For the leading global ink manufacturers, 2008 was a time of economic uncertainty, as raw material prices continued to rise and the U.S. dollar slumped. Still, ink industry leaders also see some opportunities ahead.

Drupa 2008 was another huge show, with nearly 391,000 visitors from 138 countries checking out the 1,971 exhibits, and leading international ink manufacturers were well represented, showcasing innovative new products and services.

The printed electronics industry in Europe is enjoying growth, but obstacles such as pricing and further technological improvements remain.

Despite pricing pressures and a challenging economic environment, demand for high performance pigments continues to increase.

There are good opportunities for growth in Latin America, notably in packaging, but ink manufacturers are keeping an eye on the U.S. economy.

The growth of digital technologies was very much evident at drupa 2008, and inkjet ink manufacturers continue to find new growth opportunities.

This year's Ault Award honoree offers his views on the changes occurring in the printing and ink industries, as well as the opportunities going forward.

With an eye toward the soaring cost of energy and the increasing interest in sustainability, exhibitors at drupa 2008 emphasized new technologies.

As the Asia-Pacific region continues to enjoy economic expansion, led by China and India, printing ink manufacturers are enjoying strong growth throughout the region.

It is a nervous time for ink producers and distributors in Europe due to the impact of the policies of China’s government on the production of organic pigments and raw materials.

Testing equipment allows ink manufacturers to ensure quality and consistency in all facets of business, from incoming raw materials to the finished ink. As a result, ink companies rely on testing equipment manufacturers for expertise.

Higher raw material prices, led by crude oil, continue to impact resin manufacturers, but the surge in new product development is helping to drive sales growth.

Global ink companies are preparing to showcase their new products and services to an estimated 400,000 attendees during drupa 2008.

The RFID market continues to enjoy excellent growth as adaptation of the technology expands rapidly, and some major ink manufacturers are well-positioned to grow within the conductive ink marketplace.

Gravure must continue to improve turnaround times while remaining competitive on cost in order to expand market penetration.

Despite higher raw materials and operational costs that continue to impact the printing ink industry, many North American ink companies were able to show some growth during 2007.

UV/EB inks are growing much faster than conventional inks throughout Europe, as tighter regulatory controls, higher quality are driving growth.

Rising energy costs and environmental regulations continue to drive the market for UV/EB technologies.

Although pigment companies generally noted that 2007 was a relatively good year for the industry, there are also numerous concerns for the future, including raw material costs, the economy, the elimination of the VAT in China and environmental mandates.

European ink manufacturers are bracing for a challenging year, although there are opportunities for growth in some regions and markets.

For flexo ink manufacturers, 2007 was a good year, as packaging continues to show growth and the interest in the environment draws attention to water-based and UV flexo inks.

Digital technologies continue to make gains in printing, and UV inkjet is particularly well positioned to increase its share of this growing market.

While sales of security inks are rising in Europe, many brand owners are still selecting less effective anti-counterfeiting products due to cost considerations.

The role of vehicles and varnishes is a critical one, and suppliers are developing new technologies while also facing increasingly higher raw material costs.

Milling equipment manufacturers are seeing particular interest in process improvements and new technologies, including nanotechnology.

From Accent Ink to Zeres, Ink World’s Annual U.S. Ink Directory offers a comprehensive list of addresses, contact information, products and key names on more than 200 printing ink manufacturers.

Despite concerns over raw material costs and consolidation among customers, ink manufacturers believe there are opportunities ahead for the sheetfed market.

European ink manufacturers are seeing increasing interest in environmentally friendly products. However, the cost of renewable resources is rising, and it will likely lead to higher prices.

Printed Electronics USA 07 showcased many of the new technologies that are driving the growth of printed electronics.