Among the most industry defining evolutions we’re watching this year are major advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in the realm of Industry 5.0. Here are six key trends to watch for in 2025.
1: We’re harnessing the power of new technologies for a brighter future
Industry 5.0 emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between people and technology, recognizing the invaluable contributions of individuals in driving print businesses’ success. By harnessing AI and “smart factory” operations, new opportunities are opening up to optimize companies’ workflows and transform routine tasks. By enhancing workplace processes, these technologies can also free up valuable time for employees to focus on more profit-generating activities.
Robots and cobots (a collaborative robot that works with humans in a shared workspace) are igniting possibilities and digital transformation in the print room of the future. Empowering open workflow systems will enhance creativity and nurture a workforce equipped for success, helping to navigate the complexities of digital transformation and unlock the full potential of Industry 5.0.
2: Automation is an essential driver forward for customers
It’s also why greater automation and innovative, end-to-end ecosystems will continue to be in focus during 2025 – for customers, brands and suppliers. Companies large and small are interested in increased connectivity and how processes such as foiling, varnishing, printing, folding and drying can be combined into one, fully integrated production line.
Framing this are labor shortages. With the challenges printers continue to face with finding – and retaining – skilled employees, automation will become key to the production process. Young people entering the workforce consider digital print machines as more high-tech than analog, a view backed by Smithers, which adds that digital print offers “greater opportunities for career development and job satisfaction.”
Also driving change is the unstoppable shift from analog printing to digital printing, in part due to its ability to minimize the environmental impact of printing. High-value-added printed materials are used efficiently, while the environmental impact of those materials that pose the challenges of mass production and disposal, is greatly reduced. Experts also predict growth, particularly for digital inkjet, as litho markets continue to shrink overall. Smithers states: “Digital can do things that are useful to publishers and marketeers that analog print cannot accomplish, such as variable data, item versioning, unique codes and personalization with links to the virtual world.”
3: Inkjet and toner markets continue to expand
Inkjet and toner markets are increasing, with new sales of digital toner systems set to overtake analog for the first time in 2026.
Inkjet will account for most of the rise. Analysts say that as digital inkjet becomes more established, “new methods and innovations will become possible.” In addition, inkjet printing is the “most dynamic process used in graphical print, labels and packaging.”
4: Digital embellishment is the next big gamechanger
The ability to seamlessly deliver digital embellishments is an opportunity for printing operations to add real value, per NAPCO Research. “Adding Value to Digital Printing, Premiums Charged and Paid for Enhancement” shares how buyers are prepared to pay more for print embellishment, stating “the highest premiums, on average, were paid by respondents influencing product packaging and displays.”
5: Global commitment will minimize environmental impact
Environmental, social and governance responsibilities (ESG) continue to shape the evolution of operations as they support a more sustainable future. While global companies continue to work toward zero-waste targets by 2050, studies show that many are finding it challenging. But digital production can support their aims by delivering just-in-time output.
Konica Minolta research shows that digital print has already increased by up to 150% since the pandemic, a trajectory that’s set to continue throughout 2025. In fact, per ESG, we’ve pledged to use more than 90% of circulated resources for products by 2050 by reusing and recycling materials multiple times to minimize waste and use of natural resources.
6: Cloud-hosted digital workflows will expand
Expect that more processes will be connected in the cloud through digital workflows. Konica Minolta’s own research says that the pace of digitization, along with pressures such as tougher regulatory requirements, are forcing a reappraisal of the opportunities created by cloud solutions. However, SMBs have been slower to adopt than large companies. Our research also confirms that “the adoption of cloud-based solutions by businesses has accelerated as the benefits of more predictable costs, improved security and resilience, and enhanced mobility have allowed organizations to become much more agile and efficient.”
Digital transformation will save on IT management, improve security and reduce print expenses. Eliminating manual processes and automating production steps alleviate frustration for organizations and helps cut material and waste.
At Konica Minolta, we’re committed to collaboration
In 2025 Konica Minolta will celebrate its 20th anniversary in commercial print. During these past 20 years of commitment and innovation, customer needs have provided a catalyst that has inspired our passion and commitment, and created meaningful one-on-one connections to forge an ever-more-exciting future.
Many of the operational, environmental and social, political and financial challenges businesses are facing is easier with a collaborative approach. Working with key partners can help us define clear steps and deliver improvements that shape healthy growth for all.
Discover Konica Minolta’s ‘Igniting Print Possibilities’ Portfolio here.
