Commercial printing industry: Current state and trends [2024]

The global commercial printing market is on the cusp of an exciting transformation, thanks to technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. 

So, what's happening? 

From groundbreaking digital printing solutions to sustainable practices, the industry is redefining itself at a rapid pace. In this post, we will explore the current market size, identify growth areas, and spotlight opportunities globally. 

With compelling statistics and the latest commercial printing market trends, you'll get a clear picture of what's driving the industry forward. 

Join us as we unpack the latest developments and explore how they're shaping the future of the global commercial printing industry in 2024 and beyond.

• The commercial printing business industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by the high demand for quality printed materials, innovative packaging solutions, and promotional materials.

• Digital printing technologies, including inkjet and wide-format printers, are revolutionizing the market with their efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Challenges such as competitive pricing, shifting customer preferences, and economic fluctuations are notable hurdles for the industry.

• Opportunities are emerging in on-demand printing services, sustainable packaging, and the integration of digital technologies to enhance print quality and workflow efficiency.

• GelatoConnect offers advanced automation and optimization features to help businesses stay competitive, improve operational efficiency, and address industry challenges.

The commercial printing industry is a dynamic and evolving sector, marked by significant advancements and increasing demand for various printed materials. Here are some key statistics and insights into how this continues to grow:

• According to Smithers' latest market report, ‘The Future of Global Printing to 2024, ’ the global printing market value will increase from $818 billion in 2019 to $874 billion by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.3%.

• Total print volumes will remain constant at around 49.5 trillion A4 prints or equivalents. However, the worldwide print industry remains in a transition stage, with an impetus to refocus on emergent market opportunities, especially in packaging print. 

This growth can be attributed to a number of factors that are currently driving the industry forward:

• The packaging printing segment is anticipated to experience robust growth, driven by the rising ecommerce sector and the need for innovative packaging solutions.

• On-demand printing services are expanding rapidly, providing printing companies with opportunities for custom and personalized printing solutions.

• Technological advancements in inkjet and laser printing technologies are pushing growth in digital printing for commercial applications.

The commercial printing industry is propelled by a myriad of factors that collectively drive demand. Among these are:

• Rising demand for high-quality printed materials: Consumers and businesses increasingly seek high-quality printed products. This trend is evident in industries ranging from publishing to marketing, where top-notch print quality can significantly impact.

• Increasing need for innovative packaging solutions: As ecommerce continues to grow, so does the need for eye-catching and functional packaging. Companies are constantly on the lookout for innovative packaging solutions that not only protect their products but also serve as powerful marketing tools.

• Growth in promotional and advertising materials: The competition to grab consumer attention has never been fiercer. Businesses invest more in unique promotional and advertising materials, driving demand for specialized printing services to deliver vibrant and engaging products.

The commercial printing industry has witnessed significant technological advancements that have revolutionized business operations. Here's a look at the key tech developments driving the market. 

Evolution of offset, screen, and flexographic printing

Offset, screen, and flexographic printing have long been pillars of the commercial printing industry, each offering unique advantages and applications. While these traditional methods have established themselves due to their reliability and efficiency, the industry is witnessing an exciting transformation. 

Here’s how these technologies are evolving to meet contemporary printing needs:

• Offset printing is undergoing significant transformations with advanced automation and digital integration, allowing for greater efficiency, reduced setup times, and enhanced print quality. 

• Screen printing is evolving with improved ink formulations and screen technologies, making it versatile for various applications, from textiles to tactile surfaces.

• Flexographic printing has advanced with better plate technology and faster drying inks, broadening its usage in the packaging and labeling industries.

Inkjet and wide-format printers have become game-changers in the commercial printing landscape, significantly driving market growth. These technologies offer versatility and efficiency that cater to various industries, from advertising to packaging. Here's how these advanced printing solutions are reshaping the market and spurring new opportunities for growth:

• Inkjet printers are now common in both consumer and professional settings, offering high-resolution outputs and versatile media handling.

• Wide-format printers cater to large-scale prints like posters, banners, banners, and vehicle wraps, expanding the scope for creative advertising solutions.

• Both inkjet and wide-format printers contribute to personalization trends, enabling unique, customized print products that meet specific customer preferences.

Impact of digital printing technology on the market

As businesses seek efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and high-quality outputs, digital printing stands out by providing on-demand prints, quick turnaround times, and impeccable color accuracy. 

Here's what they get with the newly emerged digital printing solutions:

• Fast turnaround times, making it ideal for on-demand services

• High color accuracy and consistency across batches that ensure premium-quality print materials

• Reduced need for large print runs, allowing for more flexible production schedules

• Greater affordability, particularly for small to medium-print jobs, helps businesses manage costs effectively

Like every industry, commercial printing faces its own set of hurdles. Navigating these challenges is crucial for any business trying to stay competitive. 

Here are the top three challenges facing the commercial printing sector today: 

1. Maintaining profitability amid competitive pricing: The need to offer competitive pricing while safeguarding profit margins is a constant struggle. Companies are often compelled to adopt cost-saving measures without compromising the quality of their output.

2. Adapting to changing customer preferences and market demands: Customer preferences are continually evolving, making it essential for businesses to stay agile and responsive. This includes everything from embracing cutting-edge printing technologies to offering more personalized and customized solutions.

3. Managing economic fluctuations and rising operational costs: Economic uncertainties and inflation can significantly impact operational costs. To remain resilient, businesses must find innovative ways to streamline their processes, negotiate better terms with suppliers, and optimize resource allocation.

While the commercial printing sector has some inherent challenges, it doesn't fail to offer exciting opportunities. Businesses can leverage these opportunities to stay ahead of the competition and deliver exceptional customer value. 

Here are three key areas of growth and opportunity: 

1. Expansion of on-demand printing services: On-demand printing is revolutionizing the industry by offering quick turnaround times, reduced wastage, and the ability to print smaller, customizable batches. This not only caters to the growing preference for personalized products but also ensures that businesses can respond swiftly to market demands.

2. Growth in flexible and sustainable packaging solutions: As sustainability becomes a major concern for consumers and businesses alike, the demand for eco-friendly packaging options is rising. Flexible packaging solutions that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly are gaining traction, offering a lucrative avenue for commercial printers.

3. Integration of digital technologies for improved print quality and efficiency: Digital printing technologies continue to evolve, offering superior print quality and operational efficiency. Integrating these technologies can streamline the production of the entire commercial printing process, reduce costs, and enhance the overall product offering, making it a significant area of focus for forward-thinking companies.

As the commercial printing industry evolves, staying ahead of emerging trends is crucial for businesses to remain competitive and innovative. In this section, we'll explore the latest developments shaping the future of commercial printing, from advancements in technology to shifts in consumer demands, and how these trends are poised to impact the industry in the coming years.

1. Increased focus on eco-friendly printing processes

Environmental sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it's a key directive for many companies. Eco-friendly printing incorporates practices that reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact. 

Recycled materials, vegetable-based inks, and energy-efficient printing methods are becoming standard in the industry, offering businesses a greener footprint. 

2. Adoption of AI and automation for workflow optimization

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are revolutionizing the commercial printing landscape. These technologies help automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and optimize workflows, leading to faster turnaround times and reduced operational costs. 

By leveraging AI and machine learning, companies can predict demand, streamline production, and improve overall efficiency. 

3. Shift toward personalized and customized printing solutions

Personalization is king in a market driven by customer experience. Advances in digital printing technology now allow for highly customized and personalized print materials. 

Whether it's bespoke packaging, tailored marketing materials, or individual consumer products, businesses can meet specific customer needs and preferences, creating more engaging and effective print outcomes.

When it comes to tackling the challenges in the commercial printing industry, GelatoConnect stands out as a game-changer. Designed to address the pressing needs of modern printing businesses, GelatoConnect offers a comprehensive range of features aimed at streamlining operations and boosting productivity. 

Key benefits include: 

• Automation: Automate repetitive tasks to minimize manual intervention and reduce the risk of human errors. GelatoConnect's automation features allow your production processes to run smoother and faster, freeing up your team to focus on more strategic tasks. 

• Optimization: Optimize workflows to ensure efficient resource use and time management. With integrated optimization tools, you can ensure that every step of your workflow is as efficient as possible, reducing waste and cutting down on operational costs. 

• Enhanced print quality: Utilize advanced technologies to deliver superior print quality that meets and exceeds customer expectations. Employing cutting-edge technology ensures that every print run produces high-quality results, giving you a competitive edge in a market where excellence is expected. 

That's not all. With GelatoConnect, you can also achieve a 3%-7%-points increase in profitability through product and machine-agnostic workflows, 5%-20% lower raw materials costs due to volume aggregation and efficient inventory management, and 10%-25% lower shipping costs due to automated shipping and volume aggregation.

The commercial printing industry is at a crossroads, experiencing rapid transformations driven by technological advancements, increasing demand for customized and high-quality prints, and a growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices. This dynamic environment presents both challenges and opportunities, and to thrive here, businesses need to embrace innovative solutions for efficiency.

GelatoConnect offers a powerful solution. With its advanced automation and optimization features, GelatoConnect empowers printers by streamlining production, enhancing print quality, and improving overall operational efficiency for better customer experiences. By leveraging advanced automation, you can ensure that your business remains competitive and adaptable to market changes. 

Are you ready to take the next step and explore how the platform's state-of-the-art features can propel your business forward?