According to the survey, output dominates visitors’ spending plans, some 45 per cent outlined they were likely to invest in new or additional printing equipment, with 40 per cent looking for a an emphasis on ‘eco-friendly’ technology.  Finishing is also an investment priority for 25 per cent of respondents, followed closely by variable data capabilities (23 per cent) and workflow software (18 per cent).

The first half of 2010 has been a strong sales period for 13 per cent of respondents, with another 30 per cent saying the six months have been better than expected, and a further 42 per cent rating their first-half sales as ‘fair’.

Only 15 per cent said sales were worse than expected or very poor.  Among print service providers specifically, 44.3 per cent said their first half sales were strong or better than expected.

Marcus Timson sales and marketing director at Fespa says that the show came at the perfect time to support print service providers in making business-critical decisions, and the high level of global attendance from senior decision-makers is proof of this.

He says, “This fresh economy survey data shows that our community’s returning confidence is founded on solid sales performances early in 2010, and this was reflected in the experiences of the companies that exhibited at Fespa 2010.

“Vendors across all five halls were very satisfied with the footfall to their stands and – most importantly – the number and quality of discussions being conducted with serious buyers.”

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