I have recently seen lots of emails flying into my inbox, updating me on various print industry changes on the horizon for 2022. This month, ahead of some significant changes, I thought it would be useful to share what is happening, why and how this may impact your next project. For marketers this should hopefully help to explain why you might also be seeing a rise in your print project costs and help you to accommodate some of these changes into your next brief.
1. Hybrid working will expedite a more digital way of working
As a result of experiences over the last two years and in response to the pandemic, there has been a significant shift towards a more digital workplace. With many businesses now trying to find a happy balance between the flexibility of working from home vs encouraging teams to return to the office.
Most organisations are now facilitating a hybrid way of working. No longer is there a requirement for teams to visit an office every day. With a flexible way of working and technology now in place, this will impact demand for print, as people will meet in person less, with less need for business cards and marketing collateral. The type of print items required will therefore be far more targeted and considered, possibly with a higher per unit price. There will be a greater need to connect with the right audience, directly.
2. Price increases across the print industry
Over recent weeks, the news has been full of stories about the anticipated rise in costs of fuel and energy from April 2022 across the UK. This is also being passed onto businesses in the print industry, resulting in higher costs to run print presses, heat offices and provide adequate lighting. But not only are we expecting a rise in energy costs, but an increases in prices elsewhere including:
- The price of aluminium, the material which the print plates are made from.
- Chemicals used in the print process which are also used in antibacterial gels and hand sanitisers and naturally being diverted else where.
- A rise in paper prices with the environment and sustainability in mind.
- Transport costs, especially if goods are coming from China or Asia in general.
With increasing prices coming from all areas across the print process, it is inevitable that print prices will be increasing. Whilst many of our suppliers have tried to absorb as many as those costs as possible, we are at a tipping point where price increases are now unavoidable.
3. Sustainability
This is a key topic for many further to the COP summit in Glasgow last November. As many organisations move towards creating a more sustainable way of working, reviewing the printing processes will form part of that review. Customers and organisations will demand to understand how the print industry is taking a sustainable approach to: disposing of ink, recycling paper and ultimately creating an overall lower impact on the environment.
4. The Great Resignation
This is something which is impacting the workforce at every level. With many having had time to consider what is important to them over recent months, it will result in many staff changing roles and seeking organisations that align to their brand values. It is cited that about a quarter of the work force will change their job over the coming months. The result of which is likely to be many vacancies become available or transition of staff within the industry as employees seek new opportunities.
The above is just a highlight of some of the anticipated changes we can expect to see over the year ahead. If you would like some help navigating around the changes and making the most of your print this year – please get in touch to arrange a no obligation discovery call.
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