The global print industry is celebrating International Print Day tomorrow (9 October 2025), with this year’s theme of #PrintSmart highlighting the integration of printing with modern technology.
The annual event emphasises that print is more than just ink on paper, but a powerful, measurable, and engaging communication tool when combined with automation, data-driven workflows, artificial intelligence, sustainable practices, and interactive elements.
#PrintSmart is about innovations that help print providers work faster, reduce waste, personalise at scale, and deliver measurable results. It’s also about empowering print customers – marketers, designers, educators, and brands – to get better outcomes by collaborating with knowledgeable partners who understand how to use print strategically.
#PrintSmart Showcases Print’s Evolution
Organised by Print Media Centr, International Print Day 2025 focuses on the ‘PrintSmart’ theme to challenge outdated perceptions and showcase print’s modern capabilities. “The initiative encourages industry professionals and enthusiasts to share examples of how print and technology are being combined for more effective and sustainable results,” says Deborah Corn, Founder of Print Media Centr, and the creator and driving force behind International Print Day.
Key aspects of #PrintSmart movement include merging print with digital tools, tracking, and analytics, often through the use of QR codes and other digital bridges; creating personalised and targeted print materials that resonate with individual consumers and audiences; demonstrating the measurable return of investment (ROI) that intelligent and data-driven print campaigns can provide; and utilising smarter materials and processes that minimise environmental impact, such as on-demand printing and eco-friendly inks.
Interactive Poster Released
As a centerpiece for this year’s celebration, a new interactive poster has been released. Designed by Craig Bower of Design That Rocks, it features a dynamic QR code that connects users to a virtual assistant powered by Digital Link, providing instant insights on how to #PrintSmart. This exemplifies how print materials can be transformed into interactive, data-driven conversations.
Events Promote Talent & Innovation
The celebrations extend beyond online activity with in-person events designed to inspire the next generation of printing professionals. In the UK, the ‘International Print Day’ invites businesses to open their doors to students and young people to showcase the industry’s creativity and technological advancements. By offering hands-on experiences, these events aim to close the skills gap and recruit new talent into the field.
Lasting Medium in a Digital World
Despite the rise of digital media, print continues to hold a powerful and valuable place in the communication landscape. Its tangible nature offers a lasting and sensory experience, and research shows that physical advertisements can lead to higher engagement and brand recall.
As International Print Day 2025 demonstrates, the industry is not just surviving but thriving by evolving and leveraging technology to create more impactful and intelligent products.
