Bridport photo retailer shares Scribbler Lite success

Print Solutions

When Bridport photo retailer, Footeprints, wanted to expand its greetings card offering, the store’s owner, Jason Foote, chose to install two Scribbler Lite machines to provide his customers with access to thousands of unique greeting card designs with customisable inside options.

One year on, the instant printing technology, which is now available on a rental option, has helped to deliver additional revenue for the Footeprints’ business as well as diversifying its customer base.

The family run photo, print and stationery supplier has offered a full range of professional printing services to the local community for over 20 years. In 2015, the business became a Photo by Fujifilm independent retailer and today offers services including photo printing, calendars, fine art printing, large format prints and personalised photo gifts.

In November 2023, Jason was made aware of the Scribbler Lite. Developed through a partnership between Fujifilm and high street greetings card retailer, Scribbler, the compact Lite allows customers to create high quality personalised greetings cards from thousands of different designs in a matter of minutes.

The software provides regular content updates, allowing retailers to sell cards representing a more diverse range of customers than many traditional greeting card retailers.

Alongside new designs being added to the Scribbler Lite, a recent software update now allows users to upload their own images and messages to create unique, personalised cards. By scanning a QR code, customers can instantly upload images direct from their mobile phones to create a personal, bespoke card for their intended recipient.

Jason Foote said, ‘While we have never had an issue with our range, when I saw the potential of what the Scribbler Lite can offer, I knew it would be a fun and unique addition to our store to attract new customers and increase our range of cards substantially.’

On the day of delivery, the Scribbler Lites were delivered to Footeprints by a secure courier. With the technology only needing a power outlet, Wi-Fi access and a chosen area for the separate printer, the quick installation process meant that Jason did not need to close the store and cause disruption to his customers.

The Lite’s compact size also meant Jason did not need to compromise space for other products. While the screens were installed on the shop’s floor, the separate printer could be kept behind the counter with the option to use it for printing other products. Once the set up was complete, the Lite was immediately available for the public to use.

Since the installation, Jason has found that it has developed a following of customers who enjoy visiting the shop to purposely print a card using the self-service technology.

Jason said, ‘I have had a lot of positive feedback from people coming into the store who have used the Lite – both young and old. Thanks to its easy layout and modern design, all customers have been able to easily locate and print their card of choice, regardless of age or technical knowledge. We find because customers are scrolling through the available designs, they often end up choosing more than the one card.

‘One of my favourite aspects of the Scribbler Lite is the wide variety of designs available, including a range of slightly ruder cards – which always seem to be popular! Many of the Scribbler card designs get a giggle out of the customers which creates a welcoming atmosphere in the shop.’

With customers repeatedly coming back to purchase their greeting cards from the Lite, Jason has been able to add a new revenue stream alongside his existing print services.

Jason continued, ‘The Scribbler Lite has been a fun and profitable addition to the store which I would recommend to any business that wants to expand their greeting card selection. With it being so convenient and easy to use, our customers have no problem finding a card to suit any occasion.

‘Due to its compact size, the Lite takes up hardly any space, meaning I wasn’t forced to get rid of anything when I decided to purchase. With the printer located behind the counter, customers can also continue to shop and browse while waiting for their card to print.

‘Although it is a small piece of kit, the Scribbler Lite has had a big impact on Footeprints.’

The Scribbler Lite has seen great success in helping retailers expand their card offering while taking up minimal space so that other goods can also be sold.

Thanks to its versatile design, the Lite can also be connected to retailers’ existing hardware, meaning it can be utilised for other operations in addition to greeting card printing. Consumer add-ons, such as toner and ink, can also be included in the monthly price for an additional fee.