When it comes to print technologies, media production and future solutions for the printing industry, drupa in Düsseldorf has been the undisputed meeting place for decades. No other trade fair in the world brings together engineering, technology, innovation and inspiration to this extent. For the global industry, drupa is not just an event, but a milestone. This is where trends are set, investments are made and future prospects are opened up.
The print and media industry has undergone fundamental change in recent years. Digitalization, new materials, individualization and sustainability are challenging traditional business models - and at the same time offer opportunities for growth and differentiation. drupa reflects this change and makes it tangible. Over 1,800 exhibitors from more than 50 countries present innovations along the entire value chain at the Düsseldorf exhibition center. From high-end printing machines for commercial and packaging printing, 3D printing solutions and functional printing technologies to software for workflows, automation and industrial applications - the variety is enormous. Anyone interested in related trade fairs can find more information about the broad portfolio of specialist events at Düsseldorf Trade Fair.
One of the dominant themes at drupa is progress in digital printing technologies. Inkjet, laser and 3D printing have reached a level of maturity in recent years that enables new business models. Personalized products in short runs, intelligent packaging with integrated electronics or sustainable solutions in textile printing are no longer just visions. Equally impressive is the progress made in automation. Machines communicate with each other and processes are controlled and optimized using AI-based systems. Efficiency is being redefined: the motto is faster, more resource-efficient and more flexible. The integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into production and design processes also shows how much technology is changing the printing sector.
Another key topic at drupa is sustainability. More and more manufacturers are focusing on resource-saving production processes, energy-efficient machines and materials with a reduced ecological footprint. Recycled paper, biodegradable printing inks and closed material cycles have long been an integral part of the innovations presented at the trade fair. Functional printing is also gaining in importance. Conductive inks, flexible displays and printed electronics are opening up completely new fields of application that go far beyond traditional print products. The combination of materials research, printing technology and electronics makes the sector a pacemaker for developments in medical technology, automotive engineering and the consumer goods industry.
Accompanying the exhibition, drupa offers an extensive conference and lecture program. The drupa cube, for example, is a platform where leading minds from the industry share their perspectives. Workshops, discussion panels and best-practice presentations provide insights into current developments - from the future of packaging and new value chains in 3D printing to strategies for sustainable media production. There will be a special focus on the networking of technology, creativity and entrepreneurship. Anyone who wants to take advantage of the opportunities offered by digitalization will not only find inspiration here, but also specific instructions on how innovations can be integrated into existing business models.
drupa is a genuine world-leading trade fair. Over 75 percent of exhibitors and the majority of visitors come from abroad. This internationality ensures a broad exchange of ideas and perspectives. For medium-sized companies in particular, it offers the opportunity to position themselves globally and tap into new markets. The broad spectrum of the trade fair also shows the different requirements and trends in the various markets. While topics such as sustainability and individualized print solutions dominate in Europe, the focus in Asia is on automation and high-speed technologies. North America, on the other hand, is driving innovation in functional printing technology.
Whether by investing in new technologies, opening up new business areas or developing sustainable production processes: Those who inform themselves at drupa will gain important insights to actively shape the coming years. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.drupa.de