January Planning Checklist

January is the moment to lock in decisions that shape the rest of the year. This checklist helps you plan smarter across packaging, print, retail displays and signage.

How to Use This Checklist

This checklist is designed to be completed in January and revisited throughout the year. It focuses on decisions that reduce last-minute fixes, reprints and unnecessary costs.

Business / Brand Name

Completed By

Date Completed

Stage 1 — Strategic Foundations

Strategic Priorities

Key campaigns and peak periods identified

Budget ranges agreed

Sustainability requirements clarified

Internal stakeholders aligned

Key Notes or Risks Identified

Decisions made here prevent rushed compromises later.

Stage 2 — Packaging Planning

Packaging Review

Existing packaging reviewed

Durability needs defined

Short-run vs long-run assessed

Print-on-demand opportunities identified

Sustainability

Recyclable materials confirmed

Mixed substrates reduced

End-of-life considered

Packaging Actions to Lock In

Stage 3 — Print Planning

Usage & Volumes

Last year's usage reviewed

Overstocked items identified

Reprints and waste assessed

Print Strategy

Core "always-on" items agreed

Campaign-specific items separated

Print-on-demand selected where suitable

Print Decisions Confirmed

Stage 4 — Retail Displays

Display Planning

Display objectives defined

Expected lifespan agreed

Locations confirmed

Materials & Build

Materials matched to environment

Stability and weight considered

Assembly realistic for store staff

Display Notes / Risks

If it doesn't survive the shop floor, it doesn't deliver ROI.

Stage 5 — Signage Planning

Signage Audit

Outdated signage identified

Wayfinding gaps noted

Brand consistency checked

Signage Strategy

Permanent vs campaign signage separated

Durable materials selected

Installation and maintenance planned

Signage Actions Required

Stage 6 — Production & Suppliers

Practical Planning

Lead times understood

Installation responsibilities confirmed

Storage and logistics planned

Supplier Collaboration

Supplier engaged early

Material advice taken before artwork

Constraints discussed upfront

Supplier Notes

Stage 7 — Measurement & Review

Metrics

Sales uplift

Durability performance

Reprint frequency

Staff / customer feedback

Review Schedule

30-day review

90-day review

Mid-year review

What Success Looks Like

Final Sign-Off

Final January Checklist

Materials agreed, not assumed

Volumes planned, not guessed

Displays designed for real environments

Signage planned for longevity

Suppliers involved early

Signed By

Date

January Planning Checklist

How McGowans Can Help