Do People Still Read Print? 5 Common Questions About Print Marketing Answered

Do People Still Read Print? 5 Common Questions About Print Marketing Answered. Print marketing has been called outdated in today’s digital-first world. But here’s the truth: print still works, and it’s more powerful than most people realize.

At Graphic Solutions Group, we hear the same questions from business owners, marketers, and nonprofits trying to decide if print is worth their budget. Let’s tackle the top five questions we get about print marketing and commercial printing—no jargon, just straight answers.

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1. Do people still read printed brochures and mailers?

Absolutely – if they’re done well.

Well-designed brochures, postcards, and direct mail pieces get attention, a lot more attention than an email or popup ad. They stand out because they’re tangible and distraction-free in a world dominated by screens.

A strong print piece is:

• Visual – easy to scan and appealing to the eye
• Useful – contains information worth keeping
• Memorable – leaves a lasting impression beyond the moment

Print marketing works because people engage with it differently. They hold it, read it, and remember it.

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2. Is print only effective for older audiences?

Not at all.

While older generations often have a deeper connection to print, younger audiences value it too. Research shows Millennials and Gen Z trust print advertising more than digital ads. They see it as credible and less intrusive. A MarketingSherpa survey revealed that 82% of U.S. internet users trust print ads when making purchases, compared to far lower trust in digital formats like search engine ads (61%) and pop-ups (25%)

Ignoring print because you assume it’s “old-fashioned” leaves a gap your competitors can exploit. Smart marketers use commercial printing to reach audiences of all ages effectively.

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3. Can print marketing be tracked?

Yes, and it’s easier than you think. Modern print integrates seamlessly with digital tools. You can track:

• QR codes linked to custom landing pages
• Print-exclusive promo codes
• Dedicated phone numbers or URLs

By defining print’s role in your campaign—whether it’s to generate leads, close sales, or build brand awareness—you’ll have clear metrics to measure ROI.

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4. Isn’t print marketing more expensive than digital advertising?

It depends on what you’re comparing.

A postcard costs more than a single Instagram post, but compare that to the total cost of a digital ad campaign—creative development, targeting, ongoing spend—and print often delivers a stronger return.

Print pieces also have longevity. They’re kept on desks, pinned to boards, or shared with others. When you factor in lifespan and attention, print can be one of the most cost-effective tools in your marketing mix.

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5. Is print still relevant in a digital-first world?

Absolutely.

Direct mail, brochures, and print collateral cut through the noise. They don’t compete with pop-ups or notifications. They create a lasting, tactile connection with your audience. Print isn’t a replacement for digital—it’s a complement. The most effective campaigns today integrate print and digital marketing for maximum reach and impact.

Ready to Put Print to Work for Your Business?ther, Your Booth Becomes an Experience

Print marketing is alive and thriving, but only when it’s done with a clear purpose. At Graphic Solutions Group, we provide commercial printing services that help businesses use print strategically—so every piece works harder for you.

Looking to add direct mail, signage, promotional products or high-quality printed materials to your next campaign? Contact us today and let’s talk about how print can drive real results for your business.

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