European business leaders have identified new
printing technologies as key enablers of agility and innovation. According to a
new study commissioned by Ricoh Europe, the majority of the 3,150 decision
makers surveyed say agility (77%) and innovation (69%) benefits are key
investment drivers for new printing technologies.
These findings show that new forms of printing have
become crucial components of business leaders’ strategies for success. The
research also shows that 69% think printing will unlock revenue and 67% believe
it will provide a source of competitive differentiation. These leaders back up
this belief with financial commitment: 51% have already invested in new forms
of printing with a further 36% planning to do so in the next five years.
Businesses are prioritising printing technologies
in areas that directly improve the experience for their customers. Marketing
(79%), product development (79%), and manufacturing (76%) departments have so
far received the most investment from business leaders. Similarly, the need for
faster product development (80%) and the ability to localise manufacturing
closer to the end user (69%) have driven investment in Additive Manufacturing,
catering for consumer demands for speed and personalisation.
Eef de Ridder, Vice President, Commercial Printing
of the Commercial & Industrial Printing Group, Ricoh Europe, says: “New
printing technologies, such as our recently launched Ricoh Pro C7200x Graphic
Arts Edition digital sheetfed colour press that delivers a wealth of creative
possibilities through its fifth colour capability, are helping Print Service
Providers (PSPs) open new worlds of opportunity by transforming their
operation. White plus CMYK in a single pass, neon toners and invisible red are
enabling incredible new marketing and security applications.”
He continues: “Interesting too is that textiles and
interior décor have been identified as growing markets in the latest FESPA 2018
Print Census. PSPs can broaden the conversations they are having with their
clients by moving into these sectors with our flexible and versatile digital
printing technologies. With systems such as our newly-launched Ri 100, Ri 3000
and Ri 6000 Direct to Garment solutions or our Ricoh Pro T7210 UV flatbed
printer, they can deepen their client relationships, respond to expanding
expectations and offer a highly personalised experience.”
