The show, which is held every three years, will take over six halls, totalling 66,000sqm – an increase of a quarter compared to the 2005 event which was also held at Munich's Messe exhibition centre.

Three of the halls will house digital printing technologies, but the lion's share of the floor will be given over to screen and textile printing, which will include the new areas dedicated to textile and finishing processes.

According to the group's research, 50% of visitors attend in order to buy products, and Fespa managing director Frazer Chesterman said that exhibitors are planning to spend more as well.

"Year on year, Fespa attracts new exhibitors who can see the measurable value of participating in the number one event, that consistently provides a strong ROI," he said.

"What's more, our long-standing and loyal exhibitors are, in many cases, increasing their investment with Fespa because... they understand the decision-making quality of the visitor base."

Fespa Digital, a spin-off of the main show, kicked off today in Amsterdam, running until Thursday.