Ups and downs seem to be part of our new normal. The key to success in markets like these is to hold tight, stay focused, and learn as much as you can.
Here are three key trends takeaways from the past year – and what they mean to print and marketing providers.
A Time of Growth (Eventually)
Research published in Printing Impressions notes that while the printing industry reported mixed results in Q1, the index of leading indicators — including quote activity, work on hand, production payroll hours, and confidence — shows strong growth in the second quarter and beyond.
Continued monitoring of these trends is needed, but the overall outlook is positive, which comes as welcome news for providers of all types.
Growth in Direct Mail
One of the positive outcomes of the last year and a half has been the growth of printed direct mail. With consumers stuck at home, direct mail gave brands a way to connect with isolated consumers.
Research done by the Royal Mail reported that most people looked forward to receiving mail during the pandemic and engaged with the direct mail more than they had previously.
Based on this success, marketers are increasingly using direct mail as part of their marketing mix into 2022.
New Market Opportunities in New Markets
The pandemic disrupted many print markets, print and marketing providers looked for new opportunities.
Many of these providers found that retail stores, healthcare providers, and hospitality were new markets that could benefit from marketing help as the world moved to a new normal.
To help you help the clients you serve, locr also prepared a helpful toolkit called the locr BACKpack. The BACKpack is full of ideas, templates, and information that can guide you as you navigate your customers back to success.
As we wind down 2021, we are grateful for the opportunities that did emerge and look forward to continued growth and new success in 2022.
