Top 10 Print Industry Trends to Watch in 2025

Recently, the print industry has undergone exciting changes, moving away from the past to embrace innovation. If you’re a designer, artist, publisher, or print business owner, you’ve likely noticed that print has evolved beyond ink on paper. In 2025, it’s not just about what you print, but how and why you print it. 

From AI-powered workflows and sustainable materials to hyper-personalized prints and short-run flexibility, the print world is undergoing a creative and technological renaissance. 

Whether you're navigating rising material costs, exploring new revenue streams, or just trying to keep your production process efficient, staying ahead of the trends is no longer optional—it’s essential.

The good news? There’s never been a more exciting time in this industry. In this post, we break down the top 10 print trends shaping 2025—so you can work smarter, create better, and stay ahead of the curve.

What Are the Print Industry Trends in 2025?

Print nowadays is smarter, faster, and more sustainable than ever. From AI automation to eco-conscious materials, the industry transforms how we design, produce, and deliver print. Here are the top ten trends that's making waves in the print industry:

1. Print on Demand (POD)

You're not alone if you’ve ever guessed how much stock to print and ended up with unsold material. Print on Demand, as a business model, fixes that for your online business and supports your business growth. Print on Demand trends 2025 is a must-have for small brands and indie creators who want to sell unique products in high demand and creative designs.

You upload a design, someone places an order, and it gets printed—it's that simple. There’s no upfront inventory cost, storage stress, or pressure for massive runs, contributing to a favorable average profit margin. This makes it ideal for testing products or running a lean eCommerce brand in an online store.

The best part? It syncs perfectly with personalization, especially for high demand products. Whether it's art prints, tees, or merch, customers want unique items including home decor items.To fulfill these needs, POD delivers fast, high-quality results without locking you into bulk.

If you’re an author ready to publish or a creative launching new designs, POD gives you the freedom to test and grow without the upfront risk. At Ex Why Zed, we specialize in high-quality short runs, offering the flexibility and professional finish independent creators need. With a helpful team and no-pressure order sizes, it’s a reliable way to bring your work to life, your way.

2. Digital Printing

Let’s be real—time is money, especially when clients want results yesterday. Digital printing provides the speed, precision, and personalization modern businesses need without setup headaches or long delays.

Forget large minimum orders. Whether you're printing brochures for a pop-up or custom labels for a product launch, digital printing scales effortlessly.

Tech upgrades in inkjet and toner mean print quality now rivals traditional offset. You get sharp color, quick turnarounds, and happy customers, minus the waste or waiting.

If you're exploring digital printing for your creative work, ExWhyZed offers a flexible, high-quality solution. Our HP Indigo presses are ideal for short runs—whether it's one copy or a few hundred. You’ll get sharp, professional results without the bulk commitment.

We also offer free file checks and paper samples to help you get it right the first time. Plus, with fast turnaround and optional fulfillment, the process stays smooth from start to finish. You can check out the complete details of digital printing here.

3. 3D Printing

Think 3D printing is still just for models? Not anymore. Currently, it’s reshaping everything—from jewelry and packaging to prosthetics and product parts—with custom, on-demand designs that actually work.

Picture this: a designer creating made-to-order metal rings. A startup printing functional product samples in hours, not weeks. 3D printing makes it real and fast.

It’s perfect for one-offs, short runs, and complex ideas that traditional methods can’t afford. If your business thrives on innovation or personalization, this is your playground.

And it’s not just plastic anymore. With materials like ceramics, metal, and biocompatible materials in the mix, 3D printing is unlocking design freedom across industries.

4. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

AI and ML aren’t just buzzwords—they’re changing how print businesses operate day to day. In 2025, these technologies will power a smarter, faster printing process, boosting efficiency and personalizing outputs.

AI-led automation streamlines tasks and allocates resources better, so your team spends less time fixing errors and more time delivering results over a long time. Marketing efforts are enhanced as ML analyzes customer data to create tailored print materials that include product recommendations, boosting engagement and loyalty.

Technically, AI improves print quality by automatically optimizing colors, resolution, and sharpness—no extra steps are needed.

Thanks to predictive maintenance, ML helps identify equipment issues before they cause downtime, keeping operations smooth. With all this built in, AI and ML aren’t future upgrades—they’re tools helping print companies work smarter and save money today.

5. Cloud Printing

Cloud printing is a game-changer. In 2025, it is helping businesses stay lean, creative, and responsive by connecting print processes with the flexibility of the cloud.

Need to fulfill a custom tote bag order from across the country? No problem. Cloud printing lets you design, approve, and send jobs from anywhere—perfect for remote teams and eCommerce sellers.

It also supports real-time collaboration and helps automate production queues, so deadlines are met faster with fewer errors. Plus, it cuts infrastructure costs and scales as you grow.

Cloud printing offers freedom, efficiency, and a competitive edge to businesses looking to move fast and stay ahead in the print industry.

6. Eco-Friendly Printing Innovations

Sustainability nowadays isn’t optional anymore—it’s a value customers expect. Eco-friendly printing will go mainstream, with print shops using smarter materials like compostable phone cases and cleaner processes to cut their environmental footprint.

Think recycled paper, water-based inks, and energy-efficient machines. It’s not just about going green—it’s about staying relevant to conscious buyers who care how products are made. These changes, from reduced waste to lower emissions, show your commitment to the planet and build long-term customer trust.

ExWhyZed is committed to eco-friendly printing and is exemplified in their collaboration with Moof Magazine. For Issue 12, we have utilized 100% recycled Evolution Uncoated paper for both the 160gsm cover and 90gsm inner pages, achieving a sustainable yet high-quality finish.

This approach demonstrates that environmentally conscious choices can coexist with vibrant design and professional production. ExWhyZed's dedication to sustainability ensures that creators can produce compelling print materials without compromising their environmental values. Check it yourself here.

7. Product Personalization

Everyone wants something made just for them. That’s why personalization is a powerhouse trend, turning generic prints into meaningful experiences customers connect with.

Using digital printing and variable data, brands can tailor every piece—from names on mailers to custom colors on packaging—without slowing down production.

Personalization is more than a design tweak. It increases emotional connection, boosts response rates, and builds loyalty. Customers feel seen, and they keep coming back.

As AI and machine learning evolve, expect even deeper personalization at scale. The future of print isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s tailor-made, every time.

8. Smart Packaging

Technology is reshaping print, and innovative packaging is leading the charge in 2025. It blends digital features into products, offering interaction and visual storytelling beyond basic information. Smart packaging connects with smartphones to deliver nutritional data, usage tips, or even augmented reality experiences.

Consumers can scan codes or tap embedded chips to access brand videos or games, enhancing their experience with product descriptions that attract target customers. It also boosts authenticity and traceability, fighting counterfeiting and showing the product’s journey. Interactive packaging builds brand affinity by offering engaging experiences.

Smart packaging adds value beyond the label as expectations rise, redefining what print means in a connected world.

9. Pocket Printers

Pocket printers are booming currently, offering sleek, mobile printing for those who need quick results anywhere. Compact and wireless, these devices enhance the shopping experience by freeing users from bulky desktop printers. From photos to labels, the convenience is unmatched.

They’re more than gadgets—they spark creativity. Print a photography on a trip becomes a real-time memory.

Moreover, these printers redefine how people engage with physical media, making print personal and accessible.

As digital life speeds up, portable printers highlight how print remains relevant—agile, fun, and fully integrated into modern lifestyles.

10. Data Analytics and Decision-Making

In 2025, data is essential for print businesses seeking efficiency and growth. Analytics tracks performance, trims costs, and reveals opportunities. It empowers smarter decisions by highlighting production output, satisfaction levels, and operational gaps.

Understanding trends and customer behavior uncovers innovation paths. Predictive tools help forecast demand, improving planning.

Besides, data-driven resource allocation cuts waste and boosts performance. Lastly, analytics provides the clarity needed to pivot quickly, optimize services, and stay competitive.

Data ensures it moves forward with purpose and precision as the print industry evolves.

Stay Ahead in Printing Trends with Ex Why Zed

As the print industry evolves, Ex Why Zed is your strategic partner for staying ahead in the market. Our expertise in various printing media helps streamline your operations smoothly as we deliver innovative, customized solutions, keeping in mind various industry trends.

Plus, our ability to seamlessly integrate eco-friendly practices and personalization into print operations makes our client stand out in the industry.

Let us help you stay ahead of the curve, streamline your processes, and create lasting impressions with customers in the world of print. Contact us now!

Conclusion

The print world isn’t what it used to be—and that’s good. In 2025, printers aren’t just pushing ink on paper anymore; they’re pushing boundaries. Whether battling fierce competition or responding to what today’s customer really wants (think: fast, personal, and eco-friendly), the industry is in full-on transformation mode.

We’re seeing way more than just sleeker machines. AI, machine learning, and 3D printing are baked into everyday print workflows. It's not just about speed—it’s about smart, data-driven choices. And let’s talk about customization. From personalized packaging that tells a story to pocket printers that fit in your palm, everything’s getting more personal, mobile, and interactive.

Even traditional setups are evolving. Cloud printing, digital workflows, and Print on Demand Market Trends 2025 models are helping businesses move faster, reduce waste, and stay profitable in a tough market. This isn’t just progress—it’s a total reimagining of what print can do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How significant is the impact of AI on the print industry?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) significantly impacts the print industry by automating complex tasks, optimizing operational processes, and enhancing quality control in the manufacturing process. It allows real-time adjustments, predictive maintenance, and personalized print content, increasing efficiency, decreasing waste, and lowering operational costs.

What are the environmental advantages of adopting green printing practices?

Eco-friendly printing significantly reduces the industry's environmental footprint by utilizing sustainable materials and practicing energy-efficient operations. It minimizes waste, decreases toxic emissions, conserves natural resources, and promotes a healthier planet.

How can small print businesses adopt sophisticated e-commerce solutions?

Small print businesses can integrate sophisticated e-commerce solutions by partnering with all-in-one production software platforms. These platforms can automate print production, enhance quality control, offer online ordering, payment processing, and shipping automation, providing an effective way to improve efficiency and scalability in print production, graphic design, and distribution.

What should print businesses focus on to remain competitive in 2025?

To stay competitive in 2025, print businesses in the printing industry should embrace advanced technologies like AI and data analytics, adopt practical ways for eco-friendly printing practices, utilize the right tools to offer personalized printing solutions with sustainable printing partners, integrate smart packaging technology, leverage digital and cloud printing services, and respond quickly to changing consumer preferences.

How does personalization affect consumer engagement in the print industry?

Personalization greatly enhances consumer engagement in the print industry. It enables businesses to deliver unique designs and tailored experiences that resonate with individual customer preferences. By providing personalized print materials, enterprises enhance customer experience, increase customer loyalty, and ultimately drive sales growth.