The rise of digital printing

Digital printing is enjoying strong growth. Whether it is packaging, textile, wide format graphics or other segments, the use of digital printing is expanding.

Without using the ‘C’ word, there was some hesitancy at the start of the pandemic, but this was swiftly followed by huge demand for signage. Signage and printing technology were imperative to keeping customers informed and local businesses top of mind. Many printers had to diversify and invest in technology to meet the demands of the existing and emerging markets.

What is the difference between digital print and traditional print techniques?

Digital printing allows a business to produce a small number of marketing materials quickly and affordably. There is no setup time or associated cost. In contrast, traditional litho printing will incur a set-up charge before a job can be produced. However, litho is more appropriate when companies need larger quantities of marketing materials.

Digital print for packaging

A good example of where digital print is advantageous, is for packaging. It reduces the turnaround time as it needs minimal press set up which gives a faster turnaround time. The application of digital printing technology for short print runs with customised marketing communication in packaging has had a positive impact. It’s been anticipated that digital printing for the packaging market, globally, is expected to double by 2029.

Branded packaging is now seen as an additional touchpoint for brand communication. The exponential growth of online businesses as a result of the pandemic has added to this. Bright Green has continued to work with printers who are investing in the technology to be able to create packaging that has instant impact and appeal to customers.

Quality versus quantity

Traditional print presses will use the pantone reference to replicate an exact colour, whereas most digital printing uses a four-colour matching process to replicate it. We work with printers who have invested in the best printing presses to reproduce brand colours digitally so your customers can enjoy these capabilities that will help their business thrive. This includes new digital printers that can print Pantone colours, plus metallics and white - opening up lots of new opportunities for creatives.

Additionally, advances in digital print technology means that they can now print on a range of different surfaces. Campaigns can be produced on a huge range of papers, finishes and weights that will ensure your print job really stands out.

Personalised printing

Personalisation has had a huge impact on marketing. Customers are flooded with marketing messages daily but receiving a piece of marketing material that is personalised elevates that message. Digital printing allows materials to be produced with different names, addresses, images and offers which allows for targeted, effective advertising in local markets.

Sustainable printing

Bright Green is committed to helping you find solutions for your customer needs by working with printers who are using new technologies and embracing different solutions. The regulatory world continues to evolve and become more stringent in its demands as sustainability plays a bigger part in consumers’ buying decisions. Digital print allows shorter print runs which means less waste.

We value working with printers whose digital solutions are designed to make printing more sustainable.

Time is money

With traditional print methods, set-up, finish and drying times all added days to a job. In contrast, digital print is fast with he added bonus of being able to print off an actual sample of the finished job in seconds at minimal cost.

Which is the right printing solution for you?

Today’s printing industry is evolving. Pre-digital printing, litho presses ruled the print space and long print runs were required to make print viable for brands. Bright Green has the experience of working with an extensive list of printers. Our expertise allows us to select the right printer and right press for every job.

Both litho and digital printing have their unique advantages, with each process suitable for a variety of jobs and applications. The process you choose will impact not just the finished product, but also the budget, timeframe and quality of your order.

Get in touch to discuss how we can help your clients create successful print campaigns.