The printing industry, similar to most successful businesses, is always evolving, innovating and adjusting to consumer demand. That’s why despite setbacks over the years, it remains strong in the marketplace.
The Size of the Print Industry
In the U.S., the printing industry is the 14th largest manufacturing industry employing nearly 350,000 people. Last year, there were more than 45,000 printing businesses in operation.
In the U.S. the latest numbers show that this year, printing is a $78.9 billion industry and the global commercial printing market is expected to be valued at$472.35 billion by the end of 2026. The printing industry is expected to grow significantly in the upcoming years, especially for businesses following the latest trends with cutting-edge media and advanced technologies. What we’re seeing in the industry is the use of materials like paper, textile products, metal, glass, plastic and other surfaces using methodologies like lithographic, gravure, screen, flexographic, digital and letterpress processes. Changes that the industry is adapting to are customizations and digitalization.
Due to increased demand for large signage for directional use and business messaging heightened at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing an increase in large scale printing projects. Over the years there has been a significant decline of print media like newspapers, magazines and catalogs—all now active on digital platforms and successful in e-commerce. However, printing advertising remains strong with brochures and direct mail because it’s more visible and attention-getting than email marketing.
These days, what makes a company successful in the industry is diversification. Customers are looking for one-stop shops that take care of all their print needs from marketing ideas to service fulfillment. In order to grow a customer base and maintain repeat business, a printing company needs to provide excellent customer service. Quality work means not only supplying the latest innovations but having a solid understanding of the industry and a variety of services.
Improved Technologies Improves Production
Printing is a very sophisticated industry. Improved technologies are providing a wide range of products to customers like variable data printing and customization. 3-D printing is another tool being utilized by some companies to create one-of-a-kind deliverables. The future of 3D printing is also bright in the upcoming future. Cloud printing is around and will be part of the future of the printing industry because it lowers cost and streamlines the process.
We continue to see improvements in digital print inkjet technology. Inkjet is faster than some traditional printers and has the capability to be roll fed or sheet fed. With the burgeoning shipping industry, improved packaging is a make-it or break-it business when it comes to labeling and customization for companies utilizing printing and packaging.
To be successful in 2022 and be out in front, you need to provide a wide array of services to your customers like design, laser-cutting, digital marketing, direct mail and large print services. It’s a very competitive field, so small print shops may find it difficult to go head- to- head with larger brands like Minuteman Press, Signarama, VistaPrint and the franchise leader, Allegra.
Franchise with Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail
If you are a current print shop owner, or you’re looking to invest in a lucrative industry, franchising with Allegra is a strong option. Allegra provides graphic design, printing, mailing, promotional products and marketing services used by countless companies and organizations. Our franchise model has been proven effective for our more than 200 locations. With our franchising expertise, you have several options to own your own Allegra Center. As an entrepreneur, you can hit the ground running by purchasing an independent printing business with our guidance and rebranding it as an Allegra Center through our MatchMaker® Program.
If you already own a print shop, with our 35 years of experience, we’ll help you transition your printing business through our Advantage® Program.
As a Center owner, you receive training and on-going support as well as having the opportunity to be plugged in to an active networking channel of fellow Franchise Owners who are there to lend advice or assist with day-to-day operating challenges.
Printing companies like Allegra are performing very well because print materials are in high demand. Print has proven its longevity, but we take it to the next step by keeping up with the latest trends to assist our customers. Our Allegra Centers do this by offering a variety of services providing multiple revenue streams. Those services including marketing campaign strategies, creative and graphic design, high impact communication tools and advanced production fulfillment.
If you are ready to learn more about purchasing, converting to, or adding on an Allegra, download our brochure, review it and we’ll be ready to answer any additional questions you may have about Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail.
