The UK is the fifth largest producer of printed products in the world. Printing adds relatively more value than any other manufacturing industry, (it had the largest total Gross Value Added out of all industries in 2016). Most printed products have a significant impact on marketing from newspapers, magazines and brochures to packaging and ticketing. It makes sense; print delivers the greatest return on advertising expenditure. The statistics on the return on advertising spend from 2004 – 2015 show magazines to be even more successful than TV and digital video. Is the Printing Industry Sustainable Today?
In 2017, though the internet was the top ranked media (41.2% share), printed media was comfortable second at 29.9%. Although the internet is rapidly growing and taking the market share, overall advertising expenditure is increasing anually. Soxpenditure on printed media increases. So, is the industry looking to grow or decline in the next five years. It seems we’re at crossroads and both options look likely, but it’s unlikely that it’ll ever overtake online growth rate.
But, is Print Sustainable?
The print industry has suffered in recent years due to economic concerns, advancements in technology and an unpredictable business environment due to changing market expectations, which have contributed to the industry’s uncertain future. However, it has evolved after bearing through the years of struggle. Not only have printer manufacturers refined their systems to minimise waste and maximise productivity, but the use of renewable resource make print sustainable, and environmentally smart media buyers are beginning to go back to print. Unfortunately, some manufacturers of original printing products do not make their cartridges last long enough. This means increased waste due to more needing to be bought.
Our ink and toner cartridges are long lasting and tend to have higher page yields. We sell only premium quality compatibles and remanufactured ink and toner cartridges, which work just as well as the original. Our products are also a better value option.
The printing industry can nevertheless affect environmental sustainability. With printers automating and streamlining their processes to reduce waste and emissions and the quality of ink increased, the efficiency of the outcome of improves both commercial and environmental sustainability. Expert printing technology ensures fewer mistakes are made in printing. Also, companies in the packaging industry are adopting greener options such as using biodegradable packaging.
The sustainability of print also depends on other factors such as how good our recycling schemes are. The growth of print management companies have contributed to the conscious print management effort by larger businesses. Print could therefore be sustainable provided conscious choices are made by large individual companies industry wide.
