The label market has evolved considerably in recent years and its totally digital or hybrid production already reaches 35%.
This means that the digital print model It is prevailing in a market where brands and retailers are knowing how to identify it as critical factors to satisfy the increasingly changing demand patterns, the agility and rapid response offered by this type of printing.
For the development of the labels and packaging sector, technology has been a fundamental piece, which has remained resistant despite the different global challenges experienced in recent years, and which has been nourished by real and positive aspects that have been have been consolidating as the transition from analog to digital has developed.
“It’s like the sound of horses getting closer and getting louder. The transition is unstoppable»says Carsten Bamberg, business development manager, Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe.
Igniting the possibilities with a new world of opportunities
With accelerating trends such as automation, digital print buying and online shopping, there is a wide range of possibilities for customers who want to explore new printing opportunities.
Workflow, software and process automation, along with cloud solutions, are key drivers for better automation and efficiency as part of the drive towards “smart industry”. Opportunities are everywhere. The label and packaging markets continue to thrive thanks to digital printing, as print runs continue to shrink and demand grows for sustainable forms of production by reducing waste.
“This has become increasingly important, particularly with the global challenges facing the industry, such as the availability of raw materials, rising prices and energy, as well as skills shortages. However, we remain extremely positive for the future. Digital label technology will continue to expand into traditional flexo and offset territory, which is good news for those already actively involved in digital production and for those looking to invest.” says Bamberg.
Growth path in the card markets for labels and packaging
“Our optimism is also reflected in the opinion of other global experts who report on new growth opportunities for the coming years. As an example, the opinion on the growth for the labels and packaging markets after the pandemic and the expert vision of Smithers »adds the representative of Konica Minolta.
In a report on the trends and drivers shaping future digital print markets, analysts revealed a figure close to 35% of the total value of fully digital or hybrid label production. Digital has long been here to stay. According to Smithers, the global market for digital label printing was worth $12.6 billion in 2022, having grown at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 7.7% since 2017, while volume grew at a average of 10.8%.
“The pandemic saw significant growth in essential consumable products, as industrial and bulk packages required labels, but with low demand for many luxury products.”, adds the report. “Digital took the market by storm, as more brands and retailers identified agility and rapid response as important factors in meeting rapidly changing demand patterns.”
“Digital label printing will reach almost €20 billion by 2032 when the performance of narrow-web digital presses surpasses analog production, with online digital finishing and embellishments options”. The report also concludes: “As the population grows and the number of smaller households increases, packaging volumes will also grow. E-commerce with individuals requires more packaging to protect items in transit. While much of the packaging is not printed (bottles, jars, food cans, wrappers, barrels, bags, bulk bags, corrugated), some requires labels.
