Printing United 2024 was more than just an exhibition. It was a convergence of ideas, innovations, and industry shifts that signal a promising future for the printing sector. As we navigated through the event, engaging with clients and industry peers, several key themes emerged that highlight where the industry is heading. We'd like to share our reflections and insights from this remarkable event.
Industry trends: A positive outlook
The event kicked off with the Industry Trends Breakfast, where current industry trends were unveiled. The overall sentiment was optimistic:
- Moderate industry growth: The association presented data indicating steady growth within the industry, a reassuring sign for businesses navigating post-pandemic challenges.
- Investment in automation: Companies are actively investing in automation. A topic discussed for years but now finally seeing tangible action. This shift from words to deeds marks a significant turning point.
Automation and Ecommerce: From talk to action
We've long heard about the potential of automation and eCommerce in revolutionizing the printing industry. This year, however, marked a noticeable change:
- Increased interest in Ecommerce: Companies are not just curious; they're eager to implement. Many conversations began with, "Our competitor has an online store, and we want to launch one too."
- Private B2B portals in demand: For commercial printers, there's a 90% chance they're inquiring about private B2B portals. Businesses are seeking secure, tailored platforms to enhance client interactions.
- Integration with MIS and order management systems: There's a growing need for solutions that seamlessly integrate with existing MIS and order management platforms to streamline operations.
Emerging trends in printing services
Several niche areas within printing are gaining traction:
- Ecommerce for wallcoverings: The demand for custom wallpapers is surging in the USA. Wide-format printers are capitalizing on this trend by exploring eCommerce solutions tailored to wallcoverings.
- Direct Mail resurgence: Commercial printers are showing renewed interest in direct mail services. In an increasingly digital world, physical mail offers a unique way to capture consumer attention.
Conversations and connections
Engaging with over 130 attendees provided us with deep insights:
- Understanding needs: Direct dialogues helped us grasp the specific challenges and aspirations of businesses in today's market.
- Building relationships: These interactions are invaluable for fostering partnerships and tailoring our solutions to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
Key takeaways
- Actionable automation: The industry is moving beyond discussions, actively implementing automation technologies to enhance efficiency.
- Digital transformation is imperative: Establishing an online presence through eCommerce platforms and private portals is no longer optional—it's essential for competitiveness.
- Customization is king: From personalized products to custom wallcoverings, offering tailored solutions is a significant growth driver.
- Integrated systems are essential: Seamless integration with MIS and order management systems is critical for operational success.
Looking forward with Customer's Canvas
Our experiences at Printing United 2024 have reinforced our commitment to innovation:
- Enhancing Our Offerings: We're inspired to continue developing features that address the specific needs highlighted during the event.
- Fostering Integration: Emphasizing compatibility with MIS and order management systems to provide seamless solutions.
- Supporting Industry Growth: By staying attuned to industry trends, we aim to empower businesses to navigate and capitalize on these changes effectively.
Conclusion
Printing United 2024 was a testament to the industry's resilience and adaptability. The shift from theoretical discussions to practical implementations of automation and eCommerce signifies a new era for printing businesses. We're excited to be at the forefront of this transformation, partnering with companies to unlock new opportunities and drive success.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who connected with us at Printing United 2024. Your insights and enthusiasm fuel our passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the printing industry.
