LFP - Large-Format-Printing

Gravitating towards customisation – technological advancements to drive new business prospects

Tuesday 20. February 2024 - As demand for high-quality and personalised printing solutions increases, the domestic digital and screen printing markets are set for further growth, offering opportunities to international and domestic players alike at DS Printech.

With exhibitor registration already gathering momentum, DS Printech China, Asia’s influential digital and screen printing platform, will take place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou from 11 – 13 November 2024. Utilised by a number of key suppliers and buyers yearly, the fair serves as an ideal meeting point to embrace new developments and promote industry evolution.
Commenting on changing buying patterns in the textile printing market, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The digital and screen printing markets have both experienced substantial growth over the last few years. With consumer behaviour gravitating towards customisation, the new trend has opened up even further potential for the domestic market. To meet these evolving needs, suppliers are making advancements in their printing technologies and raw materials. DS Printech is the go-to event for industry players to find these innovations, and capitalise on new business opportunities.”
The flexibility offered by digital textile printing is anticipated to bolster its market growth, expected to see a CAGR of 18.5% in the coming eight years[1], as consumers demand prints on clothing, banners, and household items such as bedsheets and curtains, and on different fabrics including cotton, polyester and silk. Inkjet printing technology offers the advantage of creating personalised designs in multiple colour patterns and small order quantities.
Speaking at the previous edition in November, Mr Yi Zhang, Sales Manager of Brother Machinery Shanghai Ltd, said: “Our digital apparel printers are applicable to ready-to-wear items like shoes, hats and towels. Traditionally, printing needed to be in large quantities due to the high cost of plate production. As customisation is now in high demand, new technology allows us to undertake small batch production without requiring inventory.”
Personalisation and technological innovation are also accelerating opportunities for the screen printing market. Recent developments include direct-to-garment screen printing, automation and the integration of digital printing technologies. In the face of rising disposable incomes, fashion has become an integral part of consumer identity, particularly for the individualistic younger generations. With the global market expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% by 2030[2], textile manufacturers and retailers are utilising screen printing technologies to fill a creative niche.
Showcasing at the same edition, Mr Zhiyong Wang, Sales Manager of Great World Ink Paint, said: “I am optimistic about the prospects of the screen printing industry. While digital inkjet is becoming more common now, some items cannot be produced through this method, which makes screen printing irreplaceable, ensuring its relevance as a viable printing option.”
The fair always attracts prominent suppliers from around the world to present their latest innovations. The 2023 Guangzhou edition attracted 11,000 visitors from 50 countries and regions and 318 exhibitors from seven countries and regions.
DS Printech China is co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, China Screen Printing & Graphic Imaging Association (CSGIA) and Guangzhou Teyin Exhibition Service.