The pan-European printing industry association has called on policymakers across Europe to provide the graphical sector with more targeted support. 

“The energy crisis threatens the supply of printed products for all economic markets – from schoolbooks, advertising, and labels for food and pharmaceutical products, to packaging of all kinds,” Intergraf stated.

“The printing industry with its manifold products serves citizens and businesses across Europe every day.”

Intergraf pointed out the knock-on effects on print of the issues that have already hit paper and board manufacturers. 

“The printing industry is now experiencing the double penalty of skyrocketing raw material costs combined with rising energy costs. Because of their SME-based structure, this is a situation that many printing companies will not be able to sustain for much longer,” the association warned. 

Last month the UK government announced a new Energy Bill Relief Scheme, but it will only last for six months initially and industry bodies are calling for more long-term clarity.

Yesterday, National Grid warned that there could be power cuts of up to three hours at a time – potentially between 4pm-7pm – in a “worst case scenario” this winter should the energy crisis escalates.

A number of countries on the continent have already implemented energy-saving measures.

Bodies representing pulp, paper and board manufacturers have also called for Europe-wide action on energy.