Drupa 2024: Celebrating the Best in PrintingTechnology and Innovation

As the curtains closed on Drupa 2024, the world's leading trade fair for the print and media industry, it left a lasting impression on attendees and industry professionals alike. Held from May 31st to June 7th, Drupa 2024 showcased the latest innovations, technologies, and trends that are shaping the future of the printing industry.  

A total of 1,643 exhibitors from 52 nations presented an outstanding showcase of innovations in the Düsseldorf exhibition halls and inspired the trade visitors with unforgettable performances.   

The international share of the visitors was 80%, with attendees coming from 174 countries, a record figure. After Europe, Asia was the most strongly represented region with 22%, followed by America with 12%.  Asia, as well as Latin America and the MENA region are markets with great growth potential, which was reflected in the significant increase in exhibitors' presence and order books. 

At over 50%, most of them came from the printing industry, followed by the packaging industry, whose share has increased significantly, and which was the focus of many exhibitors as a growth driver. 

Erhard Wienkamp, managing director at Messe Düsseldorf, is satisfied with the course of the trade fair. He said, “Drupa has underpinned its position as the industry’s leading trade fair and its unique appeal in a remarkable way. The impressive international flair and, above all, the high decision-making competence of the visitors ensured in-depth and well-founded technical discussions at the trade fair stands on the one hand and many direct investment decisions on the other. Our exhibitors told us about large-volume purchase agreements.”   

Focus on Innovation and Digitalization 

A central theme of DRUPA 2024 was the rapid advancement of digitalization within the printing industry. Exhibitors showcased cutting-edge technologies, including advancements in digital printing, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation. These innovations promise to revolutionize the industry by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and expanding the capabilities of printing solutions. 

Major industry players such as Canon, HP, and Fujifilm were at the forefront of these technological showcases. Canon introduced its latest digital presses that offer unprecedented speed and quality, while HP and Fujifilm demonstrated the integration of AI and automation in their printing solutions. These technologies not only improve operational efficiency but also open new avenues for creative and personalized printing applications. 

Sustainability Takes Center Stage 

Drupa 2024 highlighted the industry's collective commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. Exhibitors and industry leaders showcased groundbreaking innovations that reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and promote responsible printing. From eco-friendly materials to energy-efficient machinery, the event showcased how sustainability has become an integral part of the printing industry's future. 

Top priority is given to resource efficiency and the path to a functioning circular economy. In addition, Touchpoint Sustainability from the VDMA, the German Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers’ Association, showcased current state of the art innovations, presented best-practice use cases and gave a far-reaching outlook into the future of a sustainable printing industry. 

Transformation and growth 

Drupa made it very clear that the industry has great potential for the future, even against the backdrop of many challenges and that the prospects are promising. In the last financial year, the global printing industry achieved a turnover of around EUR 840 billion (source: Smithers) and continues to develop at varying pace worldwide. 

 “At drupa 2024, we experienced firsthand just how relevant and resilient this industry is,” summarizes Sabine Geldermann, Director drupa, Portfolio Print Technologies. “The community is determined to set the course for the future together. Exchanging ideas with people from all continents and from all areas of the industry was extremely enriching and inspiring. We were able to welcome around 50 large delegations from various nations, and numerous globally active associations and organizations chose drupa as the ideal setting for their conferences and board meetings.” 

Together we are stronger. Many new strategic alliances concluded at the trade fair reflected the opportunities that are only possible in such a concentrated form at drupa: meeting market players from other countries around the world in person, using core competences as synergy effects, forming networks and driving the market forward together 

Collaboration and Knowledge-Sharing 

Drupa 2024 served as a catalyst for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industry professionals. Exhibitors and visitors engaged in fruitful discussions, exchanging ideas, and exploring potential partnerships. The event provided a platform for networking and learning from industry experts, fostering an environment of growth and innovation. 

Looking Ahead: DRUPA 2028

As DRUPA 2024 concluded on a high note, the industry looks forward to the next edition of the fair, scheduled for 2028. The success of this year's event sets a high benchmark for future editions, promising even greater innovations and business opportunities. DRUPA continues to be an indispensable platform for the global printing industry, driving progress and setting the stage for the industry's future growth.

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