Top 10 Traits of Highly Successful Print Shops: What Separates the Best from the Rest 

WHAT MAKES ONE shop a huge success while others, with the same equipment, struggle to rise above mediocrity? Certain factors elevate some decorators to the top of the industry, and if you step back and look closely, the reasons are clear. Hopefully, you’ll recognize some of these traits in your own business or find inspiration to build on them.

1. Relentless Need for Continuous Improvement

Top shops don’t just sit back and coast. They constantly push to improve, innovate, and stretch their capabilities. These owners and teams test new ideas all the time, whether it’s during busy production days, late nights, or early mornings before anyone else arrives. Waiting for the “right time” isn’t part of their playbook; they just do it. They comb trade shows, online groups, their supply chain, and talk with other decorators to uncover new methods. For them, “good enough” feels like falling behind.

2. Not Afraid to Ask for Help

Maybe they’ve landed a huge order and need to farm out part of the work. Or they want to master a new technique, like sewing or specialty ink printing. Successful shops have zero hesitation about asking for help or guidance. They understand that growth requires asking questions — even uncomfortable ones and seeking expertise when needed. If fear of looking inexperienced holds you back, you’re limiting your potential. The best shops leave pride at the door and stay curious.

3. Hire and Retain Top Talent

The most successful decorators have built teams of high-caliber people. No matter how advanced the equipment, shirts don’t decorate themselves. How do you find (and keep) great staff? Often, talent seeks out reputable shops. In this close-knit industry, word spreads fast — whether you’re a great boss or one to avoid. Top employers earn a reputation that attracts good people. Struggling to find talent locally? Look for people with strong character and a great attitude and train them in the skills you need. When you do things right, your team will stick around for years.

4. Are Known for One Thing

Every legendary shop has something it’s famous for, a specialty that sets it apart. It might be simulated process printing, lightning-fast embroidery, standout retail fulfillment, superior artwork, or niche market dominance. Whatever it is, it becomes the shop’s signature. Sure, they offer other services, but their reputation is anchored by that one thing they’ve mastered. What’s your shop known for? If nothing comes to mind, ask yourself: “What could I focus on to stand out and become the go-to name in my niche?”

5. Prioritize Organization and Efficiency

Great shops are dialed in. Every detail, from workflows to the placement of shelves and tables, is carefully considered and refined. Walk into their shop and you’ll see clean, organized workspaces where everything has its place. Equipment is positioned for maximum efficiency, and prime shop floor space is free from clutter. Work orders are complete and precise, and staff are trained to make jobs flow seamlessly. This level of organization isn’t accidental, it’s built through careful planning, smart processes, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Success here is all about precision, teamwork, and flow.

6. Have Incredible Customer Service and Sales Teams

Top shops know that success is built around listening to customers and delivering what they need, often before they even ask. Clients stick with them because they solve problems, remove obstacles, and make everything easy. Loyalty builds over time by consistently exceeding expectations — whether that means staying late to finish a crucial job or working a weekend to meet a tight deadline. These shops make it look effortless, even when it’s not. When your entire team shares this mindset, you build a reputation that keeps clients coming back and sending referrals your way.

7. They Network with the Best

Successful decorators never operate in isolation. They actively connect with other shops to share knowledge, best practices, and hard-won lessons. This happens online, through forums, groups, and webinars, and in person at trade shows, panel discussions, and business events. But it’s not limited to industry-only spaces; they also join local Chambers of Commerce, sit on boards, and engage with other business leaders. These connections open doors to new opportunities and fresh ideas that wouldn’t surface if you stayed isolated behind your desk. Growth starts with participation.

8. They Expect Excellence Every Day

For top shops, mediocrity never is acceptable. Mistakes happen, but instead of brushing them off, these shops dig deep to understand what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again. Do a quick gut check: are there recurring issues in your shop you’ve ignored or tolerated? Are there people or processes underperforming because it’s easier not to deal with them? High-performing shops don’t let things slide. They take action quickly, and their proactive mindset helps prevent small problems from becoming gigantic ones.

9. Set Clear Expectations

In thriving shops, clarity is king. Employees and customers alike know exactly what’s expected, how things will be done, when they’ll happen, and what the results will look like. From onboarding new staff to managing long-term client relationships, these shops communicate expectations clearly and reinforce them daily. This is backed by thorough documentation—employee handbooks, training materials, branded forms, and detailed FAQs, that remove ambiguity. Consistency builds trust and keeps both teams and clients aligned and happy.

10. They Aren’t the Cheapest

Let’s face it: There’s always someone willing to do the job for less. But the best shops don’t compete on price — they compete on value. They understand their actual costs and charge what’s necessary to maintain profit margins and sustain their business. Copying another shop’s price list? That’s a rookie move. The top players know that customers who value quality and service are willing to pay for it. They focus on delivering exceptional results and building relationships that don’t hinge on bargain-basement pricing.

Do you see your shop reflected here? Think about the businesses you look up to; what qualities do they demonstrate that you could apply in your operation? Consider using this list as a conversation starter at your next team meeting.