Top 10 Major Printing Industry Trends in 2025

The printing industry trends 2025 is moving fast, with exciting trends shaping the way businesses print and customers interact with products. Whether you’re a small business owner, a marketing professional, or just curious about what’s happening in the world of print, these trends are worth knowing.

In 2025, printing is all about digital technology, personalization, and sustainability. We’re seeing a shift toward print-on-demand, digital printing, and eco-friendly materials. On top of that, technologies like AI and augmented reality are making printing more interactive and engaging than ever before.

Let’s dive into the top 10 printing industry trends in 2025 that are changing the game.

1. Print-on-Demand (POD)

Print-on-Demand (POD) is a huge trend that’s here to stay. Instead of printing a large batch of products and hoping they sell, POD lets you print only what’s ordered. This means no extra inventory sitting around, less waste, and more flexibility for businesses. Whether it’s custom t-shirts, books, or packaging, POD makes it easy to create unique products without breaking the bank.

2. Digital Printing

Gone are the days when traditional offset printing was the only option. Digital printing is booming in 2025 because it’s faster, more affordable for small runs, and perfect for personalized printing. Businesses love digital printing for its ability to handle variable data, meaning you can print unique pieces like personalized flyers or direct mail in one run. It’s also great for short print runs, reducing waste and speeding up delivery.

3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Printing

Sustainability is a top priority in the printing industry. Customers care about the planet, and businesses are stepping up by using recyclable materials, biodegradable packaging, and eco-friendly inks. In 2025, expect to see more printers offering carbon-neutral printing, soy-based inks, and FSC-certified paper. It’s a win-win for the environment and your brand’s reputation.

4. Personalized Printing

Personalization is no longer a luxury—it’s what customers expect. From custom printed t-shirts to photo books and branded merchandise, personalized printing helps businesses stand out. Thanks to better technology and data-driven tools, it’s easier than ever to create one-of-a-kind products that make a lasting impression.

5. Web-to-Print Solutions

Ordering printed products has never been easier. Web-to-print platforms let customers design and order everything online, from business cards to banners. This trend is all about speed, convenience, and automation—customers get a smooth, user-friendly experience, and businesses save time on manual orders. If you’re in the printing business, offering a web-to-print option is a must in 2025.

6. 3D Printing

3D printing is no longer just for prototypes and hobbyists. It’s becoming mainstream in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and even construction. In the printing world, 3D technology is opening up new possibilities, from creating custom packaging to unique display pieces. It’s a growing part of the printing services market in 2025 and beyond.

7. Smart Packaging

Smart packaging is changing how brands connect with customers. Imagine scanning a QR code or using an NFC tag on a package to get more information, access exclusive content, or even play a game. This type of packaging is interactive and engaging, creating a stronger bond between brands and their audience. It’s a creative way to stand out in a crowded market.

8. Augmented Reality (AR) in Print

Want to bring your printed materials to life? Augmented Reality (AR) does just that. By scanning a printed page with a phone, customers can see videos, animations, or 3D models pop up on their screen. It’s a powerful way to make print interactive and exciting, especially for marketing campaigns, event promotions, and educational materials.

9. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

AI and Machine Learning are becoming game-changers in the printing world. They can automate tasks like color correction, predict printing errors, and even optimize print production workflows. AI is also helping businesses create personalized print marketing by analyzing customer data and trends. In 2025, AI is a must-have for companies that want to stay efficient and competitive.

10. Diversification

With traditional print volumes going down, smart businesses are looking for new ways to grow. That’s why many printing companies are expanding into packaging, large format printing, and even textile printing. Diversifying services not only brings in new revenue but also helps businesses adapt to market changes and stay relevant.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Printing

The future of the printing industry is bright—and full of opportunities for businesses willing to innovate. From digital printing to sustainable materials, and AI to web-to-print, staying ahead of these trends can help businesses thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Platforms like WP Configurator make it easy to embrace some of these trends by offering tools for product customization and streamlined print ordering. By leveraging the latest printing technologies and trends, businesses can meet customer demands for faster delivery, personalization, and eco-friendly solutions.

Whether you’re a printer, a designer, or a business owner, keeping up with these printing industry trends will help you stay competitive and grow in a fast-changing world.