What do you feel were the main trends and key industry developments in 2023?
In commercial print, the pursuit of production efficiencies was paramount in 2023. Advances such as more automated computer-to-plate (CTP) systems and higher quality, faster inkjet presses have significantly streamlined pre-press and printing processes. These innovations have not only reduced labour requirements but also improved the accuracy and consistency of print jobs thus reducing waste. Furthermore, the adoption of web-to-print solutions and cloud-based workflow management systems has enabled easier order processing and job tracking, making the entire production chain more efficient. These enhancements have allowed commercial printers to meet tighter deadlines and handle more diverse and complex customer requirements, ultimately improving their competitiveness.

For the packaging print industry, sustainability played a larger role in 2023. With heightened environmental consciousness, consumers increasingly sought out eco-friendly packaging options, and regulatory bodies enforced stricter environmental standards. Consequently, packaging printers are investing in sustainable practices, such as the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials, water-based inks, and energy-efficient equipment. Implementing lean and waste-reduction methodologies like just-in-time (JIT) production and the adoption of sustainable certifications not only align packaging printers with evolving market preferences but also enhance their reputation. On the brand side, consumer package goods (CPG) companies are accelerating their adoption of digital print as they recognise that the total cost of ownership can be substantially lower with digital printing, even when the per unit costs are slightly higher than an analogue process.

How have the continuing economic and market specific challenges affected you and your customers during 2023 – have you had to do anything differently to adapt/react?
The global economic landscape was characterised by uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures. To adapt and react to these challenges for our offset plate customers, Kodak continued to invest in regional manufacturing locations as well as technological innovations to ensure Kodak’s plates are the best in the market. This approach allowed us to enhance supply chain resilience and mitigate the impact of global disruptions by having manufacturing facilities closer to our customers. We could respond more swiftly to fluctuations in demand and ensure that our customers received the products they needed, when they needed them. By prioritising regional manufacturing, we strengthened our ability to provide local support and tailored solutions, all while minimising the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation. This strategy of regional manufacturing was a critical part of our commitment to delivering value to our customers even in the face of challenging market conditions.

What do you expect to be the main trends, key industry developments, and biggest opportunities for printers in 2024?
One notable trend is the transition from on-premises workflows to the cloud. Although European markets trail the US in cloud adoption, Bain & Company predicts Western European investments will grow around 21%, with the UK and Germany poised to begin closing the gap. This should come as no surprise as the cloud offers greater flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, allowing printers to streamline their operations, access data remotely, and collaborate seamlessly with customers and partners. Additionally, the integration of islands of automation into connected, holistic production workflows is expected to gain momentum. This transition from disparate systems to an end-to-end connected approach, spanning from customer engagement to shipping, will enhance efficiency and enable a more streamlined and responsive print production process.

Furthermore, developments in IoT devices for service diagnostics and online ordering of supplies will play a crucial role in maintaining seamless operations. These devices will provide real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities, reducing downtime and ensuring that printers have the essential supplies they need when they need them. Opportunities for commercial printers in 2024 lies in embracing these trends and harnessing the power of cloud-based, integrated, and IoT-enabled solutions to enhance their competitiveness and deliver even greater value to their customers.

What are your hopes and expectations for Drupa 2024?
Kodak is eagerly anticipating the upcoming Drupa 2024 trade show as a unique opportunity to connect with printers from across the globe and debut new solutions to the print industry. Drupa provides a valuable platform for us to engage directly with our customers and gain deeper insights into their evolving challenges and needs. We are excited to showcase our latest innovations in offset, digital, and workflow solutions, demonstrating our commitment to advancing the printing industry. We look forward to meaningful discussions, sharing our expertise, and forging partnerships that will drive the future of printing technology and services.

AI has been one of the hot topics of 2023 – what opportunities and threats do you think it poses for print in 2024 and beyond?
AI, when deployed in conjunction with shop floor robotics, presents numerous opportunities for the commercial print and packaging print industries. Firstly, AI-driven automation and machine learning can significantly enhance production efficiencies. AI and robotics can optimise workflow processes, reduce manual labour, and enhance quality control, ultimately leading to cost savings and faster turnaround times. Additionally, AI-driven personalisation and variable data printing will enable more tailored and effective marketing campaigns, which should increase utilisation of the current digital press install base and drive demand for new investments.

However, AI also poses some potential threats and challenges. One of the primary concerns is the displacement of certain jobs in the industry as AI and automation take over repetitive and manual tasks. This shift may necessitate reskilling and workforce adjustments. Furthermore, there are data security and privacy issues to consider when implementing AI in print, as personalisation and variable data printing require handling and safeguarding of sensitive customer information. 

How can suppliers better help printers navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in 2024?
At Kodak, we are committed to being a strategic partner to our customers, helping them navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024 and beyond. To better assist printers in this dynamic environment, we will continue our investments in cutting-edge technologies and innovations across both digital and offset printing. Our focus will be on delivering solutions that enhance production efficiency and sustainability, aligning with the evolving needs of the market. We will also expand our support network and knowledge-sharing platforms, providing printers with the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions and stay competitive. Moreover, we will collaborate closely with our customers to co-create customised solutions that address their unique challenges and capitalise on the opportunities presented by AI-driven analytics, automation, and production efficiencies. Our commitment is to enable printers to adapt, evolve, and thrive in 2024 and beyond, ensuring that they can meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry and seize new growth avenues.

Note: This prediction is taken from a special Briefing article in the new issue of Printweek featuring insights from industry suppliers, hence it does not follow the same question template as the other predictions.