Print & Promo Supporting Materials
Here you’ll find helpful content and resources from BOSS member companies.
The UK print and promotional products sector remains a powerful tool for organisations looking to boost visibility and engage audiences.
From branded merchandise and corporate gifts to printed marketing materials, demand for products that strengthen identity and customer loyalty continues to grow.
For dealers in the business supplies sector, this category represents a strong diversification opportunity, closely aligned with existing customer relationships. By offering print and promo solutions, dealers can help clients amplify their brand presence, add value through personalisation, and capture repeat business.
This sector combines creativity with commercial impact, opening the door to high-margin opportunities and long-term customer partnerships.
How to Sell Guides
Practical Selling
BOSS members with expertise in the Print & Promo sector have shared in-depth answers to a series of targeted questions. Their insights are designed to help you, the dealer, gain a clearer understanding of this growing category.
Whether you're considering expanding into the space or looking to strengthen your current offer, you'll find practical tips, product guidance, and proven approaches to support your success and drive new opportunities.
Additional Resources
Contributing Companies
Here you’ll find a list of contributing companies who have supplied resources for the Hub.
Industry Statistics
Economic Importance
- UK printing industry turnover: £13.7 billion (forecast £14 billion in 2025).
- Gross Value Added: £5.9 billion.
- Employs 93,000 people across 6,800 companies.
- 5th largest producer globally, 2nd in Europe.
- Positive trade balance of £708 million in 2024.
Sustainability
- 90%+ of paper from certified, sustainable forests.
- European forests grow by 1,500 football pitches daily.
- 79% recycling rate for paper in Europe.
- Sector emits just 0.8% of industrial greenhouse gases.
- 83% reducing carbon footprint; 58% certified sustainable.
Effectiveness of Print
- Tactile, engaging, persuasive, with longevity.
- Delivers highest profit ROI among media (Thinkbox).
- Boosts digital campaigns when used together.
- Heinz, Dove, Coca-Cola still invest heavily in print.
Products by Sector
- Largest: Advertising, Packaging, Books/magazines/newspapers.
- Also used in education, entertainment, fashion, signage, security, and more.
Trade in Print
- Exports: £2.8 billion in 2024.
- Imports: £2.0 billion — books largest component.
Regional Breakdown
- England: £12.1 billion turnover, 82,000+ employees.
- All UK regions contribute significantly to jobs and revenue.
Future Trends (2025–2030)
- Growth in digital printing, AI, robotics, smart packaging.
- Focus on sustainability, compliance, and innovation.
- Hybrid print-digital strategies will be key.
Challenges in a Digital World
- 57% prefer printed books.
- 55% understand news better in print.
- 70% concerned about digital health impacts.
- Print offers choice, trust, and engagement.