Large printers hit hardest - new market report

Smaller printing companies managed to grow print volumes by 2.7 per cent through the downturn of 2009, but large print groups suffered a fall of 3.4 per cent.

The differential is highlighted in a new market report on the printing industry released this week. Printing in Australian Businesses, 2009-2011 is a major survey of the changing buying patterns of customers as well as the impact of new technology and market conditions on commercial printers.

Compiled from 775 interviews with print-purchasing businesses, and 100 commercial printers, the 348-page report took Andrew Penfold (pictured) with a team of researchers over five months to compile. It represents one of the most detailed examinations of what print buyers think of the industry and how they are changing print purchasing.

It confirms that the internet is making increasing inroads into the amount of printing businesses, especially large enterprises, are commissioning. Over half of all companies surveyed confirmed they are buying less print as a result of internet transactions. 63 per cent said it has either slightly or significantly reduced their print volumes.

According to Penfold the report can be used as a strategic planning tool and opportunity spotter as well as an industry reference manual. “This study is designed so industry participants can understand all key aspects of the market, the changes that are shaping it, assess where they are now and measure themselves against competitors.”

The report identifies how the $6 billion business printing market is divided between outsourced (print for pay) operators and in-house printing. It claims the two segments are almost equal in size.

Franchise printers such as Snap and Kwik Kopy are the most recognisable printing brands to the business communities, with Office Works next. Surprisingly the US-based internet printer, Vista Print, came in fourth ahead of PMP (14%), McMillan Printing (13%), HannanPrint (9%), Blue Star (7%), Stream Solutions (5%) and Geon at 2%.

Penfold emphasises that this recognition is based on high frequency, low value jobs.

Andrew Penfold is the principal of Penfold Research and was part of the family-owned W.C. Penfold stationery chain before embarking on B2B research and forecasting. Contact <Andrew@penfoldresearch.com.au>