In the bustling world of promotional products, standing out takes more than great design—it takes heart, hustle, and a whole lot of innovation. Tranter Graphics, a family-run powerhouse based in Syracuse, Indiana, has been bringing all of that and more to the table (and to the cup and napkin) since 1979.

A Family Affair, Built from the Ground Up

It all started with a spark of an idea and a pretty big leap. Founder Jim Tranter saw a gap in the market—distributors needed smaller runs of custom-printed napkins without having to order by the truckload. With just two employees, a one-page sales sheet, and a whole lot of ambition, the 500 Line was born. For the first time, end-users could order as few as 500 pieces—and that changed everything.

By the mid-’90s, the demand shifted. Corporate clients needed bigger runs, faster. Jim responded by launching High Lines, a high-speed imprinting service that delivered large quantities at lightning speed—often in just 10 days. In 2005, the torch officially passed to the second generation, as Jim and his wife, Karen, handed the reins to their children: Tammy, Patrick, and Jennelle.

Today, Tranter Graphics is run by a team of more than 90 talented craftspeople and operates out of a 75,000-square-foot facility housing 50 production presses. With the third generation—like Cameron Tranter—now stepping into leadership roles, the legacy continues with the same family values at its core.

Ink in the Veins

Cameron Tranter, who practically grew up surrounded by presses and jelly beans from Grandpa’s office candy machine, now works in Sales & Marketing. He shares a deep respect for Tranter Graphics’ culture—a place where top-notch products, incredible customer service, and a true work-life balance coexist.

Innovation on Every Surface

Whether it’s a steel party cup or a trusty 16 oz. clear soft-sided cup, or the good old-fashioned napkin, Tranter Graphics isn’t just printing—they’re innovating. Their 2008 launch of TGI Digital proved they could pivot during tough times, offering full-color inkjet solutions long before it was the norm. And they’re not stopping there.
With cutting-edge tech like large-format printing and digital cutting tables in play, Tranter Graphics is continuously leveling up. Their latest investments are geared toward faster lead times, even better pricing, and eco-conscious materials like biodegradable and renewable resources.

All About the Process

Unlike many in the industry, Tranter doesn’t manufacture every product—they decorate them, right at their facility in Syracuse. The one exception? Their White Napkins, which they convert and print in-house from giant rolls of raw material. It’s how they can offer their white napkins in three sizes—beverage, luncheon, and dinner—and keep quality tight. The rest of their items come from carefully vetted U.S. vendors, because they’re all in on Made in the USA. In fact, 98% of their products are currently U.S.-made, with a goal to hit 100% soon.

Doing the Right Thing

Being in the disposable goods business means thinking critically about sustainability. Tranter takes this seriously. From FSC™-certified napkins to repurposing misprints by donating them to local schools and businesses, they’re committed to making a difference. Plastic recycling is a major focus too, with a goal of reducing waste at every step of the process.

The Heart of It All

What really sets Tranter Graphics apart? Their people—and how they treat their customers. With an A+ rating from SAGE, and a spot on PPAI’s Top 100 list (#57!), their reputation is rock-solid. Distributors know they can count on Tranter to deliver quality products on time, every time—with service that goes above and beyond.

From humble beginnings to a household name in food and beverage ware, Tranter Graphics proves that when passion meets purpose (and maybe a few jelly beans), the results speak for themselves.

Take a look at everything Tranter Graphics (SAGE# 53600) has to offer on their website here. If you’d like to check out past Supplier Spotlight blogs, click here.