With Gulf Print & Pack officially announced for 2024 from the 9th – 11th of January, the response from visitors and exhibitors has been overwhelming. This continues to be the major exhibition for the print and package printing sector in the GCC region and is the first in-person printing exhibition in the Middle East for nearly four years.
While all eyes will be on the exciting new technology launches from the leading players in the commercial printing market, another key sector that continues to grow is package printing. The industry is going through a major digital transformation involving not only presses but also workflow automation.
Gulf Print & Pack spoke with Packaging MEA editor Ben Daniel about the current trends in the packaging industry in the MEA region.
According to Daniel, the MEA regional package print industry experienced steady growth in 2022. While Q1 2023 and Q2 (so far) have seen a slowdown, growth is predicted to pick up again in the second half of the year. FMCG is is witnessing healthy growth as the post-pandemic optimism continues.
Equipment and software suppliers across all sectors of package print - labels, flexibles, folding cartons and corrugated - report that commercial printers are moving towards package print.
Continues Daniel: ‘Regarding trends and technologies adopted in print for packaging, there has been interest in digital labels and packaging. We have observed key label printers investing in inkjet-based digital presses, while some have opted for toner-based methods. Despite the extensive discussions surrounding sustainability, there is still a lack of adoption in terms of compliance and regulations.
Consequently, only a few companies have embraced sustainable packaging that aligns with a circular economy. However, this is expected to change soon, as both brands and converters are on the verge of adopting sustainable practices. The UAE and KSA government bodies are considering some regulations to promote this transition.’
Daniel says both paper and film sectors are gradually adopting sustainable structures and formats. ‘However, the cost and availability of products will play a crucial role in facilitating this transition. Brand owners exercise caution when considering migration or change towards sustainability, as it must be sustainable for their business and contribute to growth. With that said, regulations and compliance will be essential in determining the pace at which brands embrace circularity.’
