Hardware Delays and Import Issues

We have noticed in recent weeks that a lot of printers are running out of hardware on portable flags and free-standing banners.

The types of hardware include pole systems, bases, and cartridges.

This issue is not going away at the moment and the main causes appear to be rising manufacturing costs overseas, landing costs, import duties, and freight.

It's also been a busy summer, with many printers reporting sales in excess of pre covid levels, which in turn has resulted in a shortage of certain supplies.

We have been fortunate enough to keep stock levels at a healthy level, but have had a lot of customers asking for kit they cannot buy from existing suppliers.

The pole sets, for example, are not made to a single standard industry size, which can result in customers not being able to source their normal flags.

If it helps, we can custom make the flags if we have either an old flag, or an existing pole system.

Failing that, we would recommend ordering our flags and pole sets, so you know everything will fit just right.

Preparation is key when planning for events

With events still not confirming before a week or just a few days, it's little wonder exhibitors are not taking account of their itinerary until the last minute.

This is leading to pressure within the printing industry, especially when new flags, banners, and other stand equipment are required at short notice.

The print industry is still experiencing supply chain issues, particularly with ink and paper. The recent national shortage of ink is still on a knife-edge.

Another issue in the area of flag printing is the shortage of base options for portable flag systems. There is still a great deal of stock still on the water, days, weeks away from UK ports. Most of the supplies have already been sold before they arrive.

If you are an exhibitor or you have booked up to have a presence at a show or event, it really pays to dust off the kit you have already, so you can see what needs to be replaced.

The sooner you do this, the better prepared you are for sourcing new supplies.

For some though, spending money on new items is not very appealing, at least until you know whether your next show or event is going ahead.

Whilst this is understandable, it is well worth investing in the minimum you need, using a generic design that can be re-used for future events.

There is nothing worse than not receiving important items in time, simply because you missed out by a few day's notice to your print partners.

Another issue that is causing problems is delivery services, which are also being overwhelmed with the increase in timed services, where pre 9, 10, and 12 delivery slots are being used for urgent items.

By planning what you need as a minimum in advance makes a massive difference in the long run, ensuring you don't get caught out if your printer is really too busy to get any items out well before your next show or event.