The Italian post-press equipment specialist said that the extraordinary events of this year had resulted in “changing plans and important choices”, and after more than 40 years of exhibiting at the show it had decided not to be at Drupa 2021.
In a statement, the firm said: “The choice not to participate in Drupa in 2021 is part of a renewed strategic plan that positions digitalisation and sustainability as a stable foundation for strategic development.
“Sitma will always remain present in this market alongside its customers and partners, but in a different way.”
Tragically, the coronavirus pandemic has been felt particularly acutely at Sitma. The Modena-headquartered firm’s founder and president Aris Ballestrazzi died in March after catching the virus.
Sitma is well known in the printing industry for its polywrapping machines, and, increasingly for paper wrapping lines that tap into the desire to replace plastics with paper.
The business also has a big business in packaging products for different supply chains, including e-commerce.
Sitma said that “staying close even if we are far away has been one of the greatest teachings of this pandemic”.
It said it would use other methods to reach customers, including virtual open houses and webinars.
“Even if we are not physically in Dusseldorf, we will maintain proximity with all our stakeholders through innovative and renewed digital channels,” Sitma said.
Richard MacLean, director at Engelmann & Buckham, Sitma's UK agent for the UK and Ireland, added: "Sitma as a business is diversifying anyway into new markets, such as e-packaging. Several factors probably resulted in this decision."
Printweek previously revealed that August marked a critical phase for Drupa organiser Messe Dusseldorf, with exhibitors required to confirm their stand requirements by the end of the month.
Last week Drupa said that exhibitors were “still excited” to show off their latest innovations despite the Covid-19 situation.
Even with all the changes we’re currently going through, our exhibitors are still excited to show off their latest developments and innovative technologies at #drupa 2021 in April! pic.twitter.com/pHLmFWSU8X
— drupa (@drupa) August 4, 2020
