JET SHARES TOP 3 PRINT TRENDS

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Jet Technologies has pinpointed what it says are the three key trends in print that are shaping the path toward a smarter and more sustainable future for 2025.

Three top trends: Jack Malki, director, Jet Technologies
Three top trends: Jack Malki, director, Jet Technologies

Jet Technologies director Jack Malki says print-on-demand, automation transforming workflows, and sustainability as a core strategy will define the local print industry this year.

According to Malki, Print-On-Demand (POD) will become more prominent in the local printing industry in 2025, offering businesses the ability to produce materials in the exact quantities required. This approach eliminates the inefficiencies of overproduction, reduces storage costs, and significantly minimises waste - addressing both environmental concerns and bottom-line pressures.

“The need for custom, on-demand solutions is escalating as businesses work to minimise overproduction and deliver on the growing consumer expectation for personalisation,” explains Malki. “At the same time, challenges like labour shortages and rising costs are pushing the industry toward smarter solutions, like POD, which emphasises waste-free production, eco-friendly materials, and automated workflows to unlock new growth in a competitive marketplace.”
 
He says the rise of POD is particularly impactful in the packaging sector, where short-run production and rapid turnaround times are critical. For example, beverage companies using POD can create tailored, region-specific packaging for limited-edition products tailored towards local events. This strategy can not only help move stock, but also create lasting impressions with consumers and help build brand loyalty.  

Malki also says POD also offers businesses new ways to connect with customers through integration with cross-media marketing campaigns. This capability allows businesses to print and distribute personalised marketing collateral - such as QR code-enabled flyers - on a just-in-time basis for limited offers, creating a seamless bridge between physical and digital customer interactions.

Malki says automation is changing every phase of the printing process, driving efficiency and improving margins in an increasingly competitive market. From automated job submissions and scheduling to AI-driven quality control, businesses are leveraging technology to reduce manual intervention and error rates while optimising output.

“Automation is critical in addressing the dual pressures of labour shortages and escalating operational costs. By streamlining processes, it empowers printing businesses to deliver superior results faster, with greater accuracy, and at a lower cost - transforming the way the industry operates and meets customer expectations,” Malki explained.

For instance, automated finishing equipment can help print shops significantly reduce production timelines. A printer could integrate automated binding and trimming systems, enabling shorter turnaround times for high-volume book production, while maintaining impeccable quality standards.

Additionally, cloud-based workflow management systems are allowing businesses to operate seamlessly across multiple locations. These platforms provide real-time visibility into job status, inventory levels, and maintenance schedules, empowering teams to make informed decisions and address potential issues proactively.

Finally, Malki says sustainability has evolved from an industry buzzword to an operational necessity. He says in 2025, printing businesses will lean into eco-conscious innovations such as recyclable, biodegradable, and non-plastic materials. At the same time, energy-efficient technologies, like LED UV curing, are reducing resource consumption without compromising on quality.

“In 2025, we expect an even stronger emphasis on sustainability, with environmental, social, and governance (ESG & SDG) initiatives becoming central to printing and management practices,” said Malki. “Print manufacturers and their partners have an opportunity to lead in sustainability, helping businesses reduce emissions while ensuring operational excellence.”

Australian printers who embrace water-based inks and carbon-neutral production processes are strategically positioning themselves to forge partnerships with environmentally conscious retail brands. This approach not only reduces their carbon footprint but also enhances their appeal as a preferred vendor for clients prioritising ESG alignment.

Further innovation is occurring in material reuse, with advancements in circular economy models enabling used packaging materials to be repurposed into new products. This trend is fostering collaborations between the printing and recycling industries, creating a closed-loop system that benefits both the planet and profitability.

Malki says as the printing industry moves into 2025, trends such as POD, automation, and sustainability are key factors shaping its future. He says, “With these innovations at the forefront, Australian printing businesses are positioned to meet evolving demands, improve efficiency, and lead in environmental responsibility.”

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