A new report from the Graphic and Print Media Alliance (GPMA) has highlighted the role the print, paper, packaging, labelling, and graphics sectors play within the UK’s industrial supply chains.

The findings are based on a national survey conducted earlier this year, which aimed to assess how these sectors contribute to wider manufacturing, compliance, and innovation efforts across the country.

According to the research, print businesses are closely integrated with a range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, consumer goods, automotive, aerospace, and defence. The most common application of print services remains marketing materials (64%), followed by packaging and labelling (56%), technical documentation, safety signage, and emerging areas such as printed electronics and anti-counterfeit solutions.

Just over half of respondents (52%) said their print services were “extremely critical” to the sectors they serve, while another 38% described them as “very important.” These services often support essential functions such as compliance, branding, and traceability.

In terms of defence sector engagement, 19% of businesses reported active involvement, either directly or via supply chain partnerships. Another 43% had previously worked with the sector. Although most contracts were under £250,000, nearly 10% of respondents reported contracts valued at over £1 million.

Despite this involvement, the sector faces ongoing visibility challenges. Only 42% of businesses said its clients fully recognised their role as critical supply chain partners, while 39% felt they were valued but not fully understood. Additionally, more than 40% of respondents believed that government and industry leaders do not fully grasp the sector’s contribution to the broader economy.

However, the research also found signs of growing engagement from high-value sectors, particularly pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing. Key drivers cited include compliance requirements, cost efficiency, digital transformation, and demand for short-run, customised solutions.

The GPMA has shared the findings with the Department for Business and Trade, hoping to inform future industrial policy and investment strategies. The organisation argues that recognising and supporting foundational sectors like print is essential to the UK’s wider industrial goals.