TH BEYOND INK 2025 Your Guide to Print Marketing Trends + Insights The Connected Future of Print
WELCOME THE CONNECTED FUTURE OF PRINT Welcome to THINK BEYOND 2025 – the definitive guide for forward-thinking resellers who are ready to innovate, grow, and lead the way in a rapidly evolving industry. TODAY, success isn’t just about keeping up with trends; it’s about anticipating them, understanding their impact, and leveraging them to create new opportunities. It’s about connecting ideas to action, products to people, and digital to print in powerful, profitable ways. AS THE CONNECTED PRINTER, Navitor is at the forefront of this transformation. With a technology-first approach that unites our nationwide network of print facilities with an industry-leading network of print enablers, we’re redefining what’s possible in custom printing. Our unified solutions make it easier, faster, and more profitable for you to deliver high-impact experiences that resonate in today’s connected world. THIS GUIDE is designed to help you harness the power of connection. From AI-driven personalization to interactive print experiences, from sustainable solutions to omnichannel marketing strategies, we’re not just highlighting what’s trending – we’re showing you how to capitalize on it. Packed with strategic insights, actionable pro tips, and profit-driving ideas, THINK BEYOND 2025 is more than just a guide; it’s your blueprint for success. SOLUTIONS THAT DELIVER – whether you’re looking to expand your product offerings, enter new markets, or streamline workflows with cutting-edge technology, this guide empowers you to lead with confidence. And with Navitor’s innovative solutions backed by real people ready to support you every step of the way, you have the competitive edge to seize every opportunity. 2025 IS THE YEAR OF CONNECTION – AND IT’S YOURS TO OWN. Ready for some forward thINKing? Let’s get started.
– 3 –
– 4 – 20 25
Cutting-Edge Product Opportunities pages 8-9 Going Beyond the Trends pages 6-7 Vertical Markets on the Rise pages 10-11 Turning Trends into Revenue pages 12-13 Print on Demand pages 14-15 FEATURE – 5 –
GOING BEYOND THE TRENDS – 6 – AI is Reshaping Direct Marketing WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AI is a top investment priority for businesses, improving efficiency, personalization, and predictive analytics, which can enhance customer targeting and engagement. Brands must tailor pitches based on behaviors and preferences, and integrate digital and print marketing for a seamless customer experience. WHY IT MATTERS Personalization is now an expectation. Businesses must balance digital engagement with meaningful, tailored interactions across multiple channels to capture customer attention and build loyalty. Print on Demand WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Print on Demand (POD) is growing due to e-commerce and social media enabling global reach for unique designs. Demand for personalized products and advancements in printing technology have boosted POD’s popularity. This market spans various niches, attracting entrepreneurs and creators by offering custom products in small quantities – some in quantities as few as one – without the traditional manufacturing risks. WHY IT MATTERS POD’s growth offers resellers a chance to market personalized, high-quality products to customers, minimizing inventory risks and tapping into diverse niches for increased profitability. Blog | 3 Minutes A look at disruptors like AI, Print on Demand, sustainability, and creator economy that are impacting the print industry and how you can capitalize. Read more The Big Picture: Industry Shifts and Opportunities PRO Selling Tip SEASONALITY AND TOP-SELLING PRODUCTS promote these items 30-60 days in advance Q1 = Business Cards, Stamps & Daters, Folders, Custom Forms (winter into early spring) Q2 = Yard Signs, Door Hangers, Tote Bags, Outdoor Labels (spring into summer) Q3 = Durable Banners, Table Tents, Name Badges, Envelopes (summer into early fall) Q4 = Calendars, Holiday Greeting Cards, Announcements, Mailing Labels (fall into winter) { {
THE BIG PICTURE: INDUSTRY SHIFTS AND OPPORTUNITIES – 7 – Sustainability Demands WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW More consumers than ever are looking for companies whose values around sustainability align with their own. In addition, many state and local governments are approaching the topic through legislation, which is driving companies to reduce their environmental impact and require the same from their vendors and suppliers. WHY IT MATTERS Sustainable practices – such as using eco‑friendly materials and reducing waste – demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Embracing sustainability can attract eco‑conscious customers and differentiate you in a competitive market. Creator Marketing WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Creator marketing – where influencers, content creators, and niche experts promote brands – is reshaping how businesses connect with audiences. As the creator economy grows, brands are investing in custom merch, packaging, and promotional print to align with their influencer partnerships. WHY IT MATTERS This trend means increased demand for high-quality, small-batch print runs tailored to creator-led brands and campaigns. $500 The creator economy is set to reach $500 billion by 2027. Source: creatoriq.com/blog Integrating Print & Digital WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Brands expect seamless integration between print and digital experiences. Augmented reality (AR), QR codes, NFC technology, and personalized URLs (PURLs) are transforming traditional print into interactive experiences. This is reshaping everything from direct mail to packaging, where printed materials no longer exist in isolation but serve as gateways to deeper digital engagement. WHY IT MATTERS This means selling more than just ink on paper – it’s about positioning print as a connected, data-driven tool that enhances customer journeys, drives measurable engagement, and boosts ROI. Going Beyond the Trends BILLION
CUTTING-EDGE PRODUCT OPPORTUNITIES Print’s Role in the Digital Age WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW The digital age hasn’t diminished the impact of print – it’s redefined it. By embracing sustainability, luxury finishes, short-run packaging, traditional craftsmanship, multifunctional business cards, and premium corporate gifting, you can stay ahead of industry shifts and offer innovative solutions that drive value for your customers. WHY IT MATTERS Staying ahead of the curve means embracing new trends and innovations while leveraging traditional techniques that stand the test of time. Now is the time to rethINK what print can do and how you can help brands create meaningful, memorable connections through the power of print. Classic Products/ Modern Takes STAMPS Still streamlining business tasks, custom stamps are also making a comeback to enhance branding by quickly marking packaging, gift bags, invoices, and more. CALENDAR CARDS They’re returning enhanced with QR codes linking to digital content, merging traditional appeal with modern interactivity. New formats that fit into #10 envelopes is a new take on this classic. BUSINESS CARDS The role of business cards is expanding beyond traditional networking. Forward-thinking brands are using them creatively as product inserts, product tags, and interactive experiences with scannable AR elements. – 8 – reth Blog | 3 Minutes In a world increasingly dominated by digital communication, print remains an essential, tactile experience that drives brand engagement, credibility, and connection. Read more Print’s Role in the Digital Age INK
TOP 5 TRENDS IN PRODUCTS Short-Run Packaging High-End Corporate Giving Water-Activated Packaging Tape Eco-Friendly Materials Luxury Finishes Eco-friendly materials and sustainable alternatives are gaining momentum, with options like recyclable products, reusable solutions such as Epoly’s PolyWeave® products, and paper stocks that support environmentally responsible sourcing. Custom-printed, wateractivated packaging tape is gaining popularity for its branding benefits in today’s high-volume shipping trend. Made from recyclable, repulpable materials, it features reinforced fiberglass threads for a strong, tamper-resistant bond. In a marketplace flooded with generic digital advertising, brands are turning to print for a premium, high-touch experience. Luxury finishes and custom enhancements elevate printed products and create lasting impressions. As e-commerce continues to thrive, short-run packaging has become essential for on-demand branding. Small businesses and boutique brands are in need of flexible, low-quantity custom packaging solutions. In an era of digital fatigue, premium corporate gifts hold significant power in fostering relationships and reinforcing brand loyalty. Trending products include personalized executive gifts like engraved journals or custom wood stamps, premium drinkware and apparel brands, branded luxury packaging for high‑end promotional items, and eco-conscious gifting. – 9 – Product Opportunities PRO Selling Tip When selling labels, highlight how branded packaging (labels + water-activated tape) creates a premium unboxing experience that drives customer loyalty. { {
VERTICAL MARKETS on the rise in 2025… WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Several key industries are experiencing growth, presenting major opportunities for print sales. While digital marketing continues to evolve, tangible print products remain vital for brand presence, customer engagement, and business operations. 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. WHY IT MATTERS By positioning yourself as the go-to print expert and offering tailored solutions to these vertical markets, you can ensure your business grows alongside these booming industries. Must-Have Products BRANDED PACKAGING flexible pouches, water-activated packaging tape, prime labels LABELS compliance labels, inventory labels, water bottle labels BUSINESS IDENTITY PRODUCTS business cards, envelopes, letterhead, name badges BRANDED SWAG apparel, corporate gifts, event giveaways EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION GIFTS jackets, drinkware, bags, planners SIGNS & GRAPHICS wayfinding and safety signage, tradeshow signage, banners PATIENT & OFFICE MATERIALS prescription pads, appointment reminders, custom forms – 10 –
WHERE TO WIN BIG Manufacturing 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. Healthcare Healthcare remains a high-growth industry, with expanding medical facilities and regulatory changes driving demand for printed materials from compliance documentation to patient education. Events/Experiences Demand is 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. Online Marketplaces E-commerce continues its rapid expansion, with small businesses and major brands alike seeking ways to differentiate themselves. Creatively branded packaging, inserts, and shipping materials offer a more memorable “unboxing” experience. Vertical Markets – 11 – An in-depth view of vertical markets on the rise and the opportunities that lie within each. Read more 5 Vertical Markets on the Rise: Where to Win Big Blog | 3 Minutes PRO Selling Tip If a client orders business cards, suggest matching presentation folders or business envelopes for a consistent brand look. { { Education 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 and alumni engagement.
– 12 – FUTURE-PROOF YOUR BUSINESS Your Blueprint for Success WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Growing sales isn’t just about finding new customers – it’s about selling smarter. The most successful resellers focus on helping clients solve problems, expanding sales with existing customers, and making print easier to buy. WHY IT MATTERS Print buyers don’t just need print; they need a trusted partner who simplifies the process and adds real value. By positioning yourself as a solutions provider, you build stronger customer relationships, increase repeat sales, and create highermargin opportunities. The more effortless you make buying print, the more customers will turn to you instead of the competition. Vertically Focused Sales Tools Who Buys What When? Print Sample Kits Rebrandable Digital Catalogs Online Price Calculator Social Media Image Library Request a Flash Appraisal Subscribe to Insider Email Newsletter STAY CONNECTED WITH NAVITOR
– 13 – TURNING TRENDS INTO REVENUE Emphasize Customization & Innovation Providing tailored, innovative solutions is pure gold for your customers, and getting hyper-specific in your own marketing is “walking the walk.” Target specific industries or needs to become the go-to expert. Sell More to Existing Customers It’s way easier (and cheaper) to sell to someone who already buys from you. Identify gaps in what your current customers order and introduce complementary products. Set up a branded ordering portal for repeat customers so they can quickly reorder without back-and-forth emails. Leverage Digital Tools Customers expect easy ordering. If you’re not offering an online portal, you’re falling behind. It no longer requires a huge investment or infrastructure. Make ordering seamless with custom storefronts, online proofing, and automation. Offer Solutions, Not Just Products Act as a trusted advisor rather than order-taker. Instead of just listing products, help customers solve problems – whether it’s streamlining branding across multiple locations, simplifying inventory with Print on Demand, or creating high-margin upsell opportunities. Promote Sustainable & Compliant Solutions Highlight your ability to deliver more eco-friendly and regulation-compliant print and packaging options, helping customers align with consumer and industry expectations. Trends Into Revenue PRO Selling Tip Instead of generic “custom envelopes,” promote secure envelopes for law firms, or branded packaging for Etsy sellers. { {
– 14 – PRINT ON DEMAND FEATURE Print on Demand (POD) is transforming how you do business. By eliminating large print runs and excess inventory, POD allows businesses to order branded marketing materials as needed, ensuring consistency and efficiency. For you, this model presents an opportunity for higher profit margins, repeat purchases, and stronger customer loyalty. Businesses are seeking flexible, just-in-time print solutions that simplify ordering across multiple locations, teams, and events. Offering POD positions you as a reliable, technology-driven partner in your customers’ branding strategies. As technology continues to shape the industry, adopting Print on Demand is not just an option – it’s a strategic move for long-term success. 3 scenarios (What best describes your eCommerce need?) #1 I have a customer who would like to order their company-branded printed products online. Now it’s easy to set up a custom-branded ordering portal, giving your customers direct access to their approved print materials for seamless reordering and brand consistency. #2 I would like to secure new customer business through my website with an online ordering option. With integrated eCommerce solutions, you can offer a fully branded online store where customers can browse, customize, and order print products – expanding your reach and driving new business. #3 I would like to order products online, on behalf of my customer. Online ordering platforms give you direct access to a wide range of print products, allowing you to manage orders efficiently while maintaining control over pricing and customer relationships. is reshaping the way businesses approach marketing and brand management. It’s not just trending – it’s the new standard. Increased accessibility & convenience Cost-effectiveness Customization & personalization Speed & efficiency Scalability Sustainability See how, as The Connected Printer, Navitor is redefining print with innovative solutions that make it easier, faster, and more profitable for you. Click here to learn more. FLASH APPRAISAL WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Our teams will help evaluate your need and current situation, and make recommendations for how we can help YOU CONNECT. FREE
PRINT ON DEMAND BRANDED MARKETING MATERIALS A Streamlined, Profit-Driving Solution This is more than a trend. It’s the future of print. As businesses look for faster, more efficient ways to maintain brand consistency across all locations and touchpoints, the demand for on-demand printing continues to grow. It leverages user-friendly online platforms to streamline the process of designing, ordering, and receiving custom branded products, making it highly accessible for businesses and entrepreneurs. This shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s about adapting to a world where speed, personalization, and flexibility are key. As digital-first businesses continue to rise, the ability to order customized, branded materials in real-time will become an expectation, not a luxury. For many marketers, print marketing is a slow and manual process. It involves designing, tracking down art files, reviewing and editing artwork, requesting quotes, placing orders, and approving proofs – often for every single project. This time-consuming workflow has led many businesses to switch to streamlined marketing processes through eCommerce platforms. These platforms serve as private online storefronts that store a company’s branded materials. Within seconds, businesses can order business cards, signage, apparel, drinkware, brochures, direct mail, and more. Every product is tailored to the company’s exact specifications and uses pre-approved, on-brand designs. Once set up, these platforms allow you to offer turnkey solutions, including custom small and large format printing, unique finishing options, and simplified complex print projects. For example, if a new employee needs business cards, they simply visit the portal, enter their contact information, and place the order. If franchisees need table tents, branded shirts, and a banner, they can handle it themselves – no need to track down artwork, contact the marketing team, upload files, or worry about inconsistent branding. Automated workflows through web-to-print platforms are transforming print marketing by streamlining the entire process, saving time, and ensuring brand consistency. The POD market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.8% through 2030. Source: grandviewresearch.com Personalized promotions using POD and variable messaging can increase conversion rates by 36%. Source: marketing.com It’s easier than ever for you and your customers to create and sell custom on-demand products with no inventory. Read more Print on Demand: Meeting the Needs of Modern Businesses Blog | 3 Minutes POD IS GROWING 25.8% – 15 –
© 2025 Navitor, Inc. www.navitor.com 1625 Roe Crest Drive North Mankato, MN 56003 INKup &LINKup INKup &LINKup coordinating icons/design elements Logo 2 AC1
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjUyNTM1MQ==