5 Vertical Markets on the Rise

Where Resellers Can Win Big

When it comes to selling print, the landscape is always shifting. Some industries are slowing down, while others are charging full speed ahead – and where there’s growth, there’s opportunity. Today, several key vertical markets are booming, creating fresh demand for print products that help businesses stand out, connect with customers, and keep operations running smoothly.

While digital marketing grabs the headlines, print remains a powerhouse for brand presence, customer trust, and real-world engagement. The best part? These growing industries need the kind of high-impact print you sell – labels, packaging, signage, branded materials, and more.

So, which markets should you focus on to boost your sales this year? Keep reading to discover five industries on the rise – and how to position your print solutions to win big.

1. Manufacturing: A Powerhouse for Print

Manufacturing is experiencing a resurgence, driven by reshoring efforts, increased automation, and supply chain diversification. As companies scale production, their need for branding, compliance, and operational print materials is growing. Manufacturers rely on print more than you might think – from branded labels and packaging to safety signage and marketing collateral. In addition to labeling and packaging for finished goods, the logistics part of the business is an opportunity for printed products.

Opportunities:

  • Packaging & Labels: Branded product labels, compliance labels, and eco-friendlier packaging solutions.
  • Signage: OSHA-compliant safety signs, directional signage, and promotional banners.
  • Marketing & Stationery: Product brochures, business cards, custom forms, and branded folders.

Pro Tip: Offer bulk discounts for high-volume label and packaging orders. Manufacturers value consistency – so emphasize repeat ordering and brand consistency. Our Marketing Field Guide to Manufacturing & Packaging is a great place to start.

2. Events & Experiences: The Print-Heavy Power Player 

Live events are in full swing, with demand surging for in-person trade shows, festivals, and corporate gatherings. Brands are investing heavily in immersive experiences, making high-impact print materials essential for engagement and visibility. From trade shows to music festivals, live experiences rely on print for brand visibility and attendee engagement.

Opportunities:

  • Event Signage: Posters, retractable banner stands, foam board, expanded PVC, yard signs, and A-frames.
  • Branded Swag: Custom-printed tote bags, water bottles, and apparel.
  • Tickets & Programs: VIP passes, event tickets, lanyards, and event guides.

Profit-Driving Idea: Bundle event signage with promotional items to create complete event marketing packages. For more ideas, check out our Tradeshows & Events flyer.

3. Education: A Steady Demand for Print

The education sector continues to expand, fueled by increased enrollment and hybrid learning models. Schools and universities rely on print for branding, communication, and student engagement for both Admissions and Alumni Relations, making it a consistent revenue stream for resellers.

Opportunities:

  • Student & Staff Materials: Name and ID badges, letterhead and envelopes, branded folders, and notebooks.
  • Wayfinding & Safety Signage: Classroom door signs, campus maps, and emergency signs.
  • Recruitment & Fundraising: Brochures, postcards, alumni event mailers, and mailing envelopes.

Pro Tip: Position yourself as a go-to print provider for seasonal needs like back-to-school campaigns, graduations, and fundraising events and mailings. Our K-12 and Higher Education industry flyers help you navigate the education sector with confidence.

4. Healthcare: Essential, Regulated, and Print-Dependent

Healthcare remains a high-growth industry, with expanding medical facilities and regulatory changes driving demand for printed materials. From compliance documentation to patient education, print plays a critical role in keeping operations smooth and professional. Hospitals, clinics, and medical offices require compliant and professional print materials daily. For print solutions that keep healthcare on track, rely on this brandable Healthcare industry flyer.

Opportunities:

  • Patient & Office Materials: Prescription pads, appointment reminders, and branded business stationery.
  • Informational Print: Rack cards, brochures, and labor law posters.
  • Wayfinding Signage: Pedestal signs, A-frame boards, and decals.

Profit-Driving Idea: Schedule recurring monthly or quarterly meetings for healthcare offices that require frequent reorders.

5. E-Commerce & Online Marketplaces: The Boom Continues

E-commerce continues its rapid expansion, with small businesses and major brands alike seeking ways to differentiate themselves. Custom packaging, branded inserts, and print-on-demand solutions are crucial for creating a memorable unboxing experience and building customer loyalty. With e-commerce sales surging, brands need standout print solutions for packaging and customer engagement.

Opportunities:

  • Branded Packaging: Flexible pouches, folded cartons, water-activated packaging tape, and shipping labels.
  • Print-on-Demand: Stickers, hang tags, and product inserts.
  • Marketing & Loyalty Materials: Thank-you cards, coupon inserts, promo and apparel, and mailers.

Pro Tip: Be the one-stop resource for a wide range of solutions that help startups and small business owners, including setting up a corporate store with branded products.

Seizing the Growth Opportunities

These are just a few of the vertical markets that are expanding, and custom print resellers have an opportunity to thrive by targeting industries that rely on tangible, high-quality print. Whether it’s manufacturing’s need for durable labels, healthcare’s compliance-driven print, or e-commerce’s demand for premium packaging, there’s significant profit potential in every sector. By positioning yourself as their go-to print expert and offering tailored solutions, you can ensure your business grows alongside these booming industries.

Ready to take advantage? Start reaching out to key decision-makers in these industries today and show them how print is still a powerful part of their success story.