Looking to start or grow your print-on-demand (POD) business in 2025? Here’s your quick guide to the top products driving the industry forward, backed by market trends and consumer preferences:
- T-Shirts and Hoodies: Personalized apparel remains a staple, with designs like retro graphics and eco-friendly materials leading the way.
- Wall Art and Canvas Prints: Demand for home décor continues to rise, with biophilic and bold designs standing out.
- Phone Cases and Laptop Covers: Customization and eco-friendly options dominate this booming tech accessories market.
- Tote Bags and Reusable Drinkware: Eco-conscious products like canvas bags and stainless steel drinkware are trending.
- Photo Gifts and Custom Jewelry: Emotional, personalized gifts like name necklaces and birthstone bracelets are in high demand.
- Pet Products: Custom beds and bowls cater to the growing trend of treating pets as family members.
- Outdoor and Travel Items: Gear like neck gaiters and custom sports items appeals to the rising interest in outdoor recreation.
- Journals and Planners: Personalized stationery, including bullet journals and leather planners, is thriving.
Key Trends:
- Personalization is driving consumer demand, with 62% of shoppers preferring custom products.
- Eco-friendly practices are crucial, as 55% of consumers prioritize sustainable brands.
- E-commerce continues to grow, accounting for 24% of global retail sales by 2026.
Quick Comparison:
| Product Category | Market Size Forecast | Key Features | Popular Trends |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Shirts & Hoodies | $3.1B by 2025 | High margins, year-round demand | Eco-friendly, bold designs |
| Wall Art & Canvas | $70.9B by 2027 | Personalized, premium finishes | Biophilic, bold colors |
| Phone Accessories | $142.3B by 2033 | Durable, customizable | Minimalist, eco-materials |
| Tote Bags & Drinkware | $24.84B by 2029 | Sustainable, versatile | Bold patterns, UV printing |
| Photo Gifts & Jewelry | $387B by 2025 | Sentimental, personalized | Emotional connection |
| Pet Products | $597.51B by 2033 | Durable, functional | Custom designs |
| Outdoor Gear | $21.7B by 2031 | Durable, stylish | Sustainable, functional |
| Journals & Planners | $12.96B by 2025 | Personalized, practical | Minimalist, wellness-focused |
Focus on personalization, sustainability, and emerging trends to capture your share of this growing market. Let’s dive deeper into each category!
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1. T-Shirts and Hoodies
The custom apparel market is booming, with the printed clothing sector expected to grow by $113 billion between 2022 and 2026 [4].
Market Overview and Growth
Printed sweatshirts alone are projected to reach $9.5 billion by 2030 [4]. This growth is partly driven by the rising demand for eco-conscious products, including items made from organic cotton, bamboo fibers, and water-based inks [5].
Here’s a breakdown of how basic t-shirts and hoodies are performing in the market:
| Style Category | Average Cost | Profit Margin | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Unisex T-Shirt | $7.75 – $9.75 | 25-50% | Universal appeal, year-round demand |
| Basic Unisex Hoodie | $16 – $19 | 30-60% | Higher margins, seasonal popularity |
These numbers highlight the strong positioning of these staples in the custom apparel market.
Design Trends and Innovations
Current design trends are shaping consumer preferences and driving sales. Popular styles include retro graphics, minimalist typography, and bold designs inspired by cultural themes. Minimalist apparel, for instance, has seen a 20% increase in sales, and 75% of buyers are drawn to designs with impactful messaging [6].
Beyond aesthetics, technical advancements are adding value to products. The industry is moving past basic prints, offering features like:
- AR-integrated designs for interactive experiences
- Performance fabrics with moisture-wicking and UV protection
- Sustainable printing using plant-based inks
- Gender-neutral sizing for broader appeal
Competitive pricing also plays a significant role. Basic unisex t-shirts generally ship for $5.49 to $10.99, while hoodies range from $8.49 to $11.99 [8]. This pricing structure supports healthy profit margins, making these items attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
2. Wall Art and Canvas Prints
Expanding beyond custom apparel, wall art taps into the growing demand for personalized home décor. More and more, people are looking for ways to reflect their personality and style through the spaces they live in.
Market Performance and Pricing
When it comes to print-on-demand wall art, base costs depend on the product type. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Product Type | Base Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Framed Posters | $11.50 | High-quality prints, ready to hang |
| Canvas Prints | $12.75 | Premium finish, gallery-wrapped edges |
| Photo Boards | $17.95 | Lightweight with a sleek, modern design |
| MIXPIX® Frames | $8.50 | Modular, easy-to-install frames |
Design Trends Driving Sales
Personalization and emotional resonance are shaping the art market as we approach 2025. Here are some styles making waves:
- Biophilic Designs: Nature-inspired pieces, like botanical prints and earthy tones, are becoming staples in modern décor.
- Bold Color Palettes: Vibrant shades like terracotta, cobalt blue, and emerald green are trending.
- Textured Artwork: Art with tactile or three-dimensional elements is grabbing attention.
These trends offer excellent opportunities to craft designs that resonate with buyers and boost sales.
Production Optimization
To ensure quality and profitability, consider these tips from merchOne:
“Efficient fulfillment directly impacts profitability. Happy customers are more likely to become repeat customers, leading to increased sales and higher overall profit margins” [9].
Here’s how you can refine your production process:
- Use high-resolution images (300 DPI or higher) for crisp, clear prints.
- Work with fulfillment centers in key locations to cut shipping costs.
- Offer a variety of sizes to suit different spaces and customer needs.
- Leverage automated workflows to streamline operations and save on costs.
Additionally, eco-conscious consumers are showing a growing preference for artwork made with sustainable practices. Incorporating environmentally friendly materials and methods can help attract this audience.
3. Phone Cases and Laptop Covers
The tech accessories market is booming, with the global phone case market expected to reach $15.48 billion by 2033 [10].
Market Growth and Consumer Demand
The demand for tech accessories is growing alongside trends in design and personalization. The mobile phone accessories market is projected to grow from $94.4 billion in 2024 to $142.3 billion by 2033 [1]. Several factors contribute to this growth:
| Market Driver | Impact |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Upgrade Cycle | Users replace devices approximately every 2.5 years [12] |
| E-commerce Growth | Online sales are projected to account for 24% of global retail by 2026 [2] |
| Personalization Demand | 36% of consumers seek customization options [2] |
Popular Design Trends
The most sought-after designs blend style with practicality. Here’s what’s trending:
- Minimalist Designs: Sleek, slim cases with matte finishes and clean lines.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Cases made from bamboo, recycled plastics, or other sustainable materials.
- Tech Features: MagSafe compatibility and integrated smart functionalities.
- Personalized Elements: Options for custom artwork, monograms, or personal photos.
“In 2025, phone cases are no longer just about protection – they are a reflection of personal style, functionality, and innovation.” – Hassan Javed [11]
Production and Pricing Strategy
To stand out and maximize profits, focus on these key areas:
- Material Selection
Choose materials that offer both durability and aesthetic appeal. Features like military-grade protection and antimicrobial coatings are becoming more popular [11].
- Design Versatility
Develop designs that cater to specific tastes and niches, such as:
- Nature-inspired patterns for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Geometric shapes for those who love simplicity.
- Vintage-inspired art deco for retro fans.
- Sleek tech-inspired designs for gadget lovers.
- Marketing Strategy
Strong visuals are crucial for success. With 84% of Instagram users and 61% of them making purchase decisions based on the platform [13], visually appealing marketing campaigns can drive sales.
Optimization Tips
To improve your print-on-demand tech accessories business, consider these strategies:
- Use high-resolution printing for sharp, clear images.
- Provide realistic mockups so customers can preview designs.
- Target specific device models to capture niche audiences.
- Ensure your website is mobile-friendly for easy shopping.
- Offer detailed product specs, including protection ratings.
As tech accessories continue to grow in popularity, this momentum creates opportunities for expanding into other lifestyle products, which we’ll explore in the next section.
4. Tote Bags and Reusable Drinkware
The tote bag market is expected to grow from $1,084.3 million in 2024 to $1,756.3 million by 2034 [14]. This surge reflects an increasing preference for practical, eco-conscious, and customizable products in daily life.
Market Growth and Sustainability Trends
The tote bag market is on track for a steady 4.9% annual growth from 2024 to 2034 [14]. Certain regions are standing out in this expansion:
| Region | Growth Rate (CAGR 2024–2034) |
|---|---|
| India | 6.9% |
| China | 5.9% |
| United Kingdom | 5.8% |
Popular Materials and Design Choices
Shoppers today want materials that last while being environmentally friendly. Canvas and cotton are favorites due to their durability and easy customization, while jute and other sustainable options attract eco-conscious buyers [15].
Design-wise, bold patterns, minimalist styles, culturally inspired artwork, and event-specific themes are in high demand.
“The tote bag market continues to grow, driven by increased demand for eco-friendly and versatile accessories. With sustainability at the forefront, consumers are shifting toward reusable bags, making totes a popular choice for both fashion and function. Brands are capitalizing on this trend by offering customizable and stylish designs, making tote bags an essential part of everyday life.”
– Ismail Sutaria, Lead Consultant in Packaging at Future Market Insights (FMI) [14]
Reusable Drinkware: A Parallel Trend
The reusable drinkware market is evolving alongside tote bags, offering its own blend of sustainability and innovation:
- Material Choices: Stainless steel and glass dominate the space [16].
- Smart Features: Built-in temperature control is gaining popularity.
- Customization: Vibrant UV-printed designs are a standout.
- Functional Design: Non-slip grips and ergonomic shapes are key [17].
Pricing Insights
Strategic pricing can help brands find the sweet spot for profitability and consumer appeal:
| Product | Base Price | Shipping | Suggested Retail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Tumblers | $13.99 | $11.24 | $35–45 |
| Wine Tumblers | $15.99 | $5.00 | $32–40 |
| Classic Mugs | $3.75 | $10.24 | $17.80 |
| Tote Bags | $14.99 | $3.00 | $25–30 |
Marketing Approaches
With nearly half of consumers (45%) prioritizing eco-friendly brands [18], marketing efforts should focus on:
- Highlighting sustainable materials and practices.
- Showcasing versatility for different uses.
- Emphasizing custom design options.
- Promoting durability and quality.
- Sharing a compelling brand story that underscores environmental responsibility.
This growing interest in eco-conscious products also creates opportunities for personalized photo gifts and custom jewelry.https://app.seobotai.com/banner/inline/?id=sbb-itb-bd3491f
5. Photo Gifts and Custom Jewelry
Personalization is a major driver in the jewelry and photo gift markets. The personalized jewelry sector alone is expected to hit $387 billion in revenue by 2025 [19].
Market Demographics and Trends
Consumer behavior in the jewelry market varies by age group:
| Age Group | Behavior | Market Share |
|---|---|---|
| 25–34 years | Highest purchase frequency | 56% women |
| 45–54 years | Highest spending (often incomes above $200,000) | 44% men |
| Overall | Average spend per person | $46.23 |
China dominates the global market, with revenues projected to reach $114.5 billion by 2025 [19]. This presents a huge opportunity for print-on-demand businesses targeting this region.
Popular Product Categories
The most sought-after POD jewelry items combine personalization with craftsmanship. Here’s a breakdown of popular products and their price points:
| Product Type | Base Price | Retail Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Personalized Name Necklaces | $5–$15 | $20–$50 |
| Birthstone Bracelets | $7–$20 | $25–$60 |
| Custom Engraved Rings | $10–$30 | Up to $80 |
| Charm Anklets | $3–$10 | $15–$35 |
| Couples’ Matching Bracelets | $5–$12 | $30–$50 |
Production Quality Guidelines
To meet consumer expectations, follow these essential production standards:
- Use images with a resolution of at least 100 dpi and file sizes of 1MB or larger.
- Choose high-quality metals like sterling silver, rose gold, or rhodium-plated materials.
- Opt for laser engraving to ensure precise customization.
“One of the most significant reasons unique personalized jewelry remains so popular is the emotional connection it creates. Customized pieces often carry a deeper meaning, commemorating milestones, relationships, or memories.”
– Mighty Dainty [20]
Key Shopping Occasions
Demand for personalized jewelry spikes during key life events and holidays, such as weddings, engagements, graduations, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and charitable campaigns [19]. These occasions emphasize the importance of designs that evoke an emotional connection.
Design and Marketing Strategies
- Pair jewelry items with personalized message cards.
- Offer photo customization options, such as face cutouts and filters.
- Focus on durability and functionality to ensure pieces are suitable for daily wear [21].
- Highlight the sentimental value and unique story behind each piece.
Interestingly, the non-luxury segment accounts for 88% of jewelry market sales [1]. This indicates strong potential for affordable, personalized jewelry that balances quality with accessibility.
6. Pet Products: Beds and Bowls
The pet accessories industry is booming, with the global pet care market projected to hit $597.51 billion by 2033[22]. North America leads the charge, accounting for over 42% of this market[22].
Market Overview and Consumer Behavior
Pets are now considered family members in 70% of U.S. households[23]. This shift has fueled demand for high-quality, personalized pet products.
| Consumer Segment | Characteristics | Spending Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Millennials | Make up 32% of pet owners | Favor customized products |
| Premium Buyers | Prioritize quality and durability | Ready to spend on luxury items |
| Style-Conscious | Look for stylish designs | Drawn to visually appealing products |
These trends highlight the potential for competitively priced, customizable pet items.
Product Specifications and Pricing
Print-on-demand pet products combine affordability with personalization:
| Product Type | Size Range | Base Price |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Dog Beds | 28″ × 18″ to 50″ × 40″ | $27.56 |
| Ceramic Pet Bowls | Small and Large sizes available | $9.50 |
Material and Care Requirements
Durable materials not only enhance product longevity but also simplify upkeep. For example, polyester fabric with soft fleece works well for beds, while dishwasher-safe ceramic with non-slip bases is ideal for bowls. Removable, machine-washable covers make maintenance even easier for pet owners.
Design Considerations
To stand out, pet products should focus on these key design elements:
- Functionality: Pet beds should offer removable, washable covers and come in various sizes to suit different breeds.
- Customization: Leverage tools like pattern creators and AI design software to offer unique, personalized options.
- Durability: Use water-resistant materials and reinforced stitching to ensure products last.
With the pet furniture market expected to grow from $4.23 billion in 2024 to $7.07 billion by 2032[24], print-on-demand businesses have a prime opportunity to tap into this expanding market.
7. Outdoor and Travel Items
The outdoor recreation market, valued at $12.7 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to $21.7 billion by 2031, with an annual growth rate of 6.95% [28]. This growth opens up opportunities for print-on-demand businesses to cater to both dedicated outdoor enthusiasts and casual adventurers.
Market Demographics and Consumer Behavior
The outdoor gear market reveals some interesting demographic trends:
| Consumer Segment | Percentage | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Consumers | 40% | Began outdoor activities after 2020 |
| Female Consumers | 55% | Make up a large share of casual users |
| People of Color | 30% | A growing and influential demographic |
| Age Distribution | – | Dominated by under-24 and over-55 groups |
Product Range and Pricing
There are plenty of affordable entry points in this market:
| Product Type | Base Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Neck Gaiter | $1.74 | Multipurpose use |
| Cooling Arm Sleeves | $2.40 | UV protection |
| Custom Rugby Football | $12.14 | Personalization |
Target Market Preferences
Consumer preferences in outdoor gear are shifting. A survey shows that 67% of young people consider themselves “outdoorsy”, while 80% of Gen Z and Millennials want to spend more time outside [27]. For many, outdoor gear is not just functional – it’s a way to express their personal style. This trend highlights the need for products that combine performance with individuality.
Sustainability Focus
Eco-consciousness plays a big role in purchasing decisions. Around 81% of consumers expect brands to actively contribute to environmental improvement [27]. For example, some companies are using organic cotton, recycled plastics, bamboo, water-based inks, and plastic-free packaging to meet these expectations [25].
Digital Marketing Strategy
Social media is key for reaching this audience. About 55% of Gen Z consumers have made purchases directly through social platforms in the past six months [27]. TikTok stands out, with 37% of users reporting purchases through the app [27]. Leveraging these platforms can boost product visibility and align with what today’s consumers expect.
Design Considerations
To succeed in this market, focus on these product features:
- Durability: Products should handle tough outdoor conditions.
- Functionality: Add features that improve usability.
- Style: Create designs that work for both outdoor adventures and urban life.
- Sustainability: Use eco-friendly materials and processes.
The rise of glamping, projected to hit $1.3 billion by 2029 [26], highlights the demand for premium outdoor products that blend practicality with style. This trend sets the stage for the next category.
8. Journals and Planners
The paper notebook market is expected to hit $122.40 billion by 2025 [29], making personalized stationery a lucrative space to explore.
Market Overview
The print-on-demand (POD) journal market is growing fast, with an estimated annual growth rate of 26.71% and a projected market value of $12.96 billion by 2025 [29]. This surge is largely fueled by the rising popularity of customized paper products among a wide range of consumers.
| Journal Type | Price Range | Target Audience | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardcover Notebooks | $4 – $20 | Business professionals, Students | Durable, polished appearance |
| Spiral Notebooks | $3 – $15 | Students, Artists | Lay-flat design, easy to flip pages |
| Leather Journals | $20 – $60 | Professionals, Travelers | High-quality feel, long-lasting |
| Bullet Journals | $8 – $25 | Planners, Organizers | Customizable layouts, tracking tools |
Journals and planners, like other POD products, are thriving thanks to the growing demand for personalization and creative designs.
Design Trends and Features
Design is a major factor in attracting buyers. Consumers are leaning towards stylish yet practical options. Some of the most in-demand customization features include:
- Minimalist Designs: Simple, clean layouts for a professional look.
- Color Blocking: Bold use of brand or personal colors.
- Functional Add-Ons: Expandable pockets, ribbon bookmarks, and elastic bands.
- Specialized Layouts: Features like mood trackers, gratitude logs, and goal-setting sections.
Production and Pricing Strategy
POD suppliers offer a range of pricing options, making it easier to set competitive profit margins:
| Supplier | Base Cost | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lulu | $2.18 | Affordable entry-level option |
| Teelaunch | $7.75 | Mid-range pricing |
| ArtofWhere | $8 – $14 | Wholesale and dropshipping options |
| Contrado | $39 | High-end journal offerings |
Cost Breakdown Example
Here’s a simple cost and profit breakdown for a softcover journal:
- Production cost: $8
- Shipping: $3
- Retail price: $20
- Profit margin: $9 (45% margin) [32]
Market Opportunities
The journal market serves a variety of niches, including:
- Wellness and mindfulness enthusiasts
- Business professionals
- Students and academics
- Creative writers and artists
- Travel lovers
Design Innovation
In February 2025, A24 Films launched a planner with tone-on-tone designs, blending a modern edge with a professional vibe [30]. This shows how unique design elements can set your product apart in a crowded market. Additionally, the rising demand for features like mental wellness prompts, goal-setting tools, and customizable layouts highlights the importance of catering to specific user needs [31]. The evolution of journals and planners reflects broader trends shaping the POD industry.
Conclusion
The POD market is on track to exceed $12.89 billion by 2025, presenting plenty of opportunities for businesses to thrive with the right product strategies.
Market Growth and Consumer Preferences
The industry’s growth is closely tied to changing consumer habits – 62% of shoppers now prefer customized products over standard ones [7]. Some key segments to watch include:
| Product Category | Market Size Forecast |
|---|---|
| Custom T-shirts | $3.1 billion by 2025 |
| Wall Décor | $70.9 billion by 2027* |
| Phone Cases | $413.2 billion by 2030* |
| Reusable Drinkware | $11 billion by 2025 |
*Forecast years vary based on available data.
Keys to Success
Looking at successful POD businesses, a few trends stand out:
- Maintaining over 500 active listings and adding 10 new designs weekly [34].
- Offering limited color options (1–5), which can boost performance by up to 70% [34].
- Relying on single design elements, which drive 56% of eligible sales [34].
- Achieving average profit margins of 40–50% [34].
Eco-Friendly and Personalized Approaches
Sustainability and personalization are shaping buyer decisions. Over half of consumers (55%) are willing to spend more on eco-friendly brands, while 84% say being treated as individuals, not just numbers, builds trust [33].
These shifts highlight the importance of aligning business strategies with these values.
Strategic Recommendations
- Product Selection: Prioritize popular categories while integrating sustainable practices.
- Design Strategy: Use data to guide design decisions and stay ahead of trends.
- Market Positioning: Focus on niche markets and emphasize eco-conscious efforts – 73% of millennials are willing to pay extra for sustainable products [3].
Combining these approaches with a deep understanding of market trends can set the stage for long-term success.
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