How the Print-on-Demand Industry Is Revolutionising Sustainability

In today's world, where climate change and resource scarcity are more present than ever, the pursuit of sustainability has become an essential aspect of society. Consumers are increasingly trying to choose environmentally friendly alternatives when shopping, which presents companies with the challenge of adapting their business operations to the demands of a more sustainable world. In this context, the print-on-demand industry is also gaining further importance thanks to its resource-saving nature.

The print-on-demand model is characterised by the fact that products are only manufactured once an order is placed — that is, on demand. The following section presents the advantages this business model brings in terms of sustainability.

1) Less Waste and Avoidance of Overproduction

The fundamental approach of the print-on-demand model is already sustainable. Unlike conventional production methods, in which large quantities are pre-produced and stored, print on demand only manufactures what has actually been ordered. This not only reduces overproduction and waste, but also minimises the need for storage space and energy, which overall leads to a reduction of the ecological footprint. While many large-scale retail productions have to dispose of or even incinerate a large quantity of textiles, only a minimal proportion of returns remains in print on demand. At MarketPrint, these end up as donations.

2) Plastic-Free Shipping

Many companies already rely on alternative packaging materials to reduce plastic waste. There are now numerous ways to prepare products for shipping using environmentally friendly options as well. At MarketPrint, too, all products are carefully packaged without the use of plastic. To nevertheless protect the textiles to the maximum and transport them safely to customers, they are wrapped in satin paper.

3) Short Delivery Routes

Compared to other business models in online retail, delivery routes in print on demand are kept as short as possible. Thanks to our strategically advantageous location in southern Germany, we ensure short shipping routes throughout the German-speaking region. By connecting with partner print shops across Europe, transport routes are further shortened for international shipping as well, which is intended to minimise CO2 emissions.

4) Environmentally Friendly Printing Inks

Many printing inks contain harmful chemicals. For this reason, more and more print shops are using environmentally friendly printing inks and processes. At MarketPrint, too, only environmentally friendly printing inks are used to ensure that our products are both high in quality and ecologically responsible.

5) Fair Working Conditions

The social pillar of sustainability is not neglected in the print-on-demand industry either. Especially in the German print shops, working and production conditions are very good. In addition, through regular visits to our suppliers, we at MarketPrint ensure that conditions there are right too, so that we can process the products with a clear conscience.

The print-on-demand industry has recognised that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity. The underlying principle of the business model — producing products only when needed — works effectively against overproduction and waste. This not only leads to a reduction of the ecological footprint, but also minimises the need for storage space and energy. From the printing process to delivery, environmentally friendly decisions are additionally made in order to act sustainably in all areas.