15 Print-on-Demand Statistics (Stats)

15 Print-on-Demand Statistics (Stats)

 

The world of ecommerce and print-on-demand is booming, showing resilience throughout the turbulent 2020s and reaching new heights in 2024.

In this blog post, find the latest data, trends, and forecasts for the print-on-demand industry. Utilize this vital information for enhancing your marketing strategies and business expansion this year. Below, we outline the topics we will explore:

  • Statistics on print-on-demand and related industry growth trends
  • Popular print-on-demand products and categories
  • Insights from successful print-on-demand ventures
  • Trends in ecommerce platforms

Excited to learn more? Let’s jump right in!

 

1. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of the print-on-demand sector is soaring at 25.3%

Projections indicate a substantial upsurge in the size of the print-on-demand market over the next decade. As of 2022, the global print-on-demand market reached $5.397 billion. Forecasts suggest it will hit $39.035 billion by 2031. This reflects an exceptional compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 25.3%.

15 Print-on-Demand Statistics (Stats)

Print-on-demand market size, compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the past, and the forecast until 2031. Source: Straits Research

63% of print-on-demand (POD) customers opt for this fulfillment model due to its positive environmental impact. Unlike traditional manufacturing (bulk production prior to sales) and other dropshipping models, POD only manufactures the product post-sale. This reduces production risks and eliminates excess inventory that might contribute to landfill waste.

2. Print-on-Demand’s Largest Market: The US

Currently, the primary regional market for print-on-demand is North America, with the United States hosting some of the world’s most successful print-on-demand enterprises like Printful and Zazzle. Companies such as Redbubble and Gelato also have manufacturing plants in this area.

It is noteworthy that the majority of top-performing POD businesses globally, accounting for 75.8%, are based in the US, which not only boasts the highest number of print-on-demand stores.

a graph of a number of countries/regions

Source: Dropshipping.com

While North America leads the global market, other regions are also seeing growth. The Asia Pacific region is projected to experience a significant CAGR of 27.9% in the print-on-demand market from 2020 to 2030.

 

3. Driving Force of the POD Market: Escalating Demand for Personalized and Unique Products

A staggering 36% of consumers now expect personalization, with 48% willing to wait longer for customized items.

a black bag with white text

Source: Printful

Given that print-on-demand products are created on demand without minimum order requirements, meeting the demand for personalized goods is feasible while maintaining profitability.

 

4. 25% of Consumers Inclined to Spend More on Sustainable Products

Among millennials, this figure escalates to 73%. The quest for eco-friendly products and sustainability is a primary driver in the rising popularity of print-on-demand, offering a sustainable alternative to fast fashion through on-demand manufacturing.

a man in a white shirt

Source: Printful

5. The Eco-Friendly Clothing Market Set to Achieve $10.1 Billion in Global Yearly Sales by 2025

The sustainable fashion market, presently valued at $6.5 billion, is poised to almost double by the end of this year.

While fashion brands typically target women, men aged 25–34 stand out as the demographic most likely to purchase sustainable fashion.

With major fashion labels overlooking this segment, there’s a chance for brands to reassess their marketing approaches to attract this audience.

6. Monthly Search Volume Average for “Print-On-Demand” hits 132.7K Searches

screens screenshot of a phone

Source: Semrush

Each month, globally, “print on demand” is searched 132,700 times, with the US leading in search volume at 33,100 monthly searches.

7. Top Trending Print-on-Demand Categories encompass apparel, home decor, drinkware, and accessories

a pie chart with different colored circles

Source:

Grand View Research

Annually, apparel consistently leads in top-selling print-on-demand categories. The on-demand production capability allows sellers to swiftly embrace high-fashion trends affordably.

8. T-shirts, sportswear, and leggings are the top trending apparel print-on-demand products

In the print-on-demand fashion industry, the timeless t-shirt reigns supreme. T-shirt printing has been the starting point for many print-on-demand suppliers, including Printful. While the industry has expanded to encompass various techniques and products, digital t-shirt printing remains a preferred option.

Explore: 12 T-Shirt Design Trends for 2024

The demand for relaxed, comfortable styles remains strong, with leggings, sportswear, and custom hoodies emerging as trending products.

two women posing for a picture

Source: Printful

Denim jackets are also seeing increased interest from customers, providing online sellers with opportunities to price jackets in the premium segment.

When considering pricing, what profit margin should you target in 2024?

9. The average profit margin for print-on-demand products is 20%

Many online sellers have deemed 20% to be a successful profit margin. This figure strikes a balance between offering products at a competitive price and sustaining profitability for operational needs and occasional discounts.

Nevertheless, certain niches and products have enabled sellers to achieve profit margins as high as 60%!

10. Globally, there are approximately 228K print-on-demand stores

About 5% of all online retail outlets are supported by print-on-demand. Odds are, your household likely contains items created using print-on-demand services.

11. The average success rate for businesses involved in print-on-demand is 24%

According to research from Dropshipping.com, 24% of print-on-demand stores stay active in the long run. Fierce competition in the industry may contribute to this statistic.

Establishing a print-on-demand venture is feasible for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike. Yet, the low entry barrier results in a saturated market. Success hinges on differentiation through niche market targeting, outstanding product design, and effective marketing tactics.