New business

[thenewguy123]

Hi everyone

I'd like to start either my own t-shirt business or posters/prints business. I don't know which would be more profitable. I have no idea where to begin researching. Can somebody help with any info on these sectors and also where to begin doing my homework.

Thanks so much

 

[Mr D]

A couple of major libraries have business sections. May be worth talking to people in each type of work, may be worth checking out companies you know do this work see what they are like, see how much they make.

 

[thenewguy123]

Thanks Mr D

 

[makeyourbusinessbetter]

Google each sector, see the companies who appear on page one of a search. Identify the ones which do what you want to do. Find the best ones; look at their advertising, marketing, customer services and pricing.

Look at customer comments and feedback too, see what the common complaints are and how you would aim to avoid making the same mistakes if it was your business.

With bigger companies, it is often possible to find financial information too that will give you a good idea of sales, profit margins, etc.

Good luck

 

[TomJ83]

What says that you can't combine the both. If you want to enter the print market you should offer a wide range of print products. A local restaurant might need restaurant menus, a hotel a new set of brochures and a newly started cleaning company a bunch of flyers and branded t-shirts.

Also, the advice given by @makeyourbusinessbetter is worth to take note of. Study your competitors. See what's working for them in terms of marketing and product range. You should also find out how you can differ from them. Prices? Product range? Delivery time?

 

[TODonnell]

Why not work for a company that's in your niche? See how it's done, then figure out a sub-niche and go solo.

 

[Max Cholmeley]

I completely - libraries and google is the place to go. Do your research, then do it again! And as Tom says - what says you can't combine the two?

 

[Coversure Hull]

You can use the Google keywords tool to see what the search volumes are like in your chosen areas, but otherwise, research will be key.