Improving the printing and distribution process

updated on

16/10/2023

There are two main technical processes used for reproducing printed matter:

Offset can be produced on a wide range of machine formats, on an infinite variety of papers and in large quantities. The colours of the text and images are recomposed by four primary liquid ink colour units (cyan, magenta, yellow and black).
Digital printing, on the other hand, is done on smaller machines and a limited number of papers whose surface is suitable for powder ink toners.

How can the printing and distribution process be improved?

Selecting only responsible printers

To select a responsible printer:

Choose printers with certification – e.g.: ISO 14001 (environmental management);
Check that the printer’s commitments are being met by visiting them;
Create a link with the printer so that you can be sure of their commitments. There are big gaps between official recognition through certification and the actions actually taken.

Ensuring the use of vegetable-based inks

Vegetable-based inks have been the standard for offset printing since the early 2000s. However, they are not totally natural, as they are mixed with chemical pigments and drying accelerators.

To make the right choice when it comes to inks:

Encourage your customers and producers to avoid varnishes, laminations, hot gilding and synthetic waxes on bindings.
Ask manufacturers for certificates attesting to the renewable or non-renewable nature of an ink’s components (organic oils, palm oil-free, etc.).
Choose vegetable-based inks for medium and large print volumes (offset printing is not the best solution for small runs).

Investing in a photocopier in the office

If your communications activity requires you to print small quantities on a regular basis, don’t hesitate to invest in a photocopier. You’ll be limited to A4 and A3 formats, but you’ll get results close to those of professional prints.

A few rules for using your photocopier more sustainably:

Print in black & white and on both sides of the page.
Avoid photocopying your emails or web pages.
Only print if you are sure that the paper document is relevant.
Choose certified or recycled paper.
Sort the paper.

Better distribution of paper deliverables

The best way to optimise the quantity of printed material is to consider its purpose and lifespan.

Proper management of your data will have a major impact on your printed matter, packaging and transport:

Think about the uses of your paper deliverables.
Give preference to on-demand distribution.
Categorise your targets properly so that you send your printed material to the right people.
Reduce your packaging, for example by choosing three large boxes rather than ten small ones.
Plan routing and check the consistency of the routes used to fill the vehicles to deliver the deliverables.

Improving the printing and distribution process