Archive for ‘Pre-Printed Cards’

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January 7, 2013

Bring lush elegance to your marketing campaigns with Pantone’s colour of 2013

The world has gone green! We’ve entered the age of balance, harmony and lush elegance. From 2010′s vibrant pink, to 2011′s lively tangerine, we’ve seen the colour trend go topsy turvy in 2012. On Friday, Pantone, the professionals behind the standardized color reproduction system, has announced that the 2013 PANTONE Color of the Year is Emerald.

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The more relaxing emerald “is absolutely the opposite of 2012′s Color of the Year,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone’s color specialist.  Most often associated with brilliant, precious gemstones, the perception of Emerald is sophisticated and luxurious. Since antiquity, this luminous, magnificent hue has been the color of beauty and new life in many cultures and religions. It’s also the color of growth, renewal and prosperity – no other color conveys regeneration more than green. For centuries, many countries have chosen green to represent healing and unity.

“Green is the most abundant hue in nature – the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum,” says Eiseman, “As it has throughout history, multifaceted Emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate. Symbolically, Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world. This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily to both fashion and home interiors.”

Green is said to represent growth and fertility, which is why we think emerald is the best hue to help you inspire new sales in your latest marketing campaigns. The gem-stone shade of green is rich, and lush, and is perfect for conveying a sense of exclusivity and elegance in your campaigns.

Other colours also in the spotlight are:

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Mix and match in this palette easily. They all translate into plastic with ease. The CardsPlus graphics specialists recommend freshening up emerald with a dose of Lemon Zest and Dusk Blue for a young fresh approach, or enhancing it’s elegance with a dash of Monaco Blue (my personal favourite!) and Linen. Oh the possibilities!

Go ahead and give your campaign the 2013 twist by going green and including emerald in your upcoming plastic card designs and marketing ventures. We can’t wait to show you how it will turn out on plastic!
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CardsPlus is committed to providing fully inclusive customised plastic card solutions. We do this with help from our unique combination of speedy service, flexibility, knowledge, commitment to quality and support.

We’re proud to have helped thousands of African companies get the most from their plastic cards. Read more about us on http://www.cardsplus.co.za/

Posted in Demystifying the Technology, Design, Industry News, Insider Insight, Pre-Printed Cards, Pre-Printing 101, PVC cards | Leave a Comment »

January 31, 2012

Adding glamour to your plastic cards is easy (and cheap!)

Bring on the Bling this February!

What’s so great about a plastic card? Plastic cards reveal uniqueness.

In Identification, plastic cards are used as a validation tool. The card proclaims “This person, seen here, is important to this company!” Plastic ID cards allow access into certain areas. They provide certain perks and they recognise the importance of that individual.

In loyal sectors, a loyalty card and membership card  is exclusive- even a little luxurious. They entitle the bearer to special treatment, discounts or opportunities.

People who carry plastic cards relish in their own uniqueness and in their own sense of belonging to an exclusive segment of society. Making your card feel luxurious and exclusive is the key to launching your plastic card campaign.  By embracing the feeling of uniqueness in your card holder, you increase their willingness to spend money at your establishment!

Thankfully, there are many ways to add glitz and glamour to your plastic card campaign without costing you a small fortune. This month, we are featuring our new most popular (and FUN!) glitzy features.  We offer a selection of “bling” that you can add to your plastic cards while we manufacture them and capitalise on that sense of exclusivity.

Add Sparkle:VIP Plastic Card Sparkle Sparkles are now available on digital offset!  Most recent to the CardsPlus arsenal is the ability to produce sparkle plastic cards in our standard 2 week turnaround. This shimmer metallic effect is particularly striking paired with light artwork, and provides an elegant backdrop to your gift card, loyalty card and membership card. This process of printing is a quick, cost-effective method of adding shine and character to your plastic card campaign.

Add Embossing: embossed-gift-cardSometimes called “Raised letters”, embossing is a beautiful and functional feature to add to your card. The cards are run, one by one, into a large embossing machine that punches the numbers and letters into the plastic. The cards are then “tipped” with a coloured foil to make the characters stand out visually. We recommend choosing silver or gold foil for the most shine. Embossing is most appropriate on gift cards, loyalty cards, or membership cards, although we’ve seen several companies use embossing for their luxury business cards.

Add Foil Stamp: Foil Stamped Loyalty CardFoil stamps are the most flexible and fun way to personalise your card design. Foil stamps are custom die cut foil pieces that are stamped into the plastic. By resting above the overlay, the foil provides a brilliant shine in the design of your choosing. The foil dies are precise and can be used for geometric shapes like circles or stars (Hint! Sterkinekor uses gold foil stamped stars on their cards!) or organic swirls or text (Hint: Truworths uses foil stamped text on their gift cards!). The design options are huge!

Although most frequently seen on gift cards and business cards, foil stamps are moving into every industry including security, loyalty, and membership. Foil stamps are available in many different colours, as well as a fun mirror finish.

Adding little touches like these to your plastic card campaign will make your card just a little edgier than the rest of your competition and secure a little extra loyalty from your very important clients.

If you would like to add extra features to your plastic cards, contact us for a complimentary consultation and quotation. We want your campaign to succeed!

Posted in CardsPlus Services, Demystifying the Technology, Design, Gift Cards, Insider Insight, Loyalty Cards, Plastic Cards, Pre-Printed Cards | 2 Comments »

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November 7, 2011

Manufacturers Versus Resellers : Choosing a plastic card supplier

 

 

Purchasing directly from a manufacturer has its share of benefits.  Resellers often add an extra element of service and value add to the project. There are benefits to both. And while the decision as to which is best for you is a personal choice, you need to feel comfortable that the company you work with is offering you the service you are paying for.

But what are the benefits to choosing one over the other?

Manufacturers:

The biggest benefit of purchasing from a manufacturer is service flexibilty

When you approach CardsPlus directly, you will receive the most flexible option available. When you require something less than straight forward, you can be assured that the printing company knows exactly what you need without relying on additional people. There are no long delays waiting to hear back from the printers, since we can look at our production schedule right away.  With information “straight from the horse’s mouth” you can be assured that everything is being handled.

Great Pricing

Since there are no additional mark ups, you can feel confident that you are receiving excellent pricing.

Indepth Information

Plastic cards is what we do. It’s our specialty, our livelihood. We know plastic cards inside and out. If you require information about the technology or it’s application, you best contact someone who has pinpointed vision on the industry.

 

Resellers:

CardsPlus has a strong network of reselling agents and we believe in promoting our reseller base as there is value in buying from a reseller.

The biggest benefit of purchasing from a reseller is Added Value.

Each reseller packages their value-add in different ways. Some offer free artwork, some have a wide variety of suppliers and can offer a more inclusive product solution, others suppliment cards with loyalty provision or other software or system add on.

Advocacy

All resellers act as the mediator between the manufacturer and the end user. They keep track of your order, ensuring that artwork is completed, proofs are signed off, and delivery is arranged. While some manfacturers, like CardsPlus, offer order tracking, and delivery, it is sometime nice to have additional advocacy to the manufacturing company.

 

Are you not sure if your supplier is a reseller or manfuacturer? We have addressed disturbing trends in the industry about this very thing.

 

Choosing a plastic card supplier is a personal choice, and can refer to the time and resources available to spend on your project. I believe in the value of purchasing straight from the manufacturer. This is why CardsPlus transistioned from a printing service to a manufacturering company. Yet, the industry is so big and full with unique projects and situations, there is sometimes a better fit with a reseller than the manufacturer directly.

If you would like more inforamtion about how an order would be handled at CardsPlus, please give us a call.


Posted in CardsPlus Services, Industry News, Insider Insight, Pre-Printed Cards, Pre-Printing 101, Printing 101 | 1 Comment »

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November 4, 2011

Is your supplier a Reseller or Manufacturer? : Choosing a plastic card supplier

I, initially, began this post as “Warning, not everyone is who they say” as an outcry to a client’s recent experience with a plastic card supplier. Their experience was quite upsetting as they were led to believe that their supplier was a manufacturer but then discovered the company was not being competely honest – just when they needed them the most.

They were misled by phrases like “direct from the manufacturer” meanwhile, the company was a reseller posing as a manufacturer.

This does seem to be a trend in our industry, with small businesses misleading clients to believing that they manufacture onsite, while they actually import their products from an overseas or local manufacturer.

Purchasing directly from a manufacturer has its share of benefits.  Resellers often add an extra element of service and value add to the project. There are benefits to both. And while the decision as to which is best for you is a personal choice, you need to feel comfortable that the company you work with is offering you the service you are paying for.

Here are a few tricks to finding the truth behind all the marketing:

1: ASK if your potential supplier is a reseller or manufacturer

The best way to find out if you are working with a reseller or not is to ask them. Most companies are honest enough to say that they are not the producers of the goods in question.

Perhaps you aren’t dealing with a highly scrupulous company, and you catch a hint that perhaps they aren’t being completely honest?

RUN!

If they are fibbing about something clear-cut and straightforward, how do you think they are going to handle the situation if something goes wrong?

2. Pop in for a visit (or say you are going to)

There are only a small handful of local manufacturers, of which CardsPlus is the largest.

We each WANT you to come in so that we can dazzle you with our productivity, interior decorating and staff personalities.

If your supplier does not want you to come in (whether you actually choose to or not) red flags should be popping up in your mind.

Ask yourself what they might be hiding.

3. Look at their website and marketing information

Does the company claim to manufacturer onsite? Are they a large international company (hint: they import!) or do they seem smaller than they say they are? Are they vague about printing terms or do an excessive amount of “checking” whether something might be acceptable for print? These are all tell-tale signs that your supplier might be a reseller.

Through a little investigation, you can start to place where the potential supplier falls and with these hints in mind, you can avoid being misled and disappointed.

Posted in FAQ, Insider Insight, Pre-Printed Cards, Pre-Printing 101 | 1 Comment »

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October 24, 2011

How Colour Affects Purchases [infographic]

We’re often asked how to best use loyalty cards to propell buyers into making purchases. Of course the way that you set up your loyalty and gift rewards is a personal decision that effects your campaign significantly, there are other factors in whether a card holder buys from you or from your competition.

We’re card people, and we believe in the benefit of plastic cards! With a brief primer (such as the one below) you can tailor your plastic cards to reach not only your prime target market, but also to encourage them to purchase from you, using colour!

Let’s have a look at our colours can influence your buyers:

4 ways you can use colour on your next plastic card design to help entice buyers to purchase from you:

1. Use colours that entice your target market. I recognise that this breakdown is specifically for North American buyers, however, South African buyers often mimic the US buyers in trends. Adding to their breakdown, our trends often add one or two colours triggering elitism and excusivity- two factors that are important to the South African buyer.

2.  Layer colour influence by combining big message images with enticing colours. Avoid large blocks of colour, but combine the colours that entice your Target Market with “big message” images. Combining two types of influence, will maximiser your effect on the buyer.

3. Use your branding vividly. Colour increases brand recognition by 80%!

4. Use Power Words. Calls to action are extremely powerful, and you can use this power to your advantage by advertising your power words like guarentee and sale right on your card.

Armed with more information on colour, you can ensure that your plastic cards entice your card holders to buy more from you!

Posted in Design, Gift Cards, Loyalty Cards, Plastic Cards, Pre-Printed Cards | 1 Comment »

January 7, 2011

10 colours to include in your 2011 marketing and loyalty campaigns for added benefit

What is going to get the attention of your clients this year?

Pantone predictions
Colour authority Pantone released their predictions in late December and as we noticed late last year– exotic, vibrant colours are on the up and up.

The colour of 2011 is Honeysuckle – a fresh, cheerful and versatile shade of pink. You can expect this colour to feature across the industries in new marketing campaigns, clothing designs and even home industry trends.

Pantone also gave Russet, Regatta, Coral Rose, Peapod, Blue Curacao, Beeswax, Lavender, Silver Peony and Silver Cloud the thumbs up for 2011.

This palette is strong, intriguing and healthy with a particular nod to saturated African and Indian inspirations.

How it will help you

Forecasting
Armed with this knowledge, you have the edge in trend appeal. You can choose to embrace the power of popularity– much like the turquoise of yore, these colours have mass staying-power and will still look hip and fresh for the next few years according to trend analysis.

African Influence
Local is Lekker and with the unique African influence these colours are primed and ready to pounce on your target audience.

Colour Association
Harnessing the power of colour provides subconscious messages to your audience.
These colours are energetic and vibrant. Using these colours for a marketing or loyalty campaign associates your campaign is associated to youthful vibrancy and positivity.

Putting it on plastic
We love this new palette of dramatic , rich shades– even more so because they look so good on plastic. Pair Coral Rose with Regatta and Honeysuckle for high energy impact – or Peapod and Blue Curacao with a touch of Silver Peony for a subtle chic result.

Give it the 2011 twist with increased interest in striking colour combinations. You can’t go wrong in this palette– so go big and reap the benefits of trend appeal.

Posted in Design, Gift Cards, Industry News, Loyalty Cards, Pre-Printed Cards | 3 Comments »

January 7, 2011

FAQ: What do I need to start a card orientated loyalty programme?

Card orientated loyalty programmes for retailers is a popular solution for companies looking to increase revenue and client loyalty.

There are just two key steps that we recommend to clients who are ready to start their own highly effective loyalty programme.

Back-End software:
The software can be as simple as RewardsPlus or as complicated as hiring a loyalty provider.

This back end software will manage the rewards and keep track of all details of the clients. Think of it as your heavy lifter that will do all the hard work for you.

Plastic cards:

Once you determine your system and are ready for implementation, you will just need some cards to round off the system. You can use barcodes, magnetic stripes or even contactless technology– depending on the system you choose. At CardsPlus, you can be up and rolling in just 10 days or fewer.

There you have it! Just two step to a highly effective loyalty programme in your retail establishment.

Ready to join the CardsPlus revolution? Go ahead! Give us a call!

Posted in FAQ, Loyalty Cards, Pre-Printed Cards | 1 Comment »

January 7, 2011

FAQ: Why make the switch from paper to plastic business cards?

So many businesses have chosen plastic business cards over paper for their marketing. But what benefits are being enjoyed by our clients with the upgrade to plastic? Here are just  4 benefits of switching your paper business cards into plastic that our clients have shared with us

Appeal
Plastic business cards can be ordered in different thicknesses and finishes and hold bright, beautiful colours exceptionally well. Logos and other important details come out crisp and clear. There are also many different effects that can be used on the cards, giving them an ultra sophisticated, richly elegant, and professional look.

Innovative Designs
Plastic business cards are the perfect canvases for very innovative designs. Attracting attention is easy on plastic.

Durability
Plastic cards are also extremely durable. Unlike paper business cards that get washed, or worn, torn and dirty and then thrown away– plastic cards are waterproof, scratch resistant and won’t get tossed due to illegibility.

Perceived Value
Handing over a plastic business card gives your client the idea that they have been given something of value and will hold onto the card longer than an ordinary paper card.

Our clients are quickly seeing the benefits of switching to plastic. It seems to be an effective, attractive and inexpensive way to create great hype about your company with a mere flick of the business card.

Ready to join the CardsPlus revolution?

Posted in Design, FAQ, Plastic Cards, Pre-Printed Cards, Success Stories | Leave a Comment »

October 26, 2010

What is at the Core?

When looking for something new, a new computer, a new car, or even a new pair of pants, I am always trying to figure out what it’s made from.

  • Does this computer have dual core processing that will handle the work I need it to run?
  • Does this car have a sturdy engine that will give me many long happy years without malfunction?
  • Is this pair of pants made of material that will suit my lifestyle?

I always want to know what is at the core of the product I am purchasing. If it counts what’s inside, I want to know about it.

Same is true for a plastic card supplier. We want to know what is at their core. What are they made out of?

So CardsPlus, What are you made out of?

At our core we are a plastic card solutions company. We facilitate the printing of cards or implementation of plastic card systems.

This means:

- We know our stuff. It’s our core business! Want to know something about your plastic card application? We can help! Need software to print cards or to implement your cards in real life? We can help!

- We have really great quality. Because we have no ‘plan B’- you can be assured that your cards are going to be manufactured with only the best materials and equipment. Cutting corners is cutting out our livelihood- and no one wants a cut up livelihood.

- We can give really good service. Without all the extra goodies to support and supply, we are able to ensure that you receive one on one attention and care. Plus, once the sale is closed and you are thrilled with the card system, we can provide you additional support and assistance.

But does this mean CardsPlus is a small little business?

Hardly! Being focused on our niche has helped us overcome the small business pitfalls and become South Africa’s leading Short-Run plastic card manufacturer. With over 4.2 million cards printed in our first 6 months of manufacturing, CardsPlus is well equipped to handle your next order.

At our core, we are a plastic card solutions provider.

At our core, we are committed to serving you

 

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CardsPlus is South Africa’s #1 plastic card manufacturer and proud partners of Digital Identification Solutions.

Read more about our offering on our website.

Posted in Can Do files, CardsPlus Services, ID Card Technology, Plastic Cards, Pre-Printed Cards, Pre-Printing 101 | Leave a Comment »

September 16, 2010

ExpressCards– Get your printed cards in just 24 hours!

Do you have an emergency red-hot need for plastic cards?

Choose:You can now get your cards in just 24 hours!

ExpressCards is the groundbreaking new service offered only by CardsPlus giving you up to 5000 cards in just 24 hours

Enjoy:

  • Vibrant CYMK (Full Colour) print quality
  • A professional glossy offset finish
  • Fastest turnaround available
  • Confident, speedy service
  • No minimum quantity, set up fees, plate charges or hidden costs
  • Cards are manufactured in house ensuring the highest quality output

Your cards can feature:

  • Vivid CYMK (Full Colour) print on one or both sides of the card
  • Barcodes
  • Photo or text inserts
  • Serialised number personalisation
  • A HiCo or LoCo magnetic stripe for self encoding
  • and more

Secure up to 5000 custom printed cards within just 24 hours!

Call 086 16 CARDS (22737) today to find out how ExpressCards can fire up your business! Certain limitations do apply.

Posted in CardsPlus Services, ID Card Technology, Industry News, Plastic Cards, Pre-Printed Cards, Pre-Printing 101, PVC cards | Leave a Comment »

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