DIW Print I Strategy in print industry | Making prints to stand out I Trading cards & packaging manufacturing
My first drupa – no. 1 for printing technologies —what are my thoughts? It was undoubtedly the largest print exhibition I've ever attended, taking me four days to explore all the halls. I wish I could have stayed longer! I saw a few new innovations, met great people, and discovered new materials to work with. 👌 ...But here comes the "but" 😳 DIW print is about embellishment, edge techniques, and special applications in the cardboard and game card segments. Despite four days of exploration, I didn't find anything groundbreaking to help differentiate our business. Most exhibitors were well-known, larger brands with similar products. There were almost no niche products or smaller brands. I assume that the companies I was hoping to meet didn't exhibit due to the costs and ROI concerns. If drupa continues to be dominated by big players, it may not motivate me to attend in the future—perhaps only once every 8 years or so. The printing industry is much more diverse than what was showcased at Drupa, and the exhibition should reflect that. This kind of show should be able to present something difficult to find online. That was very important reason I was so excited to come. In this particular aspect, it failed my expectations. However I am very excited to be there and it was worth the time. 🙂 ❓What was your opinion on the show and if my expectations were reasonable. #drupa #printingindustry #futureofprint
