A Sudden Shock to the System
When COVID lockdowns began in 2020, print production across the UK was hit hard. Events were cancelled, hospitality shut its doors, and retail displays went dark. Printers relying on menus, brochures, event programmes, and POS signage saw entire order books disappear overnight.
Many businesses saw print volumes fall by 60–80%, forcing printers to adapt quickly or risk closing their doors for good.Explore:Our full range of products developed to enable us to survive
Adaptation Became Survival
The printers that made it through didn’t just wait for restrictions to lift — they pivoted.
Popular new products during the pandemic included:
- Safety signage — floor stickers, posters, directional signs
- Custom packaging — supporting the surge in online shopping
- Short-run digital print — perfect for fast-moving campaigns
This shift gave digital printing new prominence: it’s fast, flexible, and cost-effective for short runs.
and fast turnaround times
A Permanent Shift in Demand
COVID didn’t just disrupt — it accelerated change. Once restrictions lifted, businesses didn’t go back to “print as usual.”
Key trends that stuck:
- Shorter print runs, printed more often
- Higher quality expectations
- More targeted communications
- Packaging demand driven by e-commerce
Booklets Brochures and menu'sNeed short runs without compromising on quality - Then speak to one of our team on 01332 830552
Technology Took Centre Stage
Many printers used the quieter months to invest in technology.
- High-speed digital presses became central workhorses
- Automation reduced pre-press time
- Web-to-print platforms allowed customers to order remotely
- Online proofing and approvals sped up production.
As well as online ordering we offer a full web to print ordering service. We can bespoke an online ordering portal for your company its its products only. The portal can be used to order products any time of day, any day of the year. Speak to one of our specialists and they can talk you through the solution. 01332 832552
The Human Factor
Printing is still powered by people. During the pandemic, production teams worked through restrictions with:
- Staggered shifts
- Enhanced cleaning protocols
- Smaller, agile crews
Ironically, in a digital-only world, people began to value the tactile power of print more than ever. A physical brochure or menu carried more weight than a fleeting email or screen ad.
See Our Brochures, Booklets and Menu's
Where We Are Now
Post-pandemic, the printing industry is:
- More digital — better integrated with client systems
- More efficient — with smarter workflows
- More diversified — offering new services
- More resilient — ready for the next curveball
At Ratcliff & Roper, these lessons have shaped the way we work today:
- Faster response times
- Greater flexibility
- A sharper focus on real client needs
Final Thoughts
COVID didn’t end print. It forced the industry to evolve, innovate and reimagine. Those that adapted — thrived.
At Ratcliff & Roper, we’re proud to be part of that evolution.
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