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Printing companies must innovate to survive. This guide covers the top 5 R&D consulting firms helping printing businesses develop new products, advance manufacturing, and drive lasting growth.
What Is R&D Consulting for the Printing Industry?
R&D consulting helps printing companies design and execute research and development programs that drive innovation, reduce costs, and advance manufacturing capabilities. Consultants bring a deep understanding of both scientific and commercial dimensions, helping organizations develop new products, improve processes, and integrate technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence to stay ahead of market shifts.
Theme Exploration of R&D Needs in High-Definition Printing and Digital Integration
Printing companies increasingly rely on research to address challenges in high-definition output and digital integration. R&D consultants support engineers in developing new products, improving efficiency, and applying machine learning to quality control processes across manufacturing operations.
The R&D Lifecycle in Printing: From Ideation to Value Creation
The R&D lifecycle spans ideation, research, design, prototyping, and product updates. Each stage requires structured strategies and skilled consultants to manage projects, reduce risk, and ensure development efforts deliver measurable business value for printing companies.
How Innovation Strategy Drives Investment in Printing Manufacturing Technologies
Effective innovation strategies align R&D investment with market opportunities. R&D tax credits can reduce tax obligations by 6–8%, while global R&D funding reached nearly $1.7 trillion. Strategic innovation programs help printing organizations advance manufacturing technologies and develop new products efficiently.
Top 5 Consulting Firms Specializing in Printing Industry R&D
CONNECTABLUE, Inc.
Company / Service Overview
ConnectaBlue Co., Ltd. is a consulting firm that supports clients end-to-end across R&D, from Theme Exploration and Technology Strategy development to Innovation creation, commercialization, and R&D Investment optimization. By applying proprietary AI tools and digital marketing to highly detailed theme discovery, the company accelerates the early identification and validation of latent Needs. It has extensive experience in manufacturing industries including automotive and semiconductors, as well as trading companies, construction, and the IT industry, and also has a strong track record in industrial fields such as chemicals and materials. The company has broad experience serving both large enterprises and mid-sized companies.
Its proprietary AI tools combine multiple AI systems that interact with one another to maximize analytical precision. Through Needs exploration across multiple time horizons in relevant technology domains, the tools conduct comprehensive investigations and estimations covering potential research themes, commercialization difficulty, sources of competitive advantage, attainable market share, revenue scale, growth potential, and value creation opportunities. This enables the identification of new possibilities that conventional approaches often overlook.
In addition, the company has a global network of more than 500 technical professionals. By incorporating human tacit knowledge into the refinement and prioritization of AI-identified research themes, it further enhances accuracy and decision quality. Over a 1–2 month review period, the company can perform thousands to tens of thousands of investigations and estimations, dramatically reducing the time required for Technology Strategy planning and R&D theme discovery while pushing precision to an extreme level. This approach has been highly valued by clients including materials manufacturers with over JPY 1 trillion in revenue, chemical companies, and diversified electronics manufacturers, resulting in a client retention rate of over 90%.
Key Strengths
- Highly resolved Theme Exploration powered by proprietary AI tools and digital marketing, supporting digital integration and the discovery of market Needs
- High-confidence decision support through anonymous information gathering and Needs analysis
- Extensive experience in industrial fields such as chemicals and materials, with strong capabilities in Technology Strategy and Innovation support
- A global network of more than 500 technical professionals, maximizing client value through the combination of human tacit knowledge and AI
- Support for new opportunity assessment in areas such as high-definition printing, short lead-time technology, and multi-material compatibility
Track Record / Case Studies
- Developed an R&D strategy for digital printing technology for a company in the printing industry and supported the development of a high-speed printing system, contributing to high-definition printing and digital integration (Revenue scale: JPY 454 billion)
- Introduced an agile R&D process to the EV development division of an automotive company, shortening the prototyping period by six months and improving short lead-time technology execution (Revenue scale: JPY 4 trillion)
- Formulated an open Innovation strategy for the new business development division of a trading company and achieved commercialization of three initiatives, accelerating value creation (Revenue scale: JPY 600 billion)
| 会社名 | CONNECTABLUE, Inc. |
|---|---|
| 本社 所在地 |
LAPiS Aoyama II 5F, 2-4-8 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo |
KPMG Consulting Co., Ltd.
Company / Service Overview
KPMG Consulting is a full-service consulting firm that leverages KPMG’s global expertise and network to support companies across the entire research and development (R&D) domain, from strategy formulation to execution and institutionalization. The firm provides support aimed at optimizing overall R&D management, including R&D portfolio design aligned with technology and market trends as well as business strategy, theme exploration and planning, development process transformation, data utilization, organizational and talent development, and governance enhancement.
Rather than stopping at conceptual planning, KPMG Consulting promotes higher R&D productivity and more advanced decision-making through process design tailored to actual operational realities and the use of digital technologies. Through initiatives such as the development of PLM/ALM and other foundational platforms, centralized management of experimental, testing, and knowledge data, stronger stage-gate operations, and the use of AI and analytical technologies, the firm helps achieve shorter development lead times, improved quality, and greater reuse. In addition, KPMG Consulting provides hands-on support focused on execution that connects research outcomes to business value, including intellectual property and regulatory compliance, coordination with supply chains and manufacturing, and the design of alliances and open innovation.
Features
- End-to-end support from R&D strategy and portfolio design to initiative execution and governance
- Combines PLM/data platforms and AI utilization to enhance development productivity and decision-making sophistication
- Promotes transformation from a commercialization perspective, including intellectual property, regulatory compliance, and coordination with manufacturing and supply chains
| 会社名 | KPMG Consulting Co., Ltd. |
|---|---|
| 本社 所在地 |
1-9-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
Roland Berger
Company / Service Overview
Roland Berger is a Europe-origin management consulting firm that supports companies in strengthening competitiveness in the R&D (research and development) domain, covering everything from strategy formulation to execution support. The firm provides an approach that redesigns R&D not as a “cost,” but as an “investment that generates growth,” through services such as technology strategy and R&D portfolio optimization, exploration of new product and technology themes, development process reform, and improvement of development productivity through digital utilization. Based on its expertise in technology-intensive industries, including automotive and manufacturing, Roland Berger helps connect market- and customer-driven perspectives with technology-driven perspectives, supporting the direction-setting and decision-making of research and development with a view toward future business opportunities.
Rather than stopping at conceptual planning, the firm provides end-to-end support spanning R&D governance design, KPI and stage-gate design, redefinition of organizational and talent (skill) models, promotion of collaboration and open innovation, and development of tools and data infrastructure, thereby realizing practical transformations that take root in the field. While aligning the interests of management, business divisions, and development teams, Roland Berger drives R&D reform that leads directly to outcomes such as shorter development lead times, higher quality, and improved visibility of return on investment.
Key Features
- Connects technology strategy with business strategy to enhance the prioritization of R&D investments and decision-making
- Improves development productivity and speed to market through development process reform (stage-gate / agile / quality management)
- Supports the institutionalization of reform through hands-on execution support, including R&D governance, KPI design, and talent and organizational transformation
| 会社名 | Roland Berger |
|---|---|
| 本社 所在地 |
35F Toranomon Hills Station Tower, 2-6-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
Japan Research Institute, Limited
Company / Service Overview
Japan Research Institute is a comprehensive professional services firm that supports the advancement of corporate R&D (research and development) activities by combining the research capabilities of a think tank with the execution support capabilities of IT and consulting. From the analysis of technology trends and market developments to the formulation of R&D strategies and technology roadmaps, the selection and evaluation of R&D themes, and the development of project management foundations, the Institute provides seamless support from planning to implementation and adoption.
It helps eliminate information silos among research sites, business divisions, and management, while supporting the establishment of decision-making processes that connect technology and business. In addition, it promotes the creation of systems that balance R&D productivity with business outcome generation, including the utilization of data, the introduction of AI and digital technologies, the standardization of research and development, the strengthening of governance, and human resource development and organizational design. From a neutral standpoint, it designs the most suitable methods and frameworks and aims to realize R&D management that can be continuously improved.
Features
- Provides end-to-end support from R&D strategy to operational adoption by combining research capabilities (think tank) with execution support (consulting / IT)
- Builds decision-making foundations that connect technology and business, including technology roadmaps, theme evaluation, and portfolio management
- Comprehensively supports R&D transformation, including data utilization and AI adoption, standardization and governance, and human resource development
| 会社名 | Japan Research Institute, Limited |
|---|---|
| 本社 所在地 |
Osaki Forest Building, 2-18-1 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
Bain & Company
Company / Service Overview
Bain & Company, as a globally operating management consulting firm, provides broad-based support ranging from corporate growth strategy to operational transformation and digital transformation. In the R&D domain, the firm delivers integrated support covering R&D strategy development, portfolio optimization, development process reform, organizational and talent design, and external collaboration (open innovation), thereby strengthening the entire value creation process from generating research themes to commercialization and monetization.
By combining a business strategy- and market-driven perspective with hands-on implementation support that extends into day-to-day development operations, Bain & Company helps drive the prioritization of R&D investments, the shortening of development lead times, and the optimization of quality and cost. By simultaneously enhancing executive decision-making and building mechanisms that function effectively on the ground, the firm supports the transformation of R&D from a “cost” center into a “growth engine” that creates competitive advantage.
Key Features
- Maximizes return on investment through R&D strategy and portfolio optimization aligned with business strategy
- Advances development process reform together with organizational and governance design, ensuring execution capability that takes root in the field
- Supports the promotion of open innovation with a view toward everything from external collaboration and technology scouting to commercialization
| 会社名 | Bain & Company |
|---|---|
| 本社 所在地 |
37F Midtown Tower, 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
Key R&D Services Offered by Printing Industry Consultants
Smithers — Deep Research Expertise in High-Definition Printing and Materials Innovation
Smithers delivers specialized research and development services for printing manufacturers, combining materials science with strategic innovation to help companies develop new products and advance high-definition printing technologies efficiently.
PIRA International — Technology Strategy for Multi-Material Compatibility and Process Development
PIRA supports printing companies through rigorous research and development consulting, focusing on multi-material compatibility and process improvement strategies that reduce costs and drive measurable efficiency gains across manufacturing operations.
Intertek — Digital Integration Solutions and New Product Development for Printing Manufacturers
Intertek’s engineers and consultants help printing organizations develop new products through applied research, digital integration, and data-driven solutions that strengthen manufacturing processes and support regulatory compliance across various industries.
Arthur D. Little — Innovation Strategy and Machine Learning Investment for Printing Transformation
Arthur D. Little applies machine learning and strategic innovation frameworks to help printing companies prioritize R&D investment, improve development processes, and build competitive advantage through data-informed research and technology strategies.
Deloitte — Value Creation Through R&D Program Management and Short Lead-Time Technology
Deloitte’s consultants support printing businesses by managing complex research and development programs, developing short lead-time technologies, and identifying R&D tax credit opportunities that reduce investment risk and improve business outcomes.
How R&D Consulting Delivers Results for Printing Companies
Developing New Products Through Applied Research and High-Definition Printing Innovation
Applied research enables printing companies to develop new products that meet evolving market demands. Consultants guide organizations through structured development processes, translating scientific knowledge into commercially viable high-definition printing innovations.
Efficiency Gains and Cost Reduction via Digital Integration and Process Improvement
Digital integration and process improvement deliver measurable efficiency gains for printing manufacturers. R&D consultants use machine learning and data analytics to identify inefficiencies, reduce costs, and improve productivity across manufacturing operations and development cycles.
Managing R&D Investment Risk with Strategic Innovation and Short Lead-Time Technology
R&D is a high-risk investment. Strategic innovation frameworks and short lead-time technologies help printing companies balance long-term research programs with near-term returns, while R&D tax credits reduce financial exposure by 6% to 8% annually.
How to Choose the Right R&D Consulting Partner for Your Printing Business
Evaluating Technology Strategy Capabilities and Multi-Material Compatibility Expertise
When selecting R&D consultants, assess their technical depth across printing technologies and materials. Firms with proven expertise in multi-material compatibility help companies develop new products that perform reliably across diverse manufacturing processes.
Assessing Value Creation Potential and Alignment with Your Innovation Needs
Strong partners demonstrate how their research and development strategies align with your business goals. Evaluate past projects, client outcomes, and whether their innovation approach supports your specific development challenges and efficiency goals.
Understanding Costs, R&D Tax Credit Benefits, and Long-Term Investment Considerations
Consulting fees for large firms typically range from 10 million to 100 million yen annually. However, R&D tax credits can reduce tax liabilities by 6% to 8%, improving the overall return on your research and development investment significantly.
Conclusion
Printing companies that strategically invest in research and development gain measurable efficiency gains, stronger market positions, and sustainable innovation pipelines. Partnering with experienced R&D consultants accelerates the development of new products, reduces risk, and ensures your organization can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.
FAQ
What is R&D consulting for the printing industry?
Research and Development (R&D) fosters innovation and improves existing products. It builds a deep understanding of printing.
Which consulting firms specialize in printing industry research and development?
Top firms focus on research and development. In the US, R&D spending reached $937 billion in the US in 2023.
What does an R&D consultant do for manufacturing companies?
The R&D lifecycle involves structured, iterative processes from ideation to scale-up.
What are the top consulting firms helping printing companies innovate?
Consultants help firms innovate. Strong R&D efforts lead to increased market share and higher profitability.
How can R&D consulting help printing businesses develop new products?
It helps develop new products. R&D focuses on both new products and improving internal processes to boost efficiency.
What is the difference between basic research and applied research?
Basic research aims for a fuller understanding of concepts. Applied research focuses on developing new products with specific goals.
What is development research?
Development research improves current products and processes. This is key for research and development r teams.
How much does it cost to hire an R&D consulting firm for a printing company?
Fees vary. Note that R&D can take around 17 years and cost over $2 billion, which is a major long-term path.
What are the benefits of investing in research and development for the printing industry?
Firms enjoy efficiency gains. R&D allows businesses to adapt to emerging trends and technological advancements.
How do R&D consultants use machine learning and artificial intelligence in printing innovation?
They apply machine learning and artificial intelligence. Open innovation involves partnering with external entities to enhance R&D efforts.
What should printing companies look for when choosing an R&D development consulting partner?
Seek a top development consulting partner. Improving existing products is a key part of R&D activities.
How does R&D reduce tax burdens for printing companies?
Tax planning helps. R&D tax credits can reduce tax obligations by 6% to 8%, benefiting various industries.
What other tax benefits exist?
The IRS offers R&D tax credits to encourage innovation. Government support can include resources like federal R&D tax credits to offset costs.
What are the risks of R&D?
It is time consuming. R&D is a high-risk, long-term investment characterized by experimentation.
Can R&D prevent obsolescence?
Yes. R&D is critical for preventing obsolescence and ensuring long-term survival for our clients.
What is the global funding environment for R&D?
R&D funding reached a record high of almost $1.7 trillion globally. It is key for sectors worldwide.
How much do countries invest in R&D?
Countries invest heavily. For example, Israel spent 6.02% of its GDP on R&D in 2022.
What are some examples of R&D spending by top companies?
Amazon spent $88.54 billion on R&D in 2024. This massive investing drives their success.
Why is R&D considered a high-risk process?
R&D requires significant upfront investment with uncertain returns. We will discuss this with employees.
How do market changes impact R&D?
New product R&D adapts to rapid changes in consumer demands. A dedicated department makes new services.
What role does customer feedback play in R&D?
Market-driven discovery aligns R&D with customer feedback for effective product development.
What are some outcomes of successful R&D?
Successful R&D often results in patents and proprietary technology, helping firms stay ahead.
How do R&D teams function?
R&D teams collaborate to translate market needs into marketable products.
How does R&D impact competitive advantage?
Effective R&D contributes to product innovation and builds a competitive advantage.
Does R&D enhance product quality?
Yes. R&D enhances competitive advantage by creating unique, high-quality products.
What is global GDP contribution of R&D?
R&D constitutes an average of 2.2% of global GDP as of 2015.
Which industries invest the most in R&D?
Pharmaceutical companies spend the most on R&D across industries.
How often do clinical trials fail or change?
In healthcare, 53% of clinical trials require protocol amendments after initiation.
Can R&D tax credits reduce liabilities?
Yes. R&D tax credits can reduce tax liabilities by 6% to 8%.
Why is R&D crucial?
R&D is crucial for developing new products and improving existing ones.
How long does R&D typically take?
R&D typically takes around 17 years and costs over $2 billion.
How does the US spend on R&D?
The US spent $937 billion on R&D in 2023.
What is the outcome of R&D failures?
Failure is a common part of the R&D process but can lead to efficiency in reaching market-ready products.
What are the key stages of the R&D lifecycle?
The key stages of the R&D lifecycle include ideation, research, design, prototyping, and product updates.
