Sawgrass, a dye sublimation and digital printing solutions provider, specialises in encouraging creative entrepreneurs to get customised products to market quickly. The firm’s fully integrated printer, ink, software and support solutions make decorating ceramic, metal, fabric, wood, and plastic with durable vibrant images, efficient and easy.

Sawgrass believes that careful planning, strategy and adherence to plans can make all the difference when it comes to building a successful sublimation business. Jimmy Lamb, Sawgrass’ education manager details four crucial steps for success.

Starting with a solid business plan is Lamb’s first suggestion. “In short, a business plan is a blueprint for going from start up to sustained income and growth. Taking the time to research your markets, successful business models, prices and cost of operation is a good start,” he says.

The Charleston-based dye sublimation specialist has been running for 25 years and currently holds more than 160 patents 

Creating a marketing plan as part of your overall business plan also helps to stay focused on achieving goals. “Be open minded as you analyse market needs and wants, and make your decisions based on what has worked in the past, as well as new information you cultivate and your own experience,” says Lamb.

With regards to pricing for profit, once a business has calculated its expenses, Lamb advises adopting the rule of thumb used by most retailers, and multiplying cost times two or three.

“This can leave a lot of money on the table in the sublimation business because the cost of sublimating products is so low relative to the high quality of those products,” adds Lamb.

The key to making sales is a high-quality set of samples focused on showing what you offer. Lamb suggests that samples encourage larger orders. Focusing on samples that can be shown to multiple customers and being prepared to modify or update samples as a business develops its niche is the key to driving business forward.

Lamb says: “Remember, your clients don’t know what you can do until you show them. Even if they only ask to see a single piece, make sure you show several other products to expand your sales potential.”

If you have any news, please email carys@linkpublishing.co.uk, or join in with the conversation on Twitter.