AI is increasingly becoming a part of daily life, with 17 per cent of people around the world using ChatGPT every day. In a digital-first world, AI serves as a powerful tool for businesses to enhance creativity, optimise marketing campaigns and refine design processes. From detecting human errors in spelling and formatting, to suggesting layout improvements, AI accelerates the creative workflow, reducing inefficiencies.
Despite its growing prominence, Australians remain sceptical about AI, and while there is apprehension about AI’s role in creative industries – often due to a lack of understanding – there is greater acceptance of AI for automating repetitive tasks, such as prepress checks, colour correction and customer segmentation.
Regardless of consumer concerns, AI presents significant opportunities for print businesses. By analysing consumer behaviour, predicting trends and automating workflow processes, AI helps printers offer highly personalised and efficient solutions, ultimately improving the competitive edge of print marketing.
AI’s impact on print
Workflow and print optimisation is achieved through AI, with reduced manual labour, increased production speed and minimised errors. AI optimises print settings such as ink usage, paper selection and print techniques, lowering costs while maintaining quality. Automated preflight checks detect print defects, including low image resolution, colour inconsistencies and font errors before printing begins, so improving accuracy. AI-driven security measures also help prevent counterfeiting and fraud in printed materials.
In terms of customisation, AI enables advanced personalisation in print through variable data printing, tailoring content to different audiences. AI-powered tools can integrate printed media with digital platforms, enhancing multi-channel marketing strategies.
For design purposes, AI-assisted tools suggest layouts, colour schemes and typography choices based on current market trends. AI chatbots also streamline customer service enquiries, reducing response time and improving client interactions.
AI assists in maintenance, predicting equipment failures before they occur, minimising downtime and increasing operational efficiency. In addition, AI-driven analytics help printers forecast demand, manage inventory and reduce material waste.
AI with creativity
While AI enhances efficiency, over-reliance on it can lead to generic, emotionless content that fails to resonate with audiences. The print industry thrives on storytelling, branding and emotional connection – areas where human creativity remains irreplaceable. Businesses must adopt a hybrid approach, using AI to streamline production, while ensuring human insight shapes the final product.
Workforce evolution
AI is transforming job roles within print, automating tasks such as quality control, scheduling and proofing. While concerns about job displacement are valid, businesses that upskill employees to work alongside AI will future-proof their workforce.
Security risks
AI relies on large datasets, raising concerns over data privacy and security. Print businesses handling sensitive customer information must implement strict security measures to protect data from breaches or misuse.
Cost and accessibility
AI requires investment in software, training and ongoing maintenance, posing challenges for smaller print businesses. However, as AI tools become more accessible, even smaller firms can benefit from AI-powered efficiencies.
The future of AI in print
AI is not here to replace print – it is here to enhance it. At Kwik Kopy, we have embraced AI by partnering with Picsart and integrating its design tools into our website. This provides businesses with an intuitive, AI-powered design experience while ensuring they maintain full control over the creative process. By combining AI-driven automation with human expertise, print businesses can elevate efficiency, enhance quality and reinforce the emotional impact of print marketing.
This article was first published in the July-August 2025 edition of Print21, page 30.