Based on looking at the website, Thirstys.co.uk specialises in manufacturing and printing custom beer mats, also known as drink coasters or bar mats. While the company prides itself on being a direct printer, using eco-friendly materials, and offering personalised service, the nature of its primary product—beer mats—directly relates to alcohol consumption, which is not permissible in Islam. Therefore, from an Islamic ethical standpoint, engaging with a business whose core offering is tied to an impermissible activity is not recommended.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Focus: Manufacturing and printing custom beer mats/coasters.
- Ethical Consideration (Islamic Perspective): Not recommended due to the product’s association with alcohol.
- Product Quality (Claimed): High-quality specialist beer mat board, bright inks, precise cutting.
- Eco-Friendliness: Uses FSC Certified wood-pulp board, vegetable-based inks, 100% recyclable, less plastic packaging.
- Customer Service: Emphasises direct communication with experienced staff and designers.
- Delivery: Free mainland UK delivery, tracked 24-hour courier for smaller quantities.
- Direct Manufacturer: Claims to be the actual printer, not a re-seller.
- Target Audience: Breweries, pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, distilleries, taxi companies, media companies, charities, public sector bodies, event organisers, and individuals.
While Thirstys.co.uk appears to be a legitimate business with a focus on quality and customer service in its specific niche, the product itself — beer mats, designed for use with alcoholic beverages — makes it unsuitable for a Muslim audience seeking ethically sound businesses. The marketing of these items for “breweries, pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, cider-makers, vineyards, gin distilleries, whiskey distilleries” directly links them to industries that are generally considered impermissible in Islam. Therefore, despite any apparent business efficiencies or quality claims, the fundamental association with alcohol renders it an unsuitable option.
Here are some ethical alternatives for businesses seeking custom promotional materials, focusing on products not associated with impermissible activities:
-
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Thirstys.co.uk Review
Latest Discussions & Reviews:
- Key Features: Wide range of custom promotional merchandise, including pens, notebooks, mugs, eco-friendly options, and apparel. Offers comprehensive branding solutions for corporate events and marketing campaigns.
- Average Price: Varies widely depending on product type, quantity, and customisation. Often offers bulk discounts.
- Pros: Extensive product catalogue; focus on corporate branding; strong reputation in the UK promotional market; ability to cater to diverse marketing needs.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options; minimum order quantities apply to most items.
-
- Key Features: Online printing service for business cards, flyers, posters, brochures, banners, and promotional products. Offers design tools and templates.
- Average Price: Competitive pricing, especially for smaller quantities; often has promotional discounts.
- Pros: User-friendly interface; wide array of customisable print products; convenient online ordering; good for small businesses and personal use.
- Cons: Quality can vary depending on the product; less emphasis on bespoke consultation for complex projects.
-
- Key Features: Specialises in promotional products like bags, drinkware (non-alcoholic specific), tech gadgets, and office supplies. Offers free samples and art assistance.
- Average Price: Mid-to-high range, with pricing dependent on product and order volume.
- Pros: Excellent customer service and product support; wide selection of high-quality promotional items; strong focus on customer satisfaction.
- Cons: May be more expensive for very small orders; some products have longer lead times.
-
- Key Features: Offers various printed products including custom labels, stickers, banners, and signage. Focuses on fast turnaround and quality print solutions for businesses.
- Average Price: Varies based on product and quantity.
- Pros: Specialises in specific print categories like labels and stickers; often offers quick production and delivery; good for specific branding needs.
- Cons: More limited product range compared to general promotional merchandise suppliers.
-
- Key Features: Primarily focuses on custom printed pens and writing instruments, but also offers a range of other promotional items like notebooks and office accessories.
- Average Price: Very affordable, especially for bulk pen orders.
- Pros: Excellent value for money for promotional pens; simple ordering process; good for widespread giveaways.
- Cons: Product range is somewhat narrow, mostly centred around writing instruments.
-
- Key Features: Specialises in custom embroidered and printed apparel, including t-shirts, polo shirts, hoodies, and workwear. Ideal for team uniforms or promotional clothing.
- Average Price: Varies based on garment type, quantity, and print/embroidery complexity.
- Pros: Focus on apparel offers tailored solutions for clothing branding; good quality garments; customisation options available.
- Cons: Limited to apparel and related accessories; not suitable for non-clothing promotional needs.
-
- Key Features: Specialises in custom branded USB flash drives, power banks, and other tech gadgets. Ideal for tech-focused promotional campaigns or corporate gifts.
- Average Price: Higher price point per unit due to technology, but offers bulk discounts.
- Pros: Unique and practical promotional items; high perceived value; useful for modern businesses.
- Cons: More expensive than traditional promotional items; can have longer production times for custom orders.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
[ratemypost]
Thirstys.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon an initial review of Thirstys.co.uk, it becomes clear that the website is singularly focused on the manufacturing and printing of custom beer mats. This niche specialisation is both its strength and, from an Islamic ethical standpoint, its primary weakness. The site is professionally designed, offering a clear user journey for those interested in purchasing personalised coasters. It highlights several key selling points, including direct manufacturing, eco-friendly practices, and personalised customer service. The overall aesthetic is clean, modern, and aims to convey reliability and quality.
Company Mission and Niche Focus
Thirstys.co.uk positions itself as a specialist, declaring, “We do one thing. And we do it very well. We manufacture sustainably made, beautifully crafted, REAL beer mats.” This singular focus means they dedicate all their resources and expertise to this specific product. For businesses in the hospitality sector, particularly those involved with alcoholic beverages, this direct approach might seem appealing. The website explicitly states their clientele includes “breweries, pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, cider-makers, vineyards, gin distilleries, whiskey distilleries,” alongside broader categories like “taxi companies, large media companies, charities, public sector bodies, beer festivals, events and individuals.” This broad declaration, however, does not negate the fundamental association of the product with alcohol. The very term “beer mat” intrinsically links the product to beer and, by extension, the alcohol industry.
Website Design and User Experience
The website features a straightforward layout with clear navigation. Key information such as “Prices,” “FAQs,” “Artwork Specs,” and “Place an Order” are easily accessible from the homepage. This transparency in presenting essential details is a positive aspect, suggesting a user-centric design approach. Visuals of various custom-printed beer mats are prominently displayed, showcasing their print quality and design versatility. The testimonials section, featuring quotes from seemingly satisfied customers, adds a layer of social proof, aiming to build trust with potential clients. The overall user experience is geared towards efficiency and clarity, allowing visitors to quickly find what they need to know about ordering custom beer mats.
Thirstys.co.uk Cons
While Thirstys.co.uk presents a polished and seemingly reliable service for its specific product, there are significant ethical considerations that lead to a strong recommendation against its use, particularly from an Islamic perspective. The core business revolves around an item intrinsically linked to an impermissible industry.
Ethical Implications: Association with Alcohol
The most critical drawback of Thirstys.co.uk is its fundamental business model being built around the production of “beer mats.” These items are primarily designed for use in environments where alcohol is served and consumed, such as pubs, bars, breweries, and distilleries. In Islam, the consumption, production, sale, and even facilitation of alcohol are strictly forbidden. While a beer mat itself is not alcohol, its direct purpose is to serve and promote an industry that is considered impermissible. Engaging with such a service, even indirectly, can be seen as aiding in an activity that is against Islamic principles. This is not merely a preference but a matter of religious obligation. As per numerous Islamic scholarly interpretations, any involvement that supports or normalises impermissible activities should be avoided. The website’s explicit mention of serving “breweries, pubs, bars…gin distilleries, whiskey distilleries” underscores this direct association. Estreetshops.co.uk Review
Limited Product Scope
Beyond the ethical concerns, the product range of Thirstys.co.uk is extremely narrow, focusing solely on beer mats. While they claim to do this “very well,” it means that any business or individual looking for a broader range of promotional items would need to look elsewhere. This lack of diversification limits its utility for general marketing and branding needs. Businesses often require a variety of promotional tools—from pens and notebooks to apparel and banners—and Thirstys.co.uk simply cannot meet these broader demands. This hyper-specialisation, while touted as a strength, becomes a significant “con” for anyone seeking a comprehensive promotional merchandise supplier.
No Clear Pricing Structure on Homepage
While the website does have a “Prices” link, it leads to a separate page where a detailed pricing table is available. However, for a quick assessment on the homepage, there’s no immediate indication of cost or a pricing calculator. This means a potential customer cannot immediately gauge the affordability or scalability of an order without navigating away from the main introductory content. For a service that emphasizes quick turnaround and ease of ordering, a more transparent, upfront pricing snippet or a clear call to action for a quote on the homepage could improve user experience.
Thirstys.co.uk Alternatives
Given the ethical considerations surrounding Thirstys.co.uk due to its direct association with the alcohol industry, it is crucial to explore alternatives that align with Islamic principles. The focus should shift to promotional product suppliers that offer a wide array of items not linked to impermissible activities.
Ethical Promotional Merchandise Suppliers
When seeking alternatives, the goal is to find companies that provide general promotional products for businesses, events, or personal use, without any inherent connection to forbidden industries. This includes items like stationery, bags, apparel, and eco-friendly merchandise that can be customised for any legitimate purpose.
- Totally Branded: A comprehensive UK-based supplier of custom promotional merchandise. They offer an extensive catalogue including printed pens, branded notebooks, custom mugs, eco-friendly products, and apparel. Their focus is on corporate branding and events, making them a versatile choice for ethical businesses.
- Vistaprint: While known for business cards and flyers, Vistaprint also offers a significant range of promotional products like custom calendars, magnets, tote bags, and apparel. It’s an accessible online platform suitable for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a broad range of customisable items.
- 4imprint: A leading promotional products distributor offering a vast selection from office supplies to tech gadgets and personal care items. They are known for their strong customer service and satisfaction guarantee, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking high-quality, ethically permissible merchandise.
- UK Printed: This company focuses on various printed materials, such as custom labels, stickers, banners, and signage. While not as broad as a full promotional merchandise supplier, they are excellent for specific printing needs that are not tied to any impermissible industry.
- Pens.com: Specialises in custom writing instruments but also offers a range of other office-related promotional products. Pens are a universal and widely acceptable promotional item for nearly any business or event.
- Discounted T-Shirts: For businesses or organisations needing custom apparel, this supplier offers printed and embroidered t-shirts, polo shirts, hoodies, and workwear. Clothing is a permissible and effective way to promote a brand or cause.
- USB2U: Specialises in custom branded USB flash drives, power banks, and other technology-related promotional items. These are practical and modern promotional gifts suitable for a wide range of industries and ethical purposes.
These alternatives provide viable options for businesses and individuals who require custom promotional materials without compromising their ethical stance regarding the prohibition of alcohol and associated industries in Islam. Accminicabs.co.uk Review
How to Cancel Thirstys.co.uk Subscription
Given that Thirstys.co.uk primarily operates on a per-order basis for custom beer mats rather than offering recurring subscriptions, the concept of “cancelling a subscription” doesn’t directly apply in the traditional sense. Customers place orders as needed for their custom printing requirements. Therefore, instead of a subscription cancellation process, the relevant actions would pertain to managing existing orders or cancelling a pending order.
Managing or Cancelling a Pending Order
If you have placed an order with Thirstys.co.uk and wish to cancel it before production or shipment, the typical process involves direct communication with their customer service team.
- Contact Customer Service Immediately: The most effective way to cancel an order is to contact Thirstys.co.uk directly via phone or email as soon as possible after placing the order. Their website indicates they have “experienced staff and designers to help you make the most of your beer mats,” suggesting a focus on direct customer interaction. You’d likely find their contact details on their “Contact Us” page or in your order confirmation email.
- Provide Order Details: When contacting them, have your order number, name, and the date of purchase readily available. This will help their team quickly locate your order.
- Understand Production Stages: The feasibility of cancellation largely depends on the stage of your order. If the artwork has already been approved and the mats are in production, it might be difficult or impossible to cancel without incurring charges, as custom items cannot typically be resold. If production hasn’t started, a full refund might be possible.
- Review Terms and Conditions: It’s always advisable to review the terms and conditions or cancellation policy of Thirstys.co.uk (if available on their site) regarding order cancellations, especially for custom-printed goods. This will provide clarity on any potential fees or restrictions.
Thirstys.co.uk Pricing
While Thirstys.co.uk emphasizes direct manufacturing and hints at competitive pricing, the detailed pricing information is not immediately visible on the homepage but is accessible via a dedicated ‘Prices’ link. This approach is common for custom printing services, as pricing often depends on a multitude of factors, including quantity, complexity of design, and specific product features.
Understanding the Pricing Model
Thirstys.co.uk provides a structured pricing table on its ‘Prices’ page. The cost of their beer mats is primarily determined by:
- Quantity: As with most printing services, the unit price decreases significantly with higher order volumes. For example, buying 1,000 mats will be much more expensive per mat than buying 10,000.
- Number of Sides Printed: Whether the beer mats are printed on one side or both sides will affect the price. The website explicitly states they print “both sides as standard,” which is a notable inclusion in their base pricing.
- Lead Time: The pricing table might also factor in different lead times, with expedited services potentially costing more.
- Additional Features: Any special finishes or additional services, such as “gold foiling” mentioned in customer testimonials, would undoubtedly add to the cost.
- Delivery: The website clearly states “Free Mainland UK Delivery,” which is a significant cost saving for UK customers, particularly for bulk orders. This is a transparent and attractive aspect of their pricing.
Example Pricing (Based on Typical Printing Industry Standards)
While exact figures from the website are not reproduced here, a typical pricing structure for custom beer mats might look something like this, reflecting economies of scale: Sixsigma.co.uk Review
- Small Orders (e.g., 500-1,000 units): Higher unit cost, suitable for small events or personal use. For instance, 1,000 beer mats could cost £0.20-£0.30 per unit.
- Medium Orders (e.g., 5,000-10,000 units): Significant price reduction per unit. 5,000 mats might bring the unit cost down to £0.10-£0.15.
- Large Orders (e.g., 50,000+ units): Lowest unit cost, tailored for large breweries or event organisers. 50,000 mats could be as low as £0.05-£0.08 per unit.
These figures are illustrative and would need to be verified against the current pricing table on Thirstys.co.uk’s dedicated ‘Prices’ page. The “Free Mainland UK Delivery” is a clear benefit for UK-based clients, simplifying cost calculations.
Thirstys.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Thirstys.co.uk against its competitors, it’s essential to consider two main categories: direct beer mat printers and general promotional merchandise suppliers. While Thirstys.co.uk excels in its niche, its strong association with the alcohol industry makes it an ethically challenging choice for many, leading to a preference for the latter category.
Direct Beer Mat Printers
Within the specific realm of beer mat printing, Thirstys.co.uk positions itself as a “real bricks and mortar, family owned printing company” that directly manufactures the product. They claim that “Most other beer mat sellers out there do not print the product themselves,” asserting that competitors are often “re-sellers” adding commission.
- Thirstys.co.uk’s Advantage: Their claim of being the actual printer could translate into better quality control, potentially faster turnaround times (as they cut out the middleman), and competitive pricing due to direct manufacturing. Customer testimonials on their site often praise their “quick turn around time and delivery” and “fantastic quality.” This direct model is a clear differentiator if one is specifically seeking beer mats.
- Competitor Landscape: Direct competitors in the beer mat printing space would be other specialist print houses in the UK. These might include smaller, independent printers or divisions of larger print groups. Without a specific list of direct competitors from the Thirstys.co.uk website, it’s challenging to make a direct comparison on features, but their unique selling proposition is clearly the “direct to printer” model.
General Promotional Merchandise Suppliers
When compared to a broader range of promotional merchandise suppliers—which is more relevant for those seeking ethically sound alternatives—Thirstys.co.uk’s limitations become evident.
- Product Range:
- Thirstys.co.uk: Extremely narrow, exclusively focused on beer mats.
- General Suppliers (e.g., Totally Branded, 4imprint, Vistaprint): Offer a vast array of products, including pens, notebooks, mugs, apparel, tech gadgets, bags, and more. This breadth allows businesses to choose items that align with their brand and ethical considerations, without being tied to a specific industry like alcohol.
- Ethical Alignment:
- Thirstys.co.uk: Directly associated with the alcohol industry, making it unsuitable from an Islamic ethical standpoint.
- General Suppliers: Many offer generic promotional items that can be used across various ethical industries, from corporate businesses to charities and educational institutions. This flexibility allows for better ethical alignment.
- Customer Service & Support: Both Thirstys.co.uk and reputable general suppliers typically offer good customer support, artwork assistance, and delivery services. Thirstys.co.uk highlights “Talk to Actual People,” while major promotional suppliers like 4imprint are known for their strong customer service and account management.
- Pricing Structure: While Thirstys.co.uk might offer competitive pricing for beer mats specifically, general suppliers offer competitive pricing across their diverse product ranges, often with tiered pricing based on quantity.
In summary, Thirstys.co.uk is a specialist in its field, potentially offering advantages in quality and price for beer mats due to its direct manufacturing model. However, its strong link to the alcohol industry severely limits its appeal for ethically conscious consumers. For those seeking promotional items, a general promotional merchandise supplier offers a much broader, more versatile, and ethically permissible range of products. 5starwebdesign.co.uk Review
FAQ
What is Thirstys.co.uk?
Thirstys.co.uk is a UK-based company that specialises in the manufacturing and printing of custom beer mats, also known as drink coasters or bar mats, for various businesses and individuals.
What products does Thirstys.co.uk offer?
Thirstys.co.uk exclusively offers custom-printed beer mats (or drinks coasters) which can be personalised with specific designs, logos, and messages.
Is Thirstys.co.uk an ethical choice from an Islamic perspective?
No, from an Islamic perspective, Thirstys.co.uk is not considered an ethical choice because its core product—beer mats—is directly associated with the alcohol industry, which is impermissible in Islam.
Does Thirstys.co.uk print on both sides of the beer mats?
Yes, Thirstys.co.uk states on its website that they print custom beer mats on “both sides as standard.”
What materials does Thirstys.co.uk use for their beer mats?
Thirstys.co.uk uses pulp board from FSC Certified sources and vegetable-based inks, aiming for eco-friendliness and recyclability. Sellanymobile.co.uk Review
Is delivery free with Thirstys.co.uk?
Yes, Thirstys.co.uk offers free delivery to all mainland UK addresses, using a tracked 24-hour courier service for smaller quantities and reputable logistics companies for larger orders.
Does Thirstys.co.uk ship internationally?
Yes, while their primary customer base is in the UK and Ireland, Thirstys.co.uk states that they do ship to Europe and the rest of the world.
Who are the typical customers of Thirstys.co.uk?
According to their website, their customers include breweries, pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, cider-makers, vineyards, gin distilleries, whiskey distilleries, taxi companies, large media companies, charities, public sector bodies, beer festivals, events, and individuals.
Does Thirstys.co.uk offer design assistance for custom beer mats?
Yes, Thirstys.co.uk indicates that they have experienced staff and designers available to help customers make the most of their beer mats.
How can I get a sample pack from Thirstys.co.uk?
Thirstys.co.uk offers a “FREE Sample Pack,” with a dedicated link on their homepage for customers to request samples. Londonfashionworld.co.uk Review
Are Thirstys.co.uk’s beer mats environmentally friendly?
Yes, the company claims their beer mats are eco-friendly and recyclable, using FSC Certified pulp board and vegetable-based inks, and less plastic packaging than competitors.
What is the advantage of buying from Thirstys.co.uk compared to other sellers?
Thirstys.co.uk claims to be the actual printer of the beer mats, unlike many other sellers who are re-sellers. This direct approach is intended to provide a better combination of quality and price.
How does Thirstys.co.uk handle order quantities?
Thirstys.co.uk states they can print custom beer mats in both small and large quantities, catering to diverse needs.
Can I cancel an order with Thirstys.co.uk?
As Thirstys.co.uk operates on a per-order basis for custom items, cancellation depends on the stage of production. It’s best to contact their customer service immediately if you wish to cancel a pending order.
Does Thirstys.co.uk have clear pricing on its homepage?
No, while they have a “Prices” link, detailed pricing is not immediately visible on the homepage but is available on a dedicated pricing page. Headingtonflooring.co.uk Review
What kind of finish quality can be expected from Thirstys.co.uk?
Thirstys.co.uk claims to use the highest quality specialist beer mat board and bright, colourful inks, taking extra care in cutting to ensure a fine finish. Customer testimonials also praise the quality.
How long has Thirstys.co.uk been printing beer mats?
Thirstys.co.uk mentions that they have been printing the popular Facematt beer mats since they were first introduced in 2014, suggesting a history in the industry.
Are there alternatives to Thirstys.co.uk for ethical promotional products?
Yes, there are many ethical alternatives for general promotional merchandise that do not involve alcohol, such as Totally Branded, Vistaprint, and 4imprint, which offer a wide range of customisable items like pens, notebooks, and apparel.
Is Thirstys.co.uk a large corporation?
Thirstys.co.uk describes itself as a “real bricks and mortar, family owned printing company,” suggesting it operates as a smaller, independent business rather than a large corporation.
What is the purpose of beer mats according to Thirstys.co.uk?
Thirstys.co.uk states that beer mats can showcase a brand, inform customers, add fun to an event, serve as unique save-the-dates, or simply soak up spills on a bar. They also highlight their effectiveness as an interactive marketing medium. Yogaandhealingcheshire.co.uk Review
Leave a Reply