You know what's fascinating about our industry? It's not just the massive prints we create — it's the incredible mix of people behind them. Think about it: we've got third-generation printers working alongside former tech professionals who discovered sign-making as a second career. Every shop has a unique story, and every professional brings their own perspective to our craft.
That's exactly what the 2025 Printing Industry Census aims to uncover. For the first time ever, we're mapping out the human side of wide-format printing. How many of us started in other segments before finding our home in wide-format? What's the mix of industry veterans and fresh faces bringing new perspectives to our shops?
This census digs into questions that really matter:
How did you find your way into this industry?
What keeps you excited about wide-format printing?
Are you training the next generation of print professionals?
How has the industry impacted your family life?
What challenges are you facing in your career journey?
But here's what makes this census truly special — it's not just about work. It's about understanding who we are as people. Our hobbies, our backgrounds, our dreams for the future. Because let's face it, we're not just printers — we're artists, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Ready to add your story to this first-ever industry portrait? Head to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/62WF5JK and be counted!
Denise Gustavson is the Editorial Director for the Alliance Media Brands — which includes Printing Impressions, Packaging Impressions, In-plant Impressions, Wide-Format Impressions, Apparelist, NonProfitPRO, and the PRINTING United Journal — PRINTING United Alliance.