Capturing the Custom-Brand Opportunity
Bevanda, based in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, began in 2017 as a small family-owned product line selling tumblers and canteens. Within weeks, demand for custom-branded drinkware appeared almost by accident.
“Our very first customer walked into our showroom. He’s like, ‘Hey, that’s a really cool water bottle. I’ll order 750 if I can print my logo on it,’” recalls Jonathan Fischer, Owner & CEO of Bevanda. Soon after, another customer asked for 500 pieces with a logo.
But early on, fulfilling customization orders overseas caused issues with minimum order quantities, inconsistent quality, and long lead times. The team knew they needed a better solution. Enter Inkcups.
Finding the Right Technology
The turning point came when Jonathan’s brother, Leon, discovered Inkcups’ Helix direct-to-object printer.
“He comes into work and he’s like, ‘Hey guys, I found the solution. I know exactly what it is,’” Jonathan recalls. “They have this printer called the Helix and it’s going to solve all our problems.”
At the time, Bevanda’s revenue was under $100,000, but the team took a bold leap—signing a promissory note worth more than their annual revenue to invest in the Helix.
A Bold Decision That Paid Off
The Helix quickly became central to Bevanda’s strategy. By bringing decoration in-house, the company gained control over quality, speed, and order flexibility—even offering runs as small as one.
“We found the success of custom decorating was very beneficial from an upsell standpoint,” Jonathan says. “When we talk about product development and R&D, we always keep in mind it has to accommodate a logo.”
In 2019, Bevanda expanded again with Inkcups’ X5-T UV flatbed printer, allowing them to digitally decorate lunchboxes, coolers, and drink dispensers.
Personalization Drives Profitability
The investment reshaped Bevanda’s business model. What was once primarily a fourth-quarter business now thrives year-round thanks to fast turnaround and high-value customization.
“If a business owner is looking for client or employee Christmas gifts, we can serve them because of the custom printing aspect,” Jonathan explains. “If an individual wants to buy a single lunchbox, we can print that too with the Helix and the X5-T.”
From Risk to Lifeline
Eight years later, the gamble has paid off. Jonathan describes the Helix as “the lifeline of our business,” noting that the printer has long since paid for itself.
“Print by print, we chipped away. It’s officially paid off. No more notes. Just momentum,” he says.
With profitability established, Bevanda now has its sights set on expansion: corporate printing, B2B sales, and direct-to-consumer channels.
