Quick Answer
In 2025, print continues to outperform digital in perceived trust, attention span, and message retention. While digital offers reach and speed, print offers credibility and focus. For businesses seeking to establish authority and long-term brand equity, a well-crafted print piece, such as a custom magazine, cuts through the noise and earns genuine attention.

Is Print Still Relevant in a Digital-First World?

Yes, more than ever. The digital space is saturated with pop-ups, notifications, and content fatigue. In contrast, print offers intentionality. A custom magazine or mailed publication feels curated, calm, and credible.

That’s why marketers who want to stand out, not just show up, are revisiting print in 2025. Especially in industries where trust, expertise, and reputation matter, print is not a relic; it’s a strategic differentiator.

What Do Consumers and Decision-Makers Trust More?

Multiple studies conducted over the last five years have confirmed the same trend: print is more trusted than digital ads. Here’s why:

• Two Sides North America (2023): 62% of U.S. consumers trust print ads more than digital ads.
• MNI Targeted Media (2023): Gen Z and Millennials report greater emotional engagement and credibility with print content compared to digital channels.
• Canada Post Research: Physical mail triggers a 29% higher brand recall than digital messaging, and magazines are kept for up to 17 days, versus seconds for emails or social posts.

This isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about neurological and psychological impact. Print demands and earns focus.

What Does Digital Do Well?

Digital excels in speed, targeting, and real-time tracking. It’s indispensable for reach, performance marketing, and automation. But it has limitations:

• Banner blindness is real
• Inbox competition is fierce
• Engagement tends to be shallow and short-lived

Marketers are realizing that digital alone isn’t enough to build trust. It’s great for awareness and lead capture, but when it comes to deepening relationships or differentiating your brand, print carries weight.

So Which One Drives Better Business Outcomes?

It’s not a question of “either/or.” The most effective strategy in 2025 is digital + print and using each channel where it excels:

• Use digital to drive action and scale
• Use print to anchor your brand, showcase thought leadership, and elevate trust

For example, a real estate group might run retargeting ads online and follow up with a mailed magazine that showcases market insights and client stories. Together, the two create a multi-touch experience that reinforces credibility and drives conversion.

Why Are Brands Returning to Print?

As AI-generated content floods digital spaces, printed content feels more intentional, curated, and human. A high-quality custom magazine shows:

• You’re serious about your message
• You invest in quality communication
• You respect your audience’s attention

Tulip Media Group helps forward-thinking brands and associations cut through digital fatigue with premium, custom magazines that don’t just get opened, but are kept.

Ready to Lead With Print?

If your brand is ready to break out of the digital noise and create something memorable, Tulip Media Group builds turnkey custom magazines that deliver trust, credibility, and long-term value.

Get a Quote for Your Custom Magazine