The much-anticipated return of DRUPA, the world’s largest printing exhibition, after an eight-year hiatus, has left the industry buzzing with excitement and optimism.
Held in Düsseldorf, this event showcased the latest innovations, trends, and future directions in the printing industry. Here are the four key takeaways from DRUPA 2024 that are set to shape the future of printing:
1. New Technologies Revolutionising Print
One of the standout features of DRUPA 2024 was the impressive array of new technologies that are transforming the printing industry. Landa’s continued expansion into the packaging and marketing print space with their advanced nanography technology was particularly noteworthy. Originally known for their innovative print solutions, Landa’s latest press developments were quite breathtaking, setting a new benchmark in print quality and speed. This move will undoubtedly give traditional litho printers a real run for their money, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape.
2. Environmental Considerations Take Centre Stage
Environmental sustainability was a prominent theme throughout DRUPA 2024, and it’s a topic that is often misunderstood when it comes to the printing industry. Many consumers don’t realise that our industry is actually one of the most environmentally friendly sectors in the world. For instance, the use of paper is NOT damaging to the environment—quite the opposite. Paper is grown as a crop, much like wheat for bread, and contrary to the misconception that rainforests are being cut down, paper production always involves trees that are cultivated specifically for this purpose. These trees use up carbon dioxide as they grow, contributing positively to the environment. Furthermore, paper remains the most recycled product people use, which reinforces its sustainability credentials.
3. The Growing Role of AI in Printing Production
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has firmly embedded itself into the fabric of modern printing, and DRUPA 2024 clearly demonstrated this. AI is now integral to various aspects of the printing process, from automation and efficiency improvements to enhancing print quality and enabling personalised content. For example, AI-driven technologies are automating tasks such as typesetting, colour correction, and print quality control, significantly reducing production times and costs. Additionally, AI enables highly personalised printing through Variable Data Printing (VDP), where individual print pieces can be tailored to specific customer needs without compromising speed or efficiency.
Moreover, AI contributes to more sustainable printing practices by optimising ink usage, reducing paper waste, and improving energy efficiency. This not only makes the printing process more efficient but also aligns with our industry’s environmental goals. The impact of AI on predictive maintenance and supply chain optimisation cannot be overstated, as it ensures that printing presses are always operating at peak efficiency, minimising downtime and resource wastage.
4. Personalisation in Large Format Products
Personalisation continues to be a growing trend, particularly in large format printing. At DRUPA 2024, I was particularly impressed by innovations that allow for the customisation of products that were previously difficult to personalise due to their size and shape. For example, there was a machine small enough to go into stores or offices that will personalise any product size or shape with personal details. The potential for personalised packaging and promotional materials is immense. One standout example from the show was a machine that could personalise a pizza box with the name of the buyer, the type of pizza, and even a colour picture of the buyer taken from a camera when the order was placed. There were also machines capable of personalising metal objects and even large pieces of equipment that could print promotional messages on internal walls, which could be removed and changed as often as needed.
This growing trend was evident across various booths at DRUPA, where the blurring of lines between different printing sectors was on full display. From on-demand printing solutions to personalised large-format products, the industry is clearly moving towards more individualised production capabilities. As consumers continue to seek unique and tailored products, the ability to offer personalised items on a large scale is becoming increasingly important.
The Future of Printing: A Blurred Landscape of Opportunities
As we look to the future, the boundaries between different sectors and technologies in printing will continue to blur. This was evident in the strategic partnerships and collaborations announced at DRUPA 2024, such as the cooperation between Heidelberg Druckmaschinen and Canon to launch new inkjet products. This trend of collaboration reflects a growing openness and willingness across the value chain to work together, and it’s a trend that we’ll see not only during DRUPA but also in business in general.
The traditional divide between offset and digital printing is also diminishing. At DRUPA, Kodak emphasised that both methods are complementary, not competitive, and that the future will see a blending of technologies to meet diverse market demands. It’s not a question of whether you’ll be offset or digital— you really need to be both. This integration reflects a broader trend where businesses are diversifying their offerings and embracing a mix of printing techniques to meet the varied demands of modern consumers.
Moreover, the rise of digital and personalised printing aligns with broader trends in e-commerce and the creator economy, where short runs and custom orders are becoming the norm. Companies like Gelato are leading the charge in developing software solutions that bridge the gap between traditional printing methods and the digital age, ensuring that businesses can remain agile and responsive to changing market dynamics.
In summary, DRUPA 2024 has underscored that the printing industry is not only resilient but also innovative and forward-thinking. With advancements in technology, a strong commitment to sustainability, and the increasing integration of AI, the future of printing is poised to be dynamic, versatile, and more connected to the needs of consumers than ever before.
How can ERA help?
ERA Group is uniquely positioned to help businesses navigate the rapidly evolving printing industry by integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as Landa’s nanography and AI-driven solutions, to enhance operational efficiency and enable largescale personalisation. We also prioritise environmental sustainability by providing access to eco-friendly materials and processes, helping companies meet the growing demand for green products. At ERA Group, we evaluate our clients’ print procurement processes to determine how new technology can help improve their bottom line and optimise their market approach.
By partnering with ERA Group, businesses can stay competitive, innovative, and sustainable in the dynamic printing landscape.
