Core Insights - The Print on Demand (POD) model has seen a significant increase in new sellers, with HICUSTOM reporting over 100% growth in new sellers this year [1] - The global POD market is projected to reach $9.8 billion in 2024 and grow to $47.1 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 25% [2] - The POD industry is experiencing a shift from chaotic growth to intense competition, leading to a need for differentiation and specialization among sellers [12][14] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The POD model allows sellers to operate without inventory, appealing to small and medium-sized cross-border sellers due to its low asset and zero inventory advantages [1] - Interest in the POD model has surged by nearly 300% compared to five years ago, indicating a growing consumer demand [2] - The POD business has been likened to the "mask machine" phenomenon during the pandemic, with profit margins significantly increasing for some manufacturers [2] Group 2: Supply Chain Localization - The trend of supply chain localization is becoming prominent in the POD industry, with many factories establishing operations in the U.S. to mitigate risks associated with international trade policies [7] - Companies like Zeyuan POD Supply Chain have set up multiple POD factories in the U.S., processing over 50,000 orders daily and serving more than 2,000 sellers [5] - The localization of production allows for faster response to market demands and reduces costs associated with logistics and warehousing [5][9] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The POD industry is facing challenges such as price wars and thin profit margins, leading to a scenario where only those with robust supply chain capabilities can thrive [12][14] - Sellers are increasingly focusing on product differentiation and niche markets to stand out in a crowded field, moving away from oversaturated categories like T-shirts [14][15] - Platforms like Etsy and TikTok Shop cater to different consumer segments, influencing how POD products are marketed and sold [16] Group 4: Future Outlook - The POD industry is expected to undergo significant transformations as it matures, with a focus on quality and unique offerings becoming essential for survival [12][17] - The emergence of new platforms and changing consumer preferences will continue to shape the landscape of the POD market, necessitating adaptability from sellers [16]