Large format printing is going through a small renaissance with all indicators pointing to growth in the industry for the rest of the decade.

Customisability, sustainability, and efficiency are the key buzzwords most companies are now modelling their businesses on and some common trends have been popping up from those within the industry.

Image Reports’ latest Widthwise survey highlighted that 41% of large format printing operations in Great Britain and Ireland had seen an increase in profits in almost two years.

It is un upward trajectory that, in the short term at least, isn’t projected to slow and so as we head into the new year, Angelo Mandelli, EMEA senior product and business development manager, large format and flatbed, at Ricoh Europe has explained what he believes eight key factors driving the industry’s current progress: 

1. Customisation and personalisation: A significant factor influencing the growth of large format printing is the greater demand for customisation. Clients are searching for ways to differentiate their products. The ability to explore various substrates and creative designs, limited editions, or even one-off pieces helps meet this demand.

2. Sustainability: Environmentally responsible printing solutions are increasingly crucial for businesses aiming to reduce their operational footprint. UV curable inks not only produce high quality prints but are also recyclable and require less energy for drying which supports energy efficient operations. This helps companies address the eco conscious consumer market.

3. Shorter run lengths: The ability to produce short, high-quality runs has become a key advantage for large format printers. Digital printing allows for responsive, on demand production, minimising waste and meeting immediate client needs without overproduction. This capability is especially valuable in industries with rapidly changing demands, such as fashion, retail, and event marketing, where designs can change seasonally or even more frequently.

4. Automation and efficiency: As competition intensifies, businesses are focused on increasing operational efficiency and reducing costs. Automation in digital printing, from job setup to finishing, helps companies reduce labour requirements, optimise material usage, and minimise human error. Automated systems streamline workflows and enable faster turnaround times, enhancing both productivity and profitability.

5. Online and offline integration: With the growth of e-commerce, print companies are also seeking to integrate digital and physical offerings. Digital printing supports e-commerce while maintaining retail quality.

6. New market opportunities: The ability to print on a wide range of materials opens new prospects in sectors such as interior decor, signage, packaging, and promotional products, enabling businesses to expand their offerings. This is particularly so for traditional analogue screen printers adopting digital with the fast, responsive, production agility and the reduction in lead times that comes with it. Businesses can diversify their service offerings and cater to a broader range of industries.

7. Adaptability: Large format printing technologies, particularly hybrid systems, allow businesses to pivot and respond swiftly to market changes. The flexibility to adapt product lines, create custom designs, and cater to specific client requests enables companies to remain competitive and responsive to shifting consumer demands.

8. Enhanced client experience: High quality prototypes and samples produced by large format printers offer businesses the chance to showcase products and receive client feedback before final production. Quick prototyping capabilities also help speed up the decision-making process, providing clients with confidence in the final product.