The printing industry, once a dominant force, is struggling to survive as digital technologies and online documentation reduce the demand for printed materials. Business owners face rising costs and fierce competition from small-scale press operators.
The printing industry, a long-standing pillar of civilization, is now facing a steady decline. Traditionally a crucial part of record-keeping, printing presses are losing their relevance in the modern age as digital documentation becomes more prevalent. The advent of e-documents has significantly reduced the need for printed materials, causing challenges for print business owners.
One of the key factors contributing to the downfall of the printing industry is the rising cost of ink and paper. Additionally, despite stagnant wages, hiring skilled labor has become increasingly difficult. Many small, low-quality press operations have sprung up, leading to unhealthy competition and a decline in the overall quality of printed materials.
Sujon Chandra Das, the owner of Swasti Printers in Katabon, Dhaka, shared his frustration, stating that many ex-employees who left the press to start their own businesses are able to cut costs significantly by operating with fewer expenses. He highlighted the challenges of maintaining a profitable operation, with labor costs often reaching 20-25 thousand Taka per worker, while competitors operate at much lower expenses.
According to Rezaul Islam, owner of Naksha Impressions Limited, the costs of printing have only escalated. “The cost of printing a quality book has increased drastically,” he said. “Last year, it would cost around 30-32 thousand Taka to print 500 copies of a book, but this year, it’s 35-40 thousand Taka for a similar run.” He also lamented that the marketing and royalty systems for books remain underdeveloped, and the demand for physical books continues to dwindle as e-books gain traction.
Mizanur Rahman Khan, owner of Meghna Printers, echoed similar sentiments, expressing that the printing business is no longer as profitable as it once was. “Even though I continue to print books out of passion, the digital shift has made it increasingly difficult to sustain,” he stated.
Liberty News’ economic correspondent states that with fewer people interested in buying physical books and costs continuing to rise, many within the printing industry fear that unless they adapt to modern technologies, the traditional print press will soon become a thing of the past.
LND/BAIZID
