We have set up a sectoral website for the print and packaging industry in ireland
Print & Packaging Sectoral Profile
One of the oldest manufacturing sectors in Ireland, the print and packaging industry is comprised of about 900 indigenous and foreign-owned companies. Many sub-sectors fall under this category including corrugated cases, labels, cartons, magazine and newspaper printing, computer manual services, book printing and paper sacks. The industry also provides key support for many of Ireland’s vital hi-tech industrial sectors such as communications and information technology, pharmaceuticals, food and engineering.
Historically, the print and packaging industry has maintained a high level of flexibility in response to changing market conditions and technological innovations. The printing techniques of today are more environmentally friendly than ever before, producing less waste paper and less waste ink. Over the past two decades, web-offset printing of newspaper and digital print media has become the industry standard throughout Ireland. The driving technology within the industry is the offset press. Irish newspaper and magazine printers use MAN Roland, KBA and Harris high-speed machines, while carton and book printers rely on Heidelberg and Komori presses.
Most core processes are currently digitised, particularly the pre-press stages. With the increasing trend toward digital printing, successful printers are expanding their services and looking for new markets. Print companies are gradually becoming total solutions providers, not just providers of print.
Customer needs are constantly changing, driven by factors such as globalisation, outsourcing trends by large companies and e-Commerce. As a result, technological innovations are continually introduced, resulting in updates throughout all aspects of the business including print production systems, print products and even the industry’s basic structure. Changes in the media and telecommunications sectors also have trickled down to affect the print industry, as evidenced by reduced set-up times and increased output.
Developments in digital technology have been good for business. New opportunities have opened up for mass customisation, direct mail and other promotional materials as a result of these developments. The industry has responded deftly by seizing emerging business opportunities. Some of these include niche areas within the sector in print management, logistics and public procurement outsourcing. These areas will help companies create a strong competitive advantage. Another avenue of opportunity lies within the computer manual business. Investment and changes in operations within this business are providing the new and necessary services. A significant export business also has built up around the label industry based on service and quality - the pharmaceutical industry in particular has inspired high specification print and packaging requirements.