The inkjet printing market is set to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.2 per cent with the market to be valued at $128.9 billion in 2027, a new report from Smithers has found.
The report indicates that supply chain and print buying changes, combined with technology advances mean digital print and in particular inkjet, is the most important print segment for innovation and growth.
Inkjet technology is already established in some lower-run applications but Smithers found that the increased speed of inkjet printing technology means it is becoming “more cost-competitive for longer print runs”.
“This is reflected in the volume of inkjet prints, which will rise from 1.0 trillion A4 print equivalents (2022) to 1.7 trillion (2027) – equivalent to a 10.0% CAGR for 2022-2027,” Smithers said.
The areas tipped for the greatest expansion include those for packaging applications including dedicated presses for corrugated, carton board and flexible substrates.
There is also double-digit growth forecast for inkjet printing in commercial print, books, catalogues, magazines, and directories.
“As the technology suite for inkjet improves it is increasingly pushing electrophotography (toner) print out of several core markets,” the report said.
Smithers combines market data with critical analysis of technology when making forecasts.
It says press speeds and resolutions will continue to increase with 200 metres per minute presses with printheads offering 1200 dpi will improve to 300 metres per minute and with resolutions of 2400 dpi in 2027.
This level of productivity increase is also expected to be available on a broader range of printer types, including large format sheetfed presses.
The take up of inkjet will be further bolstered by an improved range of UV-curing and water-based inks and the continued evolution of specialist whites, metallic effects, fluorescents, varnishes, and security inks.
Embellishment opportunities and tactile finishes will allow further diversification into segments including home décor, transport, garments, and other textile applications.
The full report, The Future of Inkjet Printing to 2027, is available here at a cost of $6,750.
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