Compare Before Buying has released a review of the best print-on-demand (POD) services for small businesses for 2024, highlighting Gelato as its top choice. The article goes into the POD company’s features, extensive catalog, and more, as well as a closer look at how its services have paved the way to success for entrepreneurs Natalie and Josh Carlstrom and their e-commerce business Map of Our Life.

Best Print-on-Demand Services for Small Businesses

  • Gelato - free to start, zero-risk POD service with free design tools, integration with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and Etsy, and a wide catalog of more than 150 items with the biggest selection of wall art products

Gelato was founded in Norway in 2007, making it a pioneer in the POD industry. The company comprises a total of more than 300 professionals of over 55 nationalities across 17 offices worldwide, boasting the largest network of its kind globally with over 140 production hubs in 32 countries and more than 60 logistics partners.

Owing to that, Gelato produces and delivers products locally, ensuring quick and reliable shipping to customers internationally. This approach not only boosts efficiency by minimizing long-distance shipping but also promotes a more eco-friendly alternative to conventional manufacturing and distribution practice

Map of Our Life: Success Story of Natalie and Josh with Gelato

Compare Before Buying delves into the story of small business owners and Southern California couple Natalie and Josh Carlstrom, who have turned pandemic challenges into entrepreneurial success with their e-commerce business, Map of Our Life. After facing disruptions in their careers—Natalie’s salon closed and Josh encountered difficulties with his e-commerce ventures—the couple pivoted to launch their own custom print business on April 6, 2020.

As their business grew, Natalie and Josh faced the challenges of scaling up, particularly in inventory management and supply chain logistics. To streamline operations and focus on growth, the couple transitioned to a print-on-demand model through a partnership with Gelato. This collaboration allowed Map of Our Life to utilize Gelato's local production and distribution network, enabling them to meet increasing demand without the burden of managing day-to-day production tasks.

The Most Profitable Print-on-Demand Service

  • Global Production Network: Gelato boasts the world's largest POD network, with over 140 production hubs in 32 countries. This extensive network allows for localized production, which reduces shipping times and costs. By producing items closer to the customer, it can offer faster delivery while minimizing the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping.
  • Scalability for Businesses: Gelato enables businesses, especially small to medium-sized ones, to scale their operations without the need for significant upfront investments in inventory or production facilities. This flexibility helps businesses manage costs more effectively, contributing to their profitability.
  • High-Quality Production: Gelato’s focus on maintaining high standards across its global network ensures consistent product quality. This reliability enhances customer satisfaction and repeat business, which is critical for profitability.
  • Diverse Product Range: Offering over 150 products, including apparel, accessories, and home decor, Gelato provides businesses with the opportunity to cater to various customer needs. This wide selection allows businesses to tap into multiple markets and revenue streams.
  • Efficient Logistics and Delivery: Gelato partners with more than 60 logistics companies to ensure reliable and timely delivery. Their ability to produce and ship products quickly from local production hubs improves customer experience, which is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.
  • Low Overhead Costs: For businesses using Gelato, there’s no need for upfront inventory purchases or storage, significantly reducing overhead costs. This print-on-demand model allows businesses to operate with lower risk and higher profit margins.

Click here to explore Gelato’s POD service and see why it’s among the best options for small businesses. Please visit the Compare Before Buying website for a more comprehensive review, as well as a more detailed look at Natalie and Josh Carlstrom’s success story with Gelato.

About Compare Before Buying: Compare Before Buying provides news and reviews of consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Compare Before Buying may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided.

Andy Mathews (andy@nicelynetwork.com)