According to Statisa.com, in 2014, there were 7,289 magazine publications in the United States. These magazines were from a variety of different business types. From hunting and fishing to home décor and food. Magazine publishing is still a very viable business model.
In the past magazine publishing was a project that required a lot of time and money, and few outside of Fortune 500 organizations could afford it. Today that is no longer true, and even small startups have successfully published magazines in order to be noticed and keep consumers informed about new products and industry innovations.
Magazine Publishing is Much Easier and More Affordable Now
Today magazine publishing is far different than it used to be. Anyone with a little initiative and even a small budget can produce and print out a magazine for distribution. Computers and software programs have revolutionized the printing industry and companies are realizing that this opens up almost unlimited possibilities in terms of marketing.
Every Business can Publish a Magazine with Digital Printing Technology
Digital technology has made it much easier and less expensive to engage in magazine publishing. Many businesses have realized the benefits that this type of publication can have. You can send out a weekly, monthly, quarterly, semiannual, or even annual magazine in order to keep in touch and update current customers and new leads about your business and industry.
Keep in mind that magazines do not have to be 100 pages thick. It is common for small businesses to publish magazines that are a mere 28 pages with a 4 page cover.
Not all Printing Companies can handle this Type of Project
Many people are surprised at how many printers do not offer magazine publishing services. Small mom and pop printing companies generally do not provide magazine printing. Printing companies with high-tech printing equipment are generally better suited for magazines. That being said, the larger, experienced printing companies can offer competitive pricing and excellent results.
What are your Binding Options?
One important consideration with any magazine publishing project is the type of binding that will be used to hold the pages of your publication together. One of the most common types of binding with this type of item is glue binding but there are also other options that you can use as well. Ask your printer what binding types they offer and then compare these.
Saddle stitching binds the sheets together through the fold in the center of several pages. It is the form of binding commonly used on comic books and magazines.
Source: Powis.com
Choose a Printer that can also Mail your Printed Materials to Streamline the Process
Usually a company prints out a magazine in order to mail this item to consumers and customers, but sometimes these pieces may be ordered to place in physical locations as well. If you plan on mailing the finished magazines then it is a good idea to choose a printer who has direct mail experience and who offers mailing services as well as printing.
When you choose a printer who will print out, address, and mail your marketing materials this will streamline the process and make it more efficient and cost effective. Make sure the printer does not outsource this step though. Outsourcing may increase the time needed and the cost to fulfill your order because the items are printed and then shipped out for addressing and mailing.
Why do Companies Publish Magazines?
There are many different reasons why a company may decide to venture into magazine publishing. Unlike a sales letter or postcard, a magazine shows that a company is serious about their business and marketing their products. These pieces can increase the exposure and brand recognition for a company, and they keep customers and consumers in the loop about new developments and products.
A magazine is much more impressive and appealing than a postcard or letter. Consumers understand that this type of marketing material requires more time and money to create, and it is more likely to get noticed in a mailbox full of offers and advertisements from various competitors. A small cost increase could have large rewards, and that is why many businesses use magazines.
Is this Step Right for your Business?
Should you engage in magazine publishing? This step involves a considerable amount of time, money, and expertise. If you are willing to put in the required resources and you use a creative design that is appealing you could increase the success that your company has. However, magazine publishing is not right for everyone though. Evaluate the pros and cons, and then make a final decision.
Whether you are a small business looking to expand or a well-established large business, magazine publishing may be just the right thing to spread the word about your products and services. Contact us at Las Vegas Color Graphics, 702.617.9000, and you will be sending your magazines out in no time.
