Phoenix, Arizona is one of the most competitive markets in the country for print shops, with new decorators entering the scene every year. For many, standing out in such a saturated space is a challenge that cuts into margins and growth potential. Designed In Ink has not only survived but thrived by focusing on efficiency, customer experience, and smart business decisions that keep profits healthy. This is not about being the biggest shop in town. It is about building a lean, profitable operation that attracts loyal clients and stays competitive no matter how crowded the market gets.
Building A Showroom That Sells For Your Print Shop
In a city filled with print shops, every square foot of space matters. Designed In Ink proves that a showroom does not have to be large to drive sales. Their space is intentionally compact, designed to maximize efficiency and guide customers toward quick, confident purchasing decisions.
The key feature is the use of QR-coded samples linked directly to supplier catalogs. Customers can scan a product, see all available colors, sizes, and styles, and even view matching options for men, women, and youth. This eliminates guesswork and keeps the conversation focused on the best fit for their needs. It also removes the need for large physical inventory while still giving customers the experience of seeing and feeling product quality in person.
For high-value clients, like local schools, Designed In Ink creates dedicated sample racks where every garment is QR-coded to link directly to their online store. This makes it easy to place orders on the spot during events or meetings. By investing in a well-organized, self-guided showroom, the team saves time, improves customer satisfaction, and shortens the sales cycle.
Smart Equipment Choices For Efficiency And Profit
Designed In Ink has built its production floor around the principle that the right equipment can increase output, improve quality, and keep costs under control. They invest in machines that deliver long-term value, even if that means buying quality used models from trusted sources. Their embroidery department runs on well-maintained Barudan machines, including both multi-head and single-head setups. The single-head unit is reserved for low-volume jobs and tests, keeping larger machines free for high-volume orders. This approach ensures every piece of equipment is used in the most profitable way.
Automation plays a major role in their success. The addition of an automatic screen coater improved consistency and reduced reliance on individual skill for perfect screen prep. This means any trained team member can produce uniform results, which speeds up turnaround times and minimizes errors. In screen printing, they also focus on using the right tools for each job, from varying squeegee durometers to eco frames that can be re-tensioned for consistent print quality.
By offering both screen printing and embroidery in-house, Designed In Ink increases average order value and captures more business from each client. Many customers who start with printed t-shirts also order embroidered polos, hats, or jackets, allowing the shop to maximize revenue from every relationship.
Build Systems That Keep Clients And Staff Happy
One of the biggest advantages Designed In Ink has built into its business is the use of systems that make life easier for both customers and employees. For recurring orders, they set up online portals that allow clients to place and manage their own orders without phone calls or emails. This is especially effective for uniform programs where employees can order individually, and items can be shipped directly to them. The result is less administrative work for the shop, faster turnaround times, and a smoother customer experience.
Transparency is built into every order. Quotes, proofs, and approvals are handled inside DecoNetwork, which means clients always have access to the latest status of their projects. This reduces mistakes and eliminates confusion about what was approved or when an order will be ready. Customers feel more in control, and the shop spends less time chasing approvals or correcting preventable errors.
Staff retention is also a priority. Instead of only hiring experienced screen printers, Designed In Ink looks for motivated individuals with a strong work ethic and trains them in-house. They also offer benefits such as paid time off and retirement plans, which helps keep valuable team members long-term. Space is used creatively, such as installing a mezzanine to add hundreds of square feet without relocating, which improves workflow and keeps production organized.
Thriving In A Crowded Market By Doing More With Less
Designed In Ink shows that thriving in a crowded market is possible when a print shop focuses on efficiency, smart investments, and systems that empower both customers and staff. By creating a showroom that sells on its own, choosing equipment that maximizes output, and streamlining operations with online ordering portals, they have built a business that is profitable, resilient, and customer-focused.
DecoNetwork is the all-in-one platform that helps garment decorators and print shops manage quotes, orders, artwork approvals, e-commerce stores, and production workflows from one place. It gives you the tools to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and increase sales just like Designed In Ink.
Request a free DecoNetwork demo today to see how you can streamline your print shop and grow your business with the right systems in place.
