SPC breaks down our learnings from the 2024 drupa
SPC leaders recently returned from drupa, the world’s #1 trade fair for printing technologies. Held in beautiful Düsseldorf, Germany, the event was a true global gathering, with an impressive 1,643 exhibitors and 170,000 total attendees from 174 countries.
The SPC mission: To uncover the latest breakthroughs in equipment and technology that promise to shape the future of direct mail. Here are the key takeaways from the event.
Growth in the Digital Universe
As expected, automation was a hot topic. Digital print offers maximum flexibility, customization, speed, and brand-quality imaging. Much like the whole industry, digital print technology has shown significant advancements over the years. “Data-driven production processes, algorithm-controlled logistics, and resource-conserving recycling management are bringing about a turnaround in the manufacturing sector.”1 The capabilities and options in the market now enable more creativity and interactive experiences than ever before.
The print industry continues to evolve in this dynamic market. New production solutions are continually stretching quality, capacity & efficiency limits. Embracing print-on-demand services, leveraging targeted data, and offering highly personalized products are all ways to make a mark in the competitive landscape.
SPC has invested heavily in next-gen digital and finishing equipment, being the first in the country to install Canon’s state-of-the-art Océ ProStream™ 1000 Inkjet press. A leader in the market, SPC will soon have the first ProStream 3160 in the U.S. which will be production-ready at the end of Q3.
SPC’s Large-Scale Flexibility with Variable Content
- Automated Processes
- 100% Content Variability
- Speeds up to 436 Feet per Minute
- Economy of Scale
- MBO Finishing Line Complete with UV Flood Coating Capabilities
Automation and Innovation – Tech Trends
Another trending topic at drupa was the advancements in automated, high-tech processes in print production. To minimize error and reduce human “touches”, AI and smart workflows are rolling out with impressive initial success. These processes include inline quality-monitored data and process chains to ensure efficiency and exceptional quality. Inspection systems and image processing are highly praised for their ability to detect and address tiny color and position deviations, resulting in reduced startup waste and misprints. This also emphasizes the growing autonomy and intelligence of print and packaging technologies.
Networking in Düsseldorf, Germany
SPC’s leaders also enjoyed a fun evening on the Rhein River with Heidelberg.
Key Thoughts
drupa significantly demonstrated the next wave of innovation in the print industry. The SPC team investigated and explored cutting-edge technology and equipment that will propel us ahead of the curve, ensuring our clients receive all the benefits of the latest technologies. Our key takeaways didn’t take us by surprise – brands can amplify creative capabilities and connections to audiences by harnessing productive new tools. With all the technological advancements on the horizon, marketers can reap the benefits of enhanced print efficiencies.
Contact Ryan LeFebvre at ryanl@specialtyprintcomm.com to strategize how to boost your direct mail campaigns.
Source: https://www.drupa.com/en/Home/Focus_Topics_%7C_drupa_2024/Industry_4.0_Digitalization_in_Print_Packaging_%7C_drupa
Blog Hero Image Credit: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann
