Commercial Printing Market in India

Commercial Printing in India Trends and Forecast

The future of the commercial printing market in India looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, advertising, and publishing markets. The global commercial printing market is expected to reach an estimated $541.1 billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 2.5% from 2025 to 2031. The commercial printing market in India is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the growing demand for advertisements among businesses and enterprises worldwide, and the rising usage of customized marketing messages in promotional strategies.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the printing technology category, digital printing is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to the affordability and flexible nature of the technology.
• Within the application category, packaging will remain the largest segment due to the growing need for printing on labels, tags, and flexible packaging.

Emerging Trends in the Commercial Printing Market in India

The commercial printing market in India has witnessed a radical transformation with the rise of new technologies, rapidly changing consumer attitudes, and growing demand from different sectors. Key factors contributing to this change include the explosion in digital printing, the demand for sustainable printing practices, and the introduction of automation and AI. These emerging trends enable businesses to develop more efficient, cost-effective, personalized print solutions. Understanding these trends is crucial for stakeholders who intend to capitalize on the growth potential of the commercial printing market in India, which is expected to grow further in the coming years.

• Digital Printing Growth: Digital printing is gaining popularity in India as it offers high-quality prints at reduced costs and short turnaround times. This technology helps print providers handle small and medium-sized runs, providing more flexibility and options for businesses to customize their products. Digital printing allows for more accurate color matching and faster production as the demand for personalized print products increases. This makes digital printing more popular for advertising, packaging, and textiles.
• Sustainability and Environmentally Friendly Practices: Sustainability is becoming a strong trend in the Indian commercial printing sector. Print service providers are adopting green concepts, including using biodegradable inks, recycled paper, and energy-efficient devices to reduce their carbon footprint. With growing concerns over the environment, there is an increasing demand from customers—particularly in packaging and publishing—for more eco-friendly print solutions. This not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances the brand reputation of organizations by aligning them with consumer values focused on eco-consciousness.
• Automation and AI Integration: Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly integrated into commercial printing processes, improving efficiency and reducing errors. AI helps optimize print jobs, predict maintenance needs, and streamline production schedules. Automation technologies like robotic arms and digital presses enhance the speed and accuracy of print runs. These innovations have enabled print companies to handle larger volumes at much lower labor costs, leading to higher profit margins and reduced turnaround times, while meeting the demand for fast and cost-effective print services.
• Demand for Packaging Printing: The demand for packaging printing is growing rapidly in India, driven by the expansion of the e-commerce, FMCG, and retail sectors. Customized and innovative packaging is becoming essential for brand differentiation, and print businesses are shifting towards high-quality, visually appealing packaging solutions. As consumers increasingly prefer personalized and eco-friendly packaging, companies are investing in advanced printing technologies to meet these demands, thus creating new avenues for growth in the commercial printing segment.
• Variable Data Printing (VDP): Variable Data Printing (VDP) is gaining prominence in India, especially for marketing and direct mail campaigns. This technique allows printers to create unique print pieces with variable information, such as names, addresses, or targeted offers. VDP is highly effective for personalized marketing, increasing the relevance of marketing materials and improving customer response and engagement rates. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven marketing, VDP provides a competitive edge by enabling more targeted communication with consumers.

These emerging trends—digital printing, sustainability, automation, packaging demand, and variable data printing—are reshaping the commercial printing market in India. The market is moving towards more efficient, personalized, and eco-conscious solutions while maintaining reasonable costs and improving product quality. With the adoption of various new technologies and growing consumer demand, the Indian commercial printing industry presents significant growth opportunities, opening doors to innovation and expansion.

Recent Developments in the Commercial Printing Market in India

The commercial printing market in India has undergone significant changes, driven by the evolving needs of a competitive market, increasing demand for faster manufacturing, high-resolution output, and environmentally sustainable solutions. These changes are positively contributing to the advancement of capabilities for service-providing businesses. Below are five key recent developments shaping the commercial printing market in India.

• Adoption of Digital Printing Technologies: Digital printing has gained significant traction in India due to its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to produce high-quality prints in shorter time frames. The technology allows for smaller print runs, reducing waste and improving customization. As demand for customized products increases, digital printing is applied in packaging, textiles, and marketing materials. The advent of digital presses has further enhanced speed and flexibility, enabling businesses to meet the growing demand for fast and high-quality production. This shift has allowed print service providers to become more responsive to the diverse demands of customers.
• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Printing Solutions: Due to growing environmental concerns, sustainability has emerged as a primary focus in the commercial printing industry. Print businesses are adopting environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled paper, biodegradable inks, and energy-efficient printing equipment. Customers increasingly demand eco-friendly solutions, particularly in packaging and publishing sectors. By adopting sustainable practices, print businesses contribute to environmental preservation while enhancing their brand image. This shift opens up growth opportunities for companies that position themselves as responsible market players, meeting the rising demand for eco-conscious solutions.
• Automation in Printing Processes: Automation technologies are revolutionizing the Indian commercial printing landscape. From automated presses to robotic arms and AI-powered tools, automation is improving efficiency, reducing labor costs, and increasing production accuracy. Automated workflows also enable faster turnaround times and the ability to handle larger volumes of print jobs with precision. As demand for faster production and reduced costs grows, more print service providers are investing in process automation. This development allows print businesses to offer high-quality products at competitive prices, meeting the needs of both small and large businesses.
• Packaging Printing Trends: Packaging printing has become an emerging high-growth segment in India, primarily driven by the rapid expansion of the e-commerce and retail sectors. Customized, branded packaging has become a vital differentiator for businesses in competitive markets. Advances in printing technologies have enabled companies to offer high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and easily customizable packaging. The trend toward eco-friendly and personalized packaging has further boosted this growth, creating new opportunities for commercial printers. As consumer preferences evolve, packaging printing is reshaping the commercial print industry with more diversified offerings.
• Implementation of Variable Data Printing (VDP): Variable Data Printing (VDP) is gaining popularity in India, particularly in direct marketing, advertising, and customer communications. VDP enables the personalization of print materials using customer data, such as names, addresses, or personalized offers. This customization fosters greater engagement with customers and enhances the effectiveness of marketing materials. As data-driven marketing becomes a necessity for businesses, VDP is becoming a key tool for customer retention and increasing sales. Commercial printers offering more personalized print products are positioning themselves as major players in the marketing and advertising sectors.

The commercial printing market in India is undergoing significant transformations, driven by digitalization, sustainability, automation, and the growing demand for packaging and variable data printing. These developments enable print businesses to become more efficient, cost-effective, and adaptable to changing market demands. As these trends continue to evolve, the Indian commercial printing industry is poised for sustained growth, creating new opportunities for innovation and competitiveness. Companies that embrace these advancements are likely to gain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market.

Strategic Growth Opportunities for Commercial Printing Market in India

The commercial printing market in India is growing vigorously, driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer demand, and an exponential increase in industry applications. New business opportunities in different printing areas, such as packaging, advertising, textiles, and personalization, are underway. As demand for cost-effective, high-quality, and sustainable solutions increases, strategic growth opportunities are setting the Indian commercial printing landscape for the future. These opportunities are enhancing operational efficiencies and providing companies with ways to extend their offerings, fulfill market demands, and stay competitive.

• Packaging Printing: Packaging printing is one of the fastest-growing sectors in India. Growth is being propelled by the rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector and the retail industry. Consumers increasingly demand packaging that is personalized and environmentally friendly, as companies seek to make their products stand out in a saturated market. New printing technologies, including digital printing and flexible packaging, have enabled cost-effective, high-quality, and aesthetically pleasing packaging solutions. Brands are also moving toward sustainable packaging materials to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. This growth opportunity offers commercial printers the chance to cater to the changing packaging needs of industries like FMCG, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.
• Textile Printing: Textile printing is another high-potential growth area in India, as the apparel and fashion industries require more customization and variety. Digital textile printing, which can produce products in shorter production times and with intricate designs, is also on the rise. The demand for personalized clothing, including on-demand printing and eco-friendly inks, further supports this trend. Technological advancements in textile printing allow for shorter print runs, reducing waste and offering the flexibility to respond quickly to trends. This growth opportunity positions printers to meet the specific needs of the fashion industry, which is increasingly moving toward sustainable and customized products.
• Advertising and Marketing Materials: Advertising and marketing materials, such as brochures, flyers, banners, and posters, remain a major application in commercial printing. With the growth of digital media, there is an increasing demand for high-quality printed marketing materials that stand out in a competitive landscape. Print service providers are focusing on offering a wide variety of marketing collateral using high-resolution, cost-effective printing methods. The ability to cater to both traditional and innovative print solutions, such as augmented reality (AR) integration with print, helps businesses align themselves with the changing demands of advertisers and marketers who need to engage consumers in new ways.
• Variable Data Printing (VDP): Variable Data Printing (VDP) is making a significant impact on the Indian commercial printing market, particularly in direct mail and marketing. VDP allows for personalization on each printed piece using customer data, such as names, addresses, and personalized offers. This results in higher engagement and response rates, making it especially desirable for businesses focused on retention and acquisition. As data-driven marketing continues to expand, VDP presents a large growth opportunity for commercial printers to deliver highly targeted and relevant print solutions that enhance customer engagement and improve marketing effectiveness.
• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Solutions: The commercial printing industry is placing greater emphasis on sustainability as environmental concerns continue to rise. The demand for green printing, including the use of recycled materials, biodegradable inks, and energy-efficient operations, is gaining traction. Businesses are increasingly searching for solutions that reduce their carbon footprint and align with global sustainability standards. For commercial printers, adopting these practices allows them to meet customer demand for environmentally friendly products while also entering new business opportunities, such as packaging, publishing, and promotions.

The Indian commercial printing market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. The growth opportunities in packaging printing, textile printing, advertising materials, variable data printing, and eco-friendly solutions are helping businesses expand their service offerings and cater to diverse market needs. These opportunities are allowing commercial printers to stay competitive, improve operational efficiencies, and meet the growing demand for customized, high-quality, and sustainable print products. With these trends continuing, India commercial printing market is poised for sustained growth and innovation.

Commercial Printing Market in India Driver and Challenges

The commercial printing market in India is experiencing significant transformation, driven by a blend of technological advancements, economic pressures, and evolving regulatory requirements. Key drivers, such as digital printing technology, the demand for sustainable solutions, and advancements in automation, are reshaping the market landscape. At the same time, challenges related to environmental sustainability, labor shortages, and increased competition from digital media present hurdles for growth. Understanding these drivers and challenges is crucial for stakeholders aiming to navigate the market and seize emerging opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment.

The factors responsible for driving the commercial printing market in India include:
• Technological Advancements: Technological innovation, particularly in digital printing, is revolutionizing the commercial printing industry in India. Digital printing allows for faster turnaround times, reduced setup costs, and greater flexibility in terms of customization. This advancement is empowering printers to handle smaller, more diverse print runs, thereby catering to specific customer needs with precision. The rise of automation, including AI-powered print management, is also helping reduce human error, improve productivity, and streamline operations. These technological advancements enable printers to offer more efficient, cost-effective solutions, which are crucial as the demand for high-quality, customized print materials grows.
• E-commerce Growth: The rapid growth of e-commerce in India is driving the demand for packaging, labeling, and promotional materials. As e-commerce businesses expand, they require high-quality printed products to stand out in a competitive market. Personalized packaging, innovative labeling, and printed promotional materials are critical for brands looking to differentiate themselves. Commercial printers can capitalize on this trend by offering customized packaging solutions for e-commerce businesses. This presents a lucrative opportunity for printers to tap into a rapidly expanding market driven by digital retail trends and increasing consumer expectations for personalized products.
• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Solutions: The rising demand for environmentally sustainable products is one of the key drivers of change in the commercial printing industry. Consumers and businesses are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly practices, including the use of recycled paper, biodegradable inks, and energy-efficient printing processes. Companies that adopt sustainable practices can not only meet consumer demand but also align themselves with global environmental standards, enhancing their reputation. Sustainable printing solutions are especially in demand in packaging and publishing sectors. Commercial printers who embrace sustainability stand to benefit from long-term growth, as eco-conscious consumers increasingly prefer products from responsible businesses.
• Personalization and Customization: The growing preference for personalized and customized print products is transforming the commercial printing landscape. Businesses across sectors—particularly in packaging, textiles, and advertising—are increasingly seeking tailored solutions that resonate with individual consumers. Digital printing, in particular, enables businesses to offer a wide range of personalized products without significantly increasing costs. For example, customized packaging with unique designs, promotional items with personalized messages, or textile prints with individual names or images are gaining popularity. This trend is opening new revenue streams for commercial printers who can cater to the growing demand for personalization in print materials.
• Increased Demand for Short-Run Print Jobs: Short-run printing is becoming more popular in India as businesses focus on flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and speed. With smaller businesses and startups looking to print limited quantities of materials, demand for digital printing services that can accommodate short runs is on the rise. This driver is closely tied to customization trends, as customers increasingly seek bespoke products in smaller volumes. Commercial printers who can efficiently handle short-run print jobs will be well-positioned to tap into this growing demand, offering businesses the ability to produce limited-edition materials, test marketing campaigns, or launch new products with low-risk production.

Challenges in the commercial printing market in India are:
• Rising Raw Material Costs: One of the most pressing challenges for commercial printers in India is the rising cost of raw materials, such as paper, ink, and other consumables. These increases are often driven by inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions, particularly in a globalized economy. Higher material costs can erode profit margins, making it difficult for printers to maintain competitive pricing. To address this challenge, businesses must optimize their operations, reduce waste, and seek more affordable material sources. Effective cost management strategies will be critical for printers to stay profitable while meeting customer demands for high-quality, cost-effective solutions.
• Labor Shortage and Skill Gap: The shortage of skilled labor is another major challenge in the Indian commercial printing market. As the industry increasingly adopts new technologies, the demand for workers with specialized technical skills, such as knowledge of digital printing and automation, has risen. However, there is a lack of qualified candidates to fill these roles, which can result in operational inefficiencies and increased training costs. Printing businesses may need to invest in employee training programs, collaborate with educational institutions to close the skills gap, and consider automation solutions to mitigate the impact of labor shortages.
• Intense Competition from Digital Media: With the increasing shift to digital media, traditional print advertising and marketing materials face growing competition. Digital platforms like social media, email, and online advertising offer more targeted, cost-effective, and interactive alternatives to print media. As businesses allocate more resources to digital marketing, commercial printers must adapt to this shift by offering innovative, integrated solutions that blend print and digital media. Print companies that fail to diversify or offer digital printing services risk losing market share to competitors who can deliver more integrated and multi-channel marketing solutions.

The commercial printing market in India is shaped by a mix of technological advancements, economic shifts, and evolving consumer preferences. Drivers like digital printing technology, e-commerce growth, sustainability, and personalization are providing significant opportunities for businesses to expand and innovate. However, challenges such as rising raw material costs, labor shortages, and competition from digital media require companies to adapt quickly. To succeed, printers will need to invest in automation, sustainability, and innovative solutions that align with changing market demands, positioning themselves for long-term growth and competitiveness in the evolving landscape.

List of Commercial Printing Market in India Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, commercial printing companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the commercial printing companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5

Commercial Printing Market in India by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the commercial printing market in India by printing technology and application.

Commercial Printing Market in India by Printing Technology [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Digital Printing
• Lithography Printing
• Flexographic
• Screen Printing
• Gravure Printing

Commercial Printing Market in India by Application [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Packaging
• Advertising
• Publishing

Features of the Commercial Printing Market in India

Market Size Estimates: Commercial printing in India market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Commercial printing in India market size by printing technology and application in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different printing technology and application for the commercial printing in India.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the commercial printing in India.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

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FAQ

Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the commercial printing market in India?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are growing demand of advertisement among business and enterprises across the world and rising usage of customized marketing messages in promotional and marketing strategies.
Q2. What are the major segments for commercial printing market in India?
Answer: The future of the commercial printing market in India looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, advertising, and publishing markets.
Q3. Which commercial printing market segment in India will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that digital printing is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to affordability and flexible nature of the technology.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.

This report answers following 10 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the commercial printing market in India by printing technology (digital printing, lithography printing, flexographic, screen printing, and gravure printing), and application (packaging, advertising, and publishing)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?