Upcoming Trade Shows in Germany for Printing

Germany’s printing industry has long been a global leader, producing high-quality magazines, books, advertisements, calendars, and more. With a well-established reputation, the country is also a significant exporter of printing and paper technology. In 2017, exports of German-made printing and paper technology reached 4.6 billion euros, with over 40% of these exports going to European markets. However, in recent years, the industry has faced notable shifts due to increased digitalization and evolving consumer preferences. One of the most profound changes in Germany’s printing industry has been the decline in demand for traditional print products. As digital media continues to expand, many consumers are opting for digital versions of books, magazines, and other printed materials. This shift has led to a reduction in large-scale print runs and a growing emphasis on customized, short-run printing. Publishers and printing companies are now adapting their strategies to accommodate these changes, with digital solutions and high-value print products gaining priority. But this doesn’t mean we should write for traditional print media’s obituary as Germany has seen an increase in the need for printers, consumables like inks and cleaning solutions, and printing technology. Many businesses are also earmarking funds for modern printing equipment to remain competitive. As a result, demand for both domestically manufactured and imported printing products has increased significantly. This is the viable strategy for many domestic players to weather the steady decline in traditional print. Germany has a strong domestic manufacturing base for printers and ink, with companies like Risograph and Domino Inkjet playing a significant role. However, the country still relies heavily on imports from nations such as the Netherlands, China, France, the United States, and Italy. Imported products include printers, specialty inks, and related consumables that support Germany’s fast-growing economy and evolving printing needs.