How to Attract New Candidates to the Printing & Packaging Industry

Written By: Shannon Polaski-Buchholz

The printing and packaging industry is evolving faster than ever. With advancements in flexographic, digital, and offset technologies, the demand for skilled operators, managers, and technical experts is at an all-time high. Yet, many companies face the same challenge: attracting and retaining fresh talent.

At Flexo Finders and Print Pack Careers, we’ve seen firsthand what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to engaging the next generation of printing professionals. Here are strategies to help the industry attract strong candidates and build a pipeline for the future.

1. Modernize the Image of the Industry

For too long, printing has been seen as “old school.” The reality is far different—today’s plants use cutting-edge technology, automation, robotics, and sustainable materials.

✅ High-tech equipment – Mark Andy P5/P7, HP Indigo, W+D converting lines✅ Career stability – An essential industry producing packaging for food, medical, and consumer goods✅ Innovation & sustainability – Reducing waste and going greener

2. Pay Competitively and Keep Up With Other Industries

Today’s candidates are comparing opportunities across manufacturing, logistics, and even tech. To compete:

💲 Pay better wages that reflect skill and responsibility💲 Offer shift differentials, bonuses, and relocation help💲 Review salaries annually to keep up with other industries

3. Offer Career Pathways and Growth

Younger candidates want clear opportunities to grow.

📈 Training programs for operators, die cutters, rewinders, and more📈 Apprenticeships or mentorships to build loyalty📈 Success stories of employees who worked their way into leadership

4. Showcase Pay, Benefits, and Culture

Candidates want to know: What’s it like to work there?

👥 401(k), health, dental, vision, PTO👥 Work-life balance (stable shifts, 4x10s)👥 Team-oriented, family-owned culture

5. Invest in New Equipment and Sustainability

No one wants to join a company with outdated machinery.

⚙️ Regularly upgrade presses and digital equipment⚙️ Invest in automation & workflow technologies⚙️ Prioritize sustainability (eco-friendly inks, waste reduction, green initiatives)

6. Go to High School Job Fairs to Attract New Blood

The next generation is in classrooms today. Companies can:

🎓 Attend high school job fairs & career days🎓 Offer internships, summer jobs, and plant tours🎓 Partner with trade schools & community colleges

7. Use Digital Recruiting Tools

The best candidates are online—are you?

🌐 Post jobs on industry-specific boards like Print Pack Careers🌐 Use LinkedIn & Facebook with engaging visuals🌐 Highlight relocation help to widen the pool

8. Promote the “Essential” Nature of Printing

Packaging is everywhere—from medicine to food to retail. Reinforce:

✔️ This industry is stable and growing✔️ It’s a career, not just a job

Final Thoughts

Attracting new candidates to the printing and packaging industry requires a shift in mindset. By:

• Paying competitively

• Modernizing the industry’s image

• Investing in sustainability and equipment

• Engaging young talent early

…the industry can build a strong workforce for the future.

Flexo Finders is here to help. Whether you’re a candidate exploring your next step or an employer seeking top talent, we connect the right people with the right opportunities every day.

👉 Visit www.flexofinders.com to learn more.