Despite the takeover of digital media, large format printing continues to be a profitable business. Textile, advertising and packaging industries seek the help of printing companies to create banners, posters and other paraphernalia that will help get their marketing messages across.
The large format printing industry is expected to continue growing, as printed materials continue to be in demand. The market is expected to grow from USD8.37 billion in 2017 to USD10.59 billion by 2023.
New technologies and opportunities contribute to the growth of the large format printing industry. Take note of these trends so that your printing business will have a better chance of succeeding in the market.
New Technologies
The arrival of new technologies makes it possible for businesses to provide a wide variety of products at faster speeds. Equipment like flatbed printers allows large format prints on rigid surfaces and other items like computer covers and lunchboxes. Advanced raster image processors (RIPs) allow for faster processing and better colour management so that the finished product has vibrant colours. There are also finishing tables that allow printing staff to improve productivity by cutting, laminating and mounting printed materials in the same space.
New ink systems also create many opportunities for personalisation. Dye-sublimation’s vaporised ink colours give the printed surface a more robust look. Also, colourant systems help standardise colours across different printers.
Demand for Personalisation
Today’s customers want to personalise everything, from their phone cases to clothing. Luckily, new technologies make it easier for companies to develop printing solutions beyond banners and posters. Dye sublimation and UV-LED printers allow personalisation of a wide variety of items. This new printing equipment is also capable of running shorter print jobs for a faster turnaround.
Emerging Printing Markets
The textile printing market has continued to grow in recent years. Soft signage offers many benefits over traditional signs, as it is lightweight, less expensive and easy to assemble. Fabric manufacturers have been developing textiles that run smoothly on large format options, like latex and aqueous printers, so demand for textile prints is expected to increase.
Another growing market segment is 3D printing. Initially used in prototyping for the aerospace and engineering industries, it’s slowly being applied in advertising to make brands more engaging. More promotional campaigns are expected to combine 3D printed elements with traditional advertising, like billboards and exhibition designs.
Importance of Environmental Sustainability
Environmental concerns have shaped consumer focus. Many customers are now demanding more Earth-friendly products, and the printing industry is taking notice. Manufacturers help combat waste pollution by producing equipment that doesn’t contain solvent-based coatings. Some printing companies offer substrates from recyclable materials. In the textile printing segment, expect the use of natural fibre fabrics and improved pigment inks.
The large format printing industry is becoming faster, increasingly accurate and more automated. The industry has witnessed the emergence of new technologies and creative methods to meet customers’ changing tastes and needs. Staying abreast of these trends will help businesses improve their reach, adapt to change and thrive in today’s economy.
