The Shift to Digital Printing: Insights from Shaan Patel, Business Development Manager at Arrow Systems (As featured in What They Think!)

In the ever-evolving landscape of the printing industry, the shift to digital printing has been nothing short of revolutionary. While speaking with “What They Think” Mr. Shaan Patel, the Business Development Manager at Arrow Systems, shed light on the current trends, particularly the move toward aqueous inks and the advancements in label and packaging printing systems at Drupa 2024. 

Digital printing has gained significant momentum over the past few years, replacing traditional methods with more efficient and versatile solutions. According to Shaan Patel, this shift is driven by several factors:

1. Customization and Flexibility: Digital printing allows for greater customization, enabling businesses to produce short runs and personalized labels without the need for costly setups. This flexibility is crucial in today’s market, where consumer preferences are constantly changing.

2. Speed and Efficiency: With digital printing, turnaround times are significantly reduced. This means that businesses can respond to market demands quickly, ensuring that they stay ahead of the competition.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: By eliminating the need for printing plates and reducing waste, digital printing offers a more cost-effective solution, especially for small to medium-sized runs.

The Trend Toward Aqueous Inks

One of the most exciting developments in the printing industry is the shift towards aqueous inks. These water-based inks offer several advantages:

1. Environmental Benefits: Aqueous inks are eco-friendly, reducing the environmental impact of printing processes. They contain fewer harmful chemicals and produce less waste, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable solutions.

2. Superior Quality: Water-based inks provide vibrant colors and sharp details, ensuring high-quality prints. They are also more durable, offering excellent resistance to fading and smudging.

3. Versatility: Aqueous inks are suitable for a wide range of substrates, making them ideal for various applications, from labels and packaging to textiles and promotional materials.