Background
On My Mind Print is a small, innovative printing business based in the North East of England, near the town of Penrith. The company was founded by Ryan Marshall, a former graphic designer who experienced a mental health burnout after years of working in high-pressure environments. After recovering, Ryan felt compelled to combine his design background with a mission to raise awareness about mental health issues. This led him to create On My Mind Print, a company that started by selling printed mugs and bar mats with a focus on mental health awareness.
The Challenge
Before starting On My Mind Print, Ryan relied on local suppliers for his printed products. However, he often faced inconsistent quality and issues with stock shortages, leading to delays and unsatisfactory outcomes for his customers. Additionally, he was paying another printer to handle his production needs, but the margins were slim, and the process lacked the level of control he desired.
Realising the opportunity to improve both quality and profitability, Ryan decided to bring the production of his products in-house. This shift would allow On My Mind Print to maintain complete control over the quality of its items and increase its margins, while also expanding its range of products.
The Solution
In 2021, Ryan made space in his spare bedroom and invested in a full sublimation printing setup to produce high-quality bar mats and runners. Our team at Longforte worked closely with him to ensure the best materials for durability and vibrant prints. With this new capability, he started creating custom bar runners designed to raise awareness for mental health issues. Each bar mat features powerful, often humorous, messages aimed at normalizing conversations about mental health and encouraging men to seek help when needed.
Additionally, Ryan has partnered with local pubs and bars to offer these products for free or at a discounted price. The goal was to reach a wider audience and promote mental health awareness in social spaces, where the stigma around these issues is still prevalent.
Results
Since launching its line of mental health-focused bar mats and runners, the team has seen remarkable success both in terms of customer engagement and sales. The company’s products have become a regular feature in several pubs across the North East, with many of the bar runners being displayed in high-traffic areas as conversation starters. Customers are drawn to the unique, eye-catching designs, while also appreciating the underlying cause.
Through its partnerships with local pubs, Ryan has also been able to donate a portion of proceeds to a men’s mental health charity, further contributing to the fight against mental health stigma.
In just over a year, the range has expanded to include printed coasters, placemats, and other sublimated items, all with the same focus on raising awareness for mental health. The company has also gained media attention for its unique approach to combining graphic design, print, and social advocacy.
Conclusion
On My Mind Print has shown how a personal journey can inspire a business that not only serves customers but also gives back to the community. By combining high-quality custom printing with a passion for mental health awareness, Ryan has carved out a unique niche in the market while making a meaningful impact.
“I never thought I would be where I am today,” says Ryan, “but I’m incredibly proud that something positive has come out of my own situation. It’s amazing to be able to use my products to help raise awareness and offer support, and I can’t wait to keep doing this and help others along the way.”