New survey to examine e-commerce, workforce gaps and profitability as latest findings highlight automation, AI and sustainability trends
FESPA has announced the launch of its 2026 Print Census, continuing its global market research programme for the print and sign industries.
Conducted twice each year in partnership with Keypoint Intelligence, the survey is designed to collect market intelligence from printers and industry participants worldwide.
First introduced in 2015, the Print Census supports FESPA’s industry research activities and provides insights for members and the speciality print sector.
The 2026 survey will focus on three topics:
- E-Commerce and Web-to-Print
- Workforce and Skills Gaps
- Growth Applications, Pricing Pressures and Profitability
Participation is open through:
2026 Print Census registration
FESPA also released findings from its 2025 Print Census, conducted during the second half of 2025. This marked the first survey in the revised format and the first census since 2018.
The 2025 edition studied automation, artificial intelligence and sustainability based on responses from 774 businesses across 89 countries.
2025 key findings
- 75% of print businesses reported fewer than 50 employees
- Nearly half of print service providers reported no automation in place
- Around 40% reported not using AI
- 92% said sustainability is important to their business
- 40% identified sustainability as a core strategic priority
- Higher material costs and weaker demand affected sustainable adoption
- Suppliers continue developing advanced technologies while many PSPs reported implementation challenges
According to the report, smaller business size remains a key factor affecting technology adoption, as many firms prioritise short-term operational requirements over long-term transformation.
In automation, workflow tools, web-to-print platforms and prepress processes were identified as the most common areas of adoption.
For AI, current applications remain largely focused on design support, colour management and scheduling, while broader workflow integration remains limited.
The sustainability section showed a gap between awareness and implementation. The report noted that rising costs, purchasing limitations and lower customer demand continue to affect adoption, particularly among smaller firms.
FESPA stated that businesses are also adapting to changing consumer behaviour, including digital-first ordering and demand for greater transparency.
The full 2025 report is available for FESPA Direct members and Association members at:
FESPA website