New technologies are constantly being developed for the print industry. These range from efficiency enhancements to amazing innovations that are transforming the way production print happens.

Production print houses have many challenges today and need to provide an increasingly higher level of value to customers, many of whom have more in-house print options than previously. And the best way to get ahead is to stay abreast of new trends and technologies. 

Thus, here are some major trends in production print to help your print shop maintain a competitive advantage.

8 Production Print Trends

Here are some trends you might want to watch if you are in the printing business:

1. Supply Chain Disruptions

Supply chain disruptions are a challenge for the printing industry, as supplies can sometimes be difficult to obtain and/or need to be ordered months in advance. Instituting smart supply chain planning can help navigate these difficulties. 

2. Digital Printing

Digital printing is continuing to overtake the print industry due to being cost-effective, flexible, and efficient. Digital printing can also make printing on different types of media, like metal and glass, possible or in the least, much easier.

3. New Substrates

Speaking of printing materials, new substrates that are not based on paper are becoming more and more popular. Everything from glass and textiles to plastic and special packaging are being utilized for creative marketing materials and products. 

4. Customized Printing

A new type of customized printing called Variable Data Printing (VDP) is becoming more in demand. It allows advertisers to easily tailor branding messages to specific target audiences. For example, postcard mailings can be easily manipulated to feature different images for different customers. 

5. Special Effects

Special effects and finishes like 3D text, foil, and shimmery gloss can make printed pieces much more eye-catching and exciting to the viewer. Custom toner with special colors and effects like neon can also make marketing collateral pop. The further use of laser cutting can also add to the uniqueness of the final product. 

6. Short-Run Prints

One of the best benefits of digital printing is the ability to do small batches and short runs of prints without spending a bundle. This makes customers happier and also makes it easier for print shops to do multiple small jobs without a huge headache in equipment setup. 

7. Digital Labels

Continuing on with this theme of “digital” and “short-run,” digital label printing makes it easy for printers to quickly churn out customized labels at high volumes. This can be very helpful for promotional events and special sales. 

8. Sustainability

A discussion of modern print trends would be remiss if it did not include sustainability. Sustainability covers everything from waste reduction to improved inks. In fact, nontoxic, renewable inks are becoming quite popular. Also, when print shops leverage new digital technologies to produce precise print runs, this can reduce unnecessary waste of paper, materials, and ink. Don’t forget to add recycling to the mix!

How Production Print Shops Can Maintain a Competitive Edge

The rise of digital printing offers many opportunities for production print houses, but there is a downside. As more businesses move many print functions in-house due to the proliferation of wide-format printers, print houses must offer a lot of value-added services and features to entice customers. 

Fortunately, enhanced printing options and special effects can give production print shops an edge. Furthermore, high-quality large scale print jobs are still best accomplished by commercial print houses. Providing a quality product and great customer service will always be in demand. 

Looking for the Best in Production Print Equipment?

Blue Technologies can help your production print quality with top-of-the-line printer equipment. We partner with companies like Konica Minolta, KIP, and Lexmark to offer the best in printer solutions for businesses and professional print companies. Additionally, our Managed Print Services solutions can help maintain your printer fleet. We offer a free assessment to discuss your needs, with no obligation. 

Are you a production print house? Blue Technologies can help with the best in professional printer equipment. Contact a Blue Technologies consultant to schedule a consultation today.