Düsseldorf, Germany (May 23, 2024): Despite recent challenges, the global print industry remains on a positive growth path. Market analysts project an annual average growth rate exceeding 2.1% over the next five years, fueled primarily by the labels and packaging segments. This optimistic outlook is reflected at drupa 2024, the world's leading trade fair for printing technologies, convening from May 28th to June 7th, 2024.
Global Growth Fueled by Innovation and Adaptability
According to Thomas Schiemann, Managing Director of the VDMA's Print and Paper Technology Association, "Our industry is demonstrably growing and has a bright future." This confidence stems from a strong past performance with global sales exceeding €837 billion in the last fiscal year. Growth is expected to be particularly robust in the labels and packaging sectors, reflecting the evolving needs of modern businesses.
Germany, boasting Europe's largest newspaper market and a thriving packaging industry, serves as a microcosm of the global trend. "Print remains an indispensable force," says Kirsten Hommelhoff, Managing Director of BVDM. "Mailshots are still a vital retail marketing tool, and supermarkets themselves are testaments to the power of print."
drupa 2024: A Global Hub for Innovation and Collaboration
With over 1,600 exhibitors from 52 nations and an anticipated 200,000 trade visitors from over 180 countries, drupa 2024 underscores its position as the premier international platform for the print industry. Sabine Geldermann, Director of drupa for Messe Düsseldorf, emphasizes the event's significance: "drupa brings together the world's most innovative technologies, the latest market developments, and valuable industry insights all under one roof." Spanning 18 halls and over 140,000 square meters of net exhibition space, drupa offers a comprehensive overview of the print industry landscape.
Sustainability and Digitalization: Key Drivers of Future Success
Three key trends dominate drupa 2024: digitalization, sustainability, and production automation. The VDMA recognizes these areas as significant growth opportunities. Schiemann underscores the importance of sustainability, stating, "Sustainability – both ecological and economic – is paramount for the industry's future success. We are excited to provide a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration through our Touchpoint Sustainability initiative."
This dedicated forum will showcase the latest advancements in energy-efficient printing and manufacturing technologies, featuring presentations from leading global players like Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, Koenig & Bauer, and Voith.
Addressing Industry Challenges: Skilled Labor and Regulations
The print industry, along with many others, faces the challenge of a skilled labor shortage. As highlighted by the BVDM's 2023 industry survey, over 50% of companies cite skilled labor shortages and rising labor costs as major concerns. Additionally, high energy prices and regulatory burdens add to the industry's challenges. drupa 2024 acknowledges these concerns and offers solutions. Numerous initiatives led by industry associations and universities aim to promote careers in the printing industry, fostering a skilled workforce for the future.
drupa 2024: A Catalyst for a Thriving Printing Industry
With its focus on innovation, collaboration, and addressing industry challenges, drupa 2024 serves as a catalyst for the continued growth and prosperity of the print industry. By embracing digitalization, prioritizing sustainability, and developing a future-proof workforce, the print industry is well-positioned to maintain its vital role in the global marketplace.