Trends and Conditions in the Wide-Format Sector
Equipment Use & Purchases
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Among roll-to-roll inkjet systems, 36"- to 96"-wide systems with solvent (48.8%) or latex (38.0%) inks are used the most, with latex being the most frequently bought during the current year (12.4%) and one of the most desirable for the future (5.4%). Dye-sublimation (6.2%) and UV-curable roll-to-roll (more than 96") are also highly sought. Hybrid and flatbed inkjet systems also factor into current and future purchase plans.
The most frequently used finishing equipment is lamination/mounting (74.1%), cutting/trimming/routing/diecutting (72.7%) and grommeting (70.6%). Cutting equipment was also the most frequently bought during 2018 (13.3%) and the most desired for the future (11.9%).
Dan Marx, Content Director for Wide-Format Impressions, holds extensive knowledge of the graphic communications industry, resulting from his more than three decades working closely with business owners, equipment and materials developers, and thought leaders.
Olga Dorokhina is a research coordinator for the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA).
