top of page

Coffee with a Customer: Partner Spotlight with JJ Bender

Writer's picture: Harris & BrunoHarris & Bruno



In the latest episode of Coffee with a Customer, we sat down with Beth and BJ from JJ Bender to discuss their journey in the print industry, the evolving role of refurbished equipment, and the trends shaping the future of print. From automation and sustainability to the growing demand for personalization, this conversation is a must-read for anyone navigating today’s printing landscape.


From Equipment Sales to Industry Advisors: The Evolution of JJ Bender


JJ Bender has been a key player in the print industry for nearly 50 years, specializing in buying, selling, and refurbishing commercial printing equipment. What started as a business focused on refurbishing and reselling has now evolved into a full-service operation that includes auctions, exporting, and strategic consulting for printers looking to maximize value.


BJ, who has been with the company for over 20 years, shared how JJ Bender adapted to industry shifts. “We’re not just moving equipment—we’re helping printers decide when to invest, when to buy used, and when to upgrade. It’s about finding the right solution for each business.”


Beth, the VP of Sales, emphasized that JJ Bender serves as more than just an equipment reseller. “We take pride in advising printers, helping them make the best decisions, whether that means buying new, used, or a combination of both.”


Adapting to Industry Trends


With print technology evolving rapidly, Beth and BJ shared their perspective on the biggest trends shaping the industry:


🔹 Automation is transforming workflows – Printers are turning to fully automated systems to reduce labor costs and increase efficiency. More than ever, jobs are moving seamlessly from online orders to print production with minimal manual intervention.

🔹 Personalization is in high demand – From custom packaging to short-run digital prints, businesses are prioritizing unique, high-value applications over mass production. Beth noted, “Smaller, customized print runs are becoming more valuable than ever.”

🔹 Sustainability is driving purchasing decisions – Print buyers are actively looking for eco-friendly solutions, from recyclable materials to sustainable inks. BJ added, “There’s a real push for sustainability—not just in the materials, but in how printers operate.”

🔹 Industry consolidation is changing the game – Larger companies are acquiring smaller print shops, creating a shift in market dynamics. While some businesses are growing through acquisition, others are finding success by specializing in niche, high-touch print products.


Challenges Printers Face Today


The shift in the industry comes with new challenges. How do printers balance speed, cost, and quality while staying competitive? Beth and BJ outlined a few major struggles:


💡 The demand for faster turnaround times – Thanks to Amazon culture, customers expect quick delivery—sometimes even same-day service. Printers must keep up with shorter production cycles while maintaining high quality.

💡 Cost-conscious buyers expect more for less – Customers want top-tier print quality at lower prices, forcing printers to rethink their pricing and operational strategies.

💡 Choosing the right technology – Printers must decide when to invest in new equipment, buy used, or refurbish existing machines—all while ensuring their investments align with long-term business goals.


What’s Next for the Print Industry?


When asked about the future of print, Beth and BJ pointed to several key developments that will define the next 5 to 10 years:


🚀 Greater adoption of automation – Touchless workflows will become the standard, improving efficiency and reducing human error.

🚀 Advancements in inkjet – Inkjet technology will continue to improve in quality and affordability, making it a more viable alternative to traditional toner-based systems.

🚀 Growth in digital embellishment – The demand for luxury print finishes, coatings, and foils will continue to rise as brands look for ways to stand out.

🚀 Niche print applications will thrive – As the industry consolidates, specialized print solutions like personalization, packaging, and embellishment will become even more critical for businesses looking to differentiate themselves.


Final Thoughts


Beth and BJ offered a refreshingly honest look at the challenges and opportunities in today’s print industry. Whether you’re exploring automation, investing in refurbished equipment, or looking to expand into digital embellishments, their insights provide a roadmap for success in an ever-changing landscape.


A huge thank you to Beth and BJ from JJ Bender for joining us on Coffee with a Customer!

Comments


Harris & Bruno Name and Logo.png
  • White LinkedIn Icon
  • White Facebook Icon
  • White Instagram Icon
  • White Twitter Icon
  • White YouTube Icon

© 2020 Harris & Bruno International, 8555 Washington Blvd. Roseville, CA 95678, USA, +1 916.781.7676

FSEA Logo.png
Printing United logo.png
Dscoop Logo.png
bottom of page