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The print-on-demand industry underwent significant transformation in 2024, setting the stage for compelling developments in 2025. Let’s examine the key events that shaped the industry last year and explore the trends that will define its future.
The past year brought substantial changes to the print-on-demand landscape, fundamentally altering how businesses operate and compete in this space.
The industry witnessed historic consolidation in 2024, marked by the landmark mergers between Printful and Printify and S&S and alphabroder. These tie-ups signaled a clear shift in market dynamics and continue to reflect an evolving industry where scale and operational efficiency have become increasingly crucial. It wasn’t long ago that the print on-demand production and distribution markets were highly fragmented. The consolidation we saw in 2024 was a clear indicator that the standard for scale has changed: a multi-facility, global presence is now a prerequisite for meaningful market presence.
2024 was a year of partnerships. Collaborations continue to be a primary growth catalyst, with several notable announcements redefining market possibilities. Canva’s strategic alliance with HP indicates a focus on global print quality consistency, while Shutterfly’s partnership with Amazon Prime highlighted the continued importance of logistical excellence and fast shipping. Adobe’s integration with Zazzle brought streamlined print functionality to Adobe Express, and Fanatics secured valuable partnerships with World Rugby and Juventus, strengthening its position in sports merchandise.
The market welcomed innovative new software platforms in 2024, with Gelato introducing GelatoConnect and Gooten launching OrderMesh. Society6’s comprehensive redesign on Shopify demonstrated the industry’s commitment to enhanced user experience and YouTube too focused on streamlined experiences by introducing Creator Collections to make it easier for creators to promote and sell merchandise. Social commerce continued its impressive growth, with TikTok Shop reaching $32.6bn in transaction volume last year. Etsy had a leadership shake-up and Shopify posted record Q4 results, while Merch By Amazon relaxed admission requirements for creators making the Amazon marketplace even more competitive.
AI technology made significant inroads in graphic design and imagery, influencing print file creation to quality assurance and image processing. AI continues to enter our industry in a meaningful way as we see the democratization of design creation through new tools, efficiency in product creation (e.g., photobooks), and smarter image detection and print quality assurance processes on production floors.
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2024 was not without its challenges. Post-COVID market dynamics led to significant developments, including Coloreel’s bankruptcy and Delta Apparel’s Chapter 11 filing. The Delta Apparel bankruptcy resulted in closure of DTG2Go operations, previously one of the largest multi-location print on-demand apparel producers in the US, and sale of the Salt Life Brand. Intellectual property concerns returned to prominence with cases like Atari’s lawsuit against Printify and stock prices for public companies in print on-demand continued to face headwinds.
As we venture into 2025, the print-on-demand industry stands at a fascinating crossroads where technology, sustainability, and market dynamics converge to reshape how we think about customized products. This year promises to be transformative, with several key trends poised to redefine the landscape.
While artificial intelligence made its initial mark in creative design, 2025 will start to see AI penetrating deeply into operational infrastructure. Imagine a production center where AI doesn’t just optimize print file QA—it helps orchestrate an entire symphony of operations. Digital workers will start to handle customer service inquiries with unprecedented accuracy, while smart systems can predict inventory needs before shortages occur. The real breakthrough lies in AI’s ability to learn and adapt: we will start to see production workflows self-optimize, reducing waste and improving efficiency in unprecedented ways.
The industry’s commitment to sustainability continues to evolve from marketing buzzwords to measurable action. Spreadshirt’s bold pledge to use 100% recycled polyester in their apparel by Q3 2025 sets a new standard for environmental responsibility. But it’s not just about materials—leading companies are transforming their operations with solar-powered fulfillment centers and innovative water conservation programs in printing facilities.
European regulators are pushing the envelope further with stringent product safety and sustainability requirements. These regulations, far from being barriers, are catalyzing innovation across the industry. Companies that adapt early will find themselves well-positioned as similar standards inevitably spread globally.
The projected $1.2 trillion social commerce market represents more than just a number—it’s a fundamental shift in how consumers discover and purchase customized products. Despite uncertainties surrounding TikTok’s future in some markets, the platform continues to explode with growth and Instagram is creating seamless shopping experiences that blur the lines between social media and eCommerce.
Direct-to-Film (DTF) technology is poised to revolutionize apparel printing on substrates previously unavailable to print on-demand, offering superior quality and versatility. Meanwhile, new production equipment (e.g., the Kornit Apollo) is demonstrating how digital and analog production technologies continue to converge to the benefit of consumers who receive a higher quality product, faster. This trend is creating new possibilities for scalable, efficient production that maintains the standards consumers demand.
The merger wave that brought us the S&S-alphabroder union and the Printful-Printify consolidation in 2024 was just the beginning. As we move through 2025, expect to see more strategic alignments as companies seek to build comprehensive capabilities and geographic reach. The most successful partnerships will be those that leverage complementary strengths while maintaining operational efficiency.
These partnerships extend beyond simple mergers—we’re seeing unprecedented collaboration across borders and disciplines. The equation is simple: 1+1=3 when companies combine their expertise and resources effectively. From technology integration to market access, partnerships are becoming the fastest path to growth in an increasingly complex market.
The traditional boundaries between promotional products and print-on-demand are disappearing. This convergence is creating new opportunities for businesses to offer comprehensive customization solutions. Companies that can effectively bridge these two worlds will find themselves with a significant competitive advantage. Promo and print on-demand is yet another space where traditional lines of separation are blurring, which creates ripe opportunities for growth and innovation.
The incoming U.S. presidential administration adds an element of uncertainty to international trade dynamics. Tariff policies, geopolitical tensions, and potential regulatory changes are prompting companies to reevaluate their supply chains and inventory strategies. The ongoing antitrust scrutiny in both the U.S. and Europe adds another layer of complexity to cross-border operations and partnerships. Uncertainty prevails and drives decision-making from CEOs to merchandise buyers. What will play out in the 2025 global supply chain and economy remains a mystery that poses risk and growth potential for all involved.
We believe success in 2025 will require a delicate balance of innovation and pragmatism. Companies that can effectively integrate AI while maintaining a human touch, embrace sustainability without sacrificing efficiency, and build strategic partnerships while staying nimble will be best positioned to thrive.
The print-on-demand industry is entering a new era of intelligent integration—where technology, sustainability, and strategic partnerships converge to create more efficient, responsible, and customer-centric solutions. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities for those ready to embrace this evolution.
For industry leaders, we believe the message is clear: adapt thoughtfully but decisively. The future belongs to those who can navigate these changes while maintaining focus on their core mission—efficiently delivering high-quality products to an increasingly discerning and global market.
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The post The Print On-Demand Industry: 2024 Year in Review and 2025 Outlook appeared first on Gooten.
