What questions should you ask before choosing a print and POS supplier?

Your choice of POS supplier shows on the shelf, at till points, and in your sales. Strong partners protect colour, timing, and budget. Weak ones cause missed dates and reprints. Use questions that force clear, practical answers. Ask each POS supplier the same set of questions. Compare proof, not promises. Look for control of colour, kitting by store, clean pricing, and safe installations. Check how they cope with peaks and tricky sites. Trident Press backs process and detail. This guide helps you test the market fairly and pick a POS supplier that can deliver and store by store.

Quality and capability

Quality starts with a process. You want consistent colour, correct specs, and store-ready packs that land on time.

Quick checks before you proceed:

• Ask for a measurable colour tolerance policy

• Confirm finishing options, trims and packing specs

• Verify barcodes and QR codes are test-scanned

• Request store-ready kitting examples

  
  

How do you manage colour accuracy across reprints and sites?

Ask for documented colour profiles, device calibration, and press checks. Request recent sample pulls and a written control plan.

What print technologies and substrates do you run in-house?

Seek range and fit. Large format, litho, digital, and screens are common. Ask for a matrix of materials, maximum sizes, and finishing.

Can you show recent sector samples like mine?

A strong POS supplier will share like-for-like work and explain stock and finish choices.

Speed, logistics, and rollout control

Fast print means little if kitting and delivery fail. You need store-level accuracy and trackable drops.

What are your standard lead times and surge capacity?

Get typical peak timelines. Ask how urgent campaigns are protected and who signs off on changes.

How do you pick, pack, label, and track by store?

Look for clear kitting, labelled cartons, and tracking numbers. Ask for a real packing list.

Do you manage installs and removals as well?

If yes, confirm national coverage, induction of readiness, and proof-of-work photos after each job.

Value and transparency

Low quotes hide the risk if the scope is thin. Demand clarity so you can compare like with like.

Can you break down costs per item and per store?

You want line items for print, finishing, packing, transport, and installation. A reliable POS supplier will show a clean breakdown.

What is your artwork and change request policy?

Check cut-off times, fees, and approvals. Ask how version errors are prevented.

How do you handle defects or short deliveries?

Expect a written reprint or credit process, response times, and an escalation path.

Sustainability and compliance

POS should support ESG and retail rules without slowing delivery.

What sustainability standards do you meet today?

Ask about FSC papers, recycled substrates, and low VOC inks. Request certificates.

How do you manage health and safety for installations?

Confirm RAMS, permits, and contractor vetting. Ask for up-to-date insurance.