NAICS 323 - Printing and Related Support Activities
Industries in the Printing and Related Support Activities subsector print products, such as newspapers, books, labels, business cards, stationery, business forms, and other materials, and perform support activities, such as data imaging, platemaking services, and bookbinding. The support activities included here are an integral part of the printing industry, and a product (a printing plate, a bound book, or a computer disk or file) that is an integral part of the printing industry is almost always provided by these operations.
Processes used in printing include a variety of methods used to transfer an image from a plate, screen, film, or computer file to some medium, such as paper, plastics, metal, textile articles, or wood. The most prominent of these methods is to transfer the image from a plate or screen to the medium (lithographic, gravure, screen, and flexographic printing). A rapidly growing new technology uses a computer file to directly "drive" the printing mechanism to create the image and new electrostatic and other types of equipment (digital or nonimpact printing).
In contrast to many other classification systems that locate publishing of printed materials in manufacturing, NAICS classifies the publishing of printed products in Subsector 511, Publishing Industries (except Internet). Though printing and publishing are often carried out by the same enterprise (a newspaper, for example), it is less and less the case that these distinct activities are carried out in the same establishment. When publishing and printing are done in the same establishment, the establishment is classified in Sector 51, Information, in the appropriate NAICS industry even if the receipts for printing exceed those for publishing.
This subsector includes printing on clothing because the production process for that activity is printing, not clothing manufacturing. For instance, the printing of T-shirts is included in this subsector. In contrast, printing on fabric (or grey goods) is not included. This activity is part of the process of finishing the fabric and is included in the NAICS Textile Mills subsector in Industry 31331, Textile and Fabric Finishing Mills.
Industry trends:
The Printing and Related Support Activities industry (NAICS 323) is undergoing transformative changes driven by various qualitative trends. One notable trend is the increasing shift towards digital printing technologies, which offer higher quality, faster turnaround times, and greater customization options. This trend is reducing reliance on traditional offset printing methods, which are seen as less flexible and more time-consuming.
Additionally, sustainability is becoming a significant focus in the industry. Companies are investing in eco-friendly inks, recycling programs, and greener supply chain practices to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands for environmental responsibility. The trend towards sustainable printing solutions is expected to continue, providing a competitive edge to businesses that can adapt.
The market is also seeing consolidation, with larger firms acquiring smaller ones to expand their service offerings and geographic reach. This consolidation enables economies of scale and more comprehensive service packages, catering to a diverse range of client needs.
Another key trend is the integration of value-added services such as graphic design, direct mail, and digital marketing solutions. Printing companies are evolving into full-service marketing agencies, offering a one-stop solution for clients looking to streamline their marketing efforts.
Forecasts for the near future suggest that the growth of digital and on-demand printing will continue, driven by advances in technology and changing consumer preferences. The integration of AI and automation in printing processes is also expected to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs, impacting the overall competitive landscape.
This industry is comprised of:
This report includes the ability to segment your Industry by:
- Region
- Employees
- Net Sales
- Company Age
- Total Assets
- Ownership Type
With iCFO You Get
What Is iCFO?
A review and comparison of financial performance of privately-help companies in specified SIC/NAICS industry segment, using industry standard benchmarks.
Sound Business Analysis
Answers come easily with iCFO. Review ROI, sales per employee, profit margins of the top 10%, top 25% and more, to identify areas of concern and opportunity. Examine what if scenarios and P&L impact of reducing costs or adding revenue.
Your Business’ Health In Minutes
It takes only five minutes to enter your data and produce a concise profile of your company’s fiscal state, including critical business ratios focusing on liquidity, profitability, asset efficiency, and growth.