What are some things my engraving shop can do for the military?

Dealing with or selling your services to the military can be a complex labyrinth of paperwork, contacts, and red tape. Combine that with lengthy payment terms, and it can often be enough for the average laser shop to ignore this market.

If you are lucky enough to have a military representative visit your shop, you need to get all the information from that individual you can. Getting the proper contacts, phone numbers, and email addresses from your connection is vital.

A suggestion I have is for shops to create a special product line or service for each particular military branch. For example, if the Navy Seals operate in your vicinity, you may want to have a specific product line that includes specific awards, plaques, or presentation pieces designed for that exact military branch. Some distribution companies have specific recognition products that you can include within this product mix.

Older traditional engraving technology can be found in almost every military base or naval ship. But with newer technology such as fiber lasers, the military will often look to outside vendors for help and expertise. With a little bit of persistence, creativity, and know-how, you may have the honor of serving the brave men and women who protect this country and the pleasure of finding another revenue stream.

   —Columbia Awards