What do you feel were the main trends and key industry developments in 2021?
We’ve seen a trend towards automation – this is a knock-on effect from Covid lockdowns when companies were working smaller teams due to furlough schemes. Firms then realised that by adding automation to their machines – whether it’s a wide-format printer, or on a computer-to-plate system for example – then they could become far more efficient. We also saw a trend toward processless offset plates for the same reason – reducing maintenance became a driver due to the labour restrictions.

The digital ink market has recovered well since Covid and it has been strong ever since. In fact, October 2021 was our strongest month ever for wide-format UV inks. Generally, the last quarter of the year is busy for digital UV ink because of the run-up to Christmas, but this year went off the scale. In contrast, offset printing is still feeling the pinch; it is steadily recovering, but not as strongly as digital.

Do you feel that any trends have been accelerated because of the pandemic?
Yes, both trends mentioned above were accelerated by the pandemic. Automation will continue to be on-trend due to labour shortages, and overall efficiency will be a key driver as businesses try to speed up production whilst reducing cost and waste.

What do you expect to be the main trends and key industry developments in 2022?
I think in 2022, the industry will have to deal with increased costs and continued disruption within the supply chain. The need for flexibility and efficiency will drive manufacturers and industry suppliers to develop innovative solutions.

Printers and publishers won’t be able to absorb increasing costs – the end-user will, but they will also be reminded of how valuable printing is. Even though cost is increasing, print can deliver a great return on investment depending on how it is deployed.

Finally, the environment will be a key driver. It is on the conscience of everyone more than ever, with brands and consumers becoming much better informed on the finer detail.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for print businesses in 2022 and why?
Sustainable packaging: an increasing amount of local produce will require shorter-run, bespoke environmentally friendly printed packaging and labelling.

What does the industry need to do differently in 2022?
The industry needs to be even more proactive and promote the power of print as a strong and sustainable form of communication. In addition, it will be beneficial for printers to diversify their customer base and the services that they offer. We have all seen that overexposure in certain sectors can be dangerous.

Note: This prediction is taken from a special Briefing article in the new issue of Printweek featuring insights from industry suppliers, hence it does not follow the same question template as the other predictions.