Print is changing fast—and embellishments are leading the way. The 2025 Digital Embellishment Study, done by our friends at Taktiful, shows more printers using foil, spot gloss, texture, and specialty finishes to capture attention and boost profits. So what does that mean for you?
Here are the top trends shaping print embellishments in 2025—and what they could mean for your bottom line.
1. Embellishments are becoming a profit center
54% of printers invested in embellishments to grow profit, not just because clients asked for it. Even better: 79% of printers say embellished jobs are usually or always more profitable than standard CMYK jobs.
Here's where we fit in: With our specialty finishing systems, you can add profitable embellishments without needing a massive pressroom overhaul. Think of it as turning everyday print into a premium product line—without the stress.
2. Competition is heating up
In 2023, only a third of printers said competitors offered embellishments. By 2025, nearly half do. That means more shops are discovering the value—but there’s still time to stand out.
That's where Skandacor comes in: Our equipment is built for shops that are ready to stand out. With compact footprints, flexible leasing options and more automation than ever before, it's easier — and more affordable — to add embellishment options to your lineup. For example, the LAMpro Bobcat is an entry-level laminator that allows to offer eye-catching foil embellishment for around $5,000. So even without a huge investment, you can launch embellishments before your competitors catch on.
3. Customers are asking for more
Before a shop installs embellishment equipment, fewer than half of its customers know much about these effects. But once printers start showing them what’s possible, familiarity jumps to 90%. And the more customers see it, the more they want it.
Here's where we come in: We make it easy to create samples and short-run proofs that wow prospects. When customers can hold a foiled, textured piece in their hands, the conversation about ROI gets a lot easier — and 'what ifs' turn into signed jobs sooner.
4. Direct mail is the rising star
Business cards are still the most embellished item, but direct mail is catching up fast. And it makes sense: in a digital world, tactile, embellished mail stands out and drives response.
That's where Skandacor comes in: Our systems make foil, spot gloss, and raised textures accessible for short-run mail campaigns. That means you can help clients increase response rates while keeping jobs cost-effective.
5. Sales & training are still the bottleneck
Printers agree: the biggest obstacle isn’t the tech, it’s sales. The top objection they face is justifying ROI, and many sales teams still find it tough to show the value of embellishments. At the same time, knowing and communicating the capabilities and limitations of embellishment options helps to build trust and ensures that customers appreciate the real benefits.
Here's where we fit in: While we can’t run your sales team, we can arm you with ready-to-use marketing assets, sample packs, and positioning tips — so your team feels more confident selling embellishments and your customers see the value faster. Think of us as your behind-the-scenes partner in helping customers see the value.
The Bottom Line
Digital embellishments aren’t just a trend—they’re what customers expect. If you want to stand out and win new business, now’s the time to add these capabilities before everyone else does. And with Skandacor, you don’t just get equipment. You get a partner who helps you:
- Add profitable embellishments
- Differentiate from competitors
- Educate your customers
- Launch applications like direct mail that deliver results and build loyalty
Ready to turn print into profit? Let’s find the best system to help your shop grow.