Printing Planet UK
Menus are one of the highest-turnover printed items for any food business. The wrong material choice can mean menus that look grubby within weeks, or reprints that cost more than necessary every time prices change.
Material Options
| Material | Wipe-Clean | Price Change? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminated card (gloss or matt) | Yes (damp cloth) | Full reprint needed | Set menus, stable pricing |
| PVC card | Yes (full wipe) | Full reprint needed | High-traffic restaurants, pubs |
| Foam board display | Wipe surface only | Full reprint needed | Wall menus, chalkboard style |
| Printed insert with cover | No | Replace insert only | Cafes with frequent price changes |
| Acrylic sleeve with insert | No | Replace insert only | Upmarket restaurants |
Laminated card is the most popular format for sit-down restaurants. A 400gsm silk card with a matt or gloss laminate is sturdy enough to last three to six months with regular use. Matt laminate reduces fingerprint visibility.
PVC card is a fully synthetic card stock that can be wiped down with cleaning products, including alcohol wipes. Suited to high-turnover environments where menus are handled constantly.
Acrylic sleeves with a printed insert are the most cost-effective solution when prices or dishes change regularly. The sleeve is reusable; only the insert needs reprinting. Insert reprints are significantly cheaper than a full laminated card reprint.
Format Options
| Format | Best For |
|---|---|
| A4 single sheet (laminated) | Simple menus, cafes |
| A5 single sheet | Drinks menus, specials |
| A4 half-fold (4 sides) | Starter, main, dessert |
| A4 tri-fold (6 sides) | Full restaurant menu |
| A3 half-fold (A4 open) | Breakfast or brunch menus |
How Often to Reprint
Every 3 to 6 months is typical for restaurants with laminated card menus. Menus accumulate physical wear, and a worn menu affects how customers perceive the establishment.
Whenever prices change significantly. A rough laminated sticker over a price is worse for perception than a fresh reprint.
Seasonally. Restaurants running seasonal menus typically reprint four times a year. Acrylic sleeve inserts make this substantially cheaper.
Turnaround Times
| Quantity | Typical Turnaround |
|---|---|
| Up to 50 | 2 to 3 working days |
| 50 to 200 | 3 to 5 working days |
| 200 to 500 | 5 to 7 working days |
Same-day is possible for small quantities on standard laminated A4 or A5, with artwork supplied by 11am.
For pricing and material samples, visit the menu printing service page.