Industry News
Central Saloon’s merch revenue grows by 500% with in-house printing
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wo years after bringing screen printing production in-house, the Central Saloon – Seattle’s oldest bar and the legendary birthplace of Grunge – is seeing the long-term benefits of taking control of its merchandise operation, with garment revenue increasing by more than 500%.
Located in Pioneer Square, Seattle, the Central Saloon has been part of music history since Nirvana played its first Seattle show there in 1988. While the venue has continued to support emerging bands on stage, its decision in 2024 to invest in a professional in-house screen-printing setup has transformed its approach to merchandising offstage. Previously reliant on outsourced production, the saloon faced long lead times and inconsistent inventory. By installing a full Vastex screen printing shop and completing on-site training, staff gained the ability to design, print and finish garments in a matter of hours. “We went from reacting to demand to planning for it,” said co-owner, Eric Manegold.
Screen printing brought in-house
The shift has driven monthly T shirt sales from approximately $2,000 to more than $10,000, while also improving quality control and allowing the venue to print merchandise for bands, vendors and neighbouring businesses. Grunge-inspired graphics produced in-house reinforce the saloon’s raw, historic aesthetic while
The Printing Charity busts Blue Monday myth with helpline
there are some steps you can take to support your wellbeing, in and out of work, on Blue Monday, and every day of the year.
These include: taking time to practice self-care, keeping up strong social connections, taking proper breaks, setting boundaries between work and home, and asking if you need help.
Printing Charity pushes away from Blue Monday myth
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he Printing Charity has used the myth of Blue Monday – supposedly the most depressing day of the year – to help people understand the usefulness of reaching out for help.
Popular myth claims that the third Monday of the year (January 19), is the most depressing day of the year. Whatever you think about Blue Monday,
www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk
Neil Lovell, Printing Charity CEO, said: “No one can predict when they’re going to need help, but whenever that moment happens, we believe that everyone should have someone to turn to. This is why our helpline is here to support everyone in our sector, every day of the year.”
The charity’s free, confidential and independent helpline provides in-the-moment emotional support 24 hours a day, every day, and can be reached on 0333 212 3534.
ensuring stock is always available during peak tourist and event seasons. For the Central Saloon, bringing printing in-house has proven that a DIY approach – true to grunge itself – can deliver measurable, long-term business growth without compromising authenticity.
FESPA UK awards Soyang Europe waste accreditation
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oyang Europe, has secured ‘Waste Accreditation Champion’ status from FESPA UK.
The voluntary scheme is designed to promote responsible waste management and recycling across print, signage, and graphics in the UK market.
After evaluation, Soyang was deemed to have met these standards and was subsequently awarded ‘Waste Accreditation Champion’ status for 2025. Suzi Ward, managing director of FESPA UK, said: “Mark Mashiter and his team worked closely with Jon Hutton to understand what would genuinely work for their clients.
“Without the long-standing support we’ve had from Soyang, the accreditation would not be as far reaching as it is today.”
February 2026 |5 |
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