Print Industry Trends 2025

The Impact of Vendor Consolidation on the Print Industry

Vendor consolidation is a significant trend in the print industry, with several major players merging or acquiring smaller companies to strengthen their market position. This trend is expected to continue in 2025, with Quocirca predicting that new entrants will emerge as a result. The consolidation of vendors will lead to a more streamlined and efficient supply chain, but it may also result in reduced competition and innovation. Key drivers of vendor consolidation: + Cost savings through reduced overhead and improved operational efficiency + Increased bargaining power with suppliers + Enhanced ability to invest in research and development + Improved customer service through reduced complexity

Potential risks of vendor consolidation:

+ Reduced competition and innovation + Increased dependence on a smaller number of vendors + Potential for vendor lock-in and reduced flexibility

The Decline of Print Volumes and Changing Customer Demands

The print industry is facing significant challenges, with declining print volumes and changing customer demands.

Cloud print market faces security concerns and evolving customer needs as it grows.

The Cloud Print Market: Trends and Challenges

The cloud print market is a rapidly evolving space, driven by the increasing adoption of cloud-based services and the need for flexible, scalable, and secure print solutions. As the market continues to grow, it is essential to understand the trends and challenges that shape its development.

Security Concerns

One of the primary inhibitors to growth in the cloud print market is security. According to a recent survey, 32% of IT decision-makers (ITDMs) cite concerns about data protection as a major obstacle to adopting cloud-based print solutions. This concern is not unfounded, as the cloud print market involves the transfer of sensitive data between devices, networks, and cloud services. Key security concerns in the cloud print market include: + Data encryption and protection + Authentication and authorization + Access control and monitoring + Compliance with regulatory requirements

Cloud Maturity and Customer Needs

As the cloud print market continues to mature, customers will require clear guidance from suppliers who can align their offerings with their cloud maturity. This means that suppliers must be able to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of customers at different stages of their cloud journey.

AI is a double-edged sword that can both enhance security and create new threats.

The AI-Powered Security Threat Landscape

The increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various industries has led to a significant shift in the security landscape. As AI becomes more prevalent, it also becomes a potential target for cybercriminals. The concern among IT Decision Makers (ITDMs) is palpable, with 62% of them worried that AI will be used to create security risks. This concern is well-founded, as AI can be used to enhance the capabilities of cybercriminals, making it a double-edged sword.

The Rise of AI-Powered Cybercrime

AI-powered cybercrime is on the rise, with malicious actors leveraging AI to carry out sophisticated attacks.

The Rise of Sustainable Printing

The printing industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by growing concerns about the environmental impact of traditional printing methods. As consumers and businesses become increasingly aware of the ecological footprint of their purchasing decisions, the demand for sustainable printing solutions is on the rise.

Key Drivers of Change

Several factors are contributing to the shift towards sustainable printing:

Device longevity: With the increasing adoption of device-as-a-service (DaaS) models, IT departments are prioritizing devices that can be used for an extended period, reducing electronic waste and the need for frequent replacements. Ecosystems and marketplaces: The emergence of new ecosystems and marketplaces is providing a platform for innovative companies to develop and sell sustainable printing solutions, offering customers a wider range of choices and driving competition in the market. Regulatory pressures: Governments and regulatory bodies are implementing policies to reduce waste and promote sustainability, creating a business case for companies to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

The Rise of Integrated Services

The trend of organisations seeking integrated services from a single provider is on the rise. According to recent surveys, 48% of organisations currently use a single provider for Managed Print Services (MPS) and IT services, with this number increasing to 56% in the midmarket. This shift towards integrated services is driven by the desire for simplified procurement, reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and improved security.

Benefits of Integrated Services

Simplified procurement: With a single provider handling both MPS and IT services, organisations can streamline their procurement processes, reducing the complexity and administrative burden associated with managing multiple vendors. Reduced costs: Integrated services can lead to cost savings through economies of scale, as the provider can negotiate better deals with suppliers and pass the savings on to the organisation. Enhanced efficiency: A single provider can streamline processes, reduce duplication of effort, and improve communication, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. Improved security: Integrated services can provide a single point of control for security, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks. ### The Challenge for MPS Providers

The Challenge for MPS Providers

As the trend towards integrated services continues to grow, MPS providers will need to adapt and defend against IT services specialists encroaching on print and document workflow territory.

Embracing AI to Drive Growth and Efficiency in Channel Companies.

The Rise of AI in Channel Companies

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is on the rise in channel companies, with 46% of respondents stating that AI is already critically or very important to their business. This trend is expected to continue, with more companies recognizing the benefits of leveraging AI to drive growth, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experience.

Key Benefits of AI in Channel Companies

Improved Customer Experience: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can help channel companies provide 24/7 support to customers, reducing response times and improving overall satisfaction. Enhanced Sales and Marketing: AI-driven analytics can help channel companies identify new sales opportunities, personalize marketing campaigns, and optimize pricing strategies. Increased Efficiency: AI can automate routine tasks, such as data entry and customer service, freeing up channel companies to focus on higher-value activities. ## The Competitive Advantage of AI**

The Competitive Advantage of AI

Those channel companies that embrace AI will gain a major competitive advantage in the market. By leveraging AI, channel companies can:

Gain Insights into Customer Behavior: AI-powered analytics can help channel companies understand customer preferences, behavior, and pain points, enabling them to develop targeted marketing campaigns and improve customer satisfaction. Improve Supply Chain Management: AI can help channel companies optimize their supply chain operations, reducing lead times and improving inventory management. Enhance Product Development: AI can help channel companies develop new products and services that meet the evolving needs of their customers. ## Overcoming the Challenges of AI Adoption**

Overcoming the Challenges of AI Adoption

While AI offers many benefits, channel companies must also be aware of the challenges associated with its adoption.