Bookings for the biennial print trade show, which will take place from 21-23 April at the Harrogate Exhibition Centre, are "well ahead" of target with 60% of floorspace now allocated, according to organiser IIR Exhibitions.

IIR event director Gordon Kirk said: "Northprint has always been a popular show with suppliers and printers and the signs are that the next event will be the same, despite the current financial challenges."

Digital manufacturers Canon and Ricoh, who are among the confirmed exhibitors at the show, which also includes Presstek, added that it was important for manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to the industry despite marketing spends coming under increased scrutiny.

Canon UK head of professional marketing Ben Milford said: "I think it's important that Canon are at an event of the nature of Northprint to demonstrate to the commercial print market in particular, the products and solutions that can help them with what's going to be probably a fairly difficult period next year."

Ricoh UK, which will continue to push its digital colour offering at the show, also stressed the importance of showing its support to the sector.

Chas Moloney, director of marketing at Ricoh UK, said: "Every marketing decision in terms of spending money is difficult and it has to have a distinct return on investment, but we see Northprint – particularly because it's only every two years – as a decision that we really didn't have to think too long about."

Milford added that he was confident that attendance at next year's show would be good, quashing suggestions that some printers might struggle to take time out to attend the Yorkshire-based show.

Northprint 09 will focus on 'building value in print', according to IIR, who said the show would feature practical advice on how to minimise costs and maximise the profitability and competitiveness of print businesses.