Special | Widthwise 2025


FROM PRINTER TO PAPER


THE STATS FROM THE 2025 WIDTHWISE SURVEY ARE IN, AND IT MAKES FOR INTERESTING READING WITH SO MANY BUSINESSES MAKING THEIR OPINIONS KNOWN IN THIS EVER-VOLATILE INDUSTRY. LOOKING AT THE RECENT WIDTHWISE ANSWERS, ASSISTANT EDITOR BENJAMIN AUSTIN REPORTS ON SOME OF THE HEADLINE FINDINGS.


Having grown the survey by 10% from last year, the results have proven to be very insightful. Similar to last year, the majority of companies


surveyed (56%) were relatively small, having only 1-5 employees on their books. However, comparing the numbers, the number of larger companies participating in the survey has grown since last year, as the 21-50 category grew by 4% and the 100+ category grew by 1%; the rest saw a decrease in representation. Perhaps this increase in company size has a


correlation to the general turnover growth, which the majority


of companies (55%) said they had experienced. Yet the same could not be said for large-format print margins, which 47% of companies claimed had remained the same.


This could be a telltale sign of the current state of the large- format industry. Many surveyed commented that the market has become saturated with businesses competing for the same work, and the numbers seem to show it. 85% of


companies say they produce banners, signage or flags of some


kind and looking further into the numbers, 50% of companies say they had dealings in the same seven categories out of 18, showing how saturated those parts of the market are. Many, therefore, could be looking to diversify their


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portfolios to seek new forms of revenue; a statement backed by 50% of those surveyed. But to diversify, some may need to invest in new kit, something already being looked at by 68% of those questioned and out of them, the majority (43%) are looking to spend less than £75,000, indicating they may only be looking to dip their toe into new markets, or replace older equipment.


Sustainability is at the forefront of a lot of companies’ minds, too, with 85% saying that it was somewhat important to be seen as eco-friendly. Yet 3/4 of customers would barely ask for any company credentials on green practices, with most (65%) demanding better value for money over anything else. Despite this, there are a few companies (3%) that


2025 An Image Reports publication


The 18th annual survey and analysis of the state of the UK and Ireland’s wide-format inkjet print sector


In association with


are working towards gaining sustainability credentials, with almost every business practising either recycling or incorporating renewable energy into their daily work, showing a desire to be green and doing so under their own volition, knowing it is not a priority. The print industry is a volatile one, with so many companies reliant on more and more work. That, paired with external and uncontrollable outside financial factors, has led many to adapt to produce more than just one type of print. Perhaps now, too, with more companies experiencing greater turnover, they are better placed to make investments.


Companies are in a position for the first time in a while where new avenues could be explored, and these avenues could be more sustainable than before, as technology has advanced to make eco-friendly options. Looking at green practices could also be a money-saving factor, which in turn increases profits and not only benefits the planet but also the business. The stats seem to show that the industry is


changing, with most companies looking to react and adapt in the best way possible.


Myself and Melanie dive deeper into the findings in the full Widthwise Report, explaining the trends and patterns that seem to show this change is coming and seeing how many businesses may be doing everything they can to keep up, after all, it is best to be part of the change, not playing catch-up.


• You’ll find the full Widthwise Report analysing the data from the survey published alongside this issue


www.imagereportsmag.co.uk | 15


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