Print on Demand
In Print on Demand, you create unique designs for products like apparel, accessories, and home decor. You partner with a POD supplier who will print your designs on items and ship them directly to customers when an order is placed. Since the products are printed only when ordered, there’s no need for you to invest in inventory or worry about storage space. Your main tasks are designing products and marketing them, while the supplier handles production and fulfillment. It's an easy and low-risk way to start a business with minimal investment.
EXAMPLE
An example of POD is designing custom T-shirts with inspirational quotes or artwork. You upload the designs to a platform like Printful or Teespring, where customers can purchase the items through your online store. Once a customer buys, the supplier prints the shirt and ships it directly to them, leaving you to focus on marketing and customer service.
IS IT GOOD FOR SOUTH AFRICANS?
Yes, Print on Demand can be a great side hustle for South Africans. You can partner with POD companies that ship globally or focus on local POD suppliers to avoid long shipping times. It’s especially ideal if you have design skills or can hire someone to create designs for you. The challenge may lie in competing with international brands, but local trends and targeting niche markets can help you stand out.
IS IT GOOD FOR PARENTS?
Print on Demand is good for parents who want to earn money with a flexible business that doesn’t require a lot of upfront costs or inventory management. It allows you to create and sell custom products from home, which means you can balance your business with family time. While marketing and customer service do require effort, you can run the business on your schedule, making it a great option for parents seeking work-life balance.