The Global Printing Industry Celebrates Record Achievements at drupa 2024
Image By Courtesy of MESSE DUSSELDORF GMBh
Düsseldorf, Germany – drupa 2024, the world's leading trade fair for printing technologies, concluded on June 7th, marking an unprecedented success for the global print industry.
Over the span of eleven days, the event not only exceeded expectations but also set new benchmarks for innovation, engagement, and international collaboration.
With 1,643 exhibitors from 52 nations, drupa 2024 offered a remarkable showcase of cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art solutions, captivating a record number of visitors.
The fair attracted an international audience, with 80% of attendees hailing from 174 countries.
Particularly notable was the significant presence from Asia, accounting for 22% of visitors, followed by America with 12%.
The enthusiasm and high decision-making competence of visitors led to numerous contracts being signed, exceeding sales targets for key industry players within the first few days.
Erhard Wienkamp, Managing Director at Messe Düsseldorf, expressed immense satisfaction with the event's outcome: “drupa has underpinned its position as the industry’s leading trade fair and its unique appeal in a remarkable way. The impressive international flair and, above all, the high decision-making competence of the visitors ensured in-depth discussions and many direct investment decisions.”
Technological Innovations and Market Insights
This year's drupa placed a strong emphasis on digitalization and automation, highlighting the synergy between digital and analogue technologies. AI-driven solutions, smart workflows, and advanced software were at the forefront, demonstrating the industry's trajectory towards the smart factory. Robotics also played a crucial role, showcasing the latest advancements in automation and efficiency.
Dr. Andreas Pleßke, Chairman of the drupa Committee, emphasized the fair's pivotal role: “drupa stands for new approaches and new technologies like no other trade fair. It is not only the largest but also the most important global platform for our industry. Nowhere else offers the opportunity to make so many international contacts in such a short space of time.”
Industry-Wide Satisfaction and Growth Potential
Feedback from exhibitors and visitors underscored the high level of satisfaction with the event. Approximately 96% of visitors confirmed they had met their objectives, with over 50% coming from the printing industry and a significant portion from the growing packaging sector. The presence of renowned brand owners further validated drupa's significance as a driver of industry growth.
The global printing industry continues to demonstrate resilience and innovation, achieving a turnover of around EUR 840 billion in the last financial year. The event clearly showcased the industry's potential for future growth, even in the face of numerous challenges.
Sabine Geldermann, Director drupa, Portfolio Print Technologies, summarized: “At drupa 2024, we experienced firsthand just how relevant and resilient this industry is. The community is determined to set the course for the future together. Exchanging ideas with people from all continents and from all areas of the industry was extremely enriching and inspiring.”
Strategic Alliances and Future Prospects
drupa 2024 provided the ideal setting for forming new strategic alliances and fostering international collaborations. The fair hosted around 50 large delegations from various nations and numerous global associations, further solidifying its role as the epicenter of industry innovation and cooperation.
As the print and packaging sectors continue to evolve, drupa remains at the forefront, driving transformation and growth. The success of drupa 2024 is a testament to the industry's innovative spirit and commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future.
About drupa
drupa is the world’s leading trade fair for printing technologies, held every four years in Düsseldorf, Germany. It serves as the premier platform for showcasing the latest innovations in the print and packaging industry, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the globe.
