Trends Shaping the Future of Print

Despite living in a ‘digital world’, commercial offset printing continues to play an indispensable role in marketing collateral. Some of this comes down to the fact that print marketing offers certain perks that digital simply can’t match. And some of it is thanks to print leaders approaching their work with an innovation-first mindset. This philosophy has helped ensure that offset printing is an ever-evolving field, not just embracing the future, but also helping to pave the way. To illustrate, this blog will explore some of the key trends shaping the future of commercial printing, and the role offset printing is poised to play in the coming decades.

Sustainable Printing Practices

The development and implementation of more sustainable practices has been a top priority for printers. Historically seen as a fairly wasteful industry, there are now numerous practical strategies printshops can employ to make their print processes a whole lot greener. 

For example, as demand for FSC-certified papers increased over the past few years, printers have worked with paper suppliers to develop a much wider selection of sustainable print substrates. This has helped clients gain access to sustainable options in various weights and finishes, ensuring there’s something sustainable to suit just about any printing scenario.

There have also been enormous strides made towards creating more sustainable ink solutions. Eco-friendly inks are now manufactured from soy and vegetable-bases. While the traditional petroleum-based inks produced a lot of harmful VOCs, these more eco-friendly options release substantially less harmful fumes.

To read more about sustainability in the modern print world, check out our blog post How to Make Your Print Marketing Green.

Printing Automations

Advanced press automations now play an indispensable role in ensuring efficient operations management. Cutting-edge presses now feature built-in sensors that constantly monitor both the equipment and print results. These sensors detect problems and provide instant feedback on key factors like production metrics, print quality, maintenance priorities, and process errors; preventing costly mistakes and time delays.

Variable Data and Personalization

The process for producing targeted print marketing materials has been transformed by digital technology. Fast, efficient print personalization and distribution has become broadly accessible thanks to major advancements in variable data management. Expect to see audience targeting grow ever more precise, trimming costs while maximizing the emotive power of print by placing it directly in the hands of the most critical clients and stakeholders.

Hybrid Print Solutions

Recently, some commercial printers have even begun experimenting with the hybridization of digital printing and offset printing. Techniques that blend the two, such as using an offset press to layer advanced finishes over a digitally printed base, could potentially expand the high-end finishing options available for lower-quantity print runs, which have traditionally been cost-restricted to digital-only solutions. 

Offset Printing’s Lasting Leadership

Offset printing remains the gold standard for color consistency, image quality, material range, finishing options, and cost-effectiveness for large-volume commercial work. But to get the most out of this technique’s fundamentals and emerging innovations, you need to work with a top-tier printer like Wallace Carlson.

With nearly a century of commercial print success already in the books, we’re ready to help you bring your biggest, boldest print dreams to life. Choose a print partner with a passion for innovation and a commitment to Michelin-star quality service. Reach out to get started with Wallace Carlson Printing today.