Gelato releases 2024 state of production report, celebrates a new era for print industry

Gelato, the world's largest global software platform for local on-demand production, has released its 2024 State of Production Report. Gelato surveyed more than 140 of its network print production partners and GelatoConnect users to inform the results as digital printers adapt to consumer trends. 

Core findings from the report include: 

• An integrated toolset is necessary for success: Today’s printers must be technologically advanced with software platforms that can easily integrate into existing systems and improve process workflows. In addition to Gelato’s software, GelatoConnect, 70% of print producer respondents use Canva, Shopify and Wix to run their business. 

• Talent, techniques and technology remain top challenges for printers: 47% of printers said raw material costs are their biggest hurdle, followed by logistics costs and talent shortages. 

• Hardware and software investments continue to rise: 40% of respondents are planning to invest in equipment for new product categories and 30% are planning to invest in software.  

• Mobile is a must: Almost 50% of respondents want real-time mobile monitoring of their procurement, production and shipping processes.  

• Anticipated AI and automation can’t come fast enough: Creating workflows and processes with automation holds promise for printers in 2024, as does sustainability and local sourcing. 

“The average print run has decreased from over 3,000 units to less than 30 units in the last 10 years. I have the privilege of talking to hundreds of print producers who are both energized and challenged by this opportunity,” said Gelato Founder and CEO, Henrik Müller-Hansen. “The conversations all center around, how can we retool and reimagine our print production process to capture the digital opportunity? If we can do that, the future in production has never looked so bright.”

Here’s what others in the industry are saying about the state of production:

• “Gone are the days of long-run print and warehousing of excess inventory. The advent of on-demand digital printing has revolutionized the print industry, allowing businesses to produce only what is needed when it is needed,” said Rick Bellamy, former CEO, RPI.

• “Our partnership with Gelato has not only facilitated exponential growth but also enhanced operational efficiency and customer satisfaction,” said Olav Betten, project manager, Green Graphic.

• “Software automation now makes it possible for printers to connect to global audiences and other makers to limit the carbon footprint of last-mile delivery,” said Bruce Watermann, founder and executive consultant, PrintReady Network

More information on Gelato’s 2024 State of Production Report can be found here.