Digital Printing Market Outlook
According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the global digital printing market size reached nearly USD 28.88 billion in 2023. Aided by the rising demand for high-quality prints and the increasing utilisation of digital printing in the packaging sector, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2032 to reach a value of around USD 47.70 billion by 2032.
Digital printing refers to a type of printing process in which digitalised images are directly printed into various media. In this process, droplets of ink are transferred to a chosen surface such as shirts, mugs, and bags, among others, thereby printing a precise finished image onto it. Digital printing has a higher cost per page than more traditional offset printing methods, but this price is usually offset by avoiding the cost of all the technical steps required to make printing plates.
Digital printing, characterised by its high-quality and cost-effective short-run capabilities, has revolutionised the printing industry. Unlike traditional printing methods, digital printing does not require printing plates, leading to faster turnaround times and lower production costs for small to medium-sized print jobs. This technology finds widespread application across various domains, including packaging, textiles, advertising, and publishing, owing to its versatility in printing on multiple substrates and the ability to personalise prints.
The global digital printing market expansion is primarily fuelled by the escalating demand for on-demand printing and personalised products. The advent of e-commerce has significantly contributed to this trend, where consumers seek unique, customised products ranging from personalised gifts to tailored marketing materials. This consumer behaviour drives the demand for digital printing solutions capable of accommodating short runs and customisation efficiently.
Moreover, the packaging sector emerges as a significant end-user for the digital printing market growth. Brands increasingly recognise the value of high-quality, vibrant packaging in attracting consumer attention and differentiating products on crowded retail shelves. Digital printing technologies offer innovative solutions for packaging, enabling brands to execute short-run, targeted campaigns and seasonal packaging variations with ease and flexibility.
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Sustainability concerns also play a crucial role in shaping the digital printing market development. Digital printing is perceived as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional printing methods, given its reduced waste production and lower carbon footprint. The market’s shift towards eco-friendly inks and recyclable materials further accentuates this advantage, aligning with the growing consumer and regulatory demand for sustainable practices.
The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of things (IoT) into digital printing equipment is setting new standards for efficiency, quality, and innovation. These technologies enable smarter production workflows, predictive maintenance, and enhanced customisation capabilities, thereby elevating the growth of the digital printing market prospects.
Moreover, 3D printing is increasingly gaining traction as it has developed beyond prototyping to become an integral part of manufacturing in industries like healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods. The capability to create complex designs with sustainable materials is driving innovation.
Geographically, the Asia Pacific digital printing market, led by countries such as China and India, stands out as a major growth hub. This is attributed to the rapid industrialisation, burgeoning e-commerce sector, and rising consumer demand for personalised products. North America and Europe also contribute substantially to the market growth, driven by advanced technological adoption, strong emphasis on sustainability, and the presence of major players.
Digital Printing Market Segmentation
The global digital printing market can be divided based on ink type, print head type, application, and region.
Market Breakup by Ink Type
- Aqueous Ink
- Solvent Ink
- Latex Ink
- UV-Cured Ink
- Dye Sublimation Ink
Market Breakup by Print Head Type
- Inkjet
- Laser Printer
Market Breakup by Application
- Books
- Commercial Printing
- Textile
- Packaging
- Others
Market Breakup by Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Competitive Landscape
The EMR report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the global digital printing market. Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:
- Canon Inc.
- Seiko Epson Corporation
- Ricoh Co. Ltd.
- HP Development Company, L.P.
- Flint Group (Xeikon)
- Roland DG Corporation
- Kyocera Corporation
- Xerox Holdings Corp.
- Durst Group AG
- Agfa-Gevaert NV
- Others
