The Power of Print in a Digital World
The endless scroll has made digital experiences feel repetitive. Consumers may still live online, but they are craving real-world interactions that cut through the noise. New research shows that print and tactile marketing are once again influencing how people shop, share, and connect with brands.
1. The Value of Physical Contact
- 86% of Gen Z and Millennials say they need to physically interact with a product before buying.
- 71% of shoppers report that online shopping experiences blur together.
This points to a simple truth: touch builds trust. When everything looks the same online, tangible experiences become a differentiator. Packaging, mailers, and catalogs don’t just inform — they reassure and create a sense of authenticity.
2. Design as a Purchase Driver
- 69% of young consumers believe packaging can directly influence their decision.
- 63% admit they’ve purchased an item just because of the design.
- 62% are swayed by “Instagrammable” aesthetics when choosing where to shop.
Here, the numbers underline how visual design has shifted from a finishing touch to a sales driver. In many cases, the box, bag, or label is the first — and sometimes only — reason for the purchase.
Why It Matters
Together, these insights reveal a new landscape: physical touchpoints are not secondary to digital, they’re complementary and often decisive. The challenge for brands is to blend the two worlds seamlessly — using print to spark discovery, and digital to extend the story.
The “tactile renaissance” isn’t about going back. It’s about moving forward with experiences that consumers can feel, share, and remember.
