Printing, Paper & Promotional Products

As of early 2025, the U.S. printing industry continues to evolve, reflecting shifts in market dynamics and technological advancements. The industry employs approximately 450,000 individuals, indicating a decline from previous years. This reduction is influenced by factors such as automation and the retirement of baby boomers, leading to a scarcity of qualified talent in print communications.​ 

Printing, Paper & Promotional Products

As of early 2021, there are about 503,000 people employed in the printing industry in the US and an average printing company now requires more employees than they did five years ago. However, given the trend in the last 30 years, and the amount of baby boomers retiring, the supply of qualified talent in print communications has never been scarcer. Going into 2021, the commercial printing industry is estimated to have a value of around $412 billion.

The commercial printing market is projected to reach a value of approximately $385.59 billion in 2024, with expectations to grow to $552.28 billion by 2034, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7%. This growth is fueled by increasing demand in sectors like e-commerce and consumer goods, particularly for high-quality printed packaging.​

The number of printing establishments has been consolidating, with 22,651 establishments reported as of 2022. Advancements in digital technology and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated this trend, leading to closures and mergers within the industry. Despite these changes, there remains a strong demand for skilled print industry professionals, especially as the average age of such professionals continues to rise.

A significant growth factor is the industry's shift towards smaller, more personalized print runs and the integration of online ordering systems. Web-to-print platforms have gained popularity, enabling customers to place orders online, which enhances customization and efficiency. Additionally, the packaging printing sector is experiencing growth, driven by trends in e-commerce and the demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

To remain competitive in this evolving landscape, companies must attract top talent, particularly those skilled in digital and 3D printing technologies. Many printing businesses seeking transformational talent rely on the expertise of WorldBridge Partners and our 28-year proven search process to achieve their recruiting goals.

From traditional commercial printing to direct marketing, large format, and digital marketing, WorldBridge connects businesses with extraordinary talent to drive profitability and future growth.

Marketing Communications Infographic

employment-share-by-percentage

With an annual growth rate of 3.4%, the printing industry employs 503,000 individuals as of 2021.

Key Segments We Serve:

  • Offset, Litho, Digital & Flexo Printing
  • Commercial Printing & Direct Marketing
  • Large Format, POP & Display
  • Critical & Transactional Mail
  • Fine Paper, Towels & Tissue
  • OMNI Channel & Digital Marketing

Functions We Place:

  • CEO/President
  • CIO/CTO/CFO/COO/CPO/CRO
  • VP’s, Directors and Managers in a variety of functions:
    • Accounting & Finance
    • Engineering, IT & Digital Transformation
    • Human Resources & Talent Acquisition
    • Operations, Manufacturing, Logistics, Quality & Innovation
    • Sales & Marketing

Have a Job Opening?

Gary Bozza

Gary Bozza

444 South Rand Road,
Suite 10IL
Lake Zurich, IL 60047-3109
Phone: 847-550-1300 ext 33

Jeanine Ellison

Jeanine Ellison

444 South Rand Road,
Suite 10IL
Lake Zurich, IL 60047-3109
Phone: 847-550-1300 ext 44

Susan Schoenberger

Susan Schoenberger

444 South Rand Road,
Suite 10IL
Lake Zurich, IL 60047-3109
Phone: 847-550-1300 ext 47