Why Gen Z Is Falling in Love with Print — and Why It Matters More Than Ever

At a time when it feels like everything is going digital, one voice at the recent Niche Media Conference reminded us that print still packs a punch, especially with younger audiences.

That voice? Kelsey Russell, a.k.a. The Print Princess, is a Gen Z influencer with a growing following of over 89,000 on TikTok. Kelsey is making waves with her enthusiasm for paper, ink, and design, in an industry many assumed her generation had no interest in.

But here’s the twist: Gen Z is interested, and they’re falling in love.

Listening to her message at this year’s Niche Media Conference, it really hit home for us at Progress Printing Plus. We’ve always believed in the power of print, and hearing Kelsey’s take only confirmed what we see every day: when it’s done well, print creates real impact, genuine connection, and lasting trust.

So, why exactly is Gen Z embracing print?

Here are a few of Kelsey’s insights that stuck with us:

·      Print offers relief from digital overload
Gen Z lives online — but they’re also deeply aware of the mental toll of nonstop screens. Print offers a breath of fresh air. It invites people to slow down, focus, and really experience content without notifications or distractions.

·      Tangible experiences matter
A beautifully designed magazine, brochure, or booklet isn’t just seen — it’s felt. Gen Z values authenticity and aesthetics, and physical print brings that to life in a way pixels just can’t.

 ·      Trust is real
In a world of fake news and disappearing content, print stands out as something credible and lasting. Holding a physical piece of communication simply feels more official — and Gen Z is noticing.

·      Print is an experience
Paper weight, texture, color, and layout are more than design choices. They’re ways to turn information into an experience. And for a generation that craves creativity and story-driven brands, that kind of immersive communication hits different.

At Progress Printing Plus, we’re not just listening — we’re evolving.

We’re working with brands, educators, and creators to craft printed pieces that speak to Gen Z’s values. Whether it’s a beautiful magazine, a custom-designed mailer, or a hybrid project that combines print with digital interactivity, our goal is simple: create print with purpose.

Kelsey reminded us that the future of print isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about innovation. It’s about reaching people where they are and giving them something they can hold onto in every sense of the word.

Ready to make something meaningful? Let’s print it.