The Future of Digital Print for Packaging to 2030

This report provides a forecast on the use of digital printing to produce labels and packaging over the period 2020–2030.

Table of Contents Key Facts and Figures
  • In 2025 the global digital packaging and label market is worth $22.0 billion, which accounts for 4.1% of all printed packaging
  • Market share will climb to 5.8% in 2030 when it will reach $36.9 billion.
Digital printing is growing much more rapidly than the dominant analogue print methods. Digital is widely used in labels, but the scalability and versatility of inkjet is making it increasingly attractive for large-format presses designed to print cartons, corrugated, and flexibles. Converters are developing major improvements in upstream order processing, design, approval and prepress; and downstream finishing and logistics, as more brands and retailers take advantage of the benefits of digital print production.

This report provides a forecast on the use of digital printing to produce labels and packaging over the period 2020–2030. The report covers the manufacture of labels and packaging (corrugated, cartons, flexible packaging, rigid plastics and metal) that is printed using digital printing, either electrophotography or inkjet. It is a global market, with users across the world and the leading national and regional markets presented.

Key Questions
  • What are the key factors driving companies across the supply chain to invest in digital printing technology to 2030?
  • How are converters tackling the implications of handling multiple short runs?
  • Machine learning has been used for many years to support machine maintenance, how will generative AI be incorporated into digital print for packaging?
  • What technology advancements are improving print quality for packaging applications over the next five years?
This report is essential to:
  • Raw materials suppliers, including inks and consumables
  • Equipment and machinery suppliers
  • Print providers and packaging converters
About the author
Sean Smyth has spent more than 25 years in senior technology and management positions for print businesses across the supply chain. Sean has extensive experience in digital
printing. In his time with Smithers, Sean has authored many off-the-shelf market studies and has provided strategic consultancy services to a range of clients across the value chain.
The Future of Digital Print for Packaging to 2030

Name The Future of Digital Print for Packaging to 2030

Date 10/07/2025

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“As the market matures growth rates moderate from the past five years of adoption, but are still very attractive to converters, equipment manufacturers, consumable and substrate providers.”

SEAN SMYTH

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