As everyone is busy closing out the year, we thought it only fitting to provide a retrospective of impactful trends in the printing industry during 2016. There was a lot to be positive about this year from positive economic gains in several mature markets to a general optimism that could be felt walking the halls of the trade events. It was an active year for equipment and software that saw the commercial acceptance of inkjet and cloud technologies, respectively. Here are three trends from this year that will be impacting the market for years to come:
• The Smart Printing Factory
The concept of aggregating machine and shop floor data into a cloud-based analytics package was a major trend from hardware manufacturers this year and on full display at drupa 2016. The aim is to arm production staff and managers with actionable information to improve operations and enable the smart printing factory. The scope widens and capabilities increase when combined with other technologies, such as big data and robotics, which were equally touted at this year’s events.
• Digitally Printing on Everything
Continued improvements and developments in the inkjet printing ecosystem (printheads, inks, and substrates) are unlocking the ability to print on everything. Without a huge acquisition cost, PSPs can digitally print garments, dimensional products (e.g., golf balls), short-run packaging, and almost any other product that can fit on flatbed inkjet printers. A side effect is that attendance at sign and industrial trade shows has been on the rise as PSPs try to learn how to take advantage of these new opportunities.
• Digital Special Effects and Finishing
Devices continue to be introduced for adding, inline or offline, special effects to print. The ability to print inline using an additional printing unit on cut-sheet toner devices is migrating downstream to lighter production equipment. PSPs can use the additional printing unit to produce vibrant colors, clear and dimensional finishes, and security applications. Even more embellishments can now be added digitally through offline equipment that can apply foils, metallic, glitter, spot varnishes and colors, and even create Braille. At the same time, digital cutting and creasing is expanding the possibilities for manufacturing engaging, tactile products.
To understand more about digital special effects you may be interested in the new InfoTrends study, Beyond CMYK: The Use of Special Effects in Digital Printing, to explore the usage, effectiveness, pricing, and customer requirements of digitally printed special effects in the U.S. and Western Europe. For more information on the study, please contact Deanna Flanick.