We all know that the Covid-19 pandemic has changed virtually every aspect of the economy, and the printing industry is no exception. The shift towards shorter and more agile print runs started several years before the pandemic, but being in lockdown has accelerated this trend. There are a few reasons why this trend is continuing to grow, ranging from advancements in technology and changing consumer demands to increased concerns about sustainability.
Greater flexibility with new technology
The development of new Flexo, digital and hybrid printing technology has undoubtedly had an effect on the prevalence of shorter print runs. The growing prominence of digital technology presents plenty of new possibilities. Innovative technologies such as hybrid digital-flexographic presses allow for shorter runs that still produce a high-quality print, making short runs a more feasible and cost-effective option that might have been overlooked in the past by businesses that solely used flexo presses.
Added to that, the demand for low volume customised packaging is growing. Brands of all sizes are increasingly using personalised labels, boxes, and packaging to market their products, which causes an increase in shorter print runs. Similarly, variations in products, such as new flavours or seasonal options, are becoming more and more common as brands seek to extend their product lines and increase the visibility of their products. This is a direct consequence of consumer demand and means that shorter print runs of multiple variations are required, instead of a larger run of a single label.
A growing demand for sustainability
It’s not just about consumer demand for more varied products. Businesses are becoming increasingly aware of the need to be more sustainable – i.e. to reduce their energy consumption , stock Inventory, and use more recycled and recyclable materials. More and more, customers and shareholders alike are judging businesses on their environmental impact and their commitment to sustainable practices. Printing is an area that can use significant energy and generate waste, and the desire to operate more sustainably is also prompting the shift towards shorter print runs.
Shorter print runs minimise wastage of both energy and substrates. Reducing waste and emissions represents a significant step towards increasing the sustainability of a business. Both digital and modern flexographic printing methods use less energy and generate lower emissions than more traditional printing processes, meaning they’re a great approach to printing sustainably in combination with shorter runs.
Find out more
Focus Label are specialists in high quality digital and flexographic printing presses. If you want to know more about how we can help with your needs for high-quality short-run printing, please get in touch.
Image source: Canva
