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In this episode of the FuturePrint Podcast, we sit down with Marc Graindourze, Senior Business Manager for Industrial Inks at Agfa, to explore the opportunities and challenges of digital print in the decorative surfaces market.

Marc has spent more than a decade focused on decorative applications and brings deep insight into where digital printing is gaining traction—covering flooring, furniture, edge banding, wall panels, and beyond. He explains how inkjet is moving from niche to mainstream as producers seek greater design freedom, shorter lead times, and more sustainable workflows.

A central theme is the shift from analogue gravure to single-pass digital, enabling faster time-to-market and reduced waste. Marc highlights how today’s inkjet systems offer lower consumption, improved colour management, and batch-to-batch consistency, making them economically viable for manufacturers. He also emphasises the crucial role of ink chemistry, noting that decorative printing demands a different colour palette, tuned for subtle wood tones, pastel shades, and long-term indoor stability.

We also discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping design workflows, creating new levels of variety and randomisation that are impossible with traditional printing methods. AI-generated designs, coupled with inkjet’s flexibility, are helping brands deliver richer choice to consumers while managing production risk more effectively.

Sustainability is never far from the conversation. From UV LED curing and reduced waste, to water-based inks for décor papers, Marc outlines how digital print is aligning with industry standards and brand-owner requirements for greener production.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of decorative surfaces—where innovation, creativity, and economics converge to position inkjet as a truly competitive alternative.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

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FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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In this episode of the FuturePrint Podcast, Marcus Timson speaks with Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystem at io.tt, whose career journey spans design, packaging, academia, FMCG innovation and now the cutting edge of connected packaging.

Stefan’s story is far from conventional. From early days in publishing and advertising, through pivotal roles at Nestlé where he pioneered digital print and sustainable packaging innovation, to his current role helping brands embrace connected packaging, his eclectic background reflects a rare ability to bridge creativity and technology.

The conversation explores how connected packaging—enabled through QR codes, NFC and other technologies—is transforming packaging from a static wrapper into a dynamic digital interface. Stefan explains how brands like Boots, Madri and Moose Knuckles are already using packaging to enhance safety, improve accessibility, engage consumers and even meet regulatory requirements such as digital product passports.

Stefan is passionate about the power of collaboration, both within teams and with external partners, to drive positive change. He believes that bringing together champions, engineers, commercial and technical experts, and external collaborators is essential for success. For Stefan, there is no ‘I’ in ‘we’—because we are always stronger together. 

Key themes include:

• The “buckets of change” reshaping print and packaging: environment, innovation, fit-for-purpose design and digital transformation.
• Why collaboration across ecosystems—not silos—is essential to unlocking cost savings and new value.
• The growing role of digital print in enabling scalable personalisation, interactivity and traceability.
• How consumer expectations around transparency, sustainability and security are forcing brands to rethink packaging strategies.
• The disruptive role of artificial intelligence, both as a threat to jobs and a catalyst for scaling innovation.

Stefan also shares insights from his work with the Manifesto for More Sustainable Print, an industry-wide initiative addressing the overlooked impact of inks and coatings on the environment.

An engaging discussion for anyone interested in the future of packaging, print technology, sustainability, and the intersection of creativity and digital innovation.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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The print industry stands at a transformative junction in 2025, facing challenges that demand innovative solutions and strategic thinking. Keypoint Intelligence CEO Anthony Sci takes us deep into the forces reshaping print businesses worldwide, offering valuable perspective on navigating these turbulent waters.

Tariffs dominate the current business landscape, with increases ranging from 5-25% creating widespread uncertainty. Yet amid this disruption, Sci identifies a silver lining - companies are developing leaner approaches and embracing technological solutions to overcome economic hurdles. Strategic partnerships have proliferated as manufacturers seek cost efficiencies, with major collaborations between print giants reflecting a fundamental shift in how the industry approaches production challenges.

Perhaps most striking is the accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence across the print ecosystem. Despite its growing prevalence, Sci reveals that approximately 80% of companies still lack formal AI policies - a significant vulnerability as employees independently leverage these tools. The convergence of AI with robotics presents particularly promising solutions to the industry's persistent labor shortage, especially as companies struggle to attract younger generations to print careers.

While traditional print segments continue their gradual decline, specific niches shine brightly. Labels, packaging, and textiles represent substantial growth opportunities, with digital transformation still in early stages across these sectors. China and India lead in textile innovation, while cross-regional knowledge exchange drives advancement throughout the global market.

Looking ahead, industry consolidation appears inevitable after years of competitive pressure that has steadily eroded profits. For business leaders, success will depend on embracing emerging technologies, preparing for structural changes, and developing creative approaches to talent acquisition.

Ready to gain deeper insights into print industry trends? Connect with Keypoint Intelligence and FuturePrint at upcoming events including LabelExpo Barcelona, Printing United and FuturePrint Industrial Print in Munich to explore how these developments might impact your business strategy.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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Matt Brooks has recently joined Nazdar. I really enjoyed talking to Matt! In this episode, he takes us on a fascinating journey through the evolution of digital print technology, sharing how a summer job in a printing ink factory unexpectedly launched his 25-year career in chemistry and innovation. From accidentally discovering his passion for ink formulation to pioneering UV inkjet solutions at Seriicol and then Inca Digital, Matt reveals the surprising twists that led him to become a leading voice in print technology.

The conversation explores a critical yet often overlooked aspect of the industry – the importance of ink and materials in print innovation. Matt makes a compelling case for why ink chemistry deserves more attention in the development process, explaining how treating ink formulation as an afterthought leads to compromises and inefficiencies that ultimately slow adoption. His vision for bringing ink developers into the equipment design phase from the beginning offers a compelling perspective on how the industry might accelerate digital transformation.

When discussing the future of digital print in packaging, Matt offers valuable insights into what's needed for broader adoption. Rather than focusing solely on replacing conventional processes, he advocates for a collaborative approach that helps converters see digital as complementary to their existing operations. His suggestion that digital solutions need to target the 5-12,000 unit range to truly penetrate mainstream production challenges conventional thinking about digital's place in the market.

Perhaps most surprisingly, Matt reveals his passion for strongman competitions, drawing fascinating parallels between lifting 400kg weights and advancing print technology. The mental discipline, focus, and resilience required in both pursuits create an unexpected connection between these seemingly disparate worlds. His three-part formula for future success – listening better, practicing patience, and fostering collaboration – reflects wisdom gained from both the gym floor and the innovation lab. Ready to rethink how digital print evolves? This episode offers essential perspectives from someone who's helped shape the industry from the inside out.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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Michael Strehlow brings over 35 years of print industry expertise to his role as Account Manager for Corrugated EMEA at Domino Printing Sciences. Having joined the company in April 2025, he's on a mission to expand Domino's digital corrugated printing footprint across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

The corrugated packaging landscape is undergoing seismic shifts. Major consolidations have reshaped the market as industry giants like International Paper, Smurfit Kappa, and Stora Enso expand through strategic acquisitions. These developments follow post-COVID overcapacity issues and reflect companies' desires to strengthen regional market positions amid economic uncertainty.

Despite the corrugated industry's traditionally conservative approach to new technology, digital printing offers compelling advantages. Domino's X630i single-pass digital press with water-based ink technology eliminates the complexities of plate production, press preparation, and color setup while enabling QR codes, personalization, and serialization. For jobs ranging from 1 to 50,000 pieces, digital can be significantly more efficient, though manufacturers must analyze their job mix to identify where digital creates the most value.

What makes Domino particularly strong in this space? With inkjet expertise dating back to 1978 and now backed by the Brother Group, Domino develops and manufactures critical components in-house, including inks and printheads. Their Swiss-made X630i press directly addresses modern sustainability and productivity requirements.

The EMEA region presents diverse opportunities, with Germany leading European production, followed by Italy and Spain. Middle Eastern markets, particularly Saudi Arabia and UAE, show greater appetite for innovation and investment in new technologies. Meanwhile, Domino pursues ambitious sustainability goals, having reduced emissions by 44% since 2015 and aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.

Want to learn more about digital solutions for corrugated packaging? Connect with Domino at upcoming industry events including FEFCO Rome, Fachpack Nürnberg, and various regional packaging shows throughout EMEA.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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Breakthrough innovations often come from unexpected places. In this fascinating conversation, Dursun Acun of O&PM Europa reveals how a customer request to print directly onto bottles launched him on a journey that could transform flexible packaging printing forever.

What began as a search for better primers has evolved into a revolutionary solution that solves one of the industry's most persistent challenges: enabling water-based inkjet printing on virtually any substrate. Unlike existing technologies that require thick, expensive primer layers and specific materials, Dursun's innovation uses an extremely thin coating that dramatically reduces costs while expanding possibilities.

"Nobody sees water-based inkjet as a product on its own," Dursun explains, highlighting how the industry often misunderstands this technology's unique advantages. While competitors struggle with limited material compatibility, O&PM Europa's solution works with any substrate – from various plastics to metals and papers – allowing converters to use their own preferred materials rather than switching to costly alternatives.

The potential market impact is staggering. With an estimated €30 billion market for digitized flexible packaging currently underserved, this technology could unlock vast new opportunities. What makes this innovation particularly valuable is its alignment with growing demands for sustainability and safety. Dursun's commitment to developing non-toxic, environmentally friendly solutions stems from personal experience witnessing the tragic consequences of hazardous industrial chemicals in his community.

Now seeking industry partners to help scale this technology, Dursun envisions complete printing systems costing under €1 million that could print wider formats than current alternatives while maintaining total material flexibility. For converters, material manufacturers, and equipment developers looking to participate in the next wave of packaging innovation, this represents a chance to collaborate on something truly transformative.

Connect with Dursun via LinkedIn or email at [email protected] to explore how this game-changing primer technology could fit your business needs.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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The digital revolution has transformed nearly every aspect of marketing, but one channel remains surprisingly underutilized despite its remarkable potential: the packaging that consumers literally hold in their hands. In this eye-opening conversation with Jenny Stanley, founder and director of Appetite Creative, we explore how connected packaging is creating powerful digital gateways between brands and consumers.

Stanley reveals the striking metrics behind connected packaging engagement, with scan rates of 7-8% dramatically outperforming traditional digital campaigns and average engagement times of 2-3 minutes per interaction. "Connected packaging is the only marketing channel where you have a consumer who literally has your product in their hands," Stanley explains. "It's actively the consumer's decision to make that interaction with your brand, so that's an incredibly palpable moment." This unique context, combined with the technology's ability to drive multiple interactions, can create up to 12 minutes of meaningful brand engagement per consumer.

The conversation dives deep into the technological evolution enabling this revolution, from serialized QR codes that give every package a unique identity to NFC technology offering premium "tap-to-engage" experiences. Stanley shares compelling case studies, including Woodlands Dairy's campaign that achieved a remarkable 30% sales uplift by providing sustainability education and rewards through connected packaging. She outlines three critical success factors: clear value exchange, multi-channel promotion, and content that resonates with consumer values.

Perhaps most importantly, Stanley highlights how regulatory changes like the EU Digital Product Passport are accelerating adoption, with 88% of brands planning to implement connected packaging by 2025. For brands just beginning this journey, she offers practical advice: "Start simple but start smart. Begin with a basic QR code, perhaps on one SKU. Don't try and stuff everything in all at once because you probably never get started."

Ready to explore how connected packaging can transform your brand's relationship with consumers? Listen now to discover the strategies and technologies driving this powerful marketing revolution.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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What if the greatest barrier to sustainability success isn't cost, materials, or regulation, but something far more fundamental? Matthew Rogerson, founder of The Pack Scout, reveals the startling truth uncovered in his research with over 220 executives from 185 global companies.

Behind the familiar challenges of sustainable packaging lies a profound misalignment that derails even the most well-intentioned initiatives. When departments pull in different directions—procurement focused solely on cost reduction while marketing and sustainability teams push for innovations that inevitably increase expenses—the result is compromised products that satisfy no one completely.

This disconnect extends beyond corporate walls to how companies communicate with consumers. "Companies talk about what they're doing and how it benefits them," Rogerson explains, "but they don't tell you or me as consumers why we should care." This failure to transfer ownership—helping customers see themselves benefiting from sustainable choices—undermines engagement with even the most eco-friendly offerings.

Perhaps most revealing is Rogerson's analysis of sustainable materials. His research demonstrates that virtually every alternative, from seaweed to mushroom-based packaging, would become 30-40% cheaper than virgin materials within approximately 6.5 years. Yet short-term business imperatives prevent companies from making investments that would yield substantial financial and environmental benefits over time.

The path forward requires fundamental shifts: adopting longer time horizons, ensuring all stakeholders collaborate from the outset of projects, establishing shared objectives that transcend departmental goals, and dramatically improving communication with consumers. Rogerson's comprehensive "Sustainable Packaging 2025-2035" report offers practical frameworks and decision-making tools to navigate these challenges.

Discover how to break through the sustainability stalemate and create genuinely aligned strategies that deliver for your business, your customers, and our planet. Connect with Matthew at www.thepackscout.com to learn more about his research and consulting services.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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The intertwining worlds of print innovation and sustainability take centre stage as Stanislas de Missolz of Groupe Mediagraphic shares his company's remarkable journey through creative display solutions and environmental leadership. 

Founded over two decades ago in Lyon, this business has evolved into a powerhouse of print media distribution with a distinctive approach that transcends conventional business models. Stanislas reveals how their five-entity structure—including three specialized product companies complemented by an R&D operation in Shanghai and a dedicated sustainability arm—creates a unique ecosystem designed to anticipate market trends and deliver comprehensive solutions to complex display challenges.

What truly distinguishes Groupe Mediagraphic is their three-pillar strategy: expert prescription that extends beyond printers to advise major event organizers, innovative product development that ensures they're never competing on identical offerings, and a profound environmental conviction that transforms sustainability from obligation to opportunity. This approach culminated in their Kavalan Green Leader Award-winning project in the 'Innovation category'—a breathtaking open-air photography exhibition across Paris during the Olympics, featuring iconic sporting moments captured by renowned photographer Raymond Depardon.

Diving deeper into their sustainability practices, Stanislas shares fascinating details about their systematic approach to product lifecycle analysis and end-of-life management. From converting banners into artist-decorated flip-flops sold for charity to developing a dedicated recycling facility in Morocco, this business exemplifies how environmental responsibility can drive business innovation. Their meticulous tracking of chemical compositions and regulatory changes positions them at the forefront of an industry navigating change and complexity while still solving problems the bringing to life new ideas and innovation.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

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This podcast is a webinar discussion hosted June 27 by Elena Knight and featuring: Steve Lister, Stefan Casey, Carlos Lahoz, Matthew Rogerson and Jeff Freeman.

To view the replay, click here. 

To download the draft version of 'A Manifesto for Sustainable Print' click here

Show Notes: 

When five leading industry experts gather to tackle the question "Can print ever be truly sustainable?", the conversation quickly reveals how complex sustainability truly is in the print world.

The panel explores how different players across the value chain define sustainability differently - from substrate manufacturers to printers to brands - creating fundamental misalignment that hinders progress. As Steve Lister provocatively notes, "Print is inherently a sustainable industry" that we've complicated with modern materials and processes that are difficult to recycle.

What emerges clearly is that data transparency forms the backbone of sustainable transformation, yet remains the industry's Achilles heel. Stefan Casey emphasizes that without clean, standardized data that everyone can understand and act upon, sustainability efforts will continue to falter. The experts agree that collaborative ecosystems and shared language are essential for meaningful change.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when discussing responsibility. Should consumers bear the burden of sustainability decisions? The panel largely agrees that expecting consumers to navigate complex sustainability messaging is unrealistic. As one panelist notes, "I can't believe we still allow businesses to make products that are unrecyclable." The upcoming Green Claims Directive, with potential fines of 4% of company turnover for misleading claims, signals that regulatory pressure is mounting.

Most compelling is the introduction of the Sustainable Print Manifesto - an industry-wide initiative aiming to create alignment around sustainability best practices and establish a shared "North Star" for the entire value chain. This collaborative framework addresses design, compliance, and innovation while acknowledging that one size doesn't fit all.

For print professionals concerned about navigating the sustainability maze, this discussion offers practical wisdom: start by measuring your impact, focus on design (which determines 80% of environmental impact according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation), and embrace collaboration rather than trying to solve problems in silos. Join us in making print not just sustainable, but a positive force for environmental change.

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What is FuturePrint?

FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 15,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events.

We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:

FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany