2025: A Look Ahead For The Printing Industry

As the year draws to an end, we turn our attention to 2025 and how significant, globally defining factors will shape the printing industry.

2024 was an historic election year with more than 70 countries taking to the ballot boxes. In over 80% of democracies the incumbents were voted out. In Europe this has resulted in significant national shifts and regional instability due to the polarisation of the left and the right. It has had a financial impact, particularly on interest rates. As print growth follows GDP growth, a reduction in business opportunities and trade volume is likely. Proving a hindrance too, will be trade barriers limiting transactions for export to the US.

America was no different. As well as the political change accompanying the return of a Trump administration the rest of the world will, it seems, face higher import taxes. This will affect orders and may drive a shift towards local production of price sensitive products. Demand for imported print may move away from commodity applications to focus on high quality items such as luxury coffee table books and specialist publications.

War continued to have an impact on business in 2024 and it will be shaping it in 2025 too. All eyes will continue to be on the Russia-Ukraine war while potentially damaging boycotts will be created by the conflict in Gaza.

The full impact of all these influencing elements is still yet to be completely understood as situations evolve daily.

Continuing to evolve too, is universal commitment to environmental responsibility for print production. The Paris Climate Agreement and more recently COP 29 have reconfirmed a wide international effort. In Europe Print Service Providers (PSPs) are working on meeting the 2024 European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) which requires any business with revenue of more than E40m (and any non-European company doing business in Europe with more than E150M) to start quantifying and measuring their sustainability performance.

We have all seen how extreme weather has added to the cost of operations as companies invest in making supply chains more flexible while customer activism is set to put pressure on companies to exceed legal standards. Plastic bans will continue to encourage greater adoption of paper solutions, especially in packaging, labels, and cards applications, while the emphasis on local production will increase, benefiting those PSPs that are as close as possible to their clients. All of which ensure sustainability will become an increasingly key factor in purchasing decisions for print.

PSPs are also having to ready themselves for more stringent data protection laws with regards to hosting customer data owned by their clients, new employment laws, and stricter health and safety requirements. The disconnection between the creation and governing of laws in different countries has the potential to impact the export and import of printed products, favouring the online selling of print.

In fact, 2024 was a significant year for online print as for the first time more than 50% of all print sold was online. Digitisation of documents is continuing to accelerate while inkjet is becoming a dominant print technology in many applications. There is a growing focus as well on what AI can do and how the use of robots can increase productivity.

At the same time PSPs are changing from a labour intensive to capital intensive business model. Most have to borrow money to finance new equipment and those that experience challenges in finding and retaining skilled labour may find capacity and production under pressure. Investing in digital printing capabilities and automation can help mitigate employment costs, reduce waste associated with analogue production, and increase production flexibility to manage last minute orders – no matter the volume. The recent easing of challenges surrounding the supply of consumables and substrates has enabled PSPs to refocus their attention on improving operational efficiency and productivity.

While the stabilisation of inflation might help, operations will continue to face expenditure increases on a number of fronts – rising energy prices affecting costs and travel, higher interest rates impacting national debts and hindering access to capital, trade barriers limiting transactions with some countries and placing downward pressure on consumer spending. This could result in reduced spending on printed communication, especially in retail and photo merchandise. It may also drive the consolidation of printers in certain markets.

There are social and cultural considerations to consider as well, from an ageing population impacting access to a skilled workforce and more and more people working from home. Other considerations include migration and a mounting trend of income inequality. Also proving transformative is the growth in retail e-commerce sales estimated to exceed $4.1 trillion worldwide by the end of 2024 with new heights expected to be reached in the years ahead. Children’s literacy is seeing a widespread decline, and that has the potential to reduce the run length of books, possibly driving digital production. We are seeing too, an increase in active monthly users on social media despite privacy issues, the proliferation of fake news, and inaccurate sponsored posts. This may actually boost printed communications.

The printing industry landscape in 2025, as we see it now, is marked by economic uncertainty, environmental demands, and rapid technological innovation. PSPs that embrace sustainability, digitisation, and automation will be well positioned to adapt to shifting consumer and client preferences as well as regulatory pressures. This will empower their resilience and growth, despite the evolving global conditions.

https://www.ricoh.com/

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Hydrogen Pressure Vessels – AZL Aachen GmbH delivers Deep-Dive into Design and Production Trends

AACHEN, December 2024 — Fibre-reinforced pressure vessels are increasingly becoming the cornerstone of the hydrogen economy, playing a key role in the transport, storage and use of hydrogen for both mobile and stationary applications. AZL Aachen GmbH, in collaboration with a consortium of 25 leading industry players, has successfully completed a 12-month R&D project entitled ‘Trends & Design Factors for Hydrogen Pressure Vessels’.

The 550-pages report, presented to the 40 participants of the final project meeting in November, provides a comprehensive overview of the market and technology trends related to the development of thermoset and thermoplastic pressure vessels. By addressing material impacts, complex design considerations and advanced manufacturing technologies, the project provides business- and technology insights. Companies along the whole value chain of pressure vessels have been involved, resins, fibres, liners, production systems, vessel manufacturers, hydrogen system integrators and OEMs.

The first phase of the project involved an in-depth review of regulations, requirements and safety standards, together with examples of state-of-the-art hydrogen pressure vessels. Key aspects covered included manufacturing processes, supply chains and production technologies, as well as a comprehensive patent analysis. In addition, the study examined winding patterns, design strategies, material models and software tools used in the development of pressure vessels.

The second phase of the project involved extensive engineering studies. Warden Schijve, Design Leader at AZL, explained the procedure: “Our team of experts developed CAE models for 12 different layouts of a two-metre, 350-litre Type IV pressure vessel designed for 700 respectively 350 bar applications. These models incorporated different resin and fibre types, layup variations and boss designs to evaluate the impact on mechanics, weight, cost and carbon footprint. We also explored hybrid fibre combinations and dome reinforcement using patch technologies. Detailed process chain modelling provided further insight into cost structures and CO2 footprints.”

The results of the project also show initial future trends: Through the targeted use of advanced material combinations, adapted designs and manufacturing techniques, it is possible to significantly reduce the weight and cost of the vessels while maintaining the necessary safety standards. Compared to state-of-the-art vessels, hydrogen over tank weight efficiencies could be improved from the standard 6 to 7% up to more than 11%. These developments could strengthen the competitiveness of hydrogen technology in various mobility and energy sectors in the future.

“The knowledge gained from the project provides a solid foundation for the use of new technologies to meet the hydrogen economy’s requirements for safe and cost-effective pressure vessels,” commented Celal Beysel, Chairman of the Board at FLOTEKS Plastik San. Tic. A.Ş.

Floteks, a Tier 1 supplier of plastic components, has launched numerous R&D initiatives in the design and development of Type IV vessels in recent years. In 2023, the company joined the AZL Composite Pipes and Vessels Working Group and the ‘Trends and Design Factors for Hydrogen Pressure Vessels’ project. Beysel added: “We are pleased to announce that Floteks has established a new company called Pressura in 2024, which will focus on the production of type 4 pressure vessels for buses and trucks.”

Companies and organisations seeking detailed insights or collaboration opportunities are encouraged to contact AZL. AZL Aachen GmbH serves as an innovation partner for hydrogen tank development, prototyping and testing, and is dedicated to advancing composite technologies.

www.lightweight-production.de

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Lucas Meyer Cosmetics By Clariant Unveils New Beauty Collaboration House, Marking A New Era In Cosmetic Innovation

• Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant announces successful launch of Beauty Collaboration House near Los Angeles, opened on December 10th, dedicated to co-creating innovative cosmetic formulations with customers
• The new facility showcases Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant’s ingredients, fostering collaborative product development in the high-value cosmetic ingredients market
• This customer-centric innovation hub emphasizes hands-on collaboration and setting new standards in the beauty and personal care sector

Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant announces the opening of its new Beauty Collaboration House near Los Angeles, California. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to revolutionize the way cosmetic formulations and concepts are developed, emphasizing direct collaboration with the specific needs from customers in this region.

The Beauty Collaboration House embodies the company’s commitment to customer-centric innovation in the beauty and personal care sector. The facility’s name emphasizes the ‘LAB’ component, highlighting its role as a collaborative space where customers work hand-in-hand with inhouse experts to develop new cosmetic formulations using active and functional ingredients as well as exotic oils, butters and clays offered by Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant.

Christian Vang, President of Clariant’s Business Unit Care Chemicals and the Americas region, stated, “The opening of this new facility on December 10th marked a significant shift in how we approach cosmetic innovation. It’s not just about showcasing our ingredients; it’s about working alongside our customers to create the next generation of beauty products. We’re thrilled with the positive response and collaborative energy we’ve seen in just the first few weeks of operation.”

The opening of the Beauty Collaboration House follows the recent integration of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics into Clariant, a move that significantly strengthens Clariant’s position in the specialty chemical industry and expands its footprint in North America. This strategic step aligns with Clariant’s purpose-led growth strategy and its goal to accelerate customer-driven innovation.

“By combining our personal care ingredients portfolio with Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, we’ve created a unique opportunity for collaborative formulation development,” Vang added. “In this fast-paced world of beauty and personal care, we’re not just keeping pace with the market; we’re setting a new standard for customer collaboration.”

The Beauty Collaboration House is expected to drive remarkable growth. The company aims to increase annual sales from around $100 million currently to $180 million by 2028, leveraging this new collaborative approach to product development. Vang also highlighted the value of the experienced team from Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, noting their excellent track record and the invaluable expertise they bring to this new collaborative venture.

The Beauty Collaboration House is set to become a crucible for creativity and a launchpad for breakthroughs in the cosmetics industry. It will serve as a space where boundaries are pushed, conventions are challenged, and the next generation of cosmetic formulations are created in close collaboration with valued customers.

“At Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant, it is imperative that we align our strategy with local industry trends. The indie brand landscape also involves key players such as consultants and contract manufacturers. One of our objectives is to establish direct connections with them and with the emerging brands,” comments Jackie Kim, Sales Director North America at Lucas Meyer Cosmetics.

As Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant opens the doors to this new facility, it invites customers to experience a new level of partnership in cosmetic formulation, blending innovative ingredients with the creative vision of beauty brands.

www.clariant.com

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Clariant Begins Construction Of Second High Performance Additives Production Line In Cangzhou, China

• Commencement ceremony held for expansion of original production line for high-end stabilizer additives jointly operated by Clariant and Beijing Tiangang Auxiliary Co., Ltd.
• High quality, excellent reputation and full capacity achieved by first production line since launching in 2021
• New facility manufacturing unique multifunctional Nylostab S-EED additive will enhance quality and features of nylon products with surging demand from the local nylon application markets

Clariant is expanding its Cangzhou production site for the manufacture of the multifunctional additive Nylostab S-EED. The new, second production line in the Hebei Province of China, will jointly be owned and operated by Clariant and its local partner Beijing Tiangang Auxiliary Co., Ltd. A commencement ceremony for the site was today hosted by the leadership teams of the two companies.

“We are excited to take our partnership with Beijing Tiangang to the next level by breaking ground on a second production line in Cangzhou today. The continued investment from Clariant demonstrates our commitment to the Chinese market and reaffirms our strong belief in the prospects of local industries such as textiles and fibers, automotive and packaging,” said Zhigang Miao, Clariant’s Global Head of Polymer Solutions, Additives Polymer Solutions.

For three years, since the launch of the first joint-venture site in 2021, the production site has achieved full capacity, earning it an excellent reputation as a strong local facility with established international background and expertise. With construction of the new production line now commencing, success is expected to reach new highs.

“We feel privileged to deepen our partnership with Clariant further through the expansion of this already very successful production site. Since the beginning of our joint venture we have enjoyed wonderful cooperation with Clariant and among our staff. We hope the new production line will offer local industries and our customers in China even more advanced additives solutions,” says Mr. Gang Liu, Executive Director of Tiangang.

The new production line beginning construction today will specialize in the manufacturing of Clariant’s unique multifunctional Nylostab S-EED additive that is highly compatible with nylons by molecular recognition. Its excellent process stability at high temperatures results in less filament breakage during spinning processes and enhances productivity by reducing cycle time for injection molding processes.

“The success of our first joint-venture production site in Cangzhou has undoubtedly paved the way for our new facility today. We’re confident that our new multifunctional additive Nylostab S-EED, produced at the new site, will have a good number of application areas across the core nylon value chain, which is seeing a surge in capacity expansion and demand particularly from the textile and engineering plastics industry here in China,” says Sandra Schneider, Clariant’s Head of Operations & Supply Chain Additives.

The upstream Chinese nylon industry is expanding rapidly, driving an increase in demand for high- end additives such as Nylostab S-EED. This multifunctional additive is capable of upgrading the quality of nylon products through enhanced colour stability, heat resistance and composite compatibility during the manufacturing process, resulting in overall higher productivity.

www.clariant.com

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Gift Carding Responsibly – What Brands Need To Know

The global gift card market was valued at 984.3 billion in 2023. By 2030 that value is expected to reach a staggering 3.09 trillion.

Behind this exciting growth is a mounting environmental challenge. Most of those cards are currently printed on non-recyclable PVC plastic with an associated carbon emission impact of 46.97gCO2e per card when digitally printed. When digitally printed on a paper based substrate the figure is just 4.28gCO2e per card.

But for brands the benefits of digitally printing paper based gift cards extend far beyond the environmental advantages. They include:

• True cost of ownership – with digital print you order only what you need, when you need it. There is no tying up of budget. There is no need to put cash on a pallet as there is no unused stock to store. The risk of obsolescence is reduced.
• Faster speed to market – digital print and production supports faster design, creation, approval, and production of short runs. This allows brands to be highly creative in generating interest in short term or reactive promotions, for example.
• Enhanced customer engagement – with the ability to personalize and adapt content on a piece by piece basis brands can connect more with customers. They can elevate their customer experience and explore exciting ways to reinforce awareness, relevance, and loyalty.
• Highly targeted application – Gift card designs can be regionalized to promote specific offers, or in recognition of significant cultural dates. They can also be event focused.

We have been working with a huge variety of brands who see the value of their gift cards – which are often single use – being fully recyclable and manufactured with a 91% reduction in their carbon footprint.

We have been helping them adapt their thinking to how short run card production can enable them to interact differently by offering a customized experience – something that makes their customers feel valued.

Brands have also been exploring ways this approach to card creation can help them connect with staff members for seasonal gifting or intercompany activities.

All of this is made possible by digitally printing high quality personalization on a carefully selected high caliper substrate with the RICOH Pro C9500 digital sheet fed press, supported by intelligent software capabilities.

Thanks to the Co-innovation we have undertaken with Ricoh, brands can confidently move away from the mass production model of offset print to a digital on demand, lean, supply chain. They can print according to actual sales data, rather than forecast data, by using relevant, real time figures. They can be highly creative with a premium, luxurious look and feel.

Chat to us or Ricoh to see how cost effective production of responsibly produced gift cards can help reinforce your brand’s core values.

www.ricoh.com

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