Merging office supplies with souvenirs, Merritt Printing’s new store offers local customers a one-stop shop to buy a variety of merchandise.
Housed in the old Merritt Marketing office (1951 Garcia St.), Merritt Printing Office Supplies offers inks, toners and stationery, as well as Merritt souvenirs including T-shirts, postcards, local jams and honeys.
Business owner Tod Dean said the expansion came as a result of popular demand.
“Businesses came to us and said they wanted a local office supply store,” said Dean.
At first, Dean brought in some inventory and set up a store front in the Merritt Printing office, filling custom overnight orders. However, when he saw the demand was great enough, he decided to expand to a stand alone store.
“A lot of businesses in Merritt are extremely loyal to local businesses,” Dean said.
The new store has been open for about six weeks now and Office Supply Manager Terry Watson says the response has been good.
“People love being able to come in and shop and a lot of people really like stationery,” she said.
Watson said the most extensive product coverage is in inks and toners, but adds that she has access to about 50,000 items in the supplier catalogue.
“If I don’t have it, I can order it in and the customer will have it within two days,” said Watson. “Our focus is on customer service and getting people what they need.”
“People are always happy with choices and we have the ability to bring in whatever they need.”
Further, Watson said that offering office supplies with the printing business is a complimentary service that gets back to the root of the business. Years ago, when the Merritt Herald operated the printing company, there was an office supply store in what is now Curves Gym.
By offering souvenirs as well, it means customers can get everything they need in one place, she said.
Customers wishing to browse or order supplies can shop in the store, on the website or by phone or fax, and Merritt Printing Office Supplies offers free shipping.
On Dec. 1 during the new store’s grand opening promotion, Dean says he will be offering 10 per cent off all ink and toners, and launching a customer loyalty card. That evening, Merritt Printing will be hosting a Business After Business from 5 – 7 p.m. for the public to attend.
Just as the business has evolved to fill a need in the community, Dean said it will continue to evolve based on customer feedback. For one thing, he is looking for local artisans to add to the local arts and crafts available in the store. Also, on the office supply end of the scale, Merritt Printing is offering a recycling program for inks and toner cartridges.
“Customers don’t need to have purchased them here,” said Watson. “Bring them in and we’ll keep them out of the landfill.”
Business hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information call 250-378-6882.
