According to the “2012 – 2013 Printing Industries of America Ratios Survey,” the printing industry reported profits of 1.8 percent in 2011, compared to 1.4 percent in 2010.

Furthermore, this is the second increase in profits in the last three years, according to the findings. That is nearly $1.5 billion in total profits in 2011, which is above the $1.2 billion profit from the prior year. Even with a sluggish economy, conditions have slowly started improving, which has helped businesses, explained a Printing Industries of America (PIA) press release.

Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International Inc. – a signs and graphics company – said in a statement that as the printing industry continues to evolve in order to stay current with the needs of customers, diversifying a printing business is necessary. For example, branching out into signage and visual graphics is one way to go.

Monson went on to explain that her company has created a solid conversion program, designed to help companies add signage and visual graphics into their business.

While the printing industry is showing signs of strength, it’s important for organizations to stay innovative and ensure that they are using unique features to keep themselves ahead of the competition. Laminating machines are one such way to go, as this document finishing option will give a professional look to photos or posters.

Also, either thermal or coil binding supplies will let companies create polished booklets and packets. Attaching papers together with a paper clip will not send the same message that a well-bound stack of documents will. It shows customers that the business is willing to take the extra step to provide a well-made product.