Our favourite Edmonton printer is Minuteman Press Edmonton East, Brad and Alison Ray. We sat down with Brad to ask him about how printing plays a part in business branding.

Being partnered with a great printer is critical for our business because one of our specialties is print design. We try to strategically pick papers, finishes, thicknesses and colours that truly match our customers’ brand and the look and feel that they are going for.

Can you explain a little bit about what you do as a printer?

At Minuteman Press, we are not only a full-service paper print company, but we offer wide-format printing including vehicle decals and signage. We offer promotional product services as well. We are a husband and wife team that offers top-quality one-to-one service and are very transparent and understand that the relationship with the customer is first and foremost. 

How does printing influence a company’s brand?

Your brand has to represent not only your business but who you are. I believe the brand has to have a look that the potential customer will view as professional and trustworthy. 

When should someone be contacting a printer?

Businesses should be contacting a printer Immediately after choosing the logo, tagline, etc. Small marketing items and pieces are so important when you’re starting out because they are cost-effective. Building that relationship early on will make it easier when you are ready to branch off to larger items like storefront signage and decals.

What are some of your favourite projects that you have worked on or clients with whom you have worked?

I would have to say right up there is signage for local, provincial and federal Judo competitions. I went and met with the organizer in 2014 when he came out from Montreal. We met and told him what we could do – he was concerned about tight turnaround – and we ended up printing tickets, tournament guides, small signage and large triangular sponsorship signage. 

Big event signage is quite cool. It’s nice to see the end result and all of our stuff on display.

What services do you offer that people might not realize?

Promotional products are the number one service people don’t realize we offer. Apparel, company apparel, shirts, hats, coats, that kind of stuff. Mail-outs are another big one as well. And some in-house graphic design services as well. 

We also have signage installation services, everything we either install ourselves or have access to an installer for large box signs and some larger decal work projects. People don’t want to worry about going elsewhere after having their signage produced just to get it installed. 

Want some great print pieces?

A huge thank you to Brad for sitting with the Paper Lime Creative team and explaining a bit more about printing and how it affects branding. Please check out Minuteman Press Edmonton East because they are our absolute favourite Edmonton printer!