Printing Industry Commentary & Analysis

Embellishments: The Past & the Future

Published October 3, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer provides a primer on embellishments and identifies some common uses, as well as the potential for profitability for print businesses looking to adopt embellishment techniques.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Switzerland

Published September 27, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims to shed a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Switzerland, the eighth-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Xerox Withdraws from drupa—and From Production Print?

Published September 26, 2023

Following the news that Xerox has pulled out of drupa 2024, European section editor Ralf Schlözer explores the ramifications of this announcement and what it might mean for Xerox’s future in production print.

European Print Volume Trends

Published September 12, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a break from the Europen country-by-country look at turnover and employment to provide a bigger-picture look at print volumes in Europe pre- and post-pandemic.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Portugal

Published August 21, 2023

This bi-weekly series of articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Portugal, the 15th-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Finding and Developing Talent for the Printing Industry

Published August 15, 2023

At the top of the list of printing industry issues is a lack of skilled labor. The only difference now is that the shortage it is getting more severe and is affecting the pool of non-skilled labor as well. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at Germany’s vocational training initiative and the challenges it faces in supplying talent to the printing industry.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Hungary

Published August 1, 2023

This series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Hungary, the 13th-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe and third largest in Central and Eastern Europe.

Zaikio: Progressing in Procurement

Published July 31, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a look at the current state of Zaikio, and its recent integration of a procurement app that can aid or fully automate supplies ordering processes.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Austria

Published July 25, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Austria, the tenth-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Ink, Sustainability, and Regulatory Challenges

Published July 17, 2023

A raft of legislation under the European Green Deal has been, or is planned to be, implemented by the EU to make society more sustainable. The activity with the biggest impact on the printing and packaging industry is the Packaging & Packaging Waste regulation. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the issues involved in and potential impacts of these new laws.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Finland

Published July 11, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Finland, the 14th largest printing industry by turnover in Europe and the second largest in the Nordic region.

Executive Q&A: Kyocera’s Jose Maria Estebanez

Published July 10, 2023

WhatTheyThink European Section Editor Ralf Schlözer talks with Jose Maria Estebanez, Vice President of Corporate Marketing for Kyocera, about the company’s first production inkjet press, the TASKalfa Pro 15000c.

Intergraf’s Print Matters for the Future Conference 2023 Looks at Industry Megatrends

Published June 26, 2023

Print Matters is an annual conference, organized by Intergraf, the European association of the national print associations, and the Nordic Printing Association NOPA. The 2023 conference took place in Riga, Latvia, and focuses on some of the most pressing issues of the European printing industry. European section editor Ralf Schlözer runs down the highlights of the presentations.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Czechia

Published June 14, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Czechia (also called Czech Republic), the eleventh-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe and the second largest in Central and Eastern Europe.

Here Come the Robots—News and Trends from FESPA 2023

Published June 12, 2023

The FESPA Global Print Expo was held in Münich, Germany, May 23 to 26. WhatTheyThink European section editor Ralf Schlözer attended and identifies some highlights from the show.

Fighting Deforestation by Tracking Print

Published May 30, 2023

The European Union is introducing a regulation on deforestation-free products as part of the European Green Deal. European section editor Ralf Schlözer digs into what the new rules mean for printers.

Looking Out for Print at Interpack 2023

Published May 22, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from Interpack, held May 4–10 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Interpack focuses on technologies and materials for filling, packaging, and packaging printing.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Poland

Published May 15, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Poland, the sixth-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Sweden

Published May 1, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Sweden, the 12th-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

EU Packaging Sustainability Regulation and Impact

Published April 25, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the potential growth of packaging waste, the European Union’s proposed Regulation on Packaging & Packaging Waste to help combat that growth, and the outlook for European packaging print.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Belgium

Published April 17, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Belgium, the ninth-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—The Netherlands

Published March 21, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at the Netherlands, the seventh largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Eversfrank Gruppe’s Gerhard Martterer on Programmatic Printing

Published March 20, 2023

Ralf Schlözer talks with Gerhard Martterer of Eversfrank Gruppe about programmatic and variable-data printing. Martterer evangelizes the benefits of programmatic printing to advertisers and marketers and has formed the Programmatic Print Alliance (PPA) in Germany.

Hunkeler Exploring New Post-Processing Markets at Innovationdays

Published March 14, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports on Hunkeler's finishing solutions launched at this year Innovationdays.

Print Turnover and Employment in Europe—Spain

Published March 6, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at Spain, the fifth largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Media and Journalism Predictions for 2023

Published February 28, 2023

Every year, the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism publishes a global report on Journalism, Media, and Technology Trends and Predictions. European section editor Ralf Schlözer culls some implications for the printing and publishing industries.

Xeikon Extending Its Label Line-Up

Published February 21, 2023

Digital label printing has been a growth market for many years, served by a large number of printer suppliers. Xeikon, offering both electrophotographic and inkjet label presses, expands both product lines. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the new units.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—UK

Published February 14, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted businesses. This time we look at the UK, the second-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—France

Published January 24, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic impacted the businesses. This time we look at France, the fourth-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

AI-Generated Images Will Spark a Revolution

Published January 16, 2023

European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a close look at AI-generated images, experimenting with some of the tools currently available, and exploring what the implications of AI imagery are for the graphic communications industry.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Italy

Published January 10, 2023

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic hit the market. This time we look at Italy, the third-largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Key Developments in Digital Print: 2022 Was a Mixed Bag

Published December 13, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks back at some of the notable product announcements in digital print—and identifies some trends to look for in 2023.

Turnover and Employment in Print in Europe—Germany

Published December 6, 2022

This bi-weekly series of short articles aims at shedding a spotlight on the size of the printing industry in Europe per country and how revenues and employment developed in 2020, when the pandemic hit the market. Kicking off the series is Germany, the largest printing industry by turnover in Europe.

Preparing for Hunkeler innovationdays 2023

Published November 29, 2022

WhatTheyThink European correspondent Ralf Schlözer talks with Daniel Erni, Chief Sales Officer Global at Hunkeler AG, to explore what to expect at the upcoming Hunkeler innovationdays, taking place from February 27 to March 2, 2023, in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Producing Board Games Is Not Child’s Play

Published November 15, 2022

The global board games market (including puzzles and card games) was valued at $13.75 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach a value of $30.93 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 13.7% according to The Global Board Games Market report from Skyquest. European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a comprehensive look at the forces affecting this dynamic industry—from the surge in board game sales during the pandemic, to increasingly digital production of games, and more sustainable production processes.

Production Inkjet Shopping Guide 1 – Entry Level

Published November 10, 2022

This guide aims at providing an overview of the main inkjet presses available for commercial and document-oriented applications. This first in a four part series of articles will focus on entry and low volume devices, the most affordable presses in the market.

Canon Make-It Returns 2022 with More Launches

Published November 1, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports on Canon’s Make-It Future-Proof event, which took place October 19 and 20 at Canon’s continuous-feed press manufacturing site in Poing, Germany. Canon used the opportunity to make some new product announcements, such as additions to the imagePRESS V-Series and new Prisma software.

Sizing the European Printing Industry

Published October 25, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer rounds up the latest data on European and UK printing industry establishments, revenues, and production volumes.

Printers Look on the Bright Side: Latest drupa Global Trends Report Sheds a Light on Print

Published October 18, 2022

A growth in optimism, increased planned investments, and operational challenges are some of the global print trends. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at some of highlights of the latest drupa Global Trends Report.

Mapping the Future of the European Paper Market

Published August 23, 2022

The current paper shortage and price rises are the result of long-term trends in the paper industry that got upended by the pandemic and the recovery. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the current situation, how we got here, and if and when paper problems will be alleviated.

Imprimu Brings Online Print to Latin America

Published August 9, 2022

Online print is a major growth segment in the printing industry, but its market success has been country- or region-dependent. While in many European countries online print already has double-digit revenue share, in other regions—like Latin America—the share is fairly small. Start-up company Imprimu is preparing to change this, starting from their home base in Panama. Ralf Schlözer takes a look at this new start-up.

Post-Pandemic Print Applications in Germany—No Drop, No Growth

Published July 26, 2022

The German printing industry association (BVDM) recently published its 2021 print industry statistics, which includes an overview of print application revenues. Ralf Schlözer takes a look at print revenue growth in Germany and the impact the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery had on individual print applications.

New Product Launches at FESPA 2022—A Handful of Highlights

Published July 18, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports on some of the major new product launches at the recent FESPA Global Print Expo 2022.

Restarting the Live Print Show with Print4All 2022

Published July 12, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from Print4All, the largest European printing equipment fair this year, held May 3 to 6 at the Fiera Milano exhibition ground. The fair showcased several notable packaging printing and converting product introductions.

Bobst: Implementing a Vision

Published June 27, 2022

Bobst recently held a press event to detail its developments in packaging connectivity, digitalization, automation, and sustainability. European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from Mex, Switzerland.

HP Indigo VIP Event 2022: Better Together

Published June 21, 2022

HP Indigo held its first VIP event in three years in Israel May 24 and 15. European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from the event, and highlights several technology introductions—as well as a few “on the horizon.”

FESPA Global Print Expo 2022 Felt Like a True Post-Pandemic Trade Show

Published June 14, 2022

The FESPA Global Print Expo 2022 was held May 31 to June 3 in Berlin, Germany. European section editor Ralf Schlözer was there, and highlights some of the major announcements and offers his initial impressions of the event.

Print Matters for the Future 2022—Feeling the Pulse of the European Printing Industry

Published June 6, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from Print Matters for the Future, the annual conference of Intergraf, the European association representing the national printing associations in Europe. The event was held live in Stockholm on May 20, 2022 and tackled a diverse range of topics including the paper shortage, Amazon’s impact on the industry, sustainability, and more.

Heidelberg Launches Prinect Direct

Published May 23, 2022

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen is not only a leading offset press manufacturer, but Heidelberg is also a leading provider of workflow solutions as well. In mid-May, the company launched Prinect Direct, a complete revamp of its Prinect print shop workflow, which will now be available in the cloud. European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a close look at this new release.

Achieving More with Priming and Coating

Published May 19, 2022

If priming and coating are each important to the success of inkjet in commercial printing, both are crucial for inkjet printing in the label and packaging segments. In this article, sponsored by Michelman, Inc., and based on a just-released white paper, European section editor Ralf Schlözer explains how folding carton and corrugated packaging markets are expanding for inkjet in large part due to the application of these fluids.

Online Print Symposium—Restarting Online Print

Published May 17, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from the Online Print Symposium, the largest dedicated conference on online printing that took place at the end of April 2022 in Munich. The event detailed the status of online print as it emerged from the pandemic year, and the trends taking the industry into 2022 and beyond.

Canon Launches the Canon imagePRESS V1000 at Make It ’22

Published May 2, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports from Make It ’22, the return of live events for Canon EMEA. With about 500 customers in attendance, a considerable number of visitors had a chance to see production equipment live in operation. Canon also used the event to launch the imagePRESS V1000, the next generation of the imagePRESS platform.

Price Hikes in Online Print

Published April 18, 2022

It feels like there is an incessant stream of price increases for plates, inks, energy, and paper, but what impact have these had on print prices? European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at print pricing trends among the European online printing companies.

Canon Acquires edale to Bridge the Digital-Analog Divide

Published April 7, 2022

This week, Canon announced the acquisition of 100% of the shares of edale, a manufacturer and OEM of narrow web printing presses and finishing equipment, including flexo carton web presses, label and packaging flexo presses, and web finishing equipment. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at how the acquisition will help bolster Canon’s presence in the label and packaging market.

Where Did All the Paper Go? The European Paper Crisis by the Numbers

Published April 5, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at paper price and production data to try to get at the root cause(s) of the paper shortages faced by European printing companies.

Gutenberg One: The Book-of-One Produced On-Site

Published March 29, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the Gutenberg One, a compact and fully self-contained printing and binding unit for books, small and affordable enough to be placed in a wide range of locations.

Reading Printed Books Is Good for You—and Your Grades

Published March 21, 2022

Research based on the latest PISA educational survey results shows that readers of printed books read more, enjoy reading more, understand texts better, and are likely to have better grades. This confirms previous studies on the advantages of printed books in education.

UK’s Lil Packaging Commits to Going Green and Carbon-Neutral

Published February 28, 2022

European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a close look at the comprehensive environmental sustainability initiatives being pursued by the UK’s Lil Packaging—which has committed to making the entire company carbon-neutral in 2022.

Printing in Motion: European Print Imports and Exports

Published February 1, 2022

Print is being traded across borders and the European Union is making trade a lot easier. However, printing on demand, shorter runs, and streamlining supply chains gave rise to more local print. This trend is illustrated in the print import and export data.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Turkey

Published January 25, 2022

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take an updated look at the printing industry in Turkey.

Europe: Looking Back at 2021 and Forward to 2022

Published January 17, 2022

2021 was not quite what we expected, with paper shortages, transport issues, and cost increases disrupting the industry. European section editor Ralf Schlözer offers some lessons learned by the European printing industry and how to take advantage of them as we move into 2022.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Bulgaria

Published January 11, 2022

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take an updated look at the printing industry in Bulgaria.

Labor Pains: The Challenge of Attracting Young Talent to the Printing Industry

Published January 3, 2022

Although it’s not a new problem, the labor shortage in the graphic arts industry is becoming more pressing with many industries rallying for talent—and the print industry not necessarily being seen as very attractive. A lack of new staff to fill required roles is already affecting the competitiveness of many printing companies across Europe. European section editor Ralf Schlözer look at one Millennial and Gen Z employee recruitment project underway in Europe and the lessons it can teach globally.

Products in Motion: European Print Imports and Exports

Published December 13, 2021

Differing labor rates, scales of operations, and specialization contribute to a busy trade in print products among European countries. This article, by European section editor Ralf Schlözer, provides an overview of the types of print products crossing borders, as well as trends that have developed over the last five years.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Romania

Published December 7, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take an updated look at the printing industry in Romania.

Koenig & Bauer Strengthens Its Position in Packaging

Published November 30, 2021

With the launch of the VariJET 106 and the opening of the Packaging Print Customer Center in Germany this year, it is time to review the offerings Koenig & Bauer has for the packaging market—and they are remarkably comprehensive. The article by European Section Editor Ralf Schlözer reviews the new line-up and provides some details on the recent launches.

First Class Mail? An Uncertain Outlook for Direct Mail in Europe

Published November 15, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a blow to the direct mail market in Europe. However, there was already some pressure on parts of the market in the years before. European section editor Ralf Schlözer provides some details on market development and revenues achieved for direct mail in Europe.

A Bright Outlook for Book Printing and Publishing

Published November 2, 2021

At the Frankfurt Book Fair 2021, Intergraf, the European trade association for printing, held a conference on book printing and publishing. Book printing is one of the bright spots among established print applications with increasing sales of printed books. Still, there are a couple of changes in store and several speakers shared their insights. European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports on the outlook for book printing and publishing.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Greece

Published October 26, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take an updated look at the printing industry in Greece.

The New Convergence: Trends in the Maturing Online Print Market

Published October 18, 2021

Online printers have carved out a big share of the print business today and their revenue share is set to increase. This is partly driven by new companies starting up with an online business model, and partly by traditional printing companies moving into online print. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks the post-pandemic status of online print.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Austria

Published October 12, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take an updated look at the printing industry in Austria.

In a Dynamic European Publishing Industry, Print Proves to Be Resilient

Published October 4, 2021

Publishing is a major source of print demand and a thriving publishing industry will benefit print as well. Traditionally, both industries relied very much on each other. Like printing, publishing is also now deeply affected by electronic channels and changes in consumer behaviour. European section editor Ralf Schlözer takes a look at the state of the European publishing industry.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Norway

Published September 21, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Norway.

How Print Applications Fared in 2020

Published September 20, 2021

Ever since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were lots of discussions on how print would be impacted and which print applications would be more or less successful. The German print industry association has not only published 2020 revenues, but has included a breakdown by main applications. European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at real revenue data that shows how print applications fared in 2020.

Paper Shortages and Price Increases Cause Turmoil in Germany, Europe, and Elsewhere

Published September 14, 2021

WhatTheyThink European section editor Ralf Schlözer reports on a recent call organized by the German Printing Industry Association (BVDM) to address paper shortages and price increases. While the issues discussed were specific to the German market, the dynamics are similar throughout Europe—and likely all developed economies as well. Find out what this may mean for paper availability and pricing as we head toward 2022.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Finland

Published September 7, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Finland.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Denmark

Published August 16, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Denmark.

From Fuji Xerox to Fujifilm

Published August 2, 2021

2021 marked the year that Fuji Xerox become FUJIFILM Business Innovation and started launching their own product range. While still supplying most print engines to Xerox, FUJIFILM Business Innovation is set to become a major digital printing player on its own. Get ready for an emerging major player in digital print.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Sweden

Published July 27, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Sweden.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Czech Republic

Published July 13, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in the Czech Republic.

Shaped by the Pandemic: Online Print in Germany

Published June 29, 2021

Online print made rapid progress in the last few years, and the country with the most advanced market for online printers is probably Germany. Needless the to say, that the pandemic did affect online print greatly as well. This article by European section editor Ralf Schlözer offers some insight on the effects and outlook.

Heidelberg CX 104 Aiming for Outstanding Price/Performance Ratio

Published June 28, 2021

It’s not a new top-of-the-line model, but the Heidelberg CX 104—launched last week at China Print— is a well-rounded, multi-purpose press with a good price/performance ratio. European section editor Ralf Schlözer identifies what sets the new B2 press apart from the other presses.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Poland

Published June 22, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Poland.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Belgium

Published June 8, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Belgium

Executive Q&A: Rainer Hundsdörfer, CEO of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, and Cedric Muenzing, Head of Service of Heidelberg North America

Published June 2, 2021

European section editor Ralf Schlözer talks to Heidelberg CEO Rainer Hundsdörfer and Heidelberg North America Head of Service Cedric Muenzing about the impact of the pandemic on Heidelberg, the company’s trade event plans, the state of the Gallus business, and an update on the Zaikio platform.

One Year After Brexit—Evaluating the Impact on the UK and EU Print Industries

Published June 1, 2021

One year after UK exited the European Union, European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the impact of Brexit on the printing industry in both the UK and the EU—an evaluation complicated by the simultaneously occurring COVID-19 pandemic.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Netherlands

Published May 18, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in the Netherlands

One Year Later: The Status of the European Printing Industry After COVID-19

Published May 17, 2021

Ralf Schlözer quantifies the impact the pandemic has had on print production in Europe. There are still only pieces of data available, but they already provide an overview on how the market and some segments fared in 2020.

Digital & Inkjet on the Upward Curve Again

Published May 12, 2021

As part of our preview of next week’s Technology Outlook Week, Ralf Schlözer takes a look at the state of toner and inkjet digital printing during a pandemic drupa year.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Portugal

Published May 4, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Portugal.

Report from virtual.drupa 2021: Well-Attended Sessions, but Few Product Introductions

Published April 26, 2021

Drupa 2020 never happened, and drupa 2021 fell victim to the pandemic as well—but was transformed into a virtual drupa for 2021. European section editor Ralf Schlözer attended and provides an overview, some highlights, and overall impressions from virtual.drupa 2021.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Spain

Published April 20, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Spain.

European Printing Industry Employment

Published April 13, 2021

With 1.3 million employees in printing and papermaking in Europe, print and related industries are no small industry. This article looks at employment trends, revenue per employee, and offers an outlook on employment numbers.

Executive Q&A: Kilian Renschler, CEO of Koenig & Bauer US/CA

Published April 12, 2021

WhatTheyThink European section editor Ralf Schlözer talks with Kilian Renschler, the new CEO and president of Koenig & Bauer US/CA. Previously, Renschler was executive vice president of sales of Koenig & Bauer US/CA.

European Print Industry Snapshot: France

Published April 5, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in France.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Italy

Published March 23, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Italy.

Book Printing and Publishing in Europe

Published March 15, 2021

One of the oldest pastimes gained in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic: reading books. This is good news for the printing industry as book printing contributes a considerable share to the total print production. Revenues in Europe stood at €7.1 billion in 2019. WhatTheyThink European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at historical developments and at the trends shaping book printing now.

European Print Industry Snapshot: United Kingdom

Published March 2, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in the United Kingdom.

European Environmental Legislation for Print

Published February 22, 2021

Environmental considerations are becoming more and more important factors in buying decisions of consumers and businesses, and this is supported by environmental legislation. This article by European section editor Ralf Schlözer looks at the latest developments in environmental legislation for print in Europe.

European Print Industry Snapshot: Germany

Published February 15, 2021

In this bimonthly series, WhatTheyThink is presenting the state of the printing industry in different European countries based on the latest monthly production numbers. This week, we take a look at the printing industry in Germany.

Articles by Ralf Schlozer