Digital printing comes of age in 2026

According to the trade publication Packaging Dive, digital printing comes of age in 2026. This means it is no longer an isolated innovation, but is increasingly being built into everyday production processes. What does this mean for the graphic arts industry?

From innovation to everyday production

For years, digital printing was seen as a complementary technology, useful for proofs, prototypes or very specific jobs. Today it is increasingly common on the production floor, working alongside traditional technologies such as offset and flexography.

Significant growth is expected this year, driven by three key factors.

1. The influence of brands and AI

Brands are accelerating digital adoption, using artificial intelligence and big data to optimise design, product development and campaigns. This calls for print suppliers able to respond quickly to constant change.

2. Personalisation and short runs

Digital printing makes it possible to produce multiple versions and short runs quickly, meeting the demand for flexibility and speed. Limited editions, regional versions and personalised packaging are now part of many brands’ strategies.

3. Automation and connectivity

Integrating digital printing systems with overall production makes it possible to plan, run and speed up processes more efficiently, cutting downtime and errors.

A new way of producing

The conclusion is clear: the combination of digital printing, AI and connected systems is redefining how graphic solutions are produced, managed and delivered. A shift that visitors will be able to see first-hand at Graphispag 2027.

Read the original article on Packaging Dive.