When a small print shop opened its doors in Langford back in 1988, digital printing was barely a concept. Yet this business was already looking forward. Now, more than 35 years later, Westside Instaprint remains a cornerstone of the community – not just for its print services, but for its personal touch, adaptability and deep-rooted relationships with generations of customers.
This isn’t your average print shop. While they still serve walk-in clients needing a single photocopy or birthday invitation, they also handle massive jobs – think 10,000 flyers, 100 invoice books or specialty jobs like wide-format boat plans or synthetic outdoor signage. And for each, the service remains the same: attentive, collaborative and tailored to each customer's needs.
"We treat every job with the same level of care," says long-time owner Herma Raymond. “Whether it’s one copy or 10,000, we want to get it right. We take the time to ask questions others don’t, like, ‘How are you going to distribute this?’ because we care about the end result.”
What truly sets the shop apart is its dual identity. One foot is firmly in the traditional paper world, while the other strides confidently into cutting-edge technology. From public faxing and archival scanning to latex printing for restaurant-friendly signage, their services are as varied as the clients they serve – business owners, hobbyists, municipalities and families alike.
Their staying power comes from listening to their clients and building lasting relationships. Some customers now represent the third generation of families who’ve used their services. And the staff? Many have been with the business for over 25 years, offering consistency and expertise that’s rare in any industry.
Despite its humble storefront, the shop hums with modern equipment and a passion for problem-solving. Whether it’s printing complex parking meter tape or sourcing hard-to-find materials like Rite in the Rain waterproof paper, this team always finds a way.
“We may look quaint, but we’re on the leading edge. Not the bleeding edge," Raymond laughs, "but definitely the leading edge.”
And in a world increasingly dominated by impersonal service, that’s exactly what keeps their clients coming back.
Whether you need one copy or thousands, custom signage or archival scanning, Westside Instaprint is ready to help. Stop by their shop at 2811 Jacklin Rd. or give them a call at 250-478-5533 to get your project done right.