Fespa is launching its 2026 Print Census, introducing three focus areas: e-commerce and web-to-print; workforce and skills gaps; and growth applications, pricing pressures and profitability.
The global research initiative, run twice a year in collaboration with Keypoint Intelligence, gathers market intelligence from the print and sign sectors. Print and sign businesses can take part via an online survey.
Alongside the new census, Fespa has released findings from its 2025 survey, which focused on automation, AI and sustainability.
The 2025 results show most print businesses are small, with 75 per cent employing fewer than 50 people, a factor linked to limited investment capacity and slower adoption of new technologies.
Automation is described as essential but underused. Nearly half of print service providers (PSPs) report no automation in place, despite pressures from labour shortages and demand for faster digital workflows. Where used, automation is typically applied to workflow tools, web-to-print platforms and prepress processes.
AI adoption remains limited, with around 40 per cent of PSPs not using it. Current use is largely restricted to functions such as design support, colour management and basic scheduling, and is rarely integrated into wider production workflows. Barriers include lack of in-house expertise, uncertainty about implementation and limited time to assess new tools.
Sustainability shows a gap between intent and action. While 92 per cent of businesses say it is important, only 40 per cent identify it as a core strategic priority. Higher material costs and weak customer demand are cited as factors slowing adoption, particularly for smaller firms.
The report also points to a broader disconnect between innovation and implementation. While suppliers continue to develop automation, AI and sustainable solutions, many PSPs lack the resources, knowledge or infrastructure to adopt them.
The 2025 Print Census draws on responses from 774 businesses across 89 countries and is available to Fespa Direct members and association members via the organisation’s website.
According to the findings, businesses recognise the need to advance but are progressing at different speeds depending on size and available resources. Smaller firms, often operating with limited capacity, tend to prioritise immediate operational pressures over long-term transformation.
The report identifies opportunities for more accessible and modular solutions, as well as improved education and clearer demonstration of value to support wider adoption.
It also notes changes in consumer behaviour, including digital-first ordering and increased demand for transparency, which are influencing how print businesses operate.