Yes, several copy shops in Groningen offer same-day A0 printing for academic posters. Your best bets are quick-service print shops near the city center or Rijksuniversiteit Groningen campuses that specialize in large-format printing. Call ahead to confirm they can handle your file and turnaround time.
For same-day A0 printing, you will likely use a commercial copy center rather than a library or university print service, as university in-house options often require advance booking. Shops near the Zernike campus or in the city center (like those around Grote Markt or Vismarkt) typically offer large-format printing. Some can print within a few hours if you bring a ready-to-print PDF before late morning. If you arrive in the afternoon, same-day may still be possible but expect a rush fee.
What to know before you go:
- File preparation: Your poster should be a high-resolution PDF at actual size (A0: 841 x 1189 mm) with embedded fonts and images. Avoid PowerPoint unless you export as PDF. Many shops accept TIFF or JPEG, but PDF is safest.
- Call first: This is critical. Ask if they can print A0 that day, what the deadline is for same-day service, and if they need a specific file type. Also confirm they can print on paper (not just banner material) if that's what you need for a poster session.
- Bring a USB drive: Even if you plan to email, a physical drive avoids transfer issues. Some shops let you upload via their website, but for speed, USB is best.
- Cost: Same-day large-format printing costs more than standard turnaround. Expect to pay roughly EUR 15 to 30 for a single A0 print, sometimes more for a rush job. Glossy or heavy paper may add a few euros.
- Double-check size: A0 is big; make sure your file dimensions match. Some shops also offer A1 if A0 seems too large, but stick with your planned size.
Tradeoffs: Speed costs money. If you arrive after shop closing hours (most close around 17:00-18:00), you will have to wait until the next morning. Also, not every copy center handles A0; smaller shops may lack the printer. In that case, head to a dedicated print service or copy shop that advertises "plotter prints" or "poster printing."
Concrete next steps:
- Search for "copy shop Groningen" or "poster printing Groningen" on Google Maps and filter by open now.
- Call two or three shops closest to your arrival location (e.g., central station or Zernike).
- Have your PDF ready on a USB or accessible on your phone.
- Go to the shop, pay, and wait (usually 1-3 hours).
This approach has worked for many students. Even if your current situation is resolved (as your edit indicates), these tips apply for future poster deadlines.