Patron Perspectives 2024/25 | Navigating a Period of Transformation

This blog series brings together sector reflections from our Patron network – leaders who play an active role in shaping Kingston’s economy and supporting its business community.

Each piece was first published in our 2024/25 Impact Report, where we asked: what’s changed over the past year – and what’s likely to shape what’s next?

The result is a collection of expert, actionable editorials. Throughout this series you’ll find perspectives on housing, education, digital experience professional services and more, reflecting the challenges and opportunities shaping Kingston’s economy.

The UK print industry in 2025 faces a landscape marked by both challenge and opportunity.
The print sector has seen revenue decline year-on-year for the last five years. Increasing energy and material costs coupled with recent pressures from Government policy have all added to the burden facing many businesses.

As the print industry changes, we must get busy adapting with it. Print and print management in the UK is rapidly evolving. The industry appears to be consolidating, with larger firms absorbing mid-sized competitors and the super-sized trade printers offering smaller printers and print management firms access to the latest technology, without the dramatic financial outlay.

Trade print services now operate sophisticated cloud-based platforms, enabling remote and hybrid work environments for printers and print resellers. These changes are helping streamline operations, cut costs, and improve responsiveness to client needs. Smart estimating software means estimates are provided in seconds, proofing and artwork checks are possible in a few minutes, and advances in printing press performance provides faster, cheaper, higher- quality print to everyone. Despite these advances and opportunities, this industry – like many others – is having a tough time.

CHALLENGING CONDITIONS

Challenging conditions are nothing new to the print industry. In May 2025, the BPIF (British Printing Industries Federation.) published a report highlighting the challenges for print, including low pricing of competitors, wage pressures, sales revenue not sufficient for strategic plans and the inevitability of taxation and red tape ranking amongst the biggest concerns.

ENVIRONMENTAL TRENDS

Sustainability is a consideration for both printers and their clients. The industry has for many years been shifting towards sustainable paper supply and eco-friendly practices such as recycled papers, biodegradable substrates, water-based inks and energy-efficient machinery. Many print businesses are adopting carbon-neutral strategies, investing in renewable energy and minimising waste through smarter design and production processes. These efforts not only reduce environmental impact but also appeal to increasingly eco-conscious consumers while complying with the need for supply chain accountability and tightening regulations at home and abroad.

The opportunities for print are varied. Despite declining print volumes, certain segments remain resilient or are even growing. The digital print sector is set to increase by 54% over the next decade (Source: Printweek, April 2025). Book printing is robust, buoyed by a strong UK publishing sector. High-end magazines are experiencing
a revival as luxury brands seek to differentiate themselves with tactile, curated print experiences that stand
out from digital noise.

Print’s ability to deliver personalisation and exclusivity, especially through digital printing and data-driven targeting, offers a unique value to many brands looking to target niche and specific sectors. Packaging is still very much alive, and direct mail – although not always popular on your doormat – has become increasingly sophisticated and effective.

The internet and web marketing, that dealt such a body blow to print in the last 20 years, offers great opportunities to savvy printers who understand where and how to market themselves more effectively and, ultimately, increase exposure to potential customers.

SUMMARY

In conclusion, the UK print industry is navigating a period of transformation, driven by digital evolution, environmental imperatives, and shifting consumer habits. Embracing sustainable practices, investing in automation and smart print management, whilst harnessing the power of online marketing and SEO, print is carving out profitable niches and remaining relevant in a rapidly changing world.

BluPrint produces everything from leaflets and magazines to brochures, banners and point-of-sale materials. Serving clients of all sizes – from vets to vineyards – the company delivers quality, on time, every time. Founded by Mark Attwater, a dedicated Account Manager, BluPrint combines exceptional service with a focus on value, sustainability and environmental responsibility, ensuring customer satisfaction across every project.

Find more information at https://www.mybluprint.uk.