If you think print marketing is old-school, think again.
In a world drowning in digital ads, print is quietly making a comeback—and delivering results many small businesses never expected.
Because here’s the truth:
Print is remembered longer.
It drives higher trust.
It converts more customers than many digital channels.
And the data proves it.
Today, we’re breaking down eye-opening print statistics every small business should know, and how to use them to your advantage.
Let’s turn some heads (and boost your sales) with the power of print.
1. 77% of People Recall Print Ads Better Than Digital Ones
According to research from Canada Post and True Impact Marketing, print advertising leads to 77% higher brand recall than digital.
Why?
- Print engages more senses (touch, sight, sometimes even smell like with specialty coatings).
- It creates a sense of importance and permanence.
How to use it:
Invest in tactile marketing pieces like:
👉 Learn more in Print Products That Make Your Brand Look Bigger Than It Is
2. 42% of Direct Mail Recipients Read or Scan Every Piece They Get
Data from the USPS shows that 42% of people read or scan direct mail. That’s a huge number compared to typical digital engagement rates.
Digital ads often get ignored—but physical mail demands attention.
How to use it:
Try sending:
- Postcards with exclusive offers
- Rack Cards for local promotions
- Door Hangers for neighborhood targeting
👉 Check out Smart Ways to Use Postcards for Marketing
3. Print Marketing Delivers an Average ROI of 29%
According to the Data & Marketing Association (DMA), print campaigns boast an average ROI of 29%—often outperforming email or paid social.
That’s because:
- Print cuts through digital clutter
- People trust print more than online ads
How to use it:
Add print to your marketing mix for:
- Product launches
- Local event promotions
- Customer loyalty programs
👉 See how in 5 Print Add-Ons That Boost Brand Loyalty
4. 56% of Consumers Trust Print More Than Digital Ads
A study by MarketingSherpa found that over half of consumers trust print marketing more than digital advertising.
It’s not surprising:
- Print feels less invasive
- It’s viewed as more credible
- It’s often perceived as premium
How to use it:
Elevate your brand with premium print materials like:
5. Customers Spend 20% More Time Looking at Print
Neuroscience studies show people spend about 20% more time reviewing print materials than digital ones.
In a world where online attention spans are measured in seconds, that’s priceless.
How to use it:
Use longer-form print like:
👉 Dive deeper in Why Booklets Are the Underrated Powerhouse of Print Marketing
Bonus: Print and Digital Work Better Together
One more fascinating stat:
Campaigns that combine print and digital see response rates increase by up to 400%. (Source: InfoTrends)
Print isn’t a replacement for digital—it’s an amplifier.
How to use it:
Add QR codes to your print pieces linking to:
- Videos
- Landing pages
- Social media profiles
Quick Tips for SMBs Using Print
✔ Keep designs simple and on-brand
✔ Highlight clear calls to action
✔ Invest in quality stock for a premium feel
✔ Consider sensory finishes (gloss, matte, textures)
✔ Combine print with digital for best results
Ready to Put These Stats to Work?
Print isn’t just alive—it’s thriving. And for small businesses, it’s a secret weapon that can set you apart from the competition.
Use these stats to plan smarter marketing—and watch your ROI soar.
👉 Explore all your high-quality print options at Overnight Prints.
