and printing. The shop also prints business cards, brochures, flyers, postcards, real estate signs, different banners, and yard signs.

    Star Copier sells and offers maintenance for their copiers and printers for customers who prefer in-house printing services.

    17. Texas Litho

    Texas Litho is a family-owned commercial printing company in Houston, TX. The firm employs a combination of the latest commercial and digital printing technology to ensure customer satisfaction.

    For more than 20 years, the company has offered digital and large-format printing services and six-color offset printing. The printing shop Texas Litho handles finishing, bindery, fulfillment, and distribution of products to their destinations.

    18. The UPS Store

    The UPS Store offers a variety of products and services to its local community in Houston, TX. This business is a local franchise; hence most of its services strive to promote local business in its locality.

    The company prints various banners and posters, brochures, business cards, bookmarks, catalogs, cards, and flyers.

    19. Sel-Fast Printing

    Sel-Fast Printing shop serves Houston, TX residents. The company offers a wide range of printing services, including; business cards, full-color postcards, color envelopes, wedding invitations, and bindery. 

    The firm offers various other services like a black and white copy, digital color printing, vinyl banners, signs, and lamination and mounting. Sel-Fast printing uses design templates by Microsoft. So, you have quite a variety of models to consider for your work.

    20. Copydotcom

    Copy.com is a full-service printing shop in Montrose, Houston, that caters to all your needs. Apart from printing services, the company has designers who can help you create flyers, business cards, and pamphlets, among other requirements you might have. 

    The company also rents out Mac and PC workstations to clients. It also offers a self-serve option for printing and copiers so that you can handle personal projects with ease.

    Recently Updated!

    21. Alphagrahics

    Alphagraphics is a comprehensive printing provider with many locations in Houston and the US. They are dedicated to meeting every one of your printing needs. In addition to a wide range of printing services, Alphagraphics boasts a team of skilled designers ready to assist in creating impactful flyers, business cards, pamphlets, and more, tailored to your specifications.

    Questions People Ask

    Where Can I Print Something in Houston?

    Houston has many print shops for you to choose from. Depending on what you would like to print, you can check out any of the shops numbered above. Or you can ask google to identify one for you. Simply type the words, “Printing services near me.” You’ll be surprised at the number of shops in your area.

    What Places Allow You to Print?

    You can print in the following places;

    • Office supply stores
    • Shipping providers
    • Print and copy shops
    • Universities and Public Libraries
    • Hotels

    Can I Print Documents at Walgreens?

    Yes, you can print documents at Walgreens. However, you will have to pay for the service. This list shows you the cost of printing at Walgreens.

    What Is the Cheapest Way to Print Documents?

    Whether you are printing documents at home or in a print shop, print your documents cheaply by;

    1. Put the printer in draft mode. Standard printers have different modes which offer different print speeds and quality. Because of that, the amount of ink used for every method varies. You do not need a premium resolution when printing overall documents. Using draft mode ensures speedy printing, plus you use very little ink.
    2. Print on both sides of the paper. Duplex printing enables you to cut the number of pages by half. Now that’s a great way to save your money. You can do it manually, one heck of a job, or your printer can automatically do it.
    3. Cut on document size. There’s a lot of dead space in printed documents. Now to avoid that, you have to; When using Word docs, Use smaller line spacing and margins. That ensures you don’t have extra spaces on your document. You also have reduced pages. This is an effective way if you are printing reading material. On PDF documents, change the print settings to two pages side by side on both pages. The result is four pages on a sheet of paper. The fonts are smaller than usual, but you are still able to read.
    4. Check your preview page for non-essentials. If you are printing an article from a website, leave out the comment section and ads too. Focus only on the content you need. That way, you will save some cash. Some web pages offer you the “read-only” feature, which gives you a great reading experience. You can print that.
    5. Proofread your final drafts. Remember to go through the document just before you print it. It is pretty common to re-print your text after realizing some grammatical mistakes in the initial form. Now that’s a waste of money, time, and paper. But if you have to, re-print the page you need.
    6. Reuse your papers. Do not throw away your papers because there’s something published on them. Use the pages you previously left blank. That’s a great way to record your notes.
    7. Check font choices. While using specific fonts makes documents look great, it is also advisable to rethink font choices. That’s because the thicker or bolder your fonts are, the more they are likely to cost you. Using the right fonts saves on ink and money in the long run.

    If you are using your printer;

    1. Unplug your printer when it’s not in use. If you leave your printer plugged into the wall plugs, it will attract passive power. That results in high electricity bills amounting to hundreds of thousands annually.
    2. Use congenial cartridges. Buying a printer is not the end of your woes most of the time. That’s because you have to buy genuine cartridges. But you can purchase cheaper cartridges from trusted manufacturers.
  • Here’s How to Find the Best Printing Companies in Dallas Texas

    Here’s How to Find the Best Printing Companies in Dallas Texas

    Print isn’t dead yet! In fact, about 85% of consumers say they’re more likely to shop from a business that uses custom, professionally printed business materials. Whether you’re printing business cards, signs, banners, or flyers, every print project can help.

    It’s not enough to create flyers using your office printer, though.

    In fact, another 90% of customers said the quality of the print materials indicates the quality of the company’s services. Choosing the right printing companies in Dallas, Texas for your project could make a big difference.

    Not sure where to start your search? Here are five tips that can help you find the best printing companies around!

    Find the help you need with these tips today.

    1. Specify the Services

    Before you start researching different printing companies in Dallas, Texas, it’s important to recognize what you need. Otherwise, you might get lost in the different options available.

    Take the time to consider what print materials you want to create. These could include:

    • Flyers
    • Mailers
    • Coupons
    • Banners
    • Business cards
    • Newsletters
    • Stickers
    • Magnets
    • Booklets

    Do you need a company that can print and send out your materials? Maybe you’re focused on printing companies that have graphic design services, too.

    By specifying the services you need, you can narrow down your search.

    Make sure you understand the benefits of the different types of print materials, too.  For example, direct mail offers a 29% return on investment. Do you need one material printed or various services?

    As you research “printing companies near me,” ask each business about the services they offer. See if they can provide samples before you hire them, too. That way, you can ensure the materials meet your quality standards.

    2. Explore Previous Projects

    It’s difficult to know if a printing company has the skill set you need without seeing proof of their abilities first. As you contact different printing companies in the area, ask to see their previous projects.

    Many printing companies will boast about their top-notch services and high-quality print materials. You don’t have to take them at their word, though. Instead, take a look at their work.

    Ask to see samples of the same print materials you want for your own business.

    Some companies will post samples on their website. However, it can also help to look at physical copies. Do the colors look crisp and consistent?

    How do the print materials feel? Do the colors bleed together?

    If the print materials don’t meet your expectations, scratch that printing company off your list.

    It’s important that you find a print company that offers the best possible services. Otherwise, the low quality they produce could impact your company’s reputation.

    3. Read up on Reviews

    Remember, you don’t have to believe everything you hear from a business. As you research different printing companies in Dallas, Texas, take your research online. You can learn a lot by reading reviews from previous clients.

    You can find reviews on the company’s website, their Better Business Bureau listing, and their Google My Business listing.

    Make sure to read reviews from more than one resource. There’s a chance the company handpicked the best reviews to feature on their website.

    Reviews can give you a better sense of the company’s reputation. Do clients trust they can rely on the printing company? Does the print company meet client expectations?

    If the company doesn’t appear trustworthy or responsive, mark them off your list.

    Pay attention to reviews that discuss customer service, too. You’ll want to find a company that communicates well with clients. Otherwise, you might struggle to hear back regarding your projects.

    Which company is most likely to respond to your questions and needs? Which one has left a positive impression on their clients?

    It’s normal to find one or two negative reviews. It’s hard to please everyone. If you see an extensive number of complaints, however, keep searching.

    4. Look for Experience

    How long has the printing company you’re researching operated in the area? Have they survived competition in Dallas, Texas over the years? Before you choose a printing company, look into their history.

    A brand new printing company is likely working out the kinks in their business model. You might experience issues with them down the road.

    Instead, look for a company with a team that has years of experience under its belt. They’ll know how to help you solve any issues you experience. They’ll also know how to best help you with your printing projects.

    As you speak with different printing companies in Dallas, make sure to ask them questions to learn more about their expertise.

    Did they struggle to answer any of your questions? Are they capable of helping you achieve your printing goals?

    Choosing a team with years of experience will help you remain organized and efficient with your projects.

    5. Compare Costs

    As you begin narrowing down your options, take the time to compare the costs for each of the print materials you need. Comparing costs will help you recognize the expected return on investment.

    What factors go into the pricing for each of your projects? For example, you might choose certain flourishes or paper materials that can impact the price.

    You might find different print companies have vastly different pricing structures. That’s okay. Comparing multiple companies in the area will give you a better idea of the pricing.

    Remember, you want to find a company that meets your standards. You’ll likely end up paying more for top quality services.

    Choosing a company that offers a lower price point, however, could cost you in the long run.

    Fit to Print: How to Find the Best Printing Companies in Dallas, Texas

    Ready to gather your print materials and start marketing your business? Keep these five tips on how to find the best printing companies in Dallas, Texas handy. With these tips, you can narrow down your options to find the services you need.

    Want to speed up your search? We’re here to help!

    Discover all the services you need in one place. Request a quote from our team today!

  • Hello! My Name is Carlos Alonso deSantos :)

    Hello! My Name is Carlos Alonso deSantos 🙂

    My name is Carlos Alonso De Santos, and I am the Director of Catdi Printing.  I want to extend a warm greeting to all of you on my mailing list and invite you to give yourself the best possible advantage in today’s complex marketplace.

    Many like you who received our recent Every Door Direct Mail postcard (digitally reproduced in this article) have already experienced surprising results in spite of the economic impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.  Many of our new clients–particularly those in dentistry–experienced an influx of new business leads when they invested in an EDDM campaign that targeted key addresses in specific zip codes.

    As your post card stated, we are offering a 10% discount for any customer, new or otherwise, who places a first time order.  This is designed to offset physical printing costs so you can afford the best possible graphic design, ad copy, and mail services.  Graphics quality is one of the things that immediately sets us apart from other print shops.  We offer every customer the benefit of a custom design that showcases their competitive advantages in bright, high quality color. Our ad copy is custom to your offerings and based upon a clear understanding of what your target market needs to know about your business.

    Catdi has served the local Houston business community for almost 15 years now.  We have helped thousands of local companies develop materials ranging from banners to flyers and even presentation folders for sales literature.  Our graphics designers are experts in both branding and marketing, so anything you order from Catdi is going to immediately establish a strong presence while delivering your message to customers.

    In addition to the first time 10% discount, Catdi is also offering free business cards with every order for both new customers and repeat customers alike.  We want our clientele to maintain a position of strength in these uncertain times, so having plenty of cards on hand is still important even if you are operating with  minimal face-to-face interface with clients.Because we are local, we can design and print your materials with rapid turnaround.  Our turnkey production cycle, combined with targeted direct mail to specific zip codes, helps you concentrate your advertising on specific areas where you have the best opportunities for gaining new market shares.

    Don’t just take my word for it, however,  Feel free to speak with some of our references about what we have accomplished for them.  EDDM is a premier advertising service--but we have made it affordable for the local Houston business owner who wants to do more than just survive the current time–but actually move forward with conscious, focused value production.

    Call or text today for a free consultation and quote. Or hit me up on LinkedIn

  • How to Best Use EDDM Marketing During COVID-19 

    How to Best Use EDDM Marketing During COVID-19 

    We understand that the economic state of our country is  tricky and every move matters during these current times of crisis. We’ve put together a helpful guide for understanding Every Door Direct Mailing (EDDM), how it benefits local businesses, and how to best use EDDM to succeed in business in the new, post-shutdown world. 

     

    1. What is EDDM?

     

    If you’re looking to spread the word about your business to consumers in your area, EDDM just might be the perfect option for you. EDDM, or Every Door Direct Mail, is a proven marketing solution that is an easy to use and cost effective way to spread your message to entire neighborhoods without needing to purchase a mailing list. 

     

    EDDM is a marketing option that allows design and printing companies like Catdi Printing to partner with the US Postal Service to send marketing materials right to the door of any neighborhood or zip code you choose. If you’re able to locate specific areas where people in your target market live, your pieces of mail will be delivered to every address within your specified area.  

     

    It’s a marketing service that is popular among local and regional businesses whose success depends on getting consistent foot traffic from local customers. 

     

    One of the most important elements when it comes to EDDM is analyzing your target market and understanding exactly which customer base you are trying to reach. Regardless of what kind of product or service you offer, the neighborhoods that you market to need to have the spending and lifestyle habits that match what your business offers. 

     

    For example, let’s say you own a used car dealership and you’re trying to decide which areas to send direct mail. It’s important to ask yourself the question – Where do my customers live? You wouldn’t want to market to a downtown neighborhood where many people don’t own cars, nor would it be smart to send direct mail to affluent neighborhoods where the majority of people only shop for new cars. Instead, you would need to look for neighborhoods where the average household is in the demographic of consumers who buy used cars. 

     

    Another important thing to consider is whether marketing to entire neighborhoods or to specific households makes more sense for your business. With EDDM, you can target certain census demographics like age range, household income, and more. If you’re looking to target certain households, then direct mail could make more sense for your needs. 

     

    It’s important to know your options when it comes to direct mail. In addition to EDDM, we also provide standard direct mail services, which allow you to send a wide variety of marketing materials to a very specific target audience after purchasing a mailing list. These marketing materials include brochures, catalogs, newsletters, postcards, flyers, and save the date postcards. This option will allow you to communicate with your audience 1 on 1, which can be a great fit depending on the product or service that your business provides. 

     

    There are a variety of companies that offer EDDM, but we want to share the 3 reasons why we believe Catdi Printing really is the best company to help you reach your target audience. 

    1. We allow you, our customers, to design your own marketing materials using our special templates to guide you through the process. Whether you’re sending a postcard or a full letter, we’ve got a beautiful and conversion optimized template for your needs. 
    2. We’ll happily target the zip codes you’re interested in, which we will pass on to the USPS.
    3. We will print visually appealing marketing materials to your precise specifications and volume for use in your marketing campaign. 

     

    Catdi’s proven methods can help boost traffic to your business by providing your audience with valuable information and giving your potential and returning customers a reminder why they love your business and need to make another visit to your store. 

     

    1. How EDDM Can Be Great For Local Businesses

     

    If a business is local, offers great products/services and makes customers feel valued, people will keep coming back. But if people don’t know about you in the first place, it really doesn’t matter how great of an experience you provide. The key is to get your brand in front of your target customer base and provide them with a great reason to give you their business. 

     

    As we know, everyone prefers to shop for goods and services as close to their homes as possible, as long as the businesses near them provide that amazing customer experience that they’re looking for. Whether American’s are looking for a restaurant, salon, auto repair shop, or anything in between, the ideal situation is to find something close to home. If you’re able to use EDDM to let these customers know about your business, it gives you the chance to earn consistent repeat customers. 

     

    As with any high performing goods or services business, location is everything. When you initially were going through the process of choosing a physical location for your store, what factors did you consider? Age and income range, lifestyle, cost of living? The same exact strategies apply to Every Door Direct Mail marketing. The goal is always to put your amazing small business in front of the eyes of nearby consumers who could be interested in spending money with your business. 

     

    Even if you have customers who visit you on an occasional basis, reminding people how great your business is can easily take a every-few-month patron and turn them into a weekly visitor. 

     

    The great thing about EDDM is the fact that you know a large portion of your customer base lives within a certain distance from your business. Thanks to this insight, you can select that zip code to market to and be able to promote the aspect of your business that you’re highlighting in a very targeted way. Also, you’ll save a lot of time and energy from having to do deeper market research and pay for specific mailing lists. 

    Not only is EDDM a cost-effective marketing option, it’s also scalable. This means you can slowly increase your frequency or expand your reach as your business grows, which allows you to start small and build over time if money is tight. You’ll be able to track and see approximate conversion rates by looking into the impact your direct mail makes on your business. Make sure you have a system for finding out how your customers heard about you, because understanding which marketing strategies are performing best will let you know which areas to allocate your marketing budget. 

     

    If you’re a new business and looking to promote the opening of your store, using EDDM is a great tool for announcing a new business in the community and offering a promotion to create a buzz in nearby neighborhoods. Depending on the type of product or service you provide, organizing an opening night event at your business is a fantastic way to gain some early momentum. 

     

    1. The Current Business Climate During COVID-19 – Business Strategy Help

     

    We understand the needs off businesses during these times, this is one reason we Covid-19 small business resource page. A challenging reality of the world we’re now living in is that life moving forward will be very different than the world we were accustomed to. Millions of business owners are at risk of losing their businesses if the pandemic continues affecting our country in the same way that it has been since early March. 

     

    COVID-19 has devastated the revenue of small businesses all around the country. As a result, there are millions of American’s working for these small businesses who are at risk of losing their jobs and facing unemployment at a time when the unemployment rate is the worst it’s been since the Great Depression. 

     

    The overall impact of the pandemic affects a variety of businesses, with personal service, hospitality and retail being most severely affected. The smaller the organization, the harder they are hit by the shutdowns. Thus far, companies with less than 20 employees have been affected more because they typically lack the cash flow to support extended periods of closure. For example, many restaurants were forced to lay off most of their wait staff to save money while their establishments sat empty. 

     

    The biggest challenge and opportunity for these industries now is to learn how they can serve their customers in the new environment. 

     

    Because of these factors that are heavily influencing the business world, we’ve entered into a stage where businesses must adapt before it’s too late. Many businesses around the country, small and large, are rethinking their services, products, and marketing strategy to try and understand how to stay afloat. 

     

    Every reason to make a change to your business model is being thrown your way in the current climate. Between loss of revenue, stock market fluctuation, and inconsistent product demand, the old methods and business strategy have been thrown out the window and the market is demanding that you adapt to survive. Here are some ideas for strategic change that are worth considering for your business: Adapting the process to deliver the good or service you provide. Shifting your revenue focus to the product that is most valuable in the current landscape. Targeting new demographics and market segments to try and expand your reach if your niche isn’t providing the business you need. 

     

    Another great strategy to try is to evaluate what your customer base needs now that we’re living in the post- COVID-19 shutdown world. Because of the sudden shift in cultural landscape, you may have the resources to offer something new or different that will serve your customers needs of today, not the ones they had 3 months ago. Even the smallest of changes can help you operate more effectively and still provide great value to your local customer base. 

     

    However, it is important to remember that while some businesses will inevitably have to close their doors for good, there will be others who take this challenge as an opportunity to adapt to the new way of life and leverage their business models to fit the new landscape. 

     

    1. Adapting Your Marketing Strategy – Conversions During COVID-19

     

    Here are some tips for adapting your marketing strategy to during the pandemic:

     

    Encouraging people to spend their money with small businesses as the country reopens from the shutdown. It’s more personal and encourages people to shop local instead of at large chain retailers. 

    – Incentivize customers to choose your business with coupons and promotions to maintain your loyal base of customers. 

    – Do as much of your own business as possible with local businesses in your community. 

     

    An interesting trend we’ve found is that the more local businesses offer services for free or discounted, the more paid business they have received as well during the pandemic. This is likely due to the fact that customers appreciate the businesses who are doing their part in helping out the community during a crisis and want to do what they can to support the business financially. In times like these, people will try their best to reward companies that are doing the right thing.

     

    Additionally, an important thing to consider is your competition in the industry. When you have close competitors locally and you’re looking to gain an edge, there may never. Evaluate your risks and if you find that allocating some funds to a tool like EDDM can give you an immediate edge in your market, consider making your move. The same way that many businesses went under after the 08’ crash, there were also new businesses that evaluated the current market opportunities and were able to grow and expand during times of struggle. There will also be businesses who do the same in 2020 and on.

     

    If EDDM is right for your business, understanding how to use the marketing tool to gain an advantage in the most competitive of times. 

     

    1. How To Use EDDM as a Tool to Keep Your Business Thriving

     

    Neighborhood-Focused Marketing

    Like we said before, there is no mailing list required with EDDM, so you will save money. Because of the shift in social behaviors, people have become more hesitant to travel outside of their homes and will opt for the closest available option for whatever product or service they need to find. If your business has been struggling during the nationwide shutdowns and you’re looking for an immediate boost in customer interest, get started with an EDDM marketing approach to reignite interest in your business. It’s only natural for people to have forgotten about the businesses they frequented months ago, so it has become essential to do something to put their eyes back on your brand. 

     

    Sending out a piece of well crafted and genuine direct mail can remind your current customers what they loved so much about your business. This is where offering a great discount, a buy one, get one free offer, or something that will show your clients that you care about them can go a long way toward bringing in that much needed business. 

     

    Take Advantage of Opportunities to Avoid Postal Limits

    When you purchase direct mailings within a certain volume range, which is typically between 250 and 5,000 pieces of mail, you won’t have to worry about purchasing a postal permit. This will allow for big cost savings for your business. 

     

    Create a Buzz with Discount Offers

    EDDM allows you to put your message in the hands of your customers. If you’re able to find ways to include discounts on the mailers, you will create an incentive for new and old customers alike to come visit the store. 

     

    The best part about offering discounts and offer codes is that it can lead to your customers purchasing things they normally wouldn’t consider needing. This is another reason to take advantage of the Catdi printing templates; we’ll take care of providing the appealing visuals, you just need to include the message you want your customers to see in the advertisement.

     

    It’s a Highly Cost-Effective Option 

    With everything going on in the world, it’s only natural that marketing budgets are going to be tight. EDDM is among the most cost-effective options for direct marketing that can still help you make a large splash in your community. Catdi’s printing uses colors and expert-level designs that pop and makes sure that your ad is being read and not just tossed in the trash with your audience’s junk mail. Our low postage rates will help you send out your first round of advertisements at low-risk costs and then evaluate and see if you need to make any adjustments with the next batch. Times are changing quicker than ever. There’s no way to know exactly what kind of advertising messaging you’ll need 6 months from now. Having the flexibility to send out ads in appropriate quantities and adapt your strategy as time goes by will be crucial in helping you ride out the ups and downs of the pandemic. 

     

    1. A Message from the Catdi Team 

     

    In times of struggle, all of us at Catdi are here to help you however we can. If EDDM is the right fit for your business and you need assistance designing a logo, choosing a neighborhood to target or anything else at all, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ve been around a long time and have watched businesses come and go throughout the years. We want to do everything we can to help make sure your business survives these economic struggles and is around for the long haul. If there’s another marketing strategy that you think would better help your business, we can probably help with that too. Thanks for reading, we’re looking forward to hearing about the many successes of your business moving forward. 

  • EDDM for small businesses makes a lot of sen$$E

    EDDM for small businesses makes a lot of sen$$E

    When you’re a small business looking to get noticed by residents of your town, city, or district, your priority has to be your marketing. Often, when you’re looking to be seen by those in your locality, who can visit your store or make use of your local services, digital marketing is a waste of your budget. That’s exactly why direct mail marketing services are so valuable for small businesses – and something that Catdi  Printing can help you with, from conception through to design and implementation. Below, learn how Catdi can help you get your direct mail marketing drive up and running in a simple, stress-free, and cost-effective way

    How it Works

    The emerging marketing field of EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) is proving to be hugely important for local businesses. An absolutely pivotal resource for those companies looking to get noticed by consumers in their area, this mode of mail marketing ensures that every household on every street that you want to receive your marketing communications receives them in the mail.

    How? EDDM is down to a new service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). Catdi works in partnership with the USPS’s new marketing structure, in order to get your message, designed with us, into mailboxes in all of the zip codes that matter to you and your business. Delivering a streamlined, cost-effective, and hassle-free end-to-end delivery of your direct mail, Catdi is leading the country in delivering expert and professional EDDM materials for small businesses across the USA.

    Your Business

    When you’re considering sending out a letter, pamphlet, brochure, or flyer with your business’s details, you need to understand what your business will be investing in and what your return on your investment might be. At Catdi, we can provide a full-service printing and direct mail sending offer for as little as $0.185 per address for a jumbo postcard. At such low prices, you only need one in every thousand recipients to trade with your company in order to get a hefty return on your investment in EDDM.

    Your business will also be free to design the right product to send, leaving the mailing list complexities to the United States Post Office and the specificities of the printing to Catdi. This makes our EDDM marketing offering one of the market leaders, leaving your staff to relax in the knowledge that your excellent, high-quality prints will be finding their way to properties in your area with the minimum of stress.

    You Control Design

    The most important element of the EDDM process that you’ll want to have control over is the design of your postcard, letter, or flyer. It’s likely that you have some branding and style guides already available within your business files, which means all that you’ll have to do to customize your EDDM marketing materials is to translate your brand design onto one of our ready-to-go templates. This means you can control:

    Put together, this equals complete control over your EDDM output, which puts you in the driving seat for the most important part of your EDDM journey – but with some important pointers and templates offered from us at Catdi when you need them. 

    Enjoy Speed and Ease

    Because of Catdi’s expertise in the realm of printing and the USPS’s offer for EDDM, you’ll be able to get your marketing materials out as quickly as you’d like, with very little stress accompanying your drive to deliver thousands of letters or postcards to locals in your area. This is especially important if you’re trying to get locals to attend an event that’s swiftly approaching, or if you want them to take advantage of a deal that is soon to expire. 

    With Catdi’s end-to-end delivery service offering a helping hand for the duration of your journey towards project completion, you’ll be best placed to deliver a seamless and professional marketing campaign in your area, at high speed, and to the highest quality. 

    Devise Your Strategy

    When you’re marketing to locals in your area, you want to be strategic about what you offer and where you offer it. You may wish to target affluent areas in your state or zip codes in which you know a certain demographic is likely to live. You will want to ensure that your letters are arriving on a specific date and that your message is tailored for the audience and the moment at which they receive your materials.

    This is all part of the EDDM strategy that you can work out in conjunction with Catdi. By actively strategizing the delivery of your mailed marketing, you’ll be able to design the best possible flyer or postcard to send to the consumers you want to engage with most. Again, you hold the levers, you make the decisions, and Catdi will take care of the technicalities to realize your ambitions. 

    Reap the Benefits

    Now that you’ve devised your strategy, used a Catdi Printing template to make your marketing materials shine, and you’re ready for our team to press the send button, with the support of USPS your mail will head on through the postal service and into mailboxes across the zip codes that you’re most interested in accessing.

    Now you can sit back and wait for the uptick in your business that this comparatively cheap letter-sending marketing drive will help you achieve. You’ll see an impressive boost in your custom, driven by returning to the public eye through the use of mailed marketing collateral. Many of our clients have experienced huge success in the Houston area, and we’re delighted to extend this service to all local businesses who want to re-establish themselves as the city’s go-to services and businesses for local consumers. In during like economic downturns due to the corona virus the EDDM program makes sense to utilize to grow your business.

    With so many benefits to enjoy – and a large amount of control over how you deliver your marketing campaign – there’s no reason not to use Catdi’s EDDM offerings to put your brand in potential customers’ hands. 

  • 7 Tips for Finding a Good Commercial Printing Company

    7 Tips for Finding a Good Commercial Printing Company

    Businesses often overlook the power of print marketing but a study shows 43% more customers responded to direct mail promotions than the previous year. This meant the prospect response rate was up a staggering 190%.

    Whether its brochures, business cards or leaflets, a commercial printing company will do the heavy lifting to produce high-quality work for your company.

    Remember, your business has seven seconds to make a great first impression so you must make this count.

    Excited about hiring a commercial printing company, but not sure how to find the best one? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know.

    Benefits of Hiring a Commercial Printer

    Before you Google “offset printers near me” or “printer companies near me”, consider the benefits of using a commercial printing service.

    Quality Focused

    Reputable printing companies put quality as their highest priority. Functional and durable printing is important but you want to prove that your business is the real deal.

    The only way to attract customers is to work with a printing company to produce high-quality marketing materials. If not, you’re left with inferior printing which looks unprofessional and shows an obvious lack of care. Not the best first impression!

    Saves Time

    As every business owner knows, time is money and local printing companies can help you with this. You won’t have to worry about learning about printing, organizing, and binding processes. As a result, this gives you the freedom to focus on the more important aspects of your business instead.

    Can Send Out Your Materials

    Many commercial printing companies also deliver your business projects or marketing materials directly to clients, business partners, or your company office. This streamlines the process, again giving you back valuable time to work on other aspects of your business.

    7 Tips to Finding a Great Commercial Printing Company

    The best way to find fantastic printing companies nearby is by being prepared. Here are some tips:

    1. Ask For References

    An established printing company keeps customers happy with high-quality printing. It’s crucial that the company has an excellent track record of giving clients what they want and this should be reflected in their references. While reviews are not the end all be all they do provide some insight into how a company’s been handling  complaints. People usually leave negative reviews when they feel their concerns have not been met.

    To glean how effective the company is, ask their customers specific questions. For example, how well the company communicates, resolves problems, and if they recommend the service. Try to speak with clients who have a similar project so you can see whether the company has the right technology and expertise for the job.

    2. Check Out Samples

    Printing companies may have the latest technology but that doesn’t mean they use it effectively. Before sealing the deal, look at printed samples because a digital portfolio isn’t as reliable.

    Your industry may have specific layout requirements so find examples that align with your needs. Focus on finer details like image quality, unaligned text, and if there’s any ink smudging. Because the quality of the final print significantly impacts your brand, choose the company with the finest finish.

    3. Excellent Reviews

    A brilliant way to gauge a company’s expertise and reputation is checking out their online reviews. Not only does this prove their credibility and trustworthiness but also if they have the right experience for your project.

    Check out their Facebook or Google so you can see what customers are saying. If a company only has bad reviews, that’s a red flag. It often means the company doesn’t have enough experience to deliver great work.

    4. Offers a Wide Range of Printing Services

    Work with a printing company that provides a variety of services. For instance, we offer offset and digital printing depending on your project.

    Offset printing is terrific for accurate color reproduction and printing for large quantities. Digital printing, however, is best for printing a lower amount like 100 flyers or business cards. It’s also useful if your printing materials need a unique code, name or address.

    Let us know more about your project and we’ll find the best solution for you. We also offer Large Format Printing which is fantastic if you need large graphics for advertising, branding, and marketing purposes.

    5. Quick Turnaround Time

    Every business has commitments so it‘s crucial you find a printing company that works to your deadlines. When establishing a plan, let the company know about any strict deadlines beforehand so they have plenty of time to meet your demands.

    6. Great Customer Service

    Exceptional customer service is crucial in the printing business and Catdi knows this. We are with you from start to finish and ensure there are no hiccups along the way. If you have any issues, we are at the end of the phone, ready to help.

    7. Established

    To avoid any problems, choose a printing company that’s established. Catdi has been in business since 2005 which means we understand the industry and have the right expertise. We have a keen attention to detail, know how to maximize your design, and thoroughly double-check everything to deliver the best results.

    That’s How You Find a Commercial Printing Company

    Before choosing a commercial printing company, do your homework. Don’t only check their website, but consider references, reviews, hard-copy samples, and call them to discuss your project.

    At Catdi Printing, we have the right experience and expertise to produce the best quality work for your business. We offer a range of services from offset to digital printing and can produce Large Format Printing if needed.

    If you’re seeking a commercial printing company to help your business, we’d love to chat. Contact us here for further details.

  • We Are Open…

    We Are Open…

    WE ARE OPEN!  

    Dear Valued Customers,

    The key role we play in our client’s communications supply chain declares us as an Essential Business Service.  What this means to you is that in the event Houston goes under a Stay at Home order, we will continue to be operational across our entire product offering and our suite of services.  The Postal Service is also classified as an essential government service operation, which allows us to continue operations.

    As the coronavirus COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the communities where we all live and work, we at Catdi Printing believe it is our duty to do all that we can to help keep each other safe during these times uncertainty.  We are taking serious precautions and we are diligently following the guidelines set out by the CDC to prevent any spreading of COVID-19 in regards to our employees and also our customers. The following changes will be implemented to ensure your personal safety as well as the safety of our team. We must protect ourselves so that we may keep those most vulnerable safe.

    • Continue to provide Quality Products that give you Confidence and Service that you deserve!!!
    • Our Customer Service Teams will be working remotely from home to provide customer service by phone and emails.
    • Teams, of less than 10 people, will be working in production spaced out in apx 30,000 sq ft space.
    • Hand sanitizers and washing stations are located throughout the office to maintain overall sanitary and safety standards
    • Shipping Team members will be working with face masks to help prevent any potential exposure.
    • Delivery or Curbside pickup between 11 am to 5 pm  ONLY
    • Visit our Blog and other resources for up to minute information

     

    PICKUP IS EASY

    We’ll email you when your order is ready.

    1. Drive directly to the pickup area and park at any reserved space for pickup
    2. Have your Job# ready and follow the instructions on the sign
    3. We’ll bring your order out to you!
    4. If you continue to have issues please dont hesitate to call us at 713 882 4629

     

    As new developments emerge, we will continue to monitor the situation and increase our safety precautions based on guidelines provided by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act), the CDC (Center for Disease Control) and WHO(World Health Organization).

    Our Thoughts and Prayers go out to everyone that has been affected by COVID-19. Please be safe and feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.

     

  • How to Design EDDM Postcards For Your Business

    How to Design EDDM Postcards For Your Business

    As a business, few factors are more important than community awareness and participation. One of the best ways to achieve outreach for a local business is through the mail. Believe it or not, over 80% of people still read or skim their mail on a regular basis meaning that with a simple elegantly designed postcard, you can get thousands of new eyes on your brand and offers with a low-cost EDDM postcard campaign. Keep reading to learn how to design EDDM postcards for your business!

    EDDM stands for “Every Door Direct Mail”. Rather than the postman taking cards to specific houses and addresses, EDDM postcards go to every single house or business on a mail route. Why is this so useful? It all hinges on how you make use of EDDM distribution.

    It is Important to Design EDDM Postcards Because They Can Reach An Entire Neighborhood

    The unique thing about EDDM is that it doesn’t go to individual houses or businesses, it goes to everyone in a region. For businesses trying to raise local awareness, you can canvass huge swaths of the city or surrounding neighborhoods without knowing a single resident’s name or worrying about printing thousands of address-unique mailing labels. EDDM is the number one way to reach an entire neighborhood, business or residential. This can be used to reach out to new potential customers or provide a blanket opportunity in neighborhoods that already include many of your regular patrons.

    EDDM is also significantly more affordable than targeted direct mail marketing. You can send up to 5,000 postcards without need for additional postal permits and at very low postage costs. EDDM saves you on address labels, while still providing the same kind of regional targeting that traditional direct mail marketing has always used. You gain the benefit of canvassing a neighborhood without the costs of mailing to each house one by one.

    Tips for Designing an Impactful EDDM Postcard Campaign

    1) Map Your Mail Routes

    The 40/40/20 rule of direct marketing campaigns states that 40% of your mail respondents will come from carefully selecting your recipients. The next 40% will come from the quality and appeal of your offer. The last 20% will be influenced by details like art and design.

    This means that your first task after you decide to design EDDM postcards is to choose a mail route that matters. Simply canvassing the entire local region is going to be less effective than targeting exactly the neighborhoods that are most likely to be responsive. To do this with EDDM, that means choosing the right mail route. Your mail route is the path the mail carrier truck takes and for each home or business, the mailman takes a postcard and adds it to the personal stack.

    To get exactly the distribution you’re looking for, you’ll want to choose a route that goes through the neighborhoods that matter most. Fortunately, USPS is ready with this handy tool that allows you to visually examine and select the routes in your target area.

    2) Design EDDM Postcards that are Eye-Catching and Action-Inspiring

    Your next goal is to make sure that your postcards catch the eye and win the attention of your EDDM recipients. You want to avoid the recycle bin and encourage your recipients to really consider the offer your postcard proposes. Your postcards first need to catch the eye with bold colors and a definitive design. Too many design elements and you’ll “bury the lead”. Too bland, and your cards will be discarded without a thought.

    This is why marketers work hard to create powerful eye-catching designs that include action-inspiring messages. Your design will likely have a photo or image of some sort, a title of opportunity and a call to action. “Summer Blowout Sale at Barnie’s Pool Supplies”, says the title. “Get 30% off with This Discount Code!” says the call to action. These are your EDDM building blocks designed to catch the eye and spur recipients to the action you desire.

    3) Approved USPS Card Dimensions

    Of course, all that hard work is for naught if your EDDM postcards aren’t an approved USPS size. Whether you’re sending folded brochures or simple flat cards, the USPS system handles mail in a few standard sizes. Especially for EDDM campaigns. The standard sizes make it easier for mail machines to sort the stacks of cards and for mail carriers to quickly flip through the cards and distribute one to each home or business on the route.

    All templates and designs should be based around the dimensions required by the USPS for EDDM delivery. Fortunately, there’s some variety in the size and the card design you can choose to best serve the purposes of your brand and campaign.

    4) Clear Purpose and Use

    Recipients should never be confused about why they have received the EDDM postcard or what they are expected to do about it. Your card design should prominently feature a statement of purpose and a call to action that recipients can understand with a single glance. The more complex your design, the more people will discard it without fully understanding the value you have to offer.

    Whether your goal is to build awareness or send out coupons that people will put to use, make it clear. Use short declarative statements and design the flow of your imagery to direct readers to the best possible conclusion via a call to action. Make sure your purpose and the use of your EDDM card is unquestionably clear.

    5) The Motivator

    Next, think about the motivator. A simple call to action is often not enough to spur a call, walk-in, or website visit. But an offer, special deal, or opportunity might be. Remember the 40/40/20 rule. The second forty percent of your respondents will follow through on the call to action because of the value of the offer on the card.

    Here is where your brand and campaign design matter most, as you decide what kind of offer will be most compelling and rewarding for the residents who will receive your EDDM postcards. Make your motivator friendly, powerful, and with enough of a time limit to prevent the indefinite put-off.

    6) An Online Landing Page

    No modern marketing campaign is complete without a landing page. Some cautious respondents may want to visit your website and check out your brand before they take any real action. This is a combination of curiosity, due diligence, and a desire to be engaged by your brand. So be sure to build an engaging landing page and include its URL on each of your EDDM postcards. This way, your respondents not only have a call-to-action to follow, but they also have a website to interact with and possibly even a customer portal to open an account for and track their new services.

    7) Mobile App Features

    Finally, don’t forget the mobile crowd. Many postcard campaigns today feature more than just a discount code and a nice design. They also feature QR codes for cellphone scanning or opportunities to log in through a mobile app for even more features and services. Just like the landing page, mobile features are key to engaging high-tech younger generations and those who would rather interact online even if they’re responding to a postcard.

    Your next EDDM marketing campaign has huge potential to be a hit; increasing awareness and drawing customers in for discounted or special package services. For more on how you can customize EDDM postcard campaigns to serve your business’ specific goals an brand personality, contact us today!

  • 8 Elements You Should Include in Your Next Run of EDDM Postcards

    8 Elements You Should Include in Your Next Run of EDDM Postcards

    The success of a small business relies on its ability to market its offerings effectively. A small business may have the best products and services and offer exceptional customer service, but if customers do not know about its existence, it will not get any sales. Marketing helps to reach out to potential customers and entice them to try your products and services. However, unlike large brands that have huge marketing budgets, small businesses do not have many bucks to spend on marketing. They have small budgets that have to accommodate all their day-to-day activities, including marketing. Therefore, most small businesses depend on no cost and low-cost marketing methods. EDDM postcards are among the most successful inexpensive marketing methods for small and local businesses.

    What are EDDM Postcards?

    EDDM is an acronym for Every Door Direct Mail. It is a USPS service that lets you promote your business to households and businesses in your desired neighborhoods. Using the service, you can reach your prospects in a specific area easily and affordably. Your printed ads will be distributed to all households located in a given area. For example, if you are a local restaurant that wants to promote your delivery menus, you can use EDDM postcards to notify your target neighborhoods about them.

    Why Should Small Businesses Use EDDM Postcards?

    They’re cost effective

    EDDM postcards come with a reduced postal cost and hence accommodate small and local businesses with tiny marketing budgets. With EDDM postcards, you don’t require a mailing list, and therefore you don’t have to incur the cost of purchasing one. You simply specify your target neighborhood, and USPS does the rest.

    Also, you don’t require postage permits like before –which could be as costly as $450- and hence save money. EDDM postcards have low cost-per-lead, making them an inexpensive marketing method compared to other traditional marketing methods.

    It saves time

    Your business does not have to spend loads of time searching for mailing addresses. Instead, you just concentrate on print marketing and content while the postal services handle the rest. You can focus on the core activities of your business, such as sales and customer service.

    They’re effective

    According to the United States Postal Service, consumers receive 98% of delivered mail the same day, with 77% of them being sorted and 47% being opened. A direct mail study revealed that postcards are useful advertising methods. Since a postcard does not require opening, the recipient will receive the message.

    They offer greater flexibility

    EDDM postcards come in various sizes to accommodate any type of content. Whether you want to send a short sales announcement or a detailed product story, EDDM postcards let you do that.

    Easy coupons and specials distribution

    EDDM has a low cost of distribution and hence can be ideal for giving out coupons, discounts, and event sales.

    Produce eye-catching postcards

    Thanks to technology, you can print colorful and eye-catching EDDM postcards that are visually attractive. They help you stand out from your competitors and catch the prospects’ attention.

    Easy targeting

    Among the main benefits of EDDM postcards is that they allow local area marketing. EDDM postcards are geographically-focused and directed to prospects that are likely to make a purchase. For instance, if your business is a spa and you offer coupons on the postcard, the next time a customer wants to visit a spa, she may consider your business to redeem the code.

    Elements You Should Include in Your EDDM Postcards

    row-of-mailboxes-on-rural-road

    A picture is worth a thousand words, but an effective EDDM postcard design is equivalent to a thousand leads. Below are eight elements you should include in your next run of EDDM postcards to maximize your returns.

    1.   Headline

    Your EDDM postcard should contain a clear and bold headline that lets the recipient identify the main idea –what the postcard is all about. It is best practice to use a bigger font size for the headline to differentiate it from the rest of the text. At first glance, the readers should know what you are promoting. Is it a spa, restaurant, attorney service, or cleaning service?

    2.   Graphics

    You should choose a graphic that is easy to understand and resonates with your headline. A graphic reinforces the message as well as catches attention. For example, if you are a real estate business trying to get people to list their homes, you can reinforce your message with a picture of a home with a clear and visible SOLD sign.

    3.   Colors

    You can use color to make your message pop. Look for a color that is relevant to your message. Although most marketers employ the psychology of color to entice customers, you can use the color patterns that relate to your business.

    4.   The offer

    Give readers a reason to contact you NOW by providing an offer. You can give them limited-time offers, coupons, and great discounts. Additionally, apart from including the features of your products, also state the benefits. For example, apart from telling your prospects that you offer low-interest rates on mortgages, tell them the benefit of low- interest rates –lower monthly payments.

    5.   Call to action

    After providing all information on your EDDM postcard, follow it with a straightforward call-to-action. Let your recipients know what you want them to do after reading your postcard. Do you want them to call you for more information, check you out online, or visit your store to redeem a coupon?

    Make it clear!

    6.   Contact Information

    Do not forget to include your name, phone number, and web address in your EDDM postcard. It should be clear and legible.

    7.   Typography

    Nobody wants to read a poorly arranged and designed EDDM postcard. Ensure you design your postcard in a way that appeals to readers. Your choice of typeface can be influential to readers and convey emotions and thus should be done cautiously. For example, if you want to stimulate humor, you can use a doodle-like font. If you want to evoke a professional feel, why not try Times New Roman font.

    8.   Printing quality

    Finally, your EDDM postcard should utilize durable materials and top-notch printing. The vividness of your text and graphics will influence the reader’s perception of your postcard. Catdi can help you print high-quality and durable EDDM postcards that help your business get noticed.

  • Not All Printers are Equal: How to Select the Right Printing Company for Your Business

    Not All Printers are Equal: How to Select the Right Printing Company for Your Business

    We may live in a digital age, but the need for printing services is still very much alive. Whether it’s a banner for your latest networking event, or direct mail marketing materials for your next marketing campaign, the need for excellent printing services is apparent.

    However, not all printing companies are created equal. In fact, you’ll find that there can be major differences between companies. From being charged unexpected rates to prolonged shipping times, there’s a lot that you need to be aware of before selecting a provider.

    Today, we break down everything you need to know when selecting a printing company. From what to look for to what to watch out for, if you have questions when it comes to printing companies, this guide is for you!

    Read the Testimonials

    As you likely know, the web contains a plethora of information. Why not use this information to your advantage? Any reputable printing service company will have client testimonials. You should be able to locate these either directly on a business’s website, or through online reviews such as Google Reviews. This can be a great starting point when you’re first comparing your options. If you find a printing company that has nothing but negative reviews, well, you know that there are probably better options out there.

    Understand Pricing Options

    Next, one of the most important elements that you will consider, price. After all, who doesn’t want a great deal? While you’ll find that many companies offer enticing pricing options, you’ll always want to be sure to read the fine print. The last thing that you want to happen is to be hit with an unexpected cost. Luckily, the Catdi Team strives for transparency when it comes to our pricing options. In fact, we even offer free shipping and a sample drop off to local clients within the Houston area. While some companies may promise cheaper rates, always be sure to know exactly what you’re getting. Any company that isn’t clear from the get-go is someone that you should be cautious of working with.

    Look at Total Value

    You’ll also want to consider total value when you’re comparing one printing service provider from another. While one printing company may offer deals such as a no minimum for orders, they may charge you an arm and a leg when it comes to shipping, or take weeks to deliver. Or worse yet, offer you nothing when it comes to receiving a sample of your order. After all, just imagine what a headache it could be to receive an order that looks terrible! Save yourself the stress and hassle of dealing with a bare bones printing company. Always consider the total value of the provider before placing an order. Not only will you likely receive a superior product, but you’ll also save yourself some hard earned cash in the process.

    While selecting a printing business for your company isn’t the easiest decision, it’s an important one.

    Here at Catdi, we pride ourselves on providing all of our clients’ superior printing and design services. Offering affordable prices, free shipping to local clients, and free samples before purchase, the Catdi team is dedicated to providing you the best when it comes to all of your printing and design needs.

     

  • Advertising and Marketing Strategies for Houston Lawyers and Law Firms

    Advertising and Marketing Strategies for Houston Lawyers and Law Firms

    Recognized as the leading provider of printing and website services to some of the top law firms in the country, CATDI knows how to make its clients the stand-out among other firms. By assisting clients in all aspects of attorney direct mail campaigns, legal marketing services, and website hosting and design, CATDI allows its clients to free up in-house resources to focus on the law firm’s marketing and business development strategies.

    CATDI offers a full range of affordable, high quality services to law firms of all sizes, from the sole attorney’s office to law firms with hundreds of attorneys. The company considers legal services provided, the clientele, the geographic region served and what sets the law firm apart from others to create a detailed plan of action that will identify and guide all marketing goals to raise awareness about the firm.

    “Law firm marketing not only involves advertising legal services, but serves as a comprehensive plan to raise awareness about the firm and convince individuals and businesses to choose its services,” CATDI Sales Manager Carlos deSantos said. “Every law firm needs a continual stream of clients, and most prospective clients look for counsel who not only have the specific expertise to handle their problem, but have been successful with similar cases.”

    A law firm’s current client base remains one of the most influential audiences; CATDI builds a solid law firm marketing plan that continues to communicate with current clients while targeting a specific prospect base to turn prospects into clients. Legal websites are a key element of law firm marketing, and with today’s automated and convenient technology, there is no excuse not to have a website.

    An integral part of the marketing plan, a law firm’s website works not only to attract visitors, but to convert them into clients. Therefore, it’s of utmost importance that the website delivers a professional first impression to potential clients, generating interest in the law firm while establishing and promoting the law firm’s image in a professional and credible manner.

    CATDI’s comprehensive marketing plan includes the production of superior websites and marketing programs at the most affordable prices possible. The company positions law firms and their websites to professional present information about the firm and attract new clients. Using only the highest standards-based web design code.

    CATDI designs legal websites that include search engine optimization and submission services, dynamic menu system and navigation, flash technology and media rich presentation, forward-compatibility for web browsers and internet technologies, contact form and information collection, and advanced XHTML, CSDS and XML.

    “CATDI can assist your firm in creating and updating a professional website that will attract clients and convey your practice’s services,” de Santos said. “Our superior web design staff enables you to advance your law practice and increase your market exposure because clients have access to your firm 24 hours a day, thereby increasing your revenue stream. Plus our content management systems give your law firm the in-house ability to update adds and edits your website’s content.”

    CATDI’s custom websites set law firms apart from the competition, and with its technical support, CATDI can produce reports tailored to inform law firms how many people visited the firm’s website, which pages were viewed and for how long, and which websites acted as referrals.

    For more information on how your firm can engage clients and distinguish your law firm as a leader, contact CATDI at (713) 882-4629 or visit the company’s website at www.catdi.com.

  • Direct Mail & Printing Solutions for Small Businesses

    Complete Direct Mail Service and Printing for Small Businesses

    When it comes to having a company covering all your printing and direct mail needs you need not look further. We are currently updating this page! Please call Catdi today to learn more on how we can help grow your business with direct mail.

  • Websites and Web Design Services for Businesses

    Catdi specializes in providing small and medium sized businesses complete web enabled web platforms or (Content Management Systems) that increases your business’s ROI. Basically these websites get the job done! Catdi’s full line of web platforms and websites are the most dynamic yet cost efficient on the web today. We can literally, plan, design and execute your new business’s website in a matter of hours. Once we get the approval we are off and running. So long gone are the days when developing a website took weeks even a couple of months, that’s just crazy! Catdi is the only web design and web marketing company in Houston that offers these type of web solutions. In addition these websites are not template based or bland in any way. We will design and build a custom website that reflects your creative desires and marketing objectives. Bottom line is that we don’t build “ugly” looking websites. Our web solutions web design packages that we create for your business is one of kind.

    Our platforms are scalable to fit your needs. Our system grow with your business at no web programming additional cost We highlight your businesses strengths and will clearly promotes your service/product mix. Our systems are easy to use, cost friendly and worry free solutions to businesses. When you sign up with Catdi you will receive our guarantee that our solutions work so well that you will never another web solutions provider!
    Our websites that are built around your business. You might be aware with your current developing or web-design company that when it comes to adding new functionality or changes is a hassle. Even the changing or adding a new paragraph of copy takes days of back and forth negotiation. Making changes to your website shouldn’t have to be a negotiation or even a hassle, those days are now over. Catdi builds content management systems that allow YOU to make changes 24/7 and allows YOU to create, add or make design elements when YOU want to.

  • Looking to Go Green? Eco-Friendly Options Now Available Through Catdi Printing

    Looking to Go Green? Eco-Friendly Options Now Available Through Catdi Printing

    Eco Friendly & Green Commercial Printing Services by Catdi Printing starting Jan 1, 2010

    Houston printing and direct mail marketing firm Catdi printing. has recently expanded its eco-friendly printing options into a full division of green commercial printing services. This expansion has been the result of two critical factors. The first of these factors was increasing awareness of environmental concerns in large segments of the Houston marketplace. Many energy companies in Houston have come under increasing social pressure to improve their environmental image. New companies as well have moved into Houston from other cities that were already pursuing green initiatives, bringing their environmentally friendly focus into the Gulf Coast marketplace. Over the last 18 months, orders for recycled paper and printing with soy ink have risen exponentially. We also have maintained this committed to all our nationwide printing facilities.

    President and founder of Catdi, Inc., Carlos Alonso DeSantos, is also an ardent supporter of environmental initiatives, has proactively responded to this new community interest in green printing. Rather than simply taking green printing orders on a case by case basis, Alonso has segmented his duplicated his entire service offerings with eco-friendly equivalents. As of now, all products and services offered by Catdi Printing can be obtained on recycled paper and soy ink. In addition we use by default a water base coating called Aqueous Coating. To be cost competitive for smaller clients on a budget, the paper can be a blend of as little as 10% recycled pulp, or it can range all the way to 100% recycled paper content.

    Carlos Alonso DeSantos took a risk when he calculated that the marginally higher price of soy ink and 100% paper would be something that public relations consultants and Earth conscious clients would be willing to pay. He was right. Since so many organizations are now using green printing services as a form of branding, marketing, and public relations, they actually come to the table already aware that the price point they pay carries with it a return on investment. Because the quality of both recycled paper and soy ink now rivals that of new paper and petroleum-based ink, the differentiation is determined by product benefits, not product image.

    The most obvious benefit that green commercial printing offers is reduced clearing of forests. As the quality of recycled paper rises, the need to cut down existing trees diminishes. Recycling also greatly reduces the amount of paper going into landfills. However, Alonso is quick to point out that people often forget to recycle and throw print media into the trash without thinking. If and when this does happen, however, the soy base of the ink and the water coating used to give print media a “glossy” look is completely biodegradable and non-toxic. While discarding something that could be recycled does on one level constitute a waste, it nevertheless is waste that does not damage to the ecosystem.

    Everything from print collateral, business cards, folders, sales sheets, brochures, and business cards can be ordered from Catdi Printing  green commercial printing services division. Even the electricity Catdi use (Green Mountain Energy) is eco-friendly. As a company already established in the Houston marketplace as a turnkey, rapid delivery source of custom print media solutions, Catdi Printing’s new green commercial printing services is poised to take a leadership role very soon in Houston’s print media advertising community that is beginning to realize both the ethics and the benefits of going green.