A new online print quoting site that went live last week has signed up over 500 printers.


Printrader.com aims to "build relationships between printers and buyers", according to marketing executive Michelle Wells.


Printers are listed on a directory where buyers can access information based on several criteria, including the type of job required and geographical area.


There is no fee for buyers, while printers can access the database of other printers free of charge. However, if printers want to be included in the online quoting system there is an annual one-off enrolment fee of 250 for two pages of company information or 474 for up to six pages. A monthly pay-as-you-go deal is also available.


"We are not a broker or an auction," stressed Wells. Buyers can send multiple requests for quotes but the site is open so buyers and printers can identify each other. An online forum for printers to exchange ideas is also planned.


Printrader is backed by a private investor. It was founded by chairman Eric Matthews, who has 30 years experience in the IT industry, and director Dave Almand, who has a print management background.


The firm has eight field sales staff covering much of the UK, although Wales and Scotland have not been targeted yet.


Story by Gordon Carson