Who Acts Wins: How Print Companies Can Achieve Sustainable Success
Those who fail to act will be overtaken by those who do.
The print and packaging industry is undergoing profound transformation. Yet, many companies still struggle to adapt their business models to new realities.
We spoke with decision-makers across the industry and identified the five most pressing challenges that are holding back sustainable growth.
- Shortage of skilled professionals
- Rising costs and weak demand
- Digitalisation and technological transformation
- Sustainable production
- Bureaicratic burdens
Talent Shortage: Attracting and Retaining the Next Generation
The ongoing shortage of qualified professionals remains one of the most critical pain points.
Even though the number of apprenticeships has increased slightly, finding and retaining skilled talent is still difficult.
To overcome this, printing companies must position themselves as attractive employers, by investing in training, development, and clear career paths for young talent.
2. High Costs and Weak Demand: Efficiency Is Key
High energy prices, inflation, and cautious consumer spending continue to strain profitability.
Smart companies are responding with process optimisation and cost management, identifying inefficiencies and increasing productivity through automation.
Digitalisation plays a crucial role here, not just for cutting costs, but for ensuring long-term competitiveness.
3. Digital Transformation: From Print Provider to Media Partner
The shift to digital workflows requires substantial investment and a clear strategic vision.
Many print companies are redefining themselves as integrated media service providers, helping their clients design and deliver communication across channels.
To make this transformation successful, training and cultural alignment are just as important as new technologies.
4. Sustainability: From Obligation to Opportunity
Environmental awareness among customers continues to rise.
Companies that invest in eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient printing, and water-saving technologies not only reduce their ecological footprint, they also strengthen their brand reputation.
Sustainability is no longer a compliance issue, but a strategic growth driver.
5. Bureaucracy: Simplifying Processes Through Smart Systems
Complex regulatory frameworks and administrative requirements consume valuable resources.
By implementing intelligent software solutions and modern process management, companies can automate documentation, reduce internal costs, and free up capacity for innovation.
From Reaction to Strategy: The Path to Lasting Success
Business challenges do not resolve themselves, but others will benefit if you fail to act.
If your current efforts have not led to the desired results, it may be time to rethink your business model.
A strong and future-ready model should include:
- A clear value proposition addressing real customer needs
- A well-defined target audience and market positioning
- Efficient processes and a scalable operating structure
- The ability to adapt to changing market dynamics
- A focus on profitability and long-term sustainability
Strategic success is not achieved through short-term actions, it is the result of consistent, data-driven decision-making and a willingness to evolve.
Apenberg & Partner: Strategic Advisors to the Print & Packaging Industry
For more than three decades, Apenberg & Partner has supported companies across the print and packaging value chain in redefining their strategic direction.
We combine deep industry insight with proven consulting expertise to help businesses grow, transform, and thrive.
Our consulting focus includes:
- Structural growth and profitability improvement
- Digital transformation and technology strategy
- Sustainable business models
- Mergers & acquisitions (M&A)
- Organizational and cultural change
If you are rethinking your next strategic steps and value an external, results-driven perspective: We are ready to help you design a path that aligns with your business ambitions.