The print industry has been declared “dead” more times than we can count but here we are, deep into 2025, and it’s still going. So what’s the truth?
Is print really a dying trade, or is it evolving into something new?
Whether you’re a business owner, jobseeker, or just curious about the future of print, let’s break it down.
Is the Printing Industry Dying?
The short answer? No, but it’s definitely changing.
Yes, we’ve seen a decline in some areas, like traditional newspaper printing or high-volume commercial flyers. But print as a whole isn’t vanishing — it’s adapting.
What’s Actually Happening in 2025?
Here’s what we’re seeing this year:
- Print-on-demand is booming — more people than ever are selling books, art, and branded merch without holding stock.
- Sustainable packaging is exploding — print plays a huge role in custom, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging solutions.
- Niche, high-value print is thriving — think luxury brochures, bespoke direct mail, and personalised print campaigns.
- Hybrid digital-print workflows — modern presses integrate with digital tools for speed, quality, and flexibility.
Print’s not dying — it’s refining.
The Shift from Mass to Meaningful
Today, print isn’t about blanket leaflets or 10,000 flyers. It’s about purpose driven printing:
- Hyper-personalised campaigns
- Eco-conscious materials
- Short-run, high-quality outputs
That’s where the real demand is coming from and why forward-thinking print companies are still growing.
What About Careers in Print?
Another question we hear a lot “Is printing still a good job?“
It can be. Especially if you –
- Embrace new tech and automation
- Upskill in digital print, finishing, or packaging
- Stay curious about sustainability and customer trends
There’s opportunity but the old-school mindset doesn’t cut it anymore.
Final Word! Printing Isn’t Dying, It’s Transforming
It’s easy to write print off as “old media.” But when you look at what’s happening in packaging, design, on-demand services, and sustainability the reality is clear!
Print is still here. Still profitable. Still evolving.
If you’re in the industry or thinking about entering it, now’s the time to adapt, evolve, and own your space. Check out our jobs section!
Want insights into print industry careers or recruitment trends? We specialise in connecting top talent with future-ready print businesses. Let’s chat.
