For those in the know in NoHo, Print Mor isn’t just another print shop; it’s a neighborhood institution. This family-owned, full-service printing business has been the go-to destination for residents and businesses alike for decades. To delve into the story behind this beloved local gem, we spoke with Victor Ross, the current owner, gaining insights into Print Mor’s rich history and its enduring connection to the NoHo community.
From Humble Beginnings to a NoHo Mainstay
Print Mor’s journey in NoHo began in 1987 at 66 Bleecker Street. Victor recounts the early days: “We started as a very small copy shop, just 200 square feet, offering basic black and white copies and fax services.” He explains that the neighborhood of that era presented challenges. Despite initial hesitations from the landlord due to higher crime rates, Victor’s father, Stan Ross, persevered. “It wasn’t easy,” Victor admits, “but we were determined to make it work.” In a pre-internet age, building awareness required a hands-on approach. Print Mor relied on traditional methods, with “flyer guys out on every corner” to spread the word to local businesses, residents, and the numerous artists who called NoHo home.
Victor Ross, owner of Print Mor, in his NoHo print shop showcasing various printing services and equipment.
Fast forward to today, Print Mor has undergone a remarkable transformation. “We’ve evolved from a small mom and pop shop into a comprehensive print service provider,” Victor states proudly. Now boasting over 20 different services, Print Mor caters to a diverse clientele, extending its reach beyond NYC to serve customers across state lines.
Nostalgic NoHo Memories and Unique Client Projects
Victor, who has been around the shop since childhood, cherishes vivid memories of NoHo in the 80s and 90s. He fondly recalls a time when neighborhood camaraderie was strong. “When I was about seven, it was normal to walk around and pop into every local store to say hello,” he shares. He recounts friendships forged with kids like Chris, the son of the local shoe maker on Bleecker Street. Simple pleasures like sharing quarters for arcade games at Blimpies near Hans Deli created lasting neighborhood bonds. “Everyone knew everyone and looked out for each other’s kids,” Victor reminisces, highlighting a close-knit community spirit.
Print Mor’s unique position as a print shop has given them a distinctive view into the diverse needs of their clientele. Victor reveals the impressive range of clients they’ve served: “We’ve worked with major names across industries, from Ralph Lauren and Nike to Amazon and Google.” He describes the excitement of seeing Print Mor’s printed products in national advertising campaigns. “It’s amazing to be part of projects with such a large scale,” he says, emphasizing the intricate planning and collaborative efforts involved in bringing these large-scale print projects to life.
The Joy of Creation and NoHo’s Enduring Appeal
When asked about his favorite type of project, Victor’s passion for the creative process shines through. “Our favorite projects are the ones where we start from the ground up,” he explains. He enjoys collaborating with clients who come in with an initial idea. Print Mor’s design team then steps in, developing various concepts and working closely with the client to refine the vision into a print-ready product. “Seeing the journey from a simple idea to a tangible printed piece is the most rewarding aspect of what we do,” Victor affirms.
Reflecting on the neighborhood’s evolution, Victor notes the significant changes he’s witnessed in NoHo’s landscape, from the types of businesses to its physical appearance. While acknowledging a sense of nostalgia for the past, his appreciation for NoHo remains strong. “Growing up in Manhattan and experiencing different neighborhoods, there’s truly nothing like NoHo,” he declares. He values NoHo’s blend of “fashion and design aesthetic with a non-stuffy corporate feel,” stating unequivocally, “there is no other neighborhood I would rather be in.” When asked about his favorite local businesses, Victor lists a number of NoHo staples, including Angelique, Gonzales and Gonzales, Hans Deli, NoHo Newsstand, Coco and Cru, and Maria Tash, showcasing his continued connection to and support for the NoHo community.
