From beautifully designed magazines to commemorative member books, printed materials give associations a powerful way to connect with their members on a deeper, more emotional level. The tactile nature of print can’t be replicated by digital experiences. And when done well, print becomes more than a communication tool – it becomes a valuable benefit of membership.

At 58�Թ���, we’ve partnered with professional organizations and membership associations of all sizes to help them create high-quality printed materials that strengthen loyalty, increase retention and drive meaningful engagement. Here’s how your association can do the same.

The Power of Print in the Membership Experience

In a crowded digital world, print cuts through the noise. An email can be deleted with a tap; a push notification ignored. But a well-designed magazine on a coffee table or a personalized postcard in the mailbox has staying power. Print engages the senses in a way digital simply can’t – members can hold it, flip through it, feel the texture and even notice the scent of the ink and paper.

This sensory experience makes print memorable and emotionally resonant. Studies have shown that people are more likely to recall information from print compared to digital media. For associations, that means your messages, stories and calls to action are more likely to stick when they’re delivered on paper.

But beyond delivering content, print conveys value. When members receive a high-quality publication or a keepsake member book, they feel recognized and valued. That feeling translates to increased loyalty and ultimately higher retention rates.

Print Strategies That Strengthen Member Engagement

To fully leverage the power of print, associations should be intentional in both what they produce and how they deliver it. Here are several effective print strategies to build stronger connections with members:

1. Invest in a High-Quality Member Magazine

A print magazine remains one of the most effective ways to keep members informed and engaged year-round. Unlike digital newsletters, which often get buried in inboxes, a print magazine commands attention. It’s a tangible reminder of membership and a symbol of the association’s professionalism and credibility.

To make the most of your member magazine:

• Tell stories that matter. Highlight member achievements, industry news, trends and success stories from your community.
  
• Use thoughtful design and photography. A visually stunning magazine is more likely to be read, shared and kept.
  
• Include personalized touches. Consider segmenting content for different member groups or using variable data printing to personalize magazines with members’ names.

A well-crafted magazine can be a centerpiece of your retention strategy – something members look forward to receiving and are proud to display.

2. Create Member History or Anniversary Books

Milestone years, such as a 25th or 50th anniversary, offer a perfect opportunity to celebrate your association’s story and honor the members who made it possible. Commemorative books are a meaningful way to mark these moments.

These books can feature historical timelines, profiles of long-time members, letters from past presidents and highlights of major milestones. When printed with high-quality materials (think foil stamping, rich imagery and perfect binding) they become treasured keepsakes that reinforce the value of being part of your organization.

3. Send Personalized Print Communications

Personalization is a proven engagement tactic, and print is no exception. Postcards, letters or self-mailers with the member’s name and tailored messages can remind them of upcoming events, offer special renewal incentives or simply say thank you.

The key is to make it feel special. Avoid generic templates and lean into messaging that acknowledges the member’s role, history and contributions. Handwritten notes or limited-edition prints can also go a long way in making members feel truly appreciated.

4. Incorporate Print Into Your Member Onboarding

First impressions matter. When someone joins your association, they should immediately feel like they’ve made a valuable decision. A welcome packet with high-quality printed materials, like a member handbook, branded notecard or association directory, can set a professional tone and build immediate trust.

Printed onboarding materials can include:

• A welcome letter from leadership
  
• An overview of member benefits
  
• A calendar of events
  
• A recent issue of your magazine

This tangible welcome reinforces your association’s credibility and helps new members feel grounded in your community.

5. Enhance Event Engagement with Print

If your association hosts conferences, summits or local chapter meetings, printed materials can elevate the entire experience. High-quality programs, brochures and takeaway materials contribute to a cohesive, professional environment.

You can also use post-event print communications, such as thank-you cards or recap booklets, to maintain the momentum and keep members engaged well after the event ends.

Why Print Quality Matters

Not all print is created equal. A flimsy postcard or poorly printed magazine can do more harm than good, making your association appear disorganized or outdated. On the other hand, investing in high-quality paper, finishes and design elevates your brand and reflects the value you place on your members.

Quality printing:

• Demonstrates professionalism. Members associate the look and feel of your materials with your organization’s standards.
  
• Supports your messaging. Premium materials and finishes create an emotional response that enhances the impact of your communication.
  
• Encourages retention. Beautiful printed pieces are more likely to be kept, displayed and shared, keeping your association top of mind.

When working with a printing partner, it’s important to choose one with experience, flexibility and a deep understanding of association needs. That’s where 58�Թ��� comes in.

Partner with 58�Թ��� for High-Quality Association Printing

58�Թ��� is a trusted print partner for professional and membership-based associations across the country. We specialize in creating high-impact print materials that help you engage, retain and inspire your members.

Our team understands the unique challenges associations face: tight budgets, evolving member expectations and the need to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you need magazines, commemorative books or member directories, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life with care, precision and exceptional quality.

We offer:

• Expert guidance from concept to delivery
• In-house design services
• Offset and digital printing capabilities tailored to your brand
• In-house mailing and fulfillment services
• Sustainable printing practices and eco-friendly paper options
  

At 58�Թ���, we don’t just print – we partner with you to elevate your member experience.

Drive Member Engagement With 58�Թ���

When associations invest in high-quality print, they invest in stronger relationships with their members. From magazines and books to personalized mailings and event materials, print helps you build emotional connections that lead to lasting loyalty.

In a world filled with digital distractions, your members are craving something real – something they can hold, feel and connect with. Print delivers that experience.Ready to enhance your member engagement strategy through the power of print? Connect with 58�Թ��� today to learn how we can help your association thrive.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT-4 large language AI model.

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Increased Ad Revenue for Publications

For publishers, one of the most significant benefits of high-quality printing is the ability to command higher ad rates. Advertisers recognize that a premium print product enhances the visibility and impact of their advertisements. The tactile experience of a well-produced magazine encourages readers to engage longer with content, making advertisements more effective.

When publications invest in better paper, superior color reproduction and precise finishing techniques, they offer advertisers a platform that enhances their brand messaging. This leads to higher advertiser satisfaction, repeat ad purchases and the ability to charge a premium for ad placements. In a landscape where digital ad saturation has made consumer attention more fragmented, a high-quality print product stands out and delivers results.

Increased Sales and Customer Engagement

For businesses using print materials, whether in the form of catalogs, brochures or product packaging, the quality of print directly influences customer perceptions and purchasing decisions. A well-printed catalog with vibrant imagery and durable pages encourages customers to browse longer and engage more deeply with a brand’s offerings. Studies have shown that high-quality print materials create a sense of trust and credibility, which can translate into increased conversions.

In retail, for example, luxury brands invest in thick, glossy paper and rich colors to reinforce their premium positioning. Research shows in addition to the quality of content, readers engage with the sensory experience of magazines themselves. Customers may associate the quality of the printed materials with the quality of the product itself, making them more likely to purchase. Similarly, direct mail campaigns that feature high-quality printing and design achieve higher response rates than low-budget alternatives. When customers receive a beautifully printed piece in the mail, they are more likely to open it, read it and take action.

Building a Positive Brand Image

Print remains a powerful medium for reinforcing brand identity, and quality matters. When a company or publisher produces high-quality printed materials, they communicate professionalism, credibility and attention to detail. On the other hand, poorly printed materials – those with inconsistent colors, blurry images, or flimsy paper – can damage a brand’s reputation and diminish consumer trust.

Consistency is key when it comes to branding. Investing in a print partner that specializes in high-quality production, ensures that every piece, whether a magazine, book, or marketing collateral, meets exacting standards. This consistency across printed materials strengthens brand recognition and fosters customer loyalty. In industries where trust and prestige are critical, such as luxury goods, finance and higher education, high-quality printing is an essential component of brand strategy.

Fewer Mistakes in the Printing Process

Errors in printing can be costly, both financially and in terms of brand reputation. Misaligned images, incorrect color reproduction or inconsistencies in layout can lead to reprints, wasted materials and delays in distribution. Investing in high-quality printing minimizes these risks, helping ensure each project is executed flawlessly from the start.

A reputable printing partner employs rigorous quality control processes, state-of-the-art printing technology and experienced professionals who review each project meticulously. This reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes, ultimately saving publishers and businesses money in the long run. Additionally, fewer errors mean fewer complaints from advertisers and customers, preserving relationships and reinforcing credibility.

Less Stress and Reduced Labor Costs

Beyond the physical quality of printed materials, working with a high-quality printing partner provides a level of service that alleviates stress and reduces the workload for publishers. When a printer understands the complexities of publication deadlines, ad placements and distribution logistics, they become a true partner rather than just a service provider.

58�Թ���’s 88 years of expertise helps ensure publishers receive proactive communication, streamlined production processes and on-time delivery. A dedicated team facilitates details like proofing, pre-press adjustments, binding and shipping so publishers can focus on content and revenue generation. The result is a smoother workflow, fewer last-minute issues and greater peace of mind.

Why Print With 58�Թ���?

58�Թ��� has built a reputation as an industry leader in high-quality printing, serving publishers, businesses and associations that demand excellence. With decades of experience, cutting-edge technology and a commitment to customer service, 58�Թ��� ensures that every printed product meets the highest standards.

Our capabilities include:

• Superior color reproduction to make images pop and text crisp
• High-end paper and finishes that enhance the tactile experience
• Rigorous quality control processes to prevent costly errors
• Expert project management to keep production smooth and stress-free
• Sustainable printing options to align with environmental initiatives

By choosing 58�Թ���, publishers and businesses not only receive exceptional print products but also gain a trusted partner dedicated to maximizing their investment.

Choose High-Quality Printing With 58�Թ���

The ROI of high-quality printing influences revenue, sales, brand perception and operational efficiency. Publishers benefit from increased ad revenue, businesses see higher engagement and conversions and organizations strengthen their brand image through exceptional print materials. By minimizing errors and streamlining production, a high-quality printing partner like 58�Թ��� ensures that every print project delivers maximum value.

In an era where print remains a critical touchpoint in marketing and publishing, investing in quality is not just a smart decision – it’s a profitable one. Ready to elevate your print strategy? 58�Թ��� is here to help. Get in touch with us today to learn more about the 58�Թ��� difference.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT-4 large language AI model.

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Print Quality Compromises

Subpar Materials: Cheap printers often resort to low-quality paper, inks and other materials. This can result in:

• Poor print quality: Blurry text, faded colors and uneven ink distribution can diminish the professionalism and impact of your printed materials.
• Quick degradation: Low-quality paper and inks are more susceptible to fading, yellowing and tearing, reducing the lifespan of your printed materials.

Inaccurate Color Reproduction: Achieving accurate color consistency is crucial for brand identity. Cheap printers may lack the sophisticated color calibration and printing equipment necessary to accurately reproduce brand colors and high-quality photography. 

Poor Finishing: Finishing touches like binding, folding and lamination significantly impact the overall presentation and durability of your printed materials. Cheap printers may skimp on these finishing processes, resulting in:

• Loose binding: Causing pages to fall out easily.
• Uneven folds: Creating an unprofessional and messy appearance.
• Poor lamination: This can lead to air bubbles, wrinkles and a less durable finish.

Time and Productivity Losses

Rework and Delays: Subpar print quality can require rework, resulting in missed delivery deadlines.

Customer Dissatisfaction: Receiving low-quality printed materials can damage your brand reputation and erode customer trust.

Wasted Resources: Time spent dealing with printing issues, managing reprints and addressing customer complaints diverts valuable resources away from core business activities.

Reputation Damage

Professionalism and Credibility: Low-quality printed materials can reflect poorly on your professionalism and credibility. Customers may perceive your business as cheap or unreliable, impacting their perception of your brand.

Brand Consistency: Inconsistent print quality across different marketing materials can confuse and frustrate customers. This can undermine your brand identity and make it difficult for customers to recognize and connect with your brand.

Lost Opportunities: Poorly printed materials can fail to effectively communicate your message and capture the attention of potential customers. This can lead to missed opportunities for sales and business growth.

The Risks of Overseas Printing

In the pursuit of cost savings, many publishers looking for a printer may turn to overseas options. While overseas printing can sometimes offer lower initial costs, it comes with a unique set of risks that can significantly impact your business:

Increased Delivery Times:

• Shipping times for overseas printing can be significantly longer, leading to delays in marketing campaigns, publication delivery and other time-sensitive projects.
• Unexpected delays due to customs issues, port congestion or unforeseen logistical challenges can further disrupt timelines and increase costs.

Impact of Foreign Import Tariffs:

• Import tariffs can significantly increase the overall cost of printed materials.
• Changes in trade policies and fluctuating tariff rates can create uncertainty and make it difficult to accurately predict and budget for printing expenses.

Quality Control Challenges:

• Maintaining quality control can be more difficult with overseas printing.
• Communication barriers, language differences and time zone disparities can make it challenging to address quality concerns promptly and effectively.
• Due to the distance between publishers and their overseas printer, it can be more difficult to inspect materials and ensure they meet their specifications before shipment.

Environmental Concerns:

• Overseas printing often involves longer transportation distances, contributing to increased carbon emissions and environmental impact.
• It can be more difficult to ensure that overseas printers adhere to the same environmental standards and sustainability practices as domestic printers.

Reduced Control and Flexibility:

Relying on overseas printing can limit your control over the printing process and make it more difficult to make adjustments or address issues quickly. This can be particularly problematic for urgent projects or situations that require immediate changes.

Choosing the Right Printing Partner

Instead of focusing solely on price, businesses should prioritize finding a reliable printing partner that:

Offers high-quality materials and printing techniques: While the quoted price may be higher, an investment in high-quality print techniques can shield you from unexpected, costly reprints.

Provides accurate color matching and consistent print quality: Your printed materials are a direct representation of your brand and should communicate your commitment to quality and attention to detail.

Delivers on time: In today’s fast-paced world, customers don’t want to wait, and they shouldn’t have to. A domestic printing company that understands the ins and outs of mailing can help ensure your customers receive their printed materials right on time.

Offers excellent customer service and support: When it comes to customer service, you get what you pay for. Partnering with a company that prioritizes customer support will save you time and reduce stress in the long run.

Prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility: Partnering with a printer that keeps the environment in mind helps reduce waste and emissions and makes your company look better in the eyes of your customers.

Partner With 58�Թ��� for Printing Excellence

While the allure of cheap commercial printing may be tempting, the hidden costs can significantly outweigh any short-term savings. By prioritizing quality, reliability and long-term value, businesses can ensure that their printed materials effectively represent their brand, drive customer engagement and contribute to overall business success. Remember, investing in high-quality printing is an investment in your brand’s future.

With over 88 years of experience, the 58�Թ��� name is synonymous with printing excellence. As a full-service printer, we can take your product from design to fulfillment, all while providing the highest level of customer service and print quality. If you’d like to know more about our magazine, catalog or book printing services, get in touch with us today and see the 58�Թ��� difference for yourself.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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That’s why we at 58�Թ��� suggest partnering with a family-owned printing company. The right partner can give you the same benefits as a large corporation with more flexibility and personalized service. Read on to discover more of the perks a family-owned printer like 58�Թ��� can offer.

Personalized Service

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a family-owned printing partner is the personalized service they provide. Family-owned businesses often have a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction, leading to a more attentive and responsive approach.

• Knowledgeable Staff: Family-owned printers frequently employ experienced staff who are passionate about their craft, as these printing experts reflect well on their business. This expertise ensures that you receive helpful advice and guidance throughout your project, and are less likely to experience delays and quality issues.
• Quick Response Times: Smaller, family-run operations often have streamlined processes and fewer bureaucratic hurdles, allowing them to respond to your needs promptly. If you’ve ever been in a situation where you needed a last-minute change made to your project, you understand how crucial this can be.
• Tailored Solutions: Family-owned businesses are adept at customizing services to meet specific requirements. Whether you need a simple saddle stitch magazine or an embossed, casebound book, they can tailor their offerings to suit your unique needs.

Price Flexibility

Family-owned printers are often able to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. Their smaller overhead costs and direct relationships with suppliers can translate into significant savings for their clients.

• Creative Solutions: When working with a family-owned printer that really values your business, they may be more able to find creative solutions to help maintain your budget while still delivering the product you need. For example, when Sophia Institute Press came to 58�Թ��� with an idea for a new project, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment in our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while staying comfortably within their budget.
• Long-Term Partnerships: Building strong relationships with family-owned businesses can lead to long-term partnerships, offering consistent quality and more familiarity with your project, meaning you’ll be the first to know about potential cost-saving solutions.

Building Strong Partnerships

Beyond the practical benefits, choosing a family-owned printing partner can foster a deeper connection and build stronger relationships.

• Shared Values: Family-owned businesses often share similar values with their clients, such as a commitment to quality, integrity and community. They may have a particularly strong commitment to sustainability, or prioritize safety for all employees.
• Trust and Transparency: Open communication and trust are essential in any business relationship. Family-owned printers prioritize these values, fostering a collaborative and transparent partnership.
• Community Impact: By supporting local, family-owned businesses, you contribute to the economic vitality of your community. For example, 58�Թ��� has a history of uplifting our communities, which is reflected in our mission statement: creating opportunities for our team, customers and communities through print.
• Low Turnover: Family-owned companies that support their employees often benefit from low turnover; a benefit that you as a customer can also enjoy. When building a long-term relationship with a family-owned printing company, it’s likely that you’ll be working with the same skilled employees for years to come and won’t have to struggle to adjust to a new point of contact. 

Partner With 58�Թ���, a Family-Owned Printer

By choosing a family-owned printing partner, you’re not just selecting a vendor; you’re building a lasting relationship with a business that shares your values and is committed to your success. At 58�Թ���, we embody the values and advantages of a family-owned printing partner. We offer personalized service, competitive pricing and a commitment to building long-lasting relationships with our partners.

For your next printing project, consider partnering with 58�Թ���. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality books, magazines and catalogs. If you’d like to learn more about what 58�Թ��� has to offer, get in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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In this article, we’ll discuss why as an American publisher, you’re most likely better off choosing a printing partner that operates and prints solely in the United States.

The Timeliness Advantage

Reduced Lead Times

If your business and customers are located in the United States, working with an American printer is more than likely going to drastically reduce shipping times compared to an overseas printer. These faster turnaround times can be a game changer, especially for publications that focus on timely issues like sports and politics. But even for other types of print products, like books and catalogs, faster shipping means happier customers.

Improved Communication

Communication with your printing partner will be much easier if they’re located in the same country. Working with an overseas printer can come with massive time zone differences that make instant communication difficult. Easier communication can lead to faster problem-solving, helping ensure print runs are executing smoothly and to your exact specifications.

Some publishers also like to visit the printing facility for an in-person press check, giving them a better understanding of what their final product will look like. An in-person visit is much more feasible if the plant is a three-hour drive away versus a 12-hour flight. 

Greater Flexibility

During the printing process, last-minute requests and changes may arise. By operating close to home, domestic printers are more able to accommodate these requests than international printers, ensuring your final product reflects your desired changes. And, with quicker turnaround times, last-minute reprints become much easier and won’t require weeks or months of waiting for products to clear customs. 

Supporting American Values

Ethical Sourcing

Some publishers choose to work with an American printing partner because they prioritize supporting ethical business practices. For example, Geoff from MCDM Productions told us when his company was looking for a new printing partner, it was important for them to find a company that matched their own values. “We take employee compensation and benefits, and ethics behind paper source and ink seriously,” Geoff explained. “Some of that you don’t get when you go other places. Getting the lowest price is not our priority – it’s about how everything is sourced and put together, and the overall customer service experience.”

Supporting Local Economies

When working with an American printing partner, it’s easier to see the impact your print project has on the employees who produce it. As a family-owned company based in Marceline, Missouri, 58�Թ��� operates its print facilities exclusively in smaller towns where our work has a significant impact on the local economy, providing steady, stable jobs for families who have lived there for generations.

Reduced Environmental Impact

For American companies, choosing a domestic printing partner is an important step in minimizing carbon emissions resulting from long-distance shipping. Additionally, printing companies based in the United States adhere to certain environmental standards that help protect the environment from harmful production practices. Some companies even go a step further, obtaining certification from programs like the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and Forest Stewardship Council. These certifications ensure companies adhere to responsible chain of custody procedures, resulting in kinder treatment of the earth and its forests.

Partner With 58�Թ���, a True American Printer

In summary, there are numerous benefits to choosing an American printing partner, both from a logistics standpoint and an ethical one. When you partner with 58�Թ���, you gain access to over 87 years of printing expertise, supported by our dedicated staff of Customer Service Representatives and Sales Representatives. With four state-of-the-art printing facilities located strategically across the Midwest, we offer mailing and distribution solutions to fit your schedule and budget. To find out more about our book, catalog and magazine printing solutions, get in touch with us today.

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Here are some examples of 58�Թ��� customers who enjoyed amazing benefits from making the switch:

Sophia Institute Press

Sophia Institute Press is a publisher that specializes in Catholic publications and materials. 58�Թ���’s relationship with Sophia Institute Press began in July 2020, when we printed several children’s books for them. Soon after, Sophia approached us with an idea for a brand-new monthly publication, modeled after similar Catholic daily use titles available in Europe.

Thanks to the collective skill and expertise of our elite printing staff, 58�Թ��� was able to identify and match the specifications of these European titles to create Benedictus, a customized monthly publication that exactly matched Sophia Institute Press’ vision. Not only did our product meet their needs visually, but we also found significant cost savings through the use of specialized printing equipment at 58�Թ��� – Ripon.

Read the full Sophia Institute Press case study here.

Airport Improvement

Airport Improvement is a publication that features stories, case studies and updates about planned, ongoing and completed projects at airports across North America. When their previous printer of 13 years abruptly ended their partnership, Publisher Paul Bowers was forced to make a change. Luckily, 58�Թ��� was there to help.

Thanks to 58�Թ���’s dedication to customer service, Paul was able to maintain his processes and continue putting out an incredibly successful and profitable magazine. “[58�Թ���] made the transition so seamless – it was unbelievable. I didn’t have to change any of my systems when I came on with 58�Թ���. They were able to adapt to my system. Whether it was scheduling for when we send magazines out or things like inserts, I’ve been very happy and thankful to 58�Թ��� for being there. We’ve been very lucky and profitable, and they’re a key part of what we do.” – Paul Bowers, Publisher of Airport Improvement

Read the full Airport Improvement customer spotlight here.

Edible Communities

Edible Communities is a unique concept — a licensing organization where each seasonal publication focuses on a specific region’s food scene. This creates a challenge: maintaining a consistent brand experience across various regions and numerous publishers, each with potentially different printing needs and preferences.

When Edible Communities began printing with 58�Թ��� in 2017, we only printed a few of their seasonal publications. However, our partnership blossomed over the next several years, and we now print over 20 Edible magazines. Thanks to our expertise and project management skills, we’ve ensured brand consistency across all of our Edible publications, and our Edible publishers benefit from the convenience of working with a single print and distribution team.

Read the full Edible Communities case study here.

Seton Home Study School

During the height of the pandemic in 2020, Seton Home Study School was left high and dry when their previous printer shut its doors. At the same time, the demand for their printed homeschool curriculum books was skyrocketing. Luckily, they were referred to 58�Թ��� by their previous print sales representative, and the timing couldn’t have been better.

During this time, the print industry was suffering from unprecedented paper supply chain shortages, and printing companies all over the country were navigating strict paper allotments.�� As their new printing partner, 58�Թ��� was able to create a backstock of the specific paper needed to print Seton’s books and meet the education company’s increased demands. Thanks to our industry expertise, Seton Home Study School thrived during this difficult period.

Read the full Seton Home Study School case study here.

Sporting Classics

Some customers, like Sporting Classics magazine, choose 58�Թ��� for the same reason we’ve remained successful in the print industry for over 87 years: our stability. Sporting Classics is a love letter to all things outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. When Chief Operating Officer Wayne Nanney chose to switch to 58�Թ���, he was looking for a consistent and reliable partner.

“We chose 58�Թ��� to print our magazine over others because we were trying to find stability in a volatile market. 58�Թ���’s rates were very competitive, but more importantly, the supply chain was robust and they weren’t making excuses for shortfalls or delays. Our publishing and mailing dates are always on target. The customer service from the executive level and sales level to the print shop is exceptional.

“Sporting Classics made a good decision to print with 58�Թ���. 58�Թ��� is a valued business partner of Sporting Classics.” – Wayne Nanney, COO and CFO of Sporting Classics

Read the full Sporting Classics customer spotlight here.

58�Թ���’s Unmatched Stability

When switching to a new printer, you may be concerned that your new partnership is going to get turned upside-down if your printer is acquired by another company, or worse, shuts its doors altogether. With 58�Թ���, you don’t have to worry – we’ve been around for 87 years, and we’re not going anywhere. In fact, we’ve acquired an additional three state-of-the-art printing facilities since 2010, helping us grow to be the third largest book and magazine printer in the United States and Canada.

Make the Switch and Experience the 58�Թ��� Difference

This article shared just a few of the many benefits 58�Թ��� has to offer. Interested in learning more about what we can do for you? Whether it’s books, magazines or catalogs, 58�Թ��� has multiple print platforms, binding types and applications to fit your needs and your budget. Find out more by contacting us today, and let’s get started!

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According to a May 25, 2023, Fortune article by David Miller, “,” overall magazine readership has been increasing for the past 10 years. There was a temporary dip in pass-along readership during the pandemic, but magazines are regaining that ground.

As the article also points out, readers still prefer print. A YouGov survey indicates only 29% of readers in the United States said they prefer reading magazines online. Print is poised to further take advantage of a phenomenon Miller calls “digital detox,” where people schedule time away from devices.

Most readers (including groups of all ages) love the tactile qualities of print. They simply love the touch and feel of print and even the act of turning pages. They also spend more time reading print publications vs. digital.

What’s more, advertisers have taken notice of the research on print and how it interacts with parts of the brain that impact buying decisions. The fact that readers find print advertising less intrusive is another feather in its cap. With more than 7,000 U.S. magazines in print reaching an audience of 220 million readers, print magazine publishing has a strong future.

Special-Interest Magazine Printing: A Tough Business

Believe us. We understand. In fact, within our world of special-interest magazine printing, we see two main challenges facing our customers:

• Developing compelling content that attracts and retains readers, which, in turn, attracts advertisers.
• Managing the business operations to remain competitive and financially sound.

The latter means sometimes even the best-run publications need to reduce costs. There is always a balancing act between enhancing revenue streams and trimming costs. But what can you cut from the budget without sacrificing quality?

Perhaps it’s worth stepping outside the publishing box and looking at the broader business world. suggests executives at large companies often regret the snap decisions they make when trying to cut costs. This survey of 500��leaders from global organizations with over 3,000 employees shows 93 percent admitted to making snap decisions aimed at combating rising inflation, sluggish consumer confidence and the increased cost of goods.

Thirty-eight percent of those business leaders already regret it. Why? The cuts resulted in low levels of employee engagement, operational efficiency, and productivity.��And in the case of layoffs, the organizations lost valuable talent. Most leaders also felt they suffered reputational damage.

Beware of the Typical Cost-Cutting Plan

From our observations, magazine publishers tend to gravitate toward page and/or frequency reductions, as well as personnel cuts. The problem is any of these actions, either taken individually or in some combination, can weaken the product. Most businesses – magazine publishing or otherwise – don’t soar by lessening their product. And in the case of many small- and medium-sized publishers, the elimination of even one position can have a big impact–often in a negative way.

How To Cut Magazine Costs the Right Way

Closely examining your circulation list can be a good starting point. Advertisers don’t care as much about sheer numbers today. They are more interested in an engaged, well-targeted audience. Many publishers are investing in acquiring more profitable subscribers and changing them out for less engaged, less profitable readers. Show advertisers data you fine-tuned your circulation list, and they likely won’t squawk about lower numbers.

Clean Up Your Subscriber List

While it may sound basic, practicing good subscriber list hygiene can help you optimize your list for the greatest postal savings and delivery speed. At 58�Թ���, CASS-certified software helps ensure every subscriber address is current, duplicate-free and sorted and grouped properly for the lowest possible postage rate.

Consider Co-Mailing

You should also consider co-mailing your special-interest magazine if you are not currently doing so. Co-mailing creates “pools” that may consist of 30 or more titles from different publishers. After combining pieces into one presorted pool, mailers gain the benefits of higher, volume-based presort discounts as well as work-share discounts provided by the USPS.

Customers who switch to 58�Թ��� often save on magazine mailing costs with our intelligent, streamlined Co-Mailing strategies. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help cut your magazine costs!

Two (Or Three Or Four Or Five) Heads Can Be Better Than One

Looking at expenses across the enterprise can pay dividends. Even minor expenses like catered lunches and office supplies, as well as larger items like healthcare, travel, and entertainment, can add up. She notes some publishers find success with a committee-based approach to cost decisions.

In this scenario, representatives from sales and marketing, editorial, accounting and other departments look for areas in which the organization can lower costs. It’s less top-down and incorporates a broader perspective.

Automate Wherever Practical

While automation does carry the potential to eliminate jobs, it can also free up staff for better uses, increasing overall productivity and success. Automating anything from production workflows to ways of reaching potential subscribers, processing subscription renewals and accounting tasks like payroll are good targets. Associations and other member-based publishing organizations that also fulfill print material requests would benefit from adding automated, customized, and demand-based digital storefronts.

Save on Magazine Costs with 58�Թ���

We have decades of experience serving special-interest magazine publishers—and saving them money. In fact, meeting the needs of small- and mid-market publishers enabled 58�Թ��� to become North America’s third-largest magazine printer. You can lower your costs through our collaborative workflow tools, choice of multiple print platforms, efficient paper sourcing, and expert mailing, distribution and fulfillment services.

Our customer-first, “easy-to-do-business-with” approach also saves you time and money. You spend less time managing the production process and more time focusing on your readers. To start saving money now, simply submit your information and a friendly 58�Թ��� associate will be in touch within 24 hours. You’ll be glad you did. And so will your readers, advertisers and financial stakeholders.

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• Global labor shortage
• Global shipping issues
• Global paper shortage
• Global ink shortage
• Domestic manufacturing strain

Where We Stand Now

Clearly, some normalization occurred, though many problems linger. There are still price and supply-chain challenges, but they are becoming more manageable.

From a print perspective, while e-books and especially audiobooks grew, they did not grow at the level forecasted, according to a (BMI) white paper. Their growth was not to the detriment of printed books. A says although three in ten readers now read e-books, “print books remain the most popular format for reading, with 65% of adults saying that they have read a print book in the past year.”

Only 9% of Americans claim to exclusively read books in digital formats and have not read any print books in the past 12 months. Print thus emerged from the pandemic as a strong favorite among American book readers.

So, Where to Manufacture Your Books?

As the BMI Report further points out, onshoring work during the pandemic became the best way to keep producing books. That being said, years of offshoring took a toll on U.S. book manufacturers’ capacity. If you were a publisher who had previously turned to foreign production, you likely had to rethink your publishing calendar, warehouse space and distribution options. You may have delayed the introduction of some titles and used more digital print options for others. With the return to domestic production, these timelines are typically shortened, even despite the pandemic and supply chain challenges. Undoubtedly, it took time and effort to either reestablish or start fresh relationships with U.S.-based manufacturers.

You went through some challenges to solidify your domestic book manufacturing. Is it worth undoing the work to reestablish offshore production? Here are some reasons why domestic production may still be the best choice:

• Some international book manufacturers have new constraints about subject matter they can and cannot print. According to the BMI, “Companies like PrintNinja note on their website that due to government regulations, books with religious references, violence, nudity, Bibles, or books referencing politically sensitive topics are off limits.”
• The existing cost difference means there is still an offshore market. Yet more publishers are weighing the risks of everything from political upheavals to potential pandemics. Some are choosing to limit that risk by finding U.S.-based capacity. The total cost of production, now weighted with shipping and political challenges has lost some luster.
• The book publishing and manufacturing model is changing. While print is the preferred format, the number of books per order continues to drop in most segments. Still, BMI points out that the number of book titles seeking a manufacturing option remains high. The challenge is to develop physical printing plants and supportive workflows to address current market needs AND future changes.

Traditional print production will remain dominant for the foreseeable future, but there will be even more digital integration. Book publishers increasingly embrace the idea that it’s simpler and more cost-efficient to process more orders than to overstock a warehouse. However, the pressures to meet new order and fulfillment strategies will require fast and nimble book manufacturing. Domestic-based production might well prove to be the better, more manageable solution for this evolving marketplace.

Printing Books Here at 58�Թ���

Our 86 years of experience and proven adaptability helped make us North America’s third-largest book manufacturer. Though we serve a wide range of customers, many mid-market publishers especially appreciate our strengths. 58�Թ��� is ideal for publishers seeking economies of scale and enabling technology along with a personalized customer experience. Everything we do at 58�Թ��� aims to make your business relationship both friendly and easy.

Here are some additional advantages you’ll find at 58�Թ���:

• Print platforms based on web heatset and sheetfed technology (in up to 10 colors), and digital printing systems for short run and on-demand needs.
• Quality print backed by our G7® Master Qualification from IDEAlliance and Master Printers of America status.
• Paper services designed to help you identify and secure paper (including eco-friendly alternatives) to meet your budget and branding goals. An extensive in-house paper selection provides high value while eliminating inventory costs for you.
• Bindery options including Smyth Sewn, perfect and wire-o binding, as well as a wide variety of hardcover and soft cover specialty binding capabilities, including paperback. Special finishing capabilities like embossing, spot UV, lamination and laser cutting, gatefolds and ribboning, can further enhance your books.
• Fulfillment and distribution models offer customized, demand-based and scalable systems for complete lifecycle management. Offload your order processing and inventory management tasks to us.
• Hosted eCommerce solutions that help you quickly and easily start selling online. Your personalized storefront can be up and running in no time.

Learn more about 58�Թ��� by visiting our website. Or you can submit your information and a friendly 58�Թ��� associate will be in touch quickly. Contact 58�Թ��� today for high-quality printing solutions in the heart of the United States.

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CreativePro Week

The InDesign Conference, now part of CreativePro Week, was established in 2004. The conference was designed exclusively for creative professionals utilizing InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, PowerPoint and other Adobe software. CreativePro Week attracts a diverse range of participants, including graphic designers, production artists, creative managers, educators, small publishers, workflow consultants, and more. More than 2,500 companies, universities, and government agencies sent their design and production staff to Creative Pro week. These organizations recognize the value of this extraordinary event. This community encompasses a broad spectrum of expertise, spanning from newcomers to seasoned professionals, with one common interest: remaining on the cutting edge of design practices and advancements.

In a rapidly evolving industry, CreativePro Week keeps users at the forefront, fostering continuous professional growth. Featuring over 30 industry experts and 75+ valuable sessions, CreativePro Week equips users, regardless of proficiency, with the latest techniques and best practices to enhance productivity. Attendees were also given a full year of on-demand access. This includes all session recordings for the days registered, hundreds of pages of resources from the world’s top experts, and alumni discount savings.

In case you missed this year’s conference, On-Demand Passes are still available to .

Meet James Wamser

James Wamser is an Adobe Certified Expert and Instructor. Wamser serves as a Customer Education Specialist at 58�Թ���’s Ripon, Wisconsin, facility. Since 2004, he has also taught InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop at and chairs the Milwaukee InDesign User Group. Wamser is widely recognized for his expertise and regularly presents at seminars and workshops, sharing his knowledge and insights. With a wealth of experience in the field, he excels in educating customers and helping them maximize their understanding of Adobe products by providing them with , templates and more. Wamser’s contributions to customer education and his dedication to sharing his expertise, make him an invaluable asset to 58�Թ���.

Make the Prepress Process Smoother

The topic of the presentation James Wamser gave at CreativePro week was titled, “How to Make the Prepress Process Smoother.” Wamser emphasized the crucial role that creative professionals play in ensuring a smooth prepress process. He explained that by implementing these practices, you can significantly contribute to the overall efficiency of your workflow.

1. Building your document to the final trim size with 1/8-inch margins and bleed: By adhering to this trim size and incorporating appropriate margins and bleed, you can minimize the chances of error and ensure your design elements are preserved during the printing process.
2. Utilizing templates, especially for perfect bound covers: Templates provide a solid foundation for your designs, ensuring consistency and compatibility. When working on complex projects like perfect bound covers, leveraging templates can streamline your workflow and save valuable time.
3. Obtaining Preflight and PDF Export Settings from your printer: By collaborating with 58�Թ���, you can access specific preflight and PDF export settings tailored to your requirements. This proactive approach eliminates potential issues and ensures your files are print-ready.
4. Sending test pages before submitting the final PDF: Before submitting the final document, it is advisable to send a few test pages to your printer for review. This step enables you to catch any potential inconsistencies early on, facilitating a more efficient prepress process.

58�Թ���’s Commitment to Providing Support Within the Prepress Process

Founded more than 85 years ago, 58�Թ��� has grown into a leading printing company. As a company, we thrive on our commitment to exceptional service and innovative ideas, attributed to our customers and dedicated workforce. We are here to help support you in optimizing your prepress workflow. Here are the key services and resources we provide in this process:

1. Preflight and PDF Export settings: 58�Թ��� understands the importance of providing accurate and reliable preflight and PDF export settings. By tailoring these settings to your specific needs, we enable seamless integration with our printing processes, ensuring a smoother prepress experience.
2. Templates: We recognize the value of templates in streamlining the design process. Our templates were made to assist creative professionals in maintaining consistency and meeting the necessary specifications for various print projects.
3. Reviewing test pages and providing feedback: At 58�Թ���, we prioritize collaboration and offer our expertise to help you refine your designs. By reviewing test pages and providing constructive feedback, we contribute to the continual improvement of your projects, leading to enhanced results.

Key Takeaways

Collaboration and technological progress were central themes throughout the CreativePro Week conference. Despite the rapid pace of innovation, the conference consistently emphasized the significance of staying grounded in core functions. Notably, the event attracted many participants involved in the print industry, affirming its continued growth and relevance. “It was pleasing to see the continued growth of the print industry,” James Wamser said, “I even had the opportunity to engage with Adobe representatives to discuss improvements and provide feedback.”

Overall, the CreativePro Week conference provided an enriching experience for creative professionals, offering opportunities to network, gain knowledge, and find inspiration. By incorporating James Wamser’s insights on streamlining the prepress process, you can significantly enhance the success of your print projects. Through the automation of previously manual tasks, you can maximize your productivity.

As a company, 58�Թ��� remains dedicated to supporting creatives by providing the necessary resources to elevate their efficiency and quality of work. As always, we are here to guide you along your creative journey. Together, we can reach our goals and unlock the full potential of our creative endeavors. To access our library of guides and templates, please visit /.

Want to talk about a project you have coming up? Get in touch here.

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Understanding the Educational Book Market

Educational books are a crucial resource in learning. From textbooks to curriculum materials, the educational book market encompasses a wide range of products. Today, we will delve into the significance of the educational book market, explore recent developments/trends, and provide insights into the future trajectory.

The Educational Book Market Consumer Audience

The educational book market primarily consists of resources designed for use in schools, libraries, homeschool settings and other educational environments. It encompasses textbooks, curriculum materials, assessment tools, teacher’s editions and workbooks.

The market is divided into two key segments: K-12 (sometimes called El-Hi) and Higher Education. The K-12 segment focuses on materials tailored for classrooms from Pre-kindergarten through high school. The Higher Education segment focuses on education beyond high school, from college and trade schools on up.��

Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks��

Not every printer is set up to cater to the educational book market because of requisite standards for the products as demanded by this market. The Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks requires stringent compliance addressing materials, layout and construction which must be met for the product to be deemed acceptable. The standards arose not only out of the environment for the end use of the books, but also out of concern for durability given the typical lifespan of a textbook.

History

The history of the MSST can be traced back to . Colonel E.W. Palmer, who was President of Kingsport Press, started going from state to state, meeting with publishers and state textbook directors to encourage uniform specifications. The Book Manufacturers’ Institute revised and approved the first print specifications on Oct. 6, 1939. Those specs were based on what was being used in Texas at the time. BMI worked with the National Association of State Textbook Administrators and the Association of American Publishers to perform tests and develop requirements for K-12 textbooks. The organization shared the impact of decades spent fine-tuning these specifications.

Standards

The MSST is currently maintained by the MSST Committee. It is made up of volunteers from BMI, the State Instructional Materials Review Association and Educational Publishers. BMI provides a 120-page guide to MSST standards .��

Those standards include regulations on things like:��

• Types of binding��
• Quality of adhesives
• What can be printed on the endsheets
• Margins
• How easily the paper tears
• Color of paper (only shades of white)
• Tightbacking (the process by which the spine of the book block is affixed to its case with a strong adhesive so it doesn’t tear away from the case)
• Gauzing (gauzing is a rigorous cheesecloth material that can be penetrated by adhesive and is used to strengthen the construction of the book)

MSST aims to define quality standards for elementary and secondary school textbooks, ensuring longevity and durability. Although MSST does not dictate manufacturing methods, it sets benchmarks to which manufacturers must comply.

Books subject to the MSST guidelines are hardcover textbooks and non-consumable books. Other educational resources like workbooks and teachers’ editions are not held to these standards.

Importance of the Educational Book Market

The educational book market holds significant importance due to its role in providing essential learning resources to students and educators. Educational books serve as a fundamental pillar of the education system, enabling effective teaching and learning experiences. It’s also a huge subset of the overall book market, whether measured by revenue/spend or units produced.��

How It’s Going

According to the Association of American Publishers, overall reached an all-time high of $29.3 billion in 2021. El-Hi and Higher Education were a significant segment of the overall market.��

• The El-Hi category revenue increased 25.3%, from $3.8 billion in 2020 to $4.8 billion in 2021. This notable increase was likely driven by students’ return to in-classroom learning following the COVID shutdowns of 2020.��
• Higher Education revenue grew 2.8%, from $3.1 billion in 2020 to $3.2 billion in 2021.
• The pre-COVID numbers from 2019 were also promising, with El-Hi education revenue at $4.4 billion, a 30.7% increase over 2018. Higher education hadn’t been performing quite as well. The 2019 revenue was $3.3 billion, down 10.3% from 2018.��

Those two categories combined made up a whopping 29.5% in 2019 and 27.4% of revenue for the entire book industry in 2021.

Consumer expenditure on educational books in the United States first surpassed the $10 billion mark in 2016. It stayed fairly steady for several years, then jumped to $12.8 billion in 2021, up from $10.4 billion the previous year.

Disruptions

The educational book market is witnessing significant changes, driven by advancements in technology and evolving consumer preferences. The digital education publishing market in the United States is experiencing substantial growth, projected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of from 2020 to 2025. “,” which surveyed 261 people about the collections of their academic libraries, found that 84.6% of survey respondents include eBooks and digital audiobooks in their collections. Roughly 90% reported having added new digital resources to their library in the past two years.��

Audiobooks have on educational books. According to IBISWorld’s Industry Report from April 2022, “some classrooms have turned to audiobooks, not to entirely replace traditional books, but to serve as an aid for kids who are still learning how to read as it can help them understand how words are supposed to sound and also engage them more with the reading.” Audiobooks have been growing in the general book market. They made up 8% of sales in 2020, increased to 10.4% in 2021, and again to 11.3% of sales in 2022. According to OverDrive, audiobooks account for of digital book formats consumed on their classroom-focused Sora app.��

Another potential disruptor in the higher education book market is open-source educational content. Open Education Resource platforms are still a small movement, but BMI’s reports OER has had some recent successes. John McMurry, author of the best-selling McMurry Organic Chemistry text, recently to OpenStax. OER platforms work by offering open-source materials, like textbooks, free online. Oftentimes, they’ll also provide the option to purchase a physical copy at a price significantly lower than traditional textbook sales price points.��

Even with the rise of digital resources, print remains a significant part of the educational book market. Repeated studies show print is more effective for learning and retention. Data technology company Broadband Now reports that don’t have access to broadband internet, meaning digital content can’t reach the entire audience, while a physical book can reach everyone.

Evolving Trends and Future Outlook

Educational book publishers are embracing digital printing. Digital print – as opposed to offset printing – lends itself to shorter book runs. The higher education book market has the potential to make the most of this method with customized textbooks. IBISWorld wrote, “given that the majority of college and university professors have authority over curriculum and modify it regularly between semesters, publishers could provide customization options that could not only help educators tailor textbooks to courses but also limit the secondary market,” which includes textbook rental and resale.��

Another boon to the educational book market is the increase in college enrollment, which IBISWorld wrote is expected to increase at an annualized rate of 0.2%. More college students means more demand for higher education textbooks and supporting material.��

As for the El-Hi educational book market, there’s good news there, too. Public funding is over the next several years. A bigger budget means districts are able to purchase more needed textbooks for their students.

Conclusion

The educational book market continues to thrive as a crucial component of the education system. With the advent of digital technologies and the emergence of alternative content sources, the market is evolving rapidly. Publishers are adapting to these changes by incorporating digital solutions and exploring new business models. As we move forward, the educational book market is poised for further growth and transformation, enabling students and educators to access high-quality learning resources in various formats. As for print, we know it will stick around, and publishers will find new ways for print and digital to work in tandem.��

Let’s Talk

Want to know more about how 58�Թ��� can help you serve the educational book market? Let’s talk!��

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