Perhaps your current ID badge supplier delivers late, which is completely impractical for events, or maybe the ID cards they provide are not compatible with your existing printers. When you begin searching for a new supplier for the first time in years, you may quickly discover how much the ID card industry has evolved and how complicated it can seem.

To help you make the right decision, here are some important questions to ask when choosing a new ID card supplier.

Are they registered with the ICO?

The ICO, or Information Commissioner’s Office, is the UK’s independent authority responsible for upholding information rights and protecting data privacy.

If a supplier produces personalised ID cards or badges, they are likely processing personal data on your behalf. This means they must comply with GDPR regulations. Before sharing any employee or customer information, you should confirm that your supplier is properly registered and meets data protection requirements.

Are they GDPR compliant?

Data protection laws are more strictly enforced than ever. A review of the ICO’s enforcement notices shows how seriously breaches are treated.

Ask potential suppliers for their GDPR policy or request a data processing agreement. This helps protect your organisation and the individuals whose information you manage. If a supplier is unwilling to provide this reassurance, it may be wise to consider other options.

How secure is your data?

Data security remains a significant concern for UK businesses. Despite increased awareness of cyber threats, many organisations still lack a clear cybersecurity strategy.

Your ID card supplier should be able to explain how your data is stored, protected and transferred. Reputable suppliers will provide details of their information security policy before any data is shared. Transparency in this area is essential.

How long will your data be kept?

GDPR states that personal data must not be retained for longer than necessary for the purpose it was collected.

For personalised ID card or badge production, there is rarely a reason to store personal data long term. Ask whether the supplier deletes your information from both live systems and backups once production is complete. Clear data retention procedures demonstrate responsible data handling.

What will my ID cards or badges look like?

ID cards often create the first impression of your brand for employees, visitors, delegates and contractors.

A good supplier should be able to provide sample cards or mock-up artwork quickly and without difficulty. It is also important to confirm production timelines. If a supplier cannot meet urgent deadlines or respond promptly to enquiries, they may not be the right fit for your organisation.

Do you need multi-purpose ID cards?

Modern ID cards offer far more than simple identification. They can integrate with access control systems, support cashless vending, and serve multiple internal functions within your organisation.

If you are unsure about the options available, speak to a knowledgeable supplier who can guide you through the latest technology and help you choose the right solution.

We hope this guide helps you evaluate your options. If you are currently looking for a reliable ID card or badge supplier, we would be pleased to be included in your request for a quote or technical proposal. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.