The Omnichannel Rule That Favors Print

. They shift between screens, conversations and self-guided research because variety helps thinking. Print adds a different pace. A catalog creates a shared object that can sit on a desk, move from desk to desk and invite slow looking. It gives people a break from endless tabs and notifications, which makes room for better judgment. Showing up in print alongside web, email and sales contact signals completeness and reduces fear of missing something.

Print Cuts Through Digital Noise and Improves Recall

Neuromarketing work with Temple University found physical ads create stronger brand recall and detail memory than comparable digital ads. Looking deeper, brains remember what they can touch, see and spatially map. A catalog recruits tactile and spatial memory, so details anchor to a page location, a photo or a section. 

Teams recall that the fitting they need lives near the orange divider, or that the comparison chart sits bottom left. The act of turning pages slows the scroll reflex and encourages evaluation. Print also feels less disposable, which nudges people to return and share a page with a colleague.

Catalogs Drive Measurable Digital Actions

The best catalog programs do not stop at the mailbox. They create anticipation, then turn attention into deliberate action. primes buyers with a morning preview, so when the book arrives it already feels familiar. A well placed QR code or short URL becomes a small commitment that people enjoy completing because it feels like progress. That intentional handoff brings visitors to your site with a clear goal in mind and a higher willingness to engage, not just to browse.

as an integrated mail and digital feature that adds impressions, interactions and insight, and it is available to business mailers running campaigns. For B2B marketers, that means your catalog can encourage qualified site visits, thoughtful form fills and tracked scans, not just phone calls.

Why Catalogs Fit Complex B2B Buying

, in rooms where teams are aligning on budgets, risks and requirements. A catalog shines in those moments. It gives technical evaluators and budget owners a constant reference they can circle, flag and hand to a colleague. That reduces friction, builds shared language and speeds consensus because everyone is on the same page (literally).

For manufacturing and industrial sellers, a catalog also helps relieve decision fatigue. It organizes SKUs, options and accessories into a mental model that feels manageable. Specs, compatibility notes and ordering guidance live side by side, so a buyer can move from uncertainty to the right part number with less doubt. When paired with clear QR codes, short vanity URLs and unique phone routes, that sense of progress turns into confident demand.

An ROI Playbook for Modern B2B Catalogs

Build for discovery and speed
Use visual hierarchy, tabbing and sectional dividers to match how people scan. Keep spec tables consistent across families to reduce cognitive load. Align photos, callouts and captions so comparisons feel effortless.

Version smartly
People lean in when a book feels like it was made for them. Run a master catalog for the long tail, then add region or segment cues, covers or mini-sections that mirror each audience’s environment. Relevance creates a sense of being seen without inflating page count.

Tie print to your marketing stack
Design the handoff to feel seamless. Embed QR codes that land on pages that look and read like the spread they came from. Use names and imagery that match to avoid the bait-and-switch feeling that erodes trust.

Right-size runs with hybrid production
Freshness signals integrity. Use offset for core volume where unit economics win, then keep a digital reserve for timely updates, new product inserts and event bundles. When details are current, buyers sense operational discipline and might feel safer choosing your products.

Design for durability
Field use is rough, but a bulletproof catalog communicates quality across your entire operational structure. Choose cover stocks, coatings and bindings that survive trucks, tool benches and jobsite trailers. Perfect bound books signal premium spec depth. Saddle-stitched pieces work for slimmer assortments or price updates. Your catalog printer can guide binding and finishing choices based on your catalog’s size, use case and distribution.

Measurement That Matters

Treat your catalog like a performance channel, but let human signals lead. Before you mail, define the behaviors you want: teams bringing the book to calls, repeat visits to a key spread, more confident RFQs. Assign unique response mechanisms and record movement in each KPI across mailed accounts, then listen for qualitative markers like fewer clarifying emails, faster consensus and richer conversations.

Because catalogs tend to boost both awareness and readiness, look for downstream shifts like higher average order value, shorter time to reorder and stronger attach rates for accessories, and consider whether they could be evidence of trust taking root.

Ready to Modernize Your Catalog Program?

B2B buyers want choice in how they engage. Print catalogs give teams a tangible way to discover products, make trade-offs and move decisions forward, while deepening confidence in your digital funnel. In 2025, the smartest sellers are not choosing between print and digital; they are leveraging both.

��������Ƶ helps manufacturers and B2B brands plan, print and measure catalogs that work with ecommerce, marketing automation and sales. From offset and digital production to USPS promotion guidance, binding and finishing, we make printing and fulfillment simple so your team can focus on growth. Get in touch with ��������Ƶ today to learn more about our high-quality B2B catalog solutions.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT 5 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

The post Why B2B Catalogs Still Drive Sales in a Digital-First World appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

B2B buyers now control the journey and expect to move between channels on their terms. found buyers use an average of ten interaction channels across the journey, up from five in 2016, and will switch suppliers if the experience isn’t seamless. Your catalog is one of those channels and should be designed to connect cleanly with the other nine.

From Order-Taker to Decision Accelerator

In the pre-digital era, catalogs doubled as a price list and a mail-in order form. In 2025, a catalog’s highest value is helping a buying group align on requirements, specs and supplier confidence. buyers spend only 17% of their total purchase time with potential suppliers, which drops to roughly 5% with any one rep if multiple vendors are in the mix. 

Most work happens without you, so marketing assets must carry more of the decision load. A well-built catalog serves as buyer enablement by organizing choices, clarifying trade-offs and pointing to next steps online.

Why Print Still Earns Attention

Digital noise is real, which is part of why print continues to perform. reports that U.S. consumer preference for printed catalogs climbed to 30% in 2023, up from 22% in 2021. That is a meaningful swing back to paper in a world saturated with screens.

Neuromarketing research also backs up the attention advantage. found physical mail is easier to understand and more memorable than digital formats, making recipients more likely to act. For high consideration purchases with many SKUs and technical attributes, that extra comprehension matters.

Print Plus Digital Now Wins the Response Race

The best returns come when catalogs trigger digital actions. reported that in field experiments, customers who received both catalogs and email purchased 24% more than those who received email alone. The point is not print versus digital. The point is orchestration.

Marketers also agree the channel mix pays off. In the, 74% of enterprise marketers said direct mail delivers the best ROI, response and conversion rates among their channels, and the majority increased budget for it year over year. Use that budget to connect catalog moments to frictionless online steps.

How These Shifts Change Your Catalog Strategy

1. Design for the omnichannel journey
   Make every spread a bridge to digital. Use short vanity URLs, unique QR codes and product-level PURLs that jump buyers to the right spec sheet, configuration page or quote request. Trigger automated nurture when a code is scanned so sales sees engagement without waiting for a form fill.
   
2. Right-size production for agility
   Print fewer, smarter and more often. Run your long-life core book on offset for quality and cost at scale, then layer short-run digital versions for segments, regions and product updates. Digital printing supports targeted versions and variable data so an industrial buyer sees SKUs, certifications and accessories that match their vertical.
   
3. Treat catalogs as decision tools, not just listings
   Move beyond page after page of item grids. Lead with use cases, kits, compatibility charts and “good-better-best” paths that reduce friction for a buying group.
   
4. Measure what catalogs influence
   Track scans, visits, sample requests and configured quotes tied to catalog codes. Attribute assisted conversions in your CRM so you can see when a catalog initiated a digital sequence that closed later.
   
5. Use postal promotions and definitions to your advantage
   Make use of mailing promotions, like the , to rack up significant savings. Plan layouts, page counts and eligibility early with your printer to take full advantage.
   

Practical Build Checklist for Manufacturing Marketers

• Audience plans: Segment by industry, job role and installed base so content and calls to action reflect the real buying committee. Provide clear pathways for specifiers, maintenance and procurement to the pages they need most.
  
• Merchandising logic: Group by system, compatibility and application, then cross-reference parts and accessories that drive average order value.
  
• Link architecture: Assign unique QR codes or short URLs at the product family level to reduce crowding on the page while preserving trackable intent signals.
  
• Print engineering: Select stocks and finishes that survive shop-floor use. Consider scuff-resistant coatings on heavy-use sections and tabbing for quick indexing. Coordinate paper weights and trim to stay under ounce thresholds and avoid postage surprises.
  
• Production mix: Lock evergreen content in an offset “core” catalog, then schedule digital micro-runs for new SKUs, regulatory language changes and vertical versions.
  
• Digital companions: Publish a browsable digital edition and a downloadable spec compendium so teams can circulate content internally.
  

The Bottom Line: How Print and Digital Support Each Other

In B2B marketing, catalogs no longer shoulder the order alone. They accelerate consensus, spark digital action and make complex assortments easier to buy across a multi-channel journey. Use print for attention and understanding, then convert that attention with tight digital handoffs and measurement. By adopting this strategy, you’re making the most of how today’s decision makers interact with potential suppliers.

Explore ��������Ƶ’s Catalog Printing Options

If you’re ready to learn more about how you can benefit from B2B printed catalogs, ��������Ƶ’s catalog team can help you build a program that fits how your buyers interact with your marketing strategy. With state-of-the-art printing technology, augmented reality options and customizable digital editions, we can help you bridge the gap between print and digital to encourage maximum engagement. Learn more about what ��������Ƶ can do for you by getting in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT 5 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

The post The Evolving Role of Print Catalogs in B2B Marketing appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

We sat down with Cassie Elliott, Customer Service Manager at ��������Ƶ – Marceline, to walk through what customers can expect during their first press check and why this step can make a big difference in the final product.

A Warm Welcome

From the moment you arrive for a press check, you can expect to be greeted with the same warmth that defines ��������Ƶ’s customer experience.

“Friendliness,” Elliott said without hesitation when asked what customers can expect first. “We’ll meet them at the front door, get them settled into the customer lounge, then we will wait for the Pressmen to get their project ready to proof. At that point, they’ll come down to the press, meet the press operator and work hand in hand with them on any adjustments or color concerns they may have.”

That personal connection is central to the process. You’re not just dropped into a production environment. You’re welcomed into the workflow and paired with professionals who understand how much your project means to you.

Reviewing on Press

Once the press is running and your job is set up, you’ll work directly with a press operator to review the sheets as they come off the press. This is where you’ll evaluate color accuracy, density, registration and overall quality.

This step is more than a formality. A press check gives you the opportunity to spot issues before an entire run is completed. Elliott explained that even minor details can be addressed. “If they find something while proofing on press; a spelling error, for example, at that point we can arrange a plate change.”

That flexibility is invaluable, especially for high-profile or high-visibility projects. Catching a small error on press can save time, money and headaches compared to discovering it after thousands of copies are printed.

Why Attend a Press Check?

One of the biggest advantages of attending a press check is seeing your project and the printing process in person.

“It’s important to see the plant as a whole – a lot of people work in design their whole lives and don’t see the full process of creating a book from start to finish,” Elliott said. “Seeing the full process tends to bring the ‘wow’ factor.”

For designers, marketers and authors, this is often an eye-opening experience. It bridges the gap between digital files and the tactile reality of ink on paper, helping you visualize how color, paper and press mechanics all work together. This new level of understanding can help you make more informed decisions during future print runs.

Who Benefits Most from a Press Check?

According to Elliott, there are many different types of customers who could benefit from an in-person press check. “We have one-off customers, mom and pop type work, who enjoy seeing the whole shebang. Our larger customers also come in for catalogs or high-end coffee table books, getting their eyes on the product before it’s completed.”

In other words, whether you’re publishing a one-time commemorative piece or overseeing the production of a flagship catalog, being present can give you confidence that your final product will look exactly as you envisioned.

What Makes a ��������Ƶ Press Check Special

Every printer offers some form of press check, but the ��������Ƶ approach is uniquely personal.

“We really value the customer getting that one-on-one interaction; that personal, feel-good experience,” Elliott explained. “We’re a family-owned company, and we give them that family atmosphere when they walk in the door. When people leave, they often say they felt so welcomed and appreciative of how friendly we are.”

That sense of care and pride shows in every step of the process. You’re not just reviewing a print job. You’re part of an experience that connects you with the people and the craft behind your publication.

A Customer’s Perspective

Brian Smith, Head Coach of Mizzou Wrestling and author of Tiger Style, experienced this firsthand during his press check at ��������Ƶ – Marceline.

“��������Ƶ was outstanding to work with. It was my first book, and they made the printing process easy and made me feel like the most important client in the world,” said Smith. “They let me come visit the plant and watch while they explained the entire process to me. All the people I spoke with took great pride in what they were doing and what they could do for me. ��������Ƶ has an amazing culture. I even got to spend time with Don ��������Ƶ (��������Ƶ’s CEO). It was a special day, and the process was more than I expected.”

Tips for Making the Most of Your First Press Check

If you’re preparing for your first press check, here are a few ways to ensure the experience is productive and rewarding:

• Come prepared: Bring any reference materials, such as color proofs or swatches, to help guide adjustments.
• Dress the part: You’ll be visiting the manufacturing floor, which is an active work area. For your own protection, plan on wearing closed-toe, closed-heeled shoes or boots. Tie back long hair, tuck in shirttails and remove any loose jewelry, including necklaces, long earrings, bracelets, rings and watches.
• Ask questions: Press Operators and Customer Service Representatives are there to explain what’s happening. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and learn more about the printing process.
• Focus on priorities: Pay close attention to color, image sharpness and critical design elements to ensure they meet your standards.
• Take in the experience: Beyond the technical aspects, enjoy the chance to see your work come to life in real time!

Experience Your First ��������Ƶ Press Check

Your first press check may seem intimidating, but it’s one of the most rewarding parts of the printing process. It’s your opportunity to collaborate directly with experts, safeguard the quality of your project and connect with the craftsmanship that makes your book, magazine or catalog possible.

At ��������Ƶ, a press check is more than just a technical review. It’s a personal experience rooted in pride and partnership. Whether you’re a first-time author or a longtime customer producing your latest catalog, the time you spend at the press can transform the way you see your project and the people behind it. If you’d like to collaborate with printing experts on your next project, get in touch with us today.

The post What to Expect During Your First Press Check appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

In Spring 2026, ��������Ƶ will install a brand new Publica PRO 12 Perfect Binder at its Ripon facility. This major upgrade is part of the company’s modernize and optimize plan and will replace the 1999 Kolbus 32-pocket binder currently in use.

The Publica PRO 12 is faster, smarter and more efficient than its predecessor, designed with the latest technology to maximize speed, improve quality and reduce production bottlenecks. Once in place, it will serve as Ripon’s primary binder, increasing both capacity and performance. This brand-new machine is expected to last 20+ years; a long-term investment that will help ��������Ƶ continue to provide great working opportunities for local employees for years to come.

“Our team is excited about the decision to invest in a new binder,” said Julie Newhouse, General Manager at ��������Ƶ – Ripon. “The enthusiasm has been contagious. One operator even shared, ‘It can’t get here soon enough!’”

��������Ƶ’s commitment to Ripon goes beyond its own facilities. The company continues to contribute to the Ripon Boys & Girls Club, which opened the doors to its new facility in June. With this new building, the club will serve more than 700 youth annually, and daily attendance is expected to exceed 150.

“We won’t just be bringing our traditional programming, but programming specific to the needs of Ripon including licensed childcare and a trades center,” said Ashley Bartol, Director of Development for the Boys & Girls Club. ��������Ƶ has pledged a $100,000 donation over five years, providing support that will directly benefit local families.

“��������Ƶ is proud to support the Ripon community through the work of the Boys & Girls Club,” said Don ��������Ƶ, President. “It’s a great cause, and we are honored to be a small part of it.”

By supporting community resources and investing in state-of-the-art technology, ��������Ƶ remains dedicated to building a stronger future for Ripon. These initiatives reflect the company’s mission: creating opportunities for its team, customers and communities through print.

About ��������Ƶ

��������Ƶ, the 29^th largest printer in the U.S. and Canada, is a top yearbook, magazine, catalog and book printer, and the only family-owned yearbook printer. Started in 1937 by Don ��������Ƶ, current leadership is under the second and third generations: Don O. ��������Ƶ, Chairman of the Board, and his son, Don ��������Ƶ, President. Tripp ��������Ƶ, the fourth generation, also joined the company in 2023. ��������Ƶ operates from eight facilities across the Midwest – Marceline, Brookfield and Fulton, Missouri; Overland Park, Kansas; Saint Joseph, Michigan; and Ripon and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Additionally, ��������Ƶ owns the Donning Company Publishers, a specialty book publisher.

Media Contact

Kristin Mateski | Vice President of Marketing & Communications

913.871.2072

kristin.mateski@walsworth.com

walsworth.com

The post ��������Ƶ Invests in Ripon with New Equipment and Community Support appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

Speed That Serves Your Schedule

Modern digital workflows remove plate-making and long makereadies, so work moves from approved files to press in minutes instead of hours. Current digital presses process complex files with heavy ink coverage and transparency with little slowdown. Streamlined digital workflows and online proofing reduce manual setup and speed approvals. Inline or nearline finishing options, from stitching to perfect binding to three-knife trim, help maintain consistency and efficiency.

The result is a production rhythm that supports late-stage text changes, short-notice reprints and replenishment runs that prevent backorders.

Resolution and Color That Hold Up to Scrutiny

High-value print has to look the part. Today’s digital toner and inkjet presses produce images at fine resolutions with sophisticated screening that smooths skin tones, gradients and flat tints. G7® Master Qualification and color management help keep brand colors consistent across devices and over time. For photo-heavy books or lifestyle catalogs, that consistency is what keeps the piece on brand across waves and regions.

Real Cost Control, Not Just Lower Unit Price

Digital printing changes where the costs sit. You minimize waste because setup sheets are few and color targets arrive quickly. Most importantly, you print in the quantity that aligns with demand. That cuts inventory carrying costs and warehouse space tied up in excess product.

For many programs, the most efficient spend is a launch batch plus frequent on-demand replenishment. You keep cash free for content, photography and list work that moves the needle.

Personalization That Pays Off

Variable data printing has matured into a practical tool. Version entire sections for regional assortments, test creative at scale or personalize covers and offers to lift response. If you rely on segmentation in digital channels, the print version can now keep pace with the same discipline.

Recent Advances in Digital Printing

• Throughput increased while maintaining high quality, enabling mixed jobs to run quickly without sacrificing detail.
  
• Color stability is supported through consistent workflows and standards, helping ensure repeatable results across projects.
  
• Media latitude has grown, giving designers greater freedom to specify the right paper for each piece.
  
• Sustainability gains have come from less waste, smaller safety stocks and great agility, reducing the need for overruns.
  

How This Connects to ��������Ƶ’s Platform

In 2025 ��������Ƶ purchased Documation in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, expanding our on-demand digital printing footprint for books and magazines. The move gives customers more capacity for short runs with quick turns and competitive pricing, aligned with the trends outlined above.

��������Ƶ – Eau Claire’s heritage includes advanced digital printing technologies which complement existing ��������Ƶ capabilities. That foundation is now part of a larger production network and service model built for complex commercial work.

On the toner side, the ��������Ƶ – Ripon operation runs a robust on-demand program designed for speed-sensitive projects that still demand high image fidelity. In practice, this is where many clients place urgent book reprints, targeted catalogs or versioned magazine components that need to ship right away without sacrificing quality.

While our Eau Claire operation handles efficient short runs for books and magazines, Ripon’s toner program emphasizes rapid fulfillment with strong visual results.

If you have worked with us for years you also know Ripon became part of ��������Ƶ in 2019, which broadened our manufacturing base and added direct mail, fulfillment and digital communications capabilities that pair well with data-driven print. That integration created the springboard for the current on-demand programs.

When Digital Is the Smart Choice

• High-mix short-run books – Launch a title in a lean quantity, then replenish as sales land instead of committing to a large first run. The finish and durability meet bookstore expectations and quality holds for later offset reprints when volume justifies a longer run.
  
• Magazines with tight closes – Push late editorial or ad changes without missing your mail date. Use versioning to fit regional content or special interest sections. Digital covers or inserts can be sequenced to match your distribution plan.
  
• Targeted catalogs – Trim page counts to what each segment needs, then personalize offers. Pair with triggered replenishment so you mail only to active buyers at the right cadence.
  
• Event or product drops – Produce precise quantities for fast-turn launches. If response spikes, the second wave is days away, not weeks.
  

How Digital and Offset Work Together

Long print runs still typically favor offset for unit cost. Many programs build a hybrid plan; use offset for the main body of a high-circulation catalog or magazine, then use digital to version covers, wraps or insert sets. For a book program, you can launch digitally, then shift to offset for steady sellers while keeping slow-moving titles digital. The crossover point depends on page count, ink coverage, paper and schedule.

A practical plan looks at your historical demand, life-cycle stages and the cost of “too many” versus the cost of “too few.” Our team models those curves with you so decisions rest on data, not guesswork.

The Bottom Line: Digital Printing With ��������Ƶ

Digital printing is a core manufacturing strategy for high-value publishers and marketers who need to move fast, control risk and keep quality high. With the addition of ��������Ƶ – Eau Claire for on-demand work and the proven toner program at ��������Ƶ – Ripon, you have more options to shape a production plan that aligns with real demand and real deadlines.

If you want to walk through run-length economics, substrate choices or a versioning plan for your next cycle, our team is ready to help.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT 5 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

The post Today’s Digital Press: Innovations in Speed and Resolution appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

Effective dates: Oct. 5, 2025 – Jan. 18, 2026 (pending PRC approval)
Services affected: Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, Parcel Select (retail & commercial)

All other USPS products remain unchanged.

2025 Holiday Price Changes

Retail:

Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage: Zone 1-4

• $0.40 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.
• $0.60 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.
• $0.95 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.
• $3.00 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Zone 5-9

• $0.90 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $1.45 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $3.25 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $7.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Flat Rate

• $1.45 for Large Flat Rate Boxes
• $0.90 for all other Flat Rate Products

USPS Ground Advantage Zone 5-9

• $0.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $1.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $2.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $5.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express

• $1.10 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.
• $2.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $2.00 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.
• $4.85 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $3.90 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.
• $9.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $9.75 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.
• $16.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express Flat Rate

• $2.00 increase for Flat Rate Envelopes

Commercial:

Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage: Zone 1-4, and Parcel Select (all entries)

• $0.30 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.
• $0.45 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.
• $0.75 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.
• $3.00 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Zone 5-9

• $0.70 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $1.25 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $2.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $6.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Flat Rate

• $1.25 for Large Flat Rate Boxes
• $0.70 for all other Flat Rate Products

USPS Ground Advantage Zone 5-9

• $0.35 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $0.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $1.25 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $5.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express:

• $1.00 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.
• $1.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.
• $1.50 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.
• $3.95 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.
• $3.50 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.
• $7.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.
• $8.95 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.
• $13.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express Flat Rate

• $1.75 for Flat Rate Envelopes

Additional Notes

These pricing updates are part of USPS’s 10-year plan to ensure financial sustainability. USPS maintains some of the lowest mailing rates among industrialized nations.

For more information and complete rate tables, visit or the .

The post USPS Announces Temporary Holiday Price Changes for 2025 Peak Season appeared first on ��������Ƶ.

This blog explores eco-conscious printing choices that faith-based publishers can make to combat carbon emissions and other negative environmental impacts, all while upholding quality and mission. We’ll look at sustainable paper and ink options, efficient printing practices and the benefits these choices bring to both the planet and the people you serve.

Sustainable Paper Options: Recycled Paper

One of the most impactful choices a publisher can make is in the paper itself. Traditionally, printing has been associated with deforestation, but today recycled and responsibly sourced papers offer a greener path. Using recycled paper, made from post-consumer waste, helps reduce demand for virgin wood pulp and saves resources. By diverting used paper from landfills, recycled stocks give a second chance to fibers, cutting down on waste and lowering the overall carbon footprint of print projects.

Many printers offer recycled paper options. For example, ��������Ƶ incorporates recycled material whenever possible, even using recycled boards for hardcover book covers and packaging with at least 35% post-consumer fiber. This kind of commitment ensures that a large portion of the paper in your hymnals or workbooks is not coming straight from fresh-cut trees.

FSC® and SFI®-Certified Paper

Equally important is choosing paper from responsibly managed forests. Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) on your paper options. These certifications guarantee that the paper’s wood fiber comes from forests managed with rigorous standards for environmental and social responsibility. By selecting FSC®-certified paper, faith-based publishers contribute to sustainable forestry practices that protect ecosystems and wildlife for future generations.

In practical terms, an FSC® or SFI® logo means the trees harvested for your books are replaced or allowed to regrow, biodiversity is respected and harmful practices, like clear-cutting old-growth forests or using certain chemicals, are avoided. Many congregations specifically want paper that reflects care for creation, so using certified stocks is a tangible way to communicate ecological responsibility to your community.

Vegetable-Based Inks and Green Print Materials

The choice of ink and other materials in printing can significantly affect the environmental impact of your publications. Traditional inks are petroleum-based, relying on nonrenewable resources and emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they dry. These VOCs contribute to air pollution and smog. An eco-conscious alternative is vegetable-based inks such as those made from soy, corn or other plant oils. These inks offer a more sustainable and safer solution.

Many printers, including ��������Ƶ, have adopted vibrant vegetable-based inks that are both high quality and environmentally friendly. These inks are derived from renewable resources and are biodegradable, meaning they can naturally decompose after use. They also emit far fewer VOCs, resulting in lower overall emissions and a healthier work environment.

Beyond inks, look for other eco-friendly materials and processes. Modern presses can use aluminum printing plates that are recycled after each print run, instead of single-use plastic or film. ��������Ƶ, for example, recycles nearly 1 million pounds of aluminum printing plates every year, along with tens of millions of pounds of paper and fiber products that can be reused in future printing projects.

Efficient Printing Practices and Waste Reduction

Eco-conscious printing is not just about what goes into the book; it’s also about how the book is produced. Efficient production practices can greatly reduce waste, energy use and carbon emissions. One key approach is working with printers who prioritize waste reduction and recycling at every step. For example, at ��������Ƶ’s facilities, every scrap of paper trimmed from a religious workbook and every bit of excess binding material is carefully collected and recycled, rather than thrown away.

Such diligent recycling efforts mean that millions of pounds of materials get a second life instead of entering landfills. In fact, ��������Ƶ alone recycles about 30 million pounds of paper and fiber each year, a testament to how industry practices can minimize environmental footprints. As a publisher, you can ask your printer about recycling programs and policies. Do they recycle leftover paper, metal plates and ink waste? The best partners will have concrete answers.

Benefits for the Earth and Your Faith Community

Embracing eco-conscious printing choices yields a dual reward: environmental benefits and positive impacts for your faith community and customers. The environmental upsides are clear. By using FSC®-certified or recycled paper, you help preserve forests and biodiversity. Every FSC® purchase supports forestry that keeps ecosystems intact and even helps prevent carbon-releasing events like wildfires through responsible management.

By using vegetable-based inks and reducing chemical use, you cut down on air pollution and make recycling easier on the back end. Waste reduction and efficient presses translate directly into fewer greenhouse gas emissions – less energy consumed, less waste decomposing or incinerated. All these measures contribute to combating climate change and protecting the Earth for future generations.

Support Your Message With Sustainable Print

Across faith traditions, there is a calling to act as good stewards of our resources and care for the world around us. For religious publishers, every choice in the printing process is an opportunity to live out that calling.

By selecting environmentally responsible paper, using plant-based inks, minimizing waste and partnering with printers committed to sustainability, faith-based organizations can reduce the carbon emissions and ecological impacts of their print projects. These eco-conscious choices ensure that producing the materials that nurture faith does not come at the expense of the Earth. Instead, it becomes a dual service – nourishing minds and spirits while also safeguarding our home.

If you’d like to learn more about how ��������Ƶ supports faith-based publishers with sustainable print solutions, get in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT-o3 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

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Understanding Weight, Opacity and Finish

Basis weight, measured in pounds and noted here with the # symbol, records the weight of 500 sheets of paper, known as a ream. A ream of 40# paper means that a ream of 500 pieces weighs 40 pounds. Similarly, a ream of 100# paper weighs 100 pounds, making it thicker. Worship materials typically use text papers from 40# to 100#. Lighter sheets keep books portable, while 100# paper gives books a substantial, durable feel. 

Opacity determines how difficult it is to see through a sheet of paper – the more opaque a paper is, the less light comes through. Opacity rises with weight and with mineral fillers that scatter light so notes do not ghost through. 

Finish guides ink behavior. Coated sheets in gloss, matte and silk hold ink on the surface for crisp photos. Uncoated sheets absorb a touch of ink, producing a warm page that invites annotation and eliminates glare.

Lightweight, High‑Opacity Papers for Bibles and Prayer Books

Reference Bibles, psalters and prayer books benefit from stock thin enough to fit more than a thousand pages into a comfortable spine, yet opaque enough that verses do not shadow on the reverse side. ��������Ƶ stocks several lightweight papers between 30# and 45# in house. Long fibers and specialty fillers give these sheets surprising strength so they stand up to thumb‑cut indexing and frequent page turning. Because they are uncoated, they welcome margin notes without smearing, and lie flat once Smyth‑sewn binding is used.

Uncoated Text Stocks for Hymnals and Pew Books

Hymnals, missals and liturgy guides live in pew racks for years. A white opaque 60# or 70# uncoated text sits at the intersection of durability, readability and budget. The porous surface eliminates glare under every sanctuary light and accepts pencil marks when the music director changes lyrics or cuts verses. Extra opacity keeps staff lines sharp, even when full‑color service notes print on the back side. Uncoated fibers also fold cleanly at the spine, an advantage when the block is sewn and cased in.

Coated Text for Photo‑Rich Devotionals and Study Guides

Devotionals, catechism workbooks and curriculum often weave scripture with photography or illustration. An 80# gloss text amplifies sunrise landscapes and vibrant festival colors. An 80# matte text diffuses reflections, so readers are not distracted by glare. Silk coating splits the difference, offering a velvety touch that still preserves image detail. All three coatings are part of ��������Ƶ’s program, so color fidelity arrives without special‑order delays.

Cover Stocks and Protective Finishes

Separate covers add heft and protection. ��������Ƶ keeps gloss and matte options in 80# and 100# cover weights that pair naturally with the text grades above. Gloss cover plus lamination suits a devotional journal that travels in backpacks, while matte cover complements the subdued palette of many hymnals. Aqueous or UV coating helps guard against stains and damage from frequent handling. 

Sustainability and Stewardship

Many congregations want paper that reflects care for creation. ��������Ƶ maintains chain‑of‑custody certification with both the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forest Initiative, so an FSC‑certified text or cover stock can be supplied without derailing schedules. Recycled paper is also available on request, subject to page count and trim size. Choosing sustainably-certified stock communicates ecological responsibility to parishioners and donors while still delivering the results you expect.

Binding Methods That Protect Sacred Content

Paper choice is only half the equation. For books that must endure decades, choose Smyth‑sewn signatures: thread passes through folded sections, creating a flexible block that opens flat on music stands and survives thousands of page turns. Case binding surrounds pages with boards that shield the pages within and provide spine real estate for foil stamping. Perfect binding remains economical for seasonal devotionals printed in high volume, especially when paired with PUR adhesive that resists pull strength.

Popular Paper and Binding Pairings

• Pew hymnal – 60# uncoated text with 80# litho‑wrapped case, Smyth sewn
  
• Pocket Bible – 40# high‑opacity text sewn and case bound
  
• Devotional – 80# matte text with 100# matte cover, PUR perfect bound
  
• Religious educational workbook – 70# gloss text self‑cover saddle stitched
  

All these options and more are part of ��������Ƶ’s standard offerings, so reprint schedules stay predictable and color consistency remains tight.

Reach More Hearts With the Experts at ��������Ƶ

Thoughtful paper and binding choices let sacred words shine while surviving years of use. Whether your project calls for feather‑light paper, durable hymnals or glossy devotional journals, ��������Ƶ offers every required weight, finish and binding method under one roof. Our expertise frees your team to focus on message and ministry, confident the finished book will last.

Interested in learning more about how ��������Ƶ’s print services can help your ministry? Get in touch with us today to connect with a knowledgeable Sales Representative, and see the ��������Ƶ difference for yourself.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT-o3 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

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Efficiency and Automation Take Center Stage

One of the biggest themes of this year’s CreativePro was the push to work smarter, not harder. Wamser, a longtime Adobe Certified Instructor, spotlighted the evolving automation tools in programs like InDesign. Features such as GREP styles, conditional text and improved data merge are helping designers create faster, cleaner and more adaptable layouts.

For professionals in high-volume or template-heavy environments like catalogs, magazines or yearbooks, these tools offer real advantages by increasing accuracy and saving time.

Smarter Design for a Changing World

Field shared how today’s creative tools are not just more powerful but also more purposeful. From interactive PDFs to variable fonts and responsive layouts, CreativePro sessions revealed how design is becoming more inclusive, adaptable and ready for what’s next.

Design today is about more than just visuals. Accessibility and clarity matter just as much as color and typography. Whether working in digital or print, the goal is to make your designs beautiful and functional for every audience.

Collaboration and Cloud Tools Are Essential

As more teams work in remote or hybrid settings, collaboration tools are more important than ever. The hosts highlighted how Creative Cloud Libraries, Share for Review and version tracking are becoming must-haves for modern design teams.

These features help teams stay in sync across locations and time zones while maintaining speed and consistency. They offer a smart solution to the real-world challenges of team-based creative work.

AI Is an Opportunity for Designers

Artificial intelligence was a major talking point at the conference, especially Adobe’s Firefly and Sensei tools. While AI can help with tasks like image generation or layout suggestions, both presenters agreed that creativity is still a human skill.

Instead of replacing designers, AI can free them to focus on ideas and strategy. Learning how to use AI tools effectively is quickly becoming a valuable skill in every creative toolkit.

Accessibility Is a Core Priority

Sessions at CreativePro emphasized that accessibility is no longer optional. From PDF reading order to alt text, designing for everyone is now part of professional best practices. The hosts encouraged designers to think beyond compliance and focus on creating content that serves all users.

Accessible design broadens your audience, supports inclusion and adds long-term value to your work.

Stay Curious and Keep Learning

To close, Wamser and Field reminded attendees that the best designers never stop learning. Software evolves, client needs shift and design standards rise. Staying curious and willing to explore new tools or techniques is essential for success.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, this session made one thing clear: there’s always something new to learn at CreativePro.

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1. Tactile reading deepens comprehension and recall

Turning pages and annotating margins engage multiple senses, reinforcing retention far better than swiping a screen. In Sunday school or vacation Bible school, youngsters can highlight verses, add stickers and proudly take finished pages home to share with family. Adult study groups also benefit: participants jot insights in margins, insert bookmarks and return to important passages over months of discussion.

2. Print eliminates digital distractions

Phones and tablets tempt users with notifications that fracture attention. A printed catechism or Qur’an study guide lets educators create a tech‑free zone where focus stays on sacred text. When students of any age immerse themselves without pop‑ups or apps competing for their attention, teachers can move at a deliberate pace, encouraging contemplation and prayer rather than multitasking.

3. Durability respects the sacred content

Religious resources often pass through many hands. A choir hymnal might live in a pew for years while a workbook travels from classroom to kitchen table and back again. Strong substrates, protective coatings and resilient bindings keep pages intact so they continue serving congregations long after the first lesson.

��������Ƶ’s guide to durable print recommends 60# to 80# text stocks on books that need to stand up to repeated use. UV or film lamination and PUR adhesive or Smyth‑sewn signatures can help resist tearing. Coated covers wipe clean and lamination helps prevent scuffs, preserving legibility in classroom and ministry settings. Selecting the right paper and binding up front reduces replacement costs and honors the message inside.

4. Consistent color and clear type support accessibility

Quality paper and precise calibration make text easy to read under varied lighting. Large‑type editions and parallel translations are straightforward to produce in offset or digital formats, ensuring everyone can participate, including elders and visually impaired congregants. Accurate spot color also safeguards liturgical meaning; think specific vestment shades or festival hues that carry theological significance.

5. Print fosters community beyond the classroom

Physical books and certificates become keepsakes that celebrate milestones, like a learner’s first Torah portion, a confirmation or adult conversion. Congregants sign each other’s workbooks, write prayers in the back of journals and proudly display certificates at home, extending the learning circle into everyday life. Unlike files tucked away in cloud folders, these artifacts spark inter‑generational stories and strengthen identity.

6. Case study: Seton Home Study School

Seton Home Study School experienced unprecedented enrollment growth during the pandemic, doubling volume almost overnight. When its long‑time printer shut down, Seton faced critical shortages of textbooks required by thousands of families. ��������Ƶ stepped in, secured a dedicated paper backstock despite global supply constraints and delivered high‑quality books on schedule. 

The partnership allowed Seton to continue its mission without interruption and even expand its reach. The lesson is clear: a reliable print partner safeguards continuity for faith‑based educators when demand spikes.

7. Applications across faith traditions

Here are a few examples of how print materials can be used to further religious education across a variety of faith traditions:

• Sunday school and VBS: Heavy‑duty, full‑color workbooks withstand craft glue, cookie crumbs and repeated handling. Perforated activity pages enable continued learning at home.
  
• Youth confirmation or bar/bat mitzvah prep: Study guides with margin space for mentor feedback support personal growth and accountability.
  
• Adult formation and RCIA classes: Perfect‑bound texts with lay‑flat coatings let participants keep notes open during discussion without straining spines.
  
• Interfaith seminars: Anthology readers printed with section tabs and Wire‑O binding enable quick reference during panel dialogue.
  

In every scenario, print’s permanence signals that the material (and the learner) matter.

Why ��������Ƶ?

��������Ƶ is North America’s third‑largest magazine printer and 5th-largest book printer, and serves special‑interest publishers including religious titles. Our company’s integrated web, sheetfed and digital presses deliver everything from 16‑page children’s readers to 1,000‑page commentary sets. In‑house binding, mailing and fulfillment streamline distribution, while G7® color management protects brand integrity across reprints.

Faith organizations also appreciate ��������Ƶ’s consultative approach. Paper engineers propose stocks that balance durability and budget, and the pre‑press team verifies type size and contrast for optimal readability. Whether you need a short‑run workbook series or a national hymnal rollout, ��������Ƶ’s craftspeople treat each piece with the respect it deserves.

Power Your Next Project With ��������Ƶ

Printed resources remain the backbone of effective religious education because they invite contemplation, resist distraction and endure years of faithful use. By pairing thoughtful pedagogy with expertly produced books, workbooks and magazines, faith communities give learners of every age the best chance to encounter timeless truths in a tangible, memorable way.��s

Planning a new curriculum or reprinting a beloved classic? Explore ��������Ƶ’s book printing capabilities for hardcovers, paperbacks and workbooks. For periodicals such as diocesan magazines or temple newsletters, take a look at our magazine printing offerings. Ready to talk details? Get in touch with us today to start the conversation with a print specialist.

* This article was developed with assistance from OpenAI’s GPT-o3 Pro Deep Research large language AI model.

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