Digital printing meets offset - The 8th Fogra conference on the two major printing technologies

For the eighth time, more than 80 participants explored trends, buzzwords, and touchpoints shaping two key printing technologies. With 20 speakers, the event offered engaging and insightful discussions, focusing on practical industry experiences and the latest developments. Over the course of seven sessions, a comprehensive examination of digital printing was conducted, frequently highlighting the interaction between digital and offset printing.

Against the backdrop of declining markets and growing demands for quality, flexibility, and sustainability, the event offered a valuable overview of the challenges, opportunities, and technological advancements. The presentations illustrated that digital printing is not merely a production tool but a strategic asset in the industry.

Digital printing remains indispensable for small print runs and flexible production. To ensure a seamless transition between small and large-scale orders, hybrid printing models are becoming increasingly relevant. The first two presentations examined print methodology, addressing both investment considerations and workflow strategies for hybrid production environments.

The second session delved into the various aspects of variable data printing. Personalisation offers huge potential for brand and customer communication, but its success depends on sophisticated logistics. Three practical presentations showcased creative approaches, revealing new opportunities while demonstrating the advantages of nanography, illustrated through numerous real-world applications.

Advanced developments now allow high-quality printing on almost all types of paper. However, limitations persist regarding ink-substrate interactions. The four speakers of this session examined existing challenges, technological solutions, and their impact on print quality, considering the specific properties of papers used in high-speed inkjet printing (HSI).

The fourth session explored bookbinding challenges associated with small print runs, covering JDF-controlled processes and perfect binding techniques. It became evident that automation is now essential, particularly within the digital printing sector, further emphasising the increasing role of optimised post-processing workflows.

How are AI, machine learning, and big data transforming daily operations in printing businesses? The fifth session on day two examined practical applications, from predicting order intake to machine capacity planning and increasing production efficiency. Attendees gained insight into the wide-ranging uses of artificial intelligence and its business advantages.

For packaging printers, special colours present both a crucial factor and a complex challenge. The second-to-last session featured two presentations explaining how special colours can be effectively reproduced using digital printing technologies.

The event concluded with three presentations offering perspectives on sustainability. Speakers examined critical factors, comparing the CO₂ footprint of offset and digital printing and addressing deinkability considerations.

Alongside insightful presentations, participants had ample opportunities for networking and exchanging ideas in informal settings. As Hans Schneider from Staudigl-Druck puts it: “The exciting presentations, the intensive exchange with industry colleagues, and the many new impressions have provided valuable food for thought for our daily work.” The adjacent exhibition featured GMG, Hunkeler, and Fujifilm showcasing their latest portfolios. At the same time, visitors to Fogra’s stand explored results from the recently completed research project, Development of a Cross-Process Printing Quality Assessment Method. The evening gathering at a Bavarian lodge near Munich’s Ostbahnhof provided a relaxed atmosphere, where attendees, speakers, and exhibitors engaged in informal discussions, further strengthening industry connections.

About Fogra Research Institute for Media Technologies 

Fogra conducts application-focused research in the fields of printing and media technologies. In many cases, Fogra has been involved in developing forward-looking and globally acknowledged process and quality inspection standards. The international membership comprises companies from across the entire spectrum of the industry, from producers of printed and electronic media to equipment manufacturers. Fogra sees itself as a modern service provider that carries out inspections tailored to the industry’s needs, advises companies on quality questions, and mediates in technical disputes. Fogra’s capital consists of a massive body of knowledge combined with a high degree of technological expertise and a detailed understanding of current developments.