According to industry research, the global print-on-demand market is expected to exceed $50 billion in 2025. With the further development of e-commerce, print-on-demand (POD) remains a popular choice for entrepreneurs. So, is POD still worth investing in in the next few years?
In this article, we will look at several aspects of the print-on-demand business model, analyzing its profit potential, success stories, platform options, and how to get started in this business to help you better understand the future of this industry.
POD Market Outlook in 2025
In 2025, the Print-on-Demand (POD) business is expected to continue to grow. According to industry research, the global size of the POD market is expected to reach more than $50 billion in the next few years.
With the popularity of e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, Etsy and Amazon, more and more entrepreneurs are choosing POD as a way to start a low-cost, low-risk e-commerce business.
Using the POD model, merchants can outsource production and logistics and focus on product design and marketing.
However, despite the optimistic outlook for the POD market, there is no lack of competitive pressure. There are a large number of POD merchants around the world, especially in terms of design, customization, personalization, etc. Entering this market requires careful research on target consumers and looking for underdeveloped market segments. With technological advances and supply chain optimization, the future POD market will become more efficient and sustainable.
What is a print-on-demand business model? How does it work?
Print-on-demand is a business model where products are customized and manufactured to order through an online platform. Under this model, merchants do not need to buy inventory in advance or manage cumbersome logistics and inventory issues. Instead, merchants work with a print-on-demand provider to produce and deliver according to the customer's needs.
The process is usually as follows:
1. Customer order: Customers purchase customized products, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, etc., through the merchant's online store.
2. On-demand production: The merchant's POD supplier produces the product according to the order content, and usually starts printing only after the order is received.
3. Logistics and Delivery: Once the product is manufactured, the supplier delivers the item directly to the customer.
The advantage of this process is that the merchant does not need to worry about inventory buildup or upfront investment, and simply focuses on sales and design.
What print-on-demand platforms are available?
There are several well-known print-on-demand platforms on the market today, each with unique benefits and features. Here are some popular POD platforms that can help entrepreneurs streamline their operational processes and expand their business.
1. Cloprod
Cloprod is a print-on-demand focused company that offers design and printing services for customized t-shirts, apparel, and various other products. Merchants can quickly launch their online stores with the design tools and automation systems provided by Cloprod, and outsource production and shipping to the platform.
2. Printful
Printful is one of the world's leading print-on-demand platforms. It offers a large selection of products ranging from apparel to home furnishings, and powerful integration tools that work seamlessly with e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and Etsy to help merchants streamline their operations.
3. Printify
Printify offers a wide range of printed and customized product options, with particular strengths in product variety and vendors. Merchants can choose from a variety of suppliers and production locations depending on their needs, maximizing profits and reducing shipping costs.
Learn more: How to Start a Print-on-Demand Business in 2025
POD's profit model
POD's profit model is not limited to selling goods. Through a diversified business model, you can increase your revenue:
Design sales: As a POD merchant, you can not only make profits by selling products but also sell original designs and earn design fees. Use Cloprod's free design maker to design your clothing brand
Brand cooperation: Many large brands, bloggers, and influencers have begun to use POD to release customized products. By working with these brands or individuals, you can greatly expand your market share.
Cross-border e-commerce: POD also makes cross-border e-commerce easier. By choosing influential e-commerce platforms around the world (such as Amazon, and eBay), you can sell customized goods to all parts of the world and further expand your customer base.
Social media marketing: By promoting your POD products through social platforms, you can increase your income through advertising revenue, social e-commerce, etc. Using platforms such as Instagram and TikTok for product display and influencer cooperation is an increasingly popular way to make money.
Popular Print-on-Demand Products
Print-on-demand has a wide range of products that cover almost all consumer product categories. Based on market demand, the following products are expected to continue their hot trend in 2024 and 2025:
1. Apparel
Print-on-demand apparel is one of the most common products, especially T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, etc. These products are easily customizable and have a wide market demand for all age and interest groups.
2. Accessories
Including hats, backpacks, handbags, etc. These items are not only practical but can also be customized as unique and personalized merchandise.
3. Household products
Print-on-demand home products, such as customized pillows, bed sheets, and curtains, are also becoming increasingly popular. This market is continuing to grow as consumer demand for personalized lifestyles increases.
4. Gifts
Print-on-demand gift products, such as customized mugs, keychains, posters, etc., are suitable for all types of festivals and special occasions and are popular among consumers.
Read more: 17 Best-Selling Print-On-Demand Products to Buy in 2025
Print-on-Demand Profits
The profit potential of print-on-demand depends on many factors, including product cost, pricing strategy, market demand, and platform choice. Typically, the costs of print-on-demand include:
1. production costs: the cost of production for each product is usually determined by printing costs, material costs, and supplier pricing.
2. transportation costs: logistics costs may vary depending on the customer's geographic location, and merchants need to plan their distribution strategy wisely.
3. platform fees: most POD platforms charge a fee for their services, and merchants need to consider these costs in their pricing.
Although the profit margins of print-on-demand are smaller compared to traditional wholesale and inventory models, its low-risk and zero-inventory features have led many emerging businesses to choose to start and sell through the POD model.
Read More: Is Print on Demand Profitable? Factors Affecting Your Revenue
How to successfully operate a POD business
To succeed in the POD market, in addition to understanding market trends and profit models, you also need to master some successful operation strategies:
Choose the right products and designs
The core of the POD business lies in product design and market demand. When choosing products, you should pay attention to the hot trends in the market and the needs of target consumers.
For example, certain seasonal designs (such as Christmas, and Valentine's Day) or popular cultural themes (such as retro, street style) usually attract a large number of consumers. By working with designers or using online design tools, you can customize unique products that match consumer interests.
Build a strong brand and marketing
In the POD industry, it is essential to build a strong brand. Unique brand positioning, high-quality products, and personalized customer experience will help you stand out. Through social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing, you can attract more customers and increase conversion rates.
Data analysis and optimization
As the POD business grows, data analysis becomes particularly important. Using the platform's data analysis tools, you can understand which products and designs are most popular and which marketing campaigns are most effective. Based on this data, you can continuously optimize products, adjust pricing strategies, and improve customer experience.
Worth reading: How to Start a Print-on-Demand Business in 2025
What you need to know: Print-on-demand fulfillment process
The print-on-demand fulfillment process consists of several parts, and merchants must understand the entire process to ensure customer satisfaction and increase conversion rates.
1. Production process: Once an order is generated, the platform will begin the production process. Merchants do not need to produce inventory in advance, which reduces upfront costs.
2. Logistics and delivery: POD platforms usually offer global delivery services. Merchants need to communicate with the platform to ensure that their products are delivered on time.
3. Returns and quality control: POD platforms offer a different return policy than traditional e-commerce, and merchants need to maintain good communication with the platform to ensure that quality issues are handled on time.
Print-on-demand design tips: create products that appeal to customers
Design is one of the keys to success in print-on-demand. Whether it's a t-shirt, a mug, or a household product, design can directly affect the sales performance of the product. Here are some design tips:
1. Keep it simple: Simple, clear designs are usually more appealing to consumers. Avoid overly complex patterns, especially text. 2.
2. Keep up with trends: Pay attention to the latest design trends and try to incorporate popular elements.
3. High-quality visual content: Use high-definition images to ensure that the quality of the design meets consumer expectations.
4. Personalization: Allow consumers to customize products according to their needs, increasing purchase appeal.
Read more: Print-on-demand design tips: creating products that appeal to customers
In 2025, print-on-demand continues to be a low-risk, high-reward business opportunity. Despite the competition, entrepreneurs can still succeed in this field by choosing the right platform, creative design and accurate marketing. Hopefully, the detailed information provided in this article will help you make informed business decisions and capitalize on the print-on-demand business opportunity in 2025.
