UKPrintquote.com users choose the type of print job, where they want it delivered and the type of artwork file. Printers view details, ask questions and give quotes.

"All printers have free access to all quote requests," said website manager Clive Lambert. "For example, one that specialises in brochures can ask for email notification whenever a relevant quote is requested."

The site could help printers lower their dependency on advertising, the success of which was hard to measure, he said. A cost-per-job method was more transparent and economical.

"Many printers do not have the marketing budgets to gain exposure. This site could help introduce firms in one part of the UK to buyers in another.

"We expect printers to see an increase in workload over a smaller range of products, which may lead to increases in efficiency and profits."

Only the printer chosen for a job, which could be awarded on low cost, quick delivery or good references, would pay the 4.99 charge, he said.

"In the first year, we expect the total value of winning quotes to exceed 350m, which is about 3% of the print industry turnover."