We’re rolling through 2025, and if you’ve been in the screen printing game for a while, you know how fast things can change. Between new print tech, supply costs, and the rise of DTF printing, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind.
That’s why it’s smart to stop, take a breath, and really look at your business—what’s working, what’s not, and where you can tighten things up. Think of it like a tune-up for your shop.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what to look at when you evaluate your screen printing business this year.
1. Check Your Numbers
Start with the basics—how’s your cash flow?
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Are sales trending up or slowing down?
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Which products or clients bring in the most profit?
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Have you adjusted your prices to account for rising ink and garment costs?
If you’ve added new services (like DTF or embroidery), compare how they’re performing next to your core printing jobs. You might spot an opportunity to shift focus—or scale up what’s really paying off.
2. Review Your Equipment and Workflow
A messy shop or worn-out gear can quietly eat into profits.
Ask yourself:
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Is your press or dryer slowing production?
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Could automation or better scheduling save time?
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Are your screens, inks, and supplies organized—or are you constantly hunting for stuff?
Even small improvements in setup or process can make your whole day run smoother and keep your crew happier.
3. Audit Your Online Presence
Your digital presence matters as much as your print quality in 2025.
Check your:
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Website—Is it mobile-friendly and up-to-date?
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Online store—Can customers easily place orders or get quotes?
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Social media—Are you posting new prints or shop updates regularly?
If your online setup feels outdated, a refresh can make a huge difference in visibility and customer trust.
4. Evaluate Your Customer Base
Not all customers are created equal. Look at who’s helping your business grow—and who’s just adding headaches.
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Which clients are steady, easy to work with, and profitable?
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Who constantly wants discounts or reprints?
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Are there new niches—like local brands, merch stores, or corporate jobs—you could target?
Sometimes, trimming low-value customers opens the door for better, more consistent work.
5. Revisit Your Suppliers and Pricing
With prices still shifting and stock levels unpredictable, it’s a good time to review your supply chain.
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Who’s giving you the best consistency and turnaround?
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Can you negotiate bulk pricing or switch vendors for better deals?
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Is your pricing still covering your costs and labor?
If it’s been more than a year since you adjusted your pricing, you’re probably leaving money on the table.
6. Invest in Your Team (and Yourself)
Your team is the backbone of your shop. Keep everyone learning—whether that’s hands-on training, online courses, or hitting up trade shows.
A more knowledgeable crew = fewer mistakes, smoother runs, and happier customers.
7. Refresh Your Marketing
If you haven’t touched your marketing strategy lately, now’s the time.
Try:
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Short-form videos of your printing process (people love behind-the-scenes content)
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Posting customer projects and success stories
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Running small seasonal promotions
Consistency matters more than perfection—just keep your shop visible and authentic.
8. Set Goals for 2026
Once you’ve reviewed everything, set clear, realistic goals for next year.
That could mean:
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Hitting a specific revenue target
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Adding new services (like embroidery or DTF)
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Upgrading your press or dryer
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Improving turnaround times
Keep your goals visible and check in quarterly to track progress.
Wrapping It Up
Evaluating your screen printing business doesn’t have to be a huge project. Grab a notebook, some coffee, and take a real look at where things stand.
The goal isn’t to pick apart every flaw—it’s to find the best ways to grow, improve, and make life easier in the shop. A little reflection now means a smoother, more profitable year ahead.
