HOW TO MAKE MONEY SCREEN PRINTING NEAR A COLLEGE CAMPUS
If you’re a screen-printing business and you live anywhere near a college campus, you have a huge leg up on the competition. Universities and colleges print a wide variety of products, from official university merchandise to fraternity and sorority T-shirts. Getting in with the college kids is key, and it’s easier than you think.In 2019, professional services network Deloitte conducted a back-to-college survey that took a look at what students buy, from books and supplies to dorm decor, apparel, computers and more. They were projected to spend $25.1 billion for the 2019-2020 school year, with an average spend of $1,362 per student. College supplies and computer hardware took up the largest shares, but clothing and accessories were a significant spend, totaling $3.7 billion.
When it came to prioritizing where they shop for the back-to-school season, product pricing and convenience were of utmost importance. The products themselves and the “name brand” factor also played an important part in their shopping choices.
If you’re an independent screen-printing business located near a community college or university, this is all good news for you! There are copious opportunities to increase your business and start making money by tapping into the local college market.
SHOW YOU BELONG
Campuses have an abundance of student groups, from fraternities and sororities to extracurricular clubs. Fraternities and sororities are big consumers of screen-printed apparel; T-shirts and hoodies with Greek letters are commonplace, and many also purchase custom shirts for rush week, fundraisers and other special events. Other campus groups, like the student activities committee or the computer science club, often order apparel for their members. Once you get in with these groups, you’re sure to get some repeat business.
BE ON THE WINNING SIDE
Another thing that colleges and universities are not short of is events. Whether it’s football games, volunteer opportunities or fundraisers, there is always something happening. And most of the time, they need marketing apparel to promote the event or to make their presence known on the day.
BE THE GO-TO GUY
The more you work with groups on campus, the more they will spread the word and recommend your products and services to other clubs and organizations. Repeat business, especially recommended business, is a sign that you can be relied upon to get the job done. However, there is one even bigger prospect: the school itself.
University bookstores sell a variety of college apparel. They print stickers for prospective students, T-shirts for incoming freshmen and so much more. If you are able to capture that business and meet a variety of screen-printing needs, from hoodies to keychains, you can create a hefty income stream.
KEEP IN TOUCH WHEN THEY GO
Most universities have alumni groups in cities across the country and world. These organizations often get together for fundraisers and social events to support their alma mater. Don’t forget to include them in your marketing plan.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Many college logos, Greek symbols and logos are licensed, so be sure to do your homework and determine if you need special permission to print apparel featuring these items.
Research current fashion trends to ensure that you’re providing your customers with the types of items they’re looking for. However, T-shirts and hoodies will never go out of fashion!
Finally, reach out to universities and student groups and find the decision makers for ordering apparel. Show them what you can do and tell them why you’re the best business for all of their screen printing needs. It’s okay to start small — the more you prove your worth, the more your customers will refer other groups to your shop. Remember, the best business is repeat business!