As we approach Summer, several forces are converging to shape what clients will be asking for in print.
Some are driven by changing consumer values (sustainability, personalisation), others by technology, and others by broader social/market trends. Here are the major ones.
1. Even Stronger Focus on Sustainability & Eco-Credentials
- Eco-Friendly Materials & Inks: Recycled substrates, FSC/PEFC-certified paper, and more sustainable alternatives (e.g. bamboo, sugarcane, etc.). Inks with lower volatile organic compounds (VOCs), soy or bio-based inks are more in demand.
- Waste-Reduction & On-Demand Printing: Smaller print runs, avoiding excess inventory, just-in-time printing to reduce storage, and avoiding over-production.
- Transparency & Certification: Clients are more conscious of supply chains and want verifiable credentials (certified materials, carbon footprint, etc.) when choosing print partners.
2. Personalisation & Customisation
- Variable Data Printing (VDP): Print jobs where each piece might vary (names, locations, offers) are increasingly attractive, especially for marketing, events, direct mail. It helps with customer engagement.
- Local / Niche Designs: Smaller local businesses or specialised events will demand designs that resonate with their particular audience—local landmarks, local references, custom artwork, etc.
3. Technology & Blend of Print + Digital
- Digital Printing Gains Ground: Faster, cheaper, better quality. Especially for shorter runs or where quick turnaround is needed. Digital presses continue to improve.
- Hybrid / Augmented Reality Print: Scannable print elements that link to digital content (videos, live updates, interactive experiences). This helps bridge physical and online campaigns.
- Automation & AI in Workflow: From scheduling & proofing to ink management & job tracking, automation helps reduce errors, speed up production, lower costs.
4. Design & Aesthetic Trends
- Bold Patterns & Prints: Animal prints, strong florals, vivid graphics, playful colour palettes are trending. These carry over from fashion & décor into printed materials—posters, signage, packaging.
- Textures & Tactility: People are craving something more than flat print. Embossing, textured stocks, matte vs gloss contrasts, even something that gives tactile interest. Makes print items feel more premium.
- Colour Trends: Seasonal colours (bright, warm tones for summer), also contrasts (neon accents, pastels mixed with bold) to stand out. Also more use of “natural” / earthy tones in eco-conscious designs.
5. Packaging & Point-of-Sale (POS) Innovation
- Packaging as Branding & Experience: With e-commerce, takeaway, etc., packaging isn’t just functional—it’s part of the brand experience. Texture, print quality, design differentiation matter more.
- POS Displays / Retail Signage that Pop: Summer gives more chance for outdoor events, markets, casual shopping. So signage that can hold up outdoors, look vibrant in strong sunlight, and grab attention from a distance will be in demand.
6. Industry Challenges That Will Influence Trends
- Labour Skills Shortage: Finding skilled print operators, designers, etc., is still a constraint, which may push more businesses to adopt easier-to-use machines, more automation, or outsource.
- Cost Pressures & Supply Chain Issues: Paper, shipping, energy costs—all influencing print pricing. Clients may push for more affordable options or simplified designs. Also wholesalers & print shops may need to forecast better to avoid overstock or delays.
- Decline in Traditional Print Volumes: Newspapers, directories, etc., continue to decline. So growth is increasingly in specialty, packaging, digital print, and marketing-driven pieces rather than mass circulation papers.
What This Means for Clients
To capitalise on these trends, clients should think about:
- Requesting smaller-batch, higher volume with fast turnarounds.
- Partnering with a supplier such as EPM who has invested in equipment and materials that support sustainability.
- Building capabilities (or partnerships) for hybrid print + digital experiences (e.g. AR, QR codes).
- Focusing on strong design: patterns, textures, colours that pop.
- Sustainability credentials and customisation—they’re often deciding factors.
- Managing costs carefully, streamlining workflows, using technology for efficiency.
EPM Print Group, as a long term, local Queensland business and market leading print solutions agency, can assist with brand management and growth right across Australia. With our own online management portal, you can take charge of all your printing needs from the comfort of your desk or mobile phone. If your business would like to be supported by a professional, reliable, cost effective business solution, reach out to our team at sales@epmprint.com.au
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