Ƶ Book, Magazine & Catalog Printing Company Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:14:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.10 /wp-content/uploads/2024/06/cropped-Ƶ-W-transparent-black-white-circle-32x32.png Ƶ 32 32 6 Tips for Creating Engaging Content for Your Publication /blog/6-tips-engaging-publication-content Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:14:25 +0000 /?p=9799 In today’s fast-paced digital world, capturing and maintaining reader attention is more crucial than ever. For magazine publishers, creating engaging content is the key to increased readership, a more interactive reader base and ultimately, a more attractive publication for potential advertisers.  The Power of Engaging Content Engaging content is more than just informative; it’s captivating,...

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In today’s fast-paced digital world, capturing and maintaining reader attention is more crucial than ever. For magazine publishers, creating engaging content is the key to increased readership, a more interactive reader base and ultimately, a more attractive publication for potential advertisers. 

The Power of Engaging Content

Engaging content is more than just informative; it’s captivating, inspiring and relevant to your audience. It resonates with readers, sparking conversations and leaving a lasting impression. When your publication consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content, you may notice a surge in readership and a more active community of dedicated readers.

Tips for Creating Engaging Content

Here are some practical tips to help you create content that engages your audience:

Know Your Audience

Deep Dive into Demographics: Understand trends in your readers’ age, gender, education and location. Identifying common characteristics between your readers will help you develop content that better resonates with their lifestyles.

Analyze Their Interests: Identify what your readers are most interested in to help deliver the best experience possible.

Tailor Your Content: Create content that directly addresses their needs, interests and desires. This will help each edition of your publication feel like it’s created with each individual reader in mind.

Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Invest in Skilled Writers: Prioritize hiring talented writers, particularly those who have experience writing in your specific industry. Their level of experience will shine through in their writing, which will help keep your articles engaging for your readers.

Encourage Thorough Research: Ensure articles are well-researched and accurate. Consider interviewing experts and other important figures in your industry as a way to create unique content and build credibility.

Break the Mold: Try to create content for your publication that no one else in your space is putting out. Keep an eye on industry trends to ensure you’re not just rehashing the same ideas other publications are printing – if you can consistently stay ahead of the curve with new and interesting information and types of articles, your publication could be seen as a trendsetter in your space.

Visual Appeal Matters

High-Quality Photography: Add visual flair with quality photography that complements your written content. To maximize the effect of good photography, make sure there’s plenty of collaboration between designers, writers and photographers.

Eye-Catching Layouts: Use visually appealing design to enhance readability. You can even design your publication’s layouts to draw readers’ eyes to important text and images, further enhancing the overall reading experience.

Pay Attention to Branding: Be sure to consistently incorporate your brand’s signature colors, logos and imagery across all designs to help give your publication a signature look.

Interactive Elements

Polls and Quizzes: Encourage reader participation and gather valuable insights. By allowing readers to send in their answers to polls and quizzes, you can create excitement and leave your audience anxiously awaiting your next issue to see the results.

Behind-the-Scenes Content: Offer exclusive glimpses into the making of your publication. Behind-the-scenes content adds a personal touch to your publication and helps remind readers about the talented staff that works hard to put together their favorite magazine.

Social Media Integration: Foster community engagement by sharing content on social platforms. Social media gives readers another easy way to interact with and feel connected to your publication.

Storytelling Techniques

Engaging Narratives: Use to draw readers in. Proper storytelling can turn an interesting article into a literary journey, helping to capture your readers’ attention.

Emotional Connection: Write stories that have an emotional touch to create a lasting impact on your readers. While they may not remember every word you print, your readers are sure to remember the way your publication makes them feel.

Print Quality Perfection

High-Resolution Images: Work closely with your printing partner to ensure crisp, clear visuals that pop off the page. Choosing the right paper type, coating and printing method can help enhance your publication’s imagery.

Premium Paper Stock: Choose high-quality paper to enhance the reading experience. While thinner, lower-quality paper may save on cost, it may result in a less durable magazine that doesn’t feel like a quality product.

Vibrant Color Printing: Utilize advanced printing techniques for stunning color reproduction. Working with a printer that understands the intricacies of CMYK printing can help ensure color perfection.

The Benefits of Engaging Content

By consistently delivering engaging content, you’ll reap numerous benefits:

  • Increased Readership: Consistently engaging content can help maintain and even increase readership by making your publication a more attractive option to readers.
  • Higher Engagement: Readers may spend more time interacting with your company and the community surrounding your publication.
  • Attractive to Advertisers: If your publication is known for high-quality, engaging content, advertisers will be eager to reach your engaged audience and may be willing to pay more for ad space.

Partner with Ƶ for Print Perfection

To truly elevate your publication, partner with Ƶ. We offer a wide range of printing solutions to bring your content to life:

  • High-Quality Printing: Our state-of-the-art printing technology ensures exceptional results. Whether you’re looking for seamless offset printing or advanced digital inkjet printing options, Ƶ can deliver an exceptional product.
  • Custom Printing Solutions: We tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Our expert Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives have the industry knowledge to provide expert printing solutions.
  • Expert Design and Layout: Ƶ offers convenient design solutions for publications that don’t have a dedicated designer on staff, ensuring each page looks clear and professional.

Ready to take your publication to the next level? Contact Ƶ today to learn more about our magazine printing solutions and how we can help you create a truly engaging publication.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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The Impact of Potential Tariffs on the Printing Industry /blog/impact-of-potential-tariffs Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:11:23 +0000 /?p=9788 President-Elect Trump has proposed an increase on import tariffs ranging from 10% to 60% on goods from China, 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and up to 20% on everything else the US imports. This could have a significant impact on the printing industry, as many printers import raw materials and finished products from...

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President-Elect Trump has proposed an increase on import tariffs ranging from 10% to 60% on goods from China, 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and up to 20% on everything else the US imports. This could have a significant impact on the printing industry, as many printers import raw materials and finished products from overseas.

Currently, printed materials imported from China incur a 7.5% tariff. If the proposed China tariff becomes a reality, this means an increase of 10 – 52.5 percentage points or 133 – 700% over the current tariff. For example, a $1.00 book imported from China would currently receive a tariff of $0.075.

Current tariff = $0.075 –> Landed cost = $1.075 + logistics cost

If the proposed tariff increases were to become official, it could significantly increase the overall cost of importing these goods.

Potential future tariff = $0.175 to $0.60 –> Landed cost = ($1.175 to $1.60) + logistics cost

The impact of imports from other countries can be shown similarly using the respective percentages. Core countries of interest that import printed materials into the US include China, Canada, Mexico, the UK and India.

The impact of tariffs on the printing industry will vary depending on the company’s supply chain. Printers that rely heavily on imported raw materials will be more affected than those that source their materials domestically.

Why Ƶ is Well-Positioned Against the Impact of Tariffs

One of the many things that sets Ƶ apart from our competitors is our strategically developed supply chain. We source most of our raw materials from US-based suppliers, which helps to mitigate the impact of potential tariffs.

In addition, Ƶ has a strong track record of managing costs and passing savings on to our customers. We are confident that we can continue to do this even in the face of potential tariffs.

As a result, Ƶ is well-positioned to weather the impact of tariffs and continue thriving as a successful printing company, regardless of economic conditions over the next several years.

Learn More About the Benefits of Choosing Ƶ

The potential impact of tariffs on the printing industry is significant. However, printers that have a strong domestic supply chain, like Ƶ, are well-positioned to weather the impact. If you are a publisher who is concerned about the impact of tariffs, we encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you mitigate the risks.

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The Benefits of Choosing a Family-Owned Printing Partner /blog/benefits-of-a-family-owned-printing-partner Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:29:42 +0000 /?p=9757 As a publisher, finding a skilled printing partner is key to your success. A good printer provides countless benefits; helpful tips for the design and pre-press processes, simplified distribution and a high-quality print product, to name a few. However, when working with a large printing company owned by private equity, it’s easy to feel like...

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As a publisher, finding a skilled printing partner is key to your success. A good printer provides countless benefits; helpful tips for the design and pre-press processes, simplified distribution and a high-quality print product, to name a few. However, when working with a large printing company owned by private equity, it’s easy to feel like just another number on a spreadsheet.

That’s why we at Ƶ suggest partnering with a family-owned printing company. The right partner can give you the same benefits as a large corporation with more flexibility and personalized service. Read on to discover more of the perks a family-owned printer like Ƶ can offer.

Personalized Service

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a family-owned printing partner is the personalized service they provide. Family-owned businesses often have a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction, leading to a more attentive and responsive approach.

  • Knowledgeable Staff: Family-owned printers frequently employ experienced staff who are passionate about their craft, as these printing experts reflect well on their business. This expertise ensures that you receive helpful advice and guidance throughout your project, and are less likely to experience delays and quality issues.
  • Quick Response Times: Smaller, family-run operations often have streamlined processes and fewer bureaucratic hurdles, allowing them to respond to your needs promptly. If you’ve ever been in a situation where you needed a last-minute change made to your project, you understand how crucial this can be.
  • Tailored Solutions: Family-owned businesses are adept at customizing services to meet specific requirements. Whether you need a simple saddle stitch magazine or an embossed, casebound book, they can tailor their offerings to suit your unique needs.

Price Flexibility

Family-owned printers are often able to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. Their smaller overhead costs and direct relationships with suppliers can translate into significant savings for their clients.

  • Creative Solutions: When working with a family-owned printer that really values your business, they may be more able to find creative solutions to help maintain your budget while still delivering the product you need. For example, when Sophia Institute Press came to Ƶ with an idea for a new project, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment in our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while staying comfortably within their budget.
  • Long-Term Partnerships: Building strong relationships with family-owned businesses can lead to long-term partnerships, offering consistent quality and more familiarity with your project, meaning you’ll be the first to know about potential cost-saving solutions.

Building Strong Partnerships

Beyond the practical benefits, choosing a family-owned printing partner can foster a deeper connection and build stronger relationships.

  • Shared Values: Family-owned businesses often share similar values with their clients, such as a commitment to quality, integrity and community. They may have a particularly strong commitment to sustainability, or prioritize safety for all employees.
  • Trust and Transparency: Open communication and trust are essential in any business relationship. Family-owned printers prioritize these values, fostering a collaborative and transparent partnership.
  • Community Impact: By supporting local, family-owned businesses, you contribute to the economic vitality of your community. For example, Ƶ has a history of uplifting our communities, which is reflected in our mission statement: creating opportunities for our team, customers and communities through print.
  • Low Turnover: Family-owned companies that support their employees often benefit from low turnover; a benefit that you as a customer can also enjoy. When building a long-term relationship with a family-owned printing company, it’s likely that you’ll be working with the same skilled employees for years to come and won’t have to struggle to adjust to a new point of contact. 

Partner With Ƶ, a Family-Owned Printer

By choosing a family-owned printing partner, you’re not just selecting a vendor; you’re building a lasting relationship with a business that shares your values and is committed to your success. At Ƶ, we embody the values and advantages of a family-owned printing partner. We offer personalized service, competitive pricing and a commitment to building long-lasting relationships with our partners.

For your next printing project, consider partnering with Ƶ. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality books, magazines and catalogs. If you’d like to learn more about what Ƶ has to offer, get in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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The Benefits of Choosing an American Printing Partner /blog/benefits-of-choosing-an-american-printing-partner Fri, 22 Nov 2024 14:19:13 +0000 /?p=9701 As a publisher, choosing the right printing partner is crucial to the overall success of your publication or product. But with so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to narrow down the right choice. Thanks to the efficiency of transportation in the modern age, American publishers now have the option of working with...

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As a publisher, choosing the right printing partner is crucial to the overall success of your publication or product. But with so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to narrow down the right choice. Thanks to the efficiency of transportation in the modern age, American publishers now have the option of working with an overseas printer. These printing companies may seem like a good choice thanks to their generally low printing costs, but these cost savings come with their own price. 

In this article, we’ll discuss why as an American publisher, you’re most likely better off choosing a printing partner that operates and prints solely in the United States.

The Timeliness Advantage

Reduced Lead Times

If your business and customers are located in the United States, working with an American printer is more than likely going to drastically reduce shipping times compared to an overseas printer. These faster turnaround times can be a game changer, especially for publications that focus on timely issues like sports and politics. But even for other types of print products, like books and catalogs, faster shipping means happier customers.

Improved Communication

Communication with your printing partner will be much easier if they’re located in the same country. Working with an overseas printer can come with massive time zone differences that make instant communication difficult. Easier communication can lead to faster problem-solving, helping ensure print runs are executing smoothly and to your exact specifications.

Some publishers also like to visit the printing facility for an in-person press check, giving them a better understanding of what their final product will look like. An in-person visit is much more feasible if the plant is a three-hour drive away versus a 12-hour flight. 

Greater Flexibility

During the printing process, last-minute requests and changes may arise. By operating close to home, domestic printers are more able to accommodate these requests than international printers, ensuring your final product reflects your desired changes. And, with quicker turnaround times, last-minute reprints become much easier and won’t require weeks or months of waiting for products to clear customs. 

Supporting American Values

Ethical Sourcing

Some publishers choose to work with an American printing partner because they prioritize supporting ethical business practices. For example, Geoff from MCDM Productions told us when his company was looking for a new printing partner, it was important for them to find a company that matched their own values. “We take employee compensation and benefits, and ethics behind paper source and ink seriously,” Geoff explained. “Some of that you don’t get when you go other places. Getting the lowest price is not our priority – it’s about how everything is sourced and put together, and the overall customer service experience.”

Supporting Local Economies

When working with an American printing partner, it’s easier to see the impact your print project has on the employees who produce it. As a family-owned company based in Marceline, Missouri, Ƶ operates its print facilities exclusively in smaller towns where our work has a significant impact on the local economy, providing steady, stable jobs for families who have lived there for generations.

Reduced Environmental Impact

For American companies, choosing a domestic printing partner is an important step in minimizing carbon emissions resulting from long-distance shipping. Additionally, printing companies based in the United States adhere to certain environmental standards that help protect the environment from harmful production practices. Some companies even go a step further, obtaining certification from programs like the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and Forest Stewardship Council. These certifications ensure companies adhere to responsible chain of custody procedures, resulting in kinder treatment of the earth and its forests.

Partner With Ƶ, a True American Printer

In summary, there are numerous benefits to choosing an American printing partner, both from a logistics standpoint and an ethical one. When you partner with Ƶ, you gain access to over 87 years of printing expertise, supported by our dedicated staff of Customer Service Representatives and Sales Representatives. With four state-of-the-art printing facilities located strategically across the Midwest, we offer mailing and distribution solutions to fit your schedule and budget. To find out more about our book, catalog and magazine printing solutions, get in touch with us today.

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USPS Announces Shipping Rate Increases for 2025 /blog/usps-shipping-rate-increases-jan-2025 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:56:50 +0000 /?p=9645 On Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, the United States Postal Service (USPS) filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) for price increases on Competitive shipping services that would take effect on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025.  This measure would raise shipping prices by approximately 3.2 percent for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, 3.9 percent for...

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On Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, the United States Postal Service (USPS) filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) for price increases on Competitive shipping services that would take effect on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. 

This measure would raise shipping prices by approximately 3.2 percent for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, 3.9 percent for USPS Ground Advantage and 9.2 percent for Parcel Select. These changes to Competitive products come on the heels of September’s announcement that the USPS would not seek price increases on Market Dominant products in January.

These price increases are part of an effort by the USPS to remain competitive in consideration of market conditions while still providing consistent service across the United States. : “As a strategic part of the Delivering for America 10-year plan, the proposed shipping services price changes will support the Postal Service in creating a revitalized organization capable of achieving the organization’s public service mission — providing a nationwide, integrated network for the delivery of mail and packages at least six days a week — in a cost effective and financially sustainable manner over the long term.”

These proposed changes will be reviewed by the PRC before they are scheduled to take effect.

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Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Announces Strike /blog/cupw-strike-nov-2024 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 21:55:11 +0000 /?p=9639 On Friday, Nov. 15 at 12:01 a.m. ET, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) announced its intention to begin a national strike, affecting Canada Post’s operations across the country and interrupting service for millions of Canadian businesses and individuals. This news comes just days after Canada Post received strike notices from the union on...

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On Friday, Nov. 15 at 12:01 a.m. ET, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) announced its intention to begin a national strike, affecting Canada Post’s operations across the country and interrupting service for millions of Canadian businesses and individuals. This news comes just days after Canada Post received strike notices from the union on Nov. 12. 

What Should Customers Expect?

, customers should expect delays due to the strike activity. “Mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered for the duration of the national strike, and some post offices will be closed. Service guarantees will be impacted for items already in the postal network. No new items will be accepted until the national disruption is over.” However, Canada Post assures customers that items will be delivered as quickly as possible once operations resume. To stay up to date on the status of negotiations, visit .

What Does This Mean for Ƶ Customers?

This strike will likely affect Ƶ customers who send mail items across the border. According to our Canadian mail vendors, they will continue to accept Canadian mail and hold it until the strike ceases and normal mailing operations resume. However, this protocol could change if the strike lasts longer than expected.

Ƶ customers who have any specific questions about how this strike will affect their mailing should contact their Customer Service Representative for more information. Customers who use an outside mailing vendor should contact them directly for more information about how they’re navigating this strike.

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Are Retro Catalogs Making a Comeback? /blog/are-retro-catalogs-making-a-comeback Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:05:09 +0000 /?p=9624 The official relaunching of J. Crew’s iconic print catalog begs the question: are retro catalogs about to come back in a big way? Many of us remember the massive influence held by the Sears catalog before its retirement in 1993, which helped establish the brand’s dominance in the American market throughout much of the 20th...

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The official relaunching of J. Crew’s iconic print catalog begs the question: are retro catalogs about to come back in a big way? Many of us remember the massive influence held by the Sears catalog before its retirement in 1993, which helped establish the brand’s dominance in the American market throughout much of the 20th century.

In the 21st century, many retailers ceased the production of their consumer catalogs and began focusing their efforts on digital marketing strategies such as email and web advertisements. With the rise of smartphone technology, it made sense to reach consumers where they are and save on printing and mailing costs. However, this trend may be shifting before our eyes

In , the reporters discuss the return of J. Crew’s catalog and the resulting rise in consumer engagement. In the words of J. Crew’s Men’s Creative Director, Brendon Babenzien, “It feels like now’s a really nice time to see something different and to touch something and flip through it and actually live with it, because digital stuff is so fast.” In recent years, global retailer Amazon also recently introduced its own print catalog, in an effort to give consumers a tactile browsing experience and ultimately drive them to purchase items on their website. 

The Power of B2B Printed Magazines

Though they may not hold a special place in the hearts of the American Public like the consumer catalogs mentioned above, B2B magazines can be a powerful tool for building brand awareness and increasing revenue. For example, Steiner Tractor Parts built goodwill for their brand by holding a photo contest and printing the winning photos in their annual catalog, as well as offering its readers a 99-cent Steiner hat, available to order through the catalog.

Build Your Next Catalog With Ƶ

If you’re looking for an expert catalog printer for your next project, Ƶ is ready to help. With over 87 years of experience, we can help you launch your B2B catalog or take your existing project to the next level. And with digital capabilities, we can help you combine printed and digital catalogs for maximum reach. If you’d like to know more about how Ƶ can help you engage your audience in new ways, get in touch with us or request a free quote today.

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How Switching to a New Printer Can Refresh Your Publication /blog/how-switching-can-refresh-publications Fri, 08 Nov 2024 21:33:02 +0000 /?p=9552 Have you been feeling like your publication is due for an update? If the arrival of your latest print run no longer gives you that excited feeling, it might be time to consider a fresh perspective and a new printing partner.  This article will go into some of the ways switching to a new printing...

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Have you been feeling like your publication is due for an update? If the arrival of your latest print run no longer gives you that excited feeling, it might be time to consider a fresh perspective and a new printing partner.  This article will go into some of the ways switching to a new printing partner can help breathe new life into your publication, giving you a fresh product that your customers are sure to love.

Offering a Fresh Perspective

One of the biggest benefits of switching to a new printer is gaining a fresh perspective. Print Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives are experts in the printing industry and can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you improve your publication. They can help you identify new opportunities to enhance your design and improve your printing process. 

A New World of Printing Options

Your new printing partner may offer additional printing options to help you create a stunning publication that stands out from the crowd. Be sure to ask about their paper, finishing and binding options so you can fully understand the range of possibilities. 

Streamlined Mailing Solutions

Your new printing partner may give you a leg up on distribution. An expert printing company will likely have access to mail solutions like CoMailing, CoMingling, dropshipping and more. Plus, depending on their location, they may be able to get your publication to its readers’ doors faster and with lower overall shipping costs.

Maximizing Your Budget

With a fresh perspective and a different set of printing options, your new printer may be able to help you find new ways to save on printing costs and maximize your budget. For example, when Sophia Institute Press approached Ƶ with their idea for a brand-new monthly publication, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment at our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while also helping them save. 

Additional Tips for Refreshing Your Publication

In addition to switching to a new printer, here are a few other tips for refreshing your publication:

  • Update your design: A fresh new design can help your publication look more modern and appealing.
  • : Keep your content fresh and relevant by introducing new sections or features.
  • Engage your audience: Use social media, direct mail campaigns or even in-person events to further connect with your readers and grow your community.

The Ƶ Difference

Ƶ is committed to providing exceptional printing services and customer support. With a long history of excellence and a focus on innovation, Ƶ can help you achieve your publishing goals. By partnering with Ƶ, you can:

  • Gain a fresh perspective: Our experienced team can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you give your publication a new look and feel.
  • Access a wide range of printing options: Choose from multiple printing methods, paper options, coatings and binding types to create a truly unique publication.
  • Explore digital editions: Expand your publication to offer digital editions for subscribers, giving them a new way to engage.

Ready to Refresh Your Publication?

If you’re ready to take your publication to the next level, don’t be afraid to make a change. Ƶ can help you breathe new life into your publication. With over 87 years of experience in the print industry, we offer unmatched expertise and commitment to quality. Plus, as a family-owned company, we strive to establish trusted partnerships with each and every customer. Contact Ƶ today to learn more about what we have to offer.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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Why Comic Book Fantasy Still Captivates Hearts /blog/how-comic-book-fantasy-captivates-hearts Fri, 01 Nov 2024 14:51:17 +0000 /?p=9246 When I examine myself and my methods of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant more to me than any talent for abstract, positive thinking. Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955) Physicist & Nobel Laureate Fantasy is as old as humanity itself. People love imagining, especially about things that are...

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When I examine myself and my methods of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant more to me than any talent for abstract, positive thinking.

Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955) Physicist & Nobel Laureate

Fantasy is as old as humanity itself. People love imagining, especially about things that are improbable or even impossible. Fantasy’s evolution began in oral traditions that later developed into fantasy literature and drama. It remains enormously popular.

Today’s fantasy genre includes a wide range of media including comic books, graphic novels, animation, film, television and video games. Simply put, people can’t get enough fantasy stories.

Fantasy can be important in comic books and graphic novels for a variety of reasons, including:

Our Need to Explore

Fantasy tales often use timeless themes like good versus evil and the human condition. For both children and adults, fantasy allows readers to explore these and other topics and ideas that may seem too frightening or overpowering in real life. Fantasy in comic books and graphic novels takes us one step away from reality to a safe, pretend world where we can actually prepare for the realities of our current world. In short, fantasy puts fear within a safe context that children, teenagers and adults find entertaining and often educational.

Our Need to Escape

People need a way to break away from the pressures of everyday life.  Comic books and graphic novels provide a unique opportunity for people to escape through fantasy. Taking a break from everyday life into a better, imaginary world can be mentally healthy. Readers may even come away from their fantasy experiences with a clearer perspective on real-life issues.

Our Need for Political and Social Commentary

Fantasy comic books and graphic novels have historically been action-packed with deep political and social commentary, according to a 2022 , “Comic Books Have A History of Social, Political Commentary.” The article points to some of the most famous comic books, like Captain America, having significant political implications. Created by two Jewish artists in the 1941 lead-up to the U.S. entry into World War II, the first issue showed Captain America taking a punch at Adolf Hitler. This was at a time when U.S. opposition to Nazi Germany wasn’t a given. 

Beyond the most well-liked comic books, graphic novels have offered commentary on social and political issues ranging from immigration and racism to sexual assault and gender identification. This inclination to use fantasy to address relevant social issues also makes some graphic novels targets of book bans.

Our Need for Inspiration

Fantasy can inspire creative thinking. Comic books and graphic novels often employ alternative storytelling approaches and artwork that can encourage readers to make right-brain connections between unrelated ideas and concepts. This non-linear approach can inspire readers to think of their own storylines and character journeys for the story they’re reading, or perhaps even create their own tale.

In short, it’s hard to dream if you have no imagination. It’s difficult to get past the ordinary if you have no ability to visualize what could be. Fantasy can provide that inspiration.

Our Need for Visual Stimulation

The stunning visual elements of fantasy comic books and graphic novels not only immerse the reader in the story but also stimulate the imagination. And it’s easier to draw a reader into fantasy that’s presented primarily in visuals. Comic book and graphic novel artists are experts at world-building that might include the creation of interstellar and futuristic settings, advanced technology, mythological beings and escapades that expand the imagination.

The Future of Fantasy in Comic Books And Graphic Novels

According to a (“The Most Eagerly Awaited Genres of Comic Books in 2024,” Jan. 23, 2024), “Fantasy world continues to captivate audiences with its magic creatures, epic adventures and well-crafted imaginary worlds.” Kern believes comic book writers will continue tapping into the timeless allure of fantasy by offering tales set in “dragon-infested realms, wizard-populated dimensions and featuring mythical heroes.”

And don’t expect readers’ fascination with fantasy to go away anytime soon points to fantasy being the second highest trending book genre in 2024. That’s a rise from the third position the fantasy occupied in 2023.

Matesic collects her data by analyzing a year’s worth of posts on X (formerly Twitter) tagged with #MSWL, which stands for manuscript wishlist. The posts are almost exclusively issued by literary agents and acquiring editors.

Within the fantasy sub-genres, Matesic notes that literary agents were asking for adult fantasy, middle-grade and YA. So, there is also a broad range of age categories within the fantasy genre. 

Build a Fantasy World With Ƶ

We live and breathe special-interest publications. Our multiple publication facilities currently print and distribute more than 225 monthly and quarterly titles.

We also have experience printing and distributing comic books and graphic novels. Our clients include some of the industry’s most recognizable names, from Dungeons & Dragons, Alien Books and Minecraft to art books for Larry Elmore, the noted fantasy illustrator whose work appears in Dungeons & Dragons, Dragonlance and his own comic strip series, SnarfQuest.

Ƶ constantly invests in the equipment, services and solutions to meet the demands of this dynamic publishing segment. Our ability to handle quick turnarounds with ease is supported by advanced premedia capabilities, multiple print platforms, a robust bindery and deep mailing and distribution know-how.

We can help you reach your audience where they are. While print forms the core of your distribution strategy, you may also incorporate digital strategies to expand your reach, enhance engagement or address readers’ preferences. We can provide you with digital publishing apps, website solutions and other content delivery options to maximize your reader connections.

Getting in touch is simple. Just submit your information and a friendly Ƶ associate will be in touch within 24 hours.

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Ƶ Brings Stephanie Maday Aboard as New Executive VP of Commercial Sales /blog/stephanie-maday-press-release Wed, 30 Oct 2024 14:52:12 +0000 /?p=9222 Marceline, Missouri; Oct. 30, 2024 – Ƶ announced it has hired sales executive Stephanie Maday as the company’s new Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales and Board Member. Maday will be replacing Ƶ’s current Executive VP of Commercial Sales, David Grisa, who is retiring from the company in November. Maday will be based out of Ƶ’s...

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Marceline, Missouri; Oct. 30, 2024 – Ƶ announced it has hired sales executive Stephanie Maday as the company’s new Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales and Board Member. Maday will be replacing Ƶ’s current Executive VP of Commercial Sales, David Grisa, who is retiring from the company in November. Maday will be based out of Ƶ’s Sales and Marketing office in Overland Park, Kansas.

Maday comes to Ƶ with nearly 25 years of sales and management experience, more than 20 of it at Taylor Corporation in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area working for client 3M Promotional Markets. She started as a sales representative and rose through the ranks to become National Sales Manager. During her tenure at 3M, Maday gained print product sales experience with large and small roll-fed presses, silk screening, flexo presses and digital presses.

Stephanie Maday, Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales

When Maday initially considered the opportunity with Ƶ, she was particularly intrigued by the term ‘disruptor’ in the job description. “During my visit to the Marceline location, I had the opportunity to meet with each leader and gain valuable insights into their openness to change,” Maday shared.

Maday will be responsible for establishing and implementing processes, tools and structures to support the commercial sales organization’s operations, as well as directing and developing sales strategy, operational plans, tactics and processes that will drive revenue growth and accomplish financial objectives. 

“We’re very excited to bring someone with Stephanie’s qualifications on board to lead our commercial sales team,” said Don Ƶ, President of Ƶ. “After meeting with Stephanie and exchanging ideas on the future of our commercial business, I was convinced she is the leader who will not only help us achieve our growth goals, but exceed them.”

Maday said the opportunity to join Ƶ became irresistible after meeting with the company’s senior leadership, hearing their vision for the future and witnessing their deep commitment to the Ƶ employees.

“My goal, when joining an organization, is to enhance the employee experience by empowering individuals and ensuring they have the necessary tools and support to succeed,” said Maday. “The success of any organization is driven by its people, and it was Ƶ’s unwavering commitment to its employees that attracted me to this opportunity.”

Maday said she will be spending her first several weeks traveling and visiting each of Ƶ’s printing facilities in Marceline, Missouri; Fulton, Missouri; Saint Joseph, Michigan, and Ripon, Wisconsin, in an effort to learn as much as possible.

“My approach is to take the time to observe, learn and listen with a genuine curiosity about the current state,” said Maday. “My objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of each role and its contribution to Ƶ’s success, while also securing alignment from the team on the path forward. Securing buy-in from all employees is essential, as they are ultimately responsible for executing the company’s vision.”

A native Minnesotan who has spent much of her life in the Mankato, Minnesota, area, Maday graduated from Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato with a business degree.

About Ƶ

Ƶ is a top-three yearbook printer, a top-five book and magazine printer, a catalog printer and the only family-owned printer of yearbooks. 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 administrative offices and book printing and binding facilities in Marceline, Missouri; a prepress facility in Brookfield, Missouri; a sales and marketing office in Overland Park, Kansas; and magazine and catalog printing facilities in Saint Joseph, Michigan; Ripon, Wisconsin; and Fulton, Missouri. Additionally, Ƶ owns the Donning Company Publishers, a specialty book publisher.

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