Print-on-demand statistics in 2026: Market data + insights

This growth comes from a simple shift in consumer behavior. Buyers want personalized and unique products, faster delivery, and less waste. Print on Demand checks all three boxes. 

Products are only made after a sale, which means lower upfront costs, no leftover inventory, and far less guesswork compared to traditional manufacturing. 

What this means for you: For sellers, POD makes it easier to test ideas and follow trends while growing an online business. As the print-on-demand market expands, brands that launch quickly, stay consistent, and respond to customer preferences will gain a competitive edge.

2. North America leads the global POD market

North America holds the largest share of the print-on-demand market, accounting for 36% of the global total. The region benefits from a strong eCommerce infrastructure, high online shopping adoption, and close proximity to fulfillment and production facilities. 

Many established print-on-demand services, including Printful, operate in North America, which helps sellers deliver faster shipping and more consistent product quality.

For merchants selling to a US-based audience, this regional strength translates into smoother fulfillment and a better customer experience.

While North America leads today, other regions are gaining momentum. Asia-Pacific is projected to grow the fastest, with a 24.8% POD industry growth rate – driven by rising internet access, mobile shopping, and broader eCommerce adoption.

Source: Grand View Research

What this means for you: Working with print-on-demand platforms that offer a global production network helps you fulfill orders closer to your customers – helping to fuel faster growth. 

Learn more: Is Print on Demand profitable?

3. In the US, growing demand for personalized products is driving the POD market

The US personalized gifting market was valued at $9.69 billion and is projected to reach $14.56 billion by 2030, growing at a 7% CAGR. 

Categories like custom clothing, home decor, wall art, and personalized t-shirts are driving this significant growth. Consumer interest continues to shift toward more meaningful, custom products that feel personal rather than mass-produced.

Source: Printful

Unique and personalized products work especially well for seasonal events. Buyers gravitate toward items that feel thoughtful, expressive, and made for specific moments – from holidays to everyday gifting. 

This shift favors print-on-demand services, where products are made to order, and customization doesn’t require bulk production or upfront inventory.

What this means for you: Personalized gifts sell. With Printful, you can take advantage of these print-on-demand statistics by letting customers add names, initials, or special messages to your products. 

Learn more: Customized product examples: Going beyond the ordinary

4. 80% of consumers say they’re willing to spend more for sustainable products

And just how much more? On average, consumers are ready to spend 9.7% more on eco-friendly products. 

Sustainability trends go hand in hand with the print-on-demand model. Since products are made only after an order is placed, POD avoids overproduction and excess inventory. This is a sharp contrast to fast fashion and traditional manufacturing. 

Fewer unsold items mean less waste, making POD a more sustainable option for brands looking to align with rising consumer demand.