As the year comes to a close, it’s a natural time for brands to reflect on what worked, what evolved, and how to set themselves up for success in the year ahead.
At Litho Press, 2025 was a year defined by growth, collaboration, and momentum in custom packaging and large-format printing with our valued customers. We partnered closely with corrugated manufacturers and brand teams to deliver high-quality retail packaging, litho labels, and topsheets while navigating increasingly dynamic production timelines.
Many of those successes were supported by thoughtful planning and strong collaboration from the start.
As brands look ahead to 2026, the most successful packaging programs will be built on proactive print and packaging strategy, that support efficiency and strong brand outcomes. Here’s why planning ahead gives your brand a competitive edge.
Why Early Planning Wins in Packaging & Print Production
In today’s fast-moving retail and packaging environment, early planning isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. From production efficiency to shelf impact, getting ahead creates advantages at every stage of the print process.
By planning packaging and large-format printing needs early, brands gain greater control over timelines, budgets, and creative execution. Early collaboration also allows teams to ensure color consistency, explore the right substrates and finishes, and align custom retail packaging, litho labels, and top sheets with broader brand and marketing goals, resulting in packaging that performs better in market.
Faster, More Predictable Production Timelines
Early planning creates space for smarter scheduling and more efficient press runs across large-format offset and digital printing projects. When timelines are thoughtfully aligned in advance, production teams can move with greater clarity and flexibility, making it easier to accommodate seasonal demand and shifting market needs. This proactive approach helps ensure projects stay on track, quality remains consistent, and brands can move forward with confidence as timelines evolve.
Cost Savings Through Smarter Budget Optimization
By giving packaging projects the time and attention they deserve, brands gain greater flexibility in selecting materials, press configurations, and finishing techniques. This thoughtful approach helps reduce last-minute costs, improves budget efficiency, and results in high-quality packaging solutions that deliver both performance and visual impact.
Creative Flexibility and Color Consistency
Great packaging doesn’t happen overnight. When teams have the opportunity to refine color, ensure G7 certified consistency, and align branding across SKUs, the result is stronger shelf presence. That flexibility also opens the door to premium enhancements like specialty coatings or cold foil that make packaging stand out.
Stronger Retail Packaging and Shelf Impact
Packaging has a narrow window to capture attention at retail. Taking a thoughtful, proactive approach helps ensure your custom packaging printing is executed with precision – delivering consistent color, sharp graphics, and a polished finish that truly stands out on the shelf.
Improved Supply Chain Stability and Predictability
With early coordination, supply chains become more reliable. Better forecasting and communication lead to fewer surprises, more accurate timelines, and smoother execution from prepress through delivery
Enhanced Collaboration and Project Management
Some of Litho Press’ most successful 2025 projects started with early collaboration. When our team is involved from the beginning, we can support print planning, production strategy, and project management. We help teams make informed decisions that save time and improve outcomes.
A New Year, New Packaging Opportunities to Stand Out
A new year brings new opportunities to refine your packaging and print strategy. Whether you’re updating existing designs or launching new products, partnering early on with Litho Press gives your brand the flexibility, consistency, and impact needed to succeed in 2026.
At Litho Press, we’re proud to partner with brands who value collaboration, precision, and packaging that performs.
Let’s plan ahead and make this year your strongest yet.
Partner with Litho Press
Contact Litho Press today to start your next custom print project and give your brand the vibrant, professional presence it deserves.
LITHO PRESS HAS BEEN COMMITTED TO FASTER, FRIENDLIER, AND JUST PLAIN BETTER SERVICE SINCE 1953.
Get to know our team and reach out to see how they can help with your litho label and top sheet needs.