Drupa countdown - our final regular column in the build-up to drupa (May 6-19, 2004, Düsseldorf) considers the benefits to be gained from the show
Are you involved in making investment decisions in your business? Then you probably already know drupa traditionally attracts many others like you. At the last drupa in 2000, 60 per cent of visitors indicated that they held sway over the decision for or against specific products, systems and solutions in their companies, or at least had a say. The next World Market Print Media, Publishing & Converting (May 6-19, 2004, in Düsseldorf) promises to be no different.
It doesn’t matter whether, for example, you want to update your prepress workflow with state-of-the-art technology, invest in additional presses or expand your palette of services in the field of converting. “No other event in the printing industry provides such a comprehensive overview of the latest offerings as is showcased at drupa,” emphasizes Alexander Schorsch, ceo of Mediengruppe Holtz AG.
Boasting some 2,000 exhibitors from all segments of the printing industry, spread across 17 halls, equivalent to a good 160,000m2, the 13th drupa to open its doors since 1951 will once again completely overshadow all other events in its sector.
And that’s not all. In view of the significance of this summit meeting of superlatives, manufacturers from all sectors usually put on a bolder, more optimistic face for this event than at any other.
“Precisely because everyone who is anyone in the print and media industry turns out for the tradition steeped fair in Düsseldorf, all the exhibitors aim to prove their innovative drive and visionary creativity,” says Kai Büntemeyer, managing director of Kolbus, explaining the striving for top positions so typical of drupa. “They all want to top the technology ranks and spearhead innovation.”
For you as a decision-maker, this offers a special benefit. Not only will you gain an overview of the full range of solutions currently available. You will also be able to sneak preview the hardware and software solutions or innovative services of the future at exhibitors’ stands – as well as at the host of special presentations such as the drupa innovation parc.
This is true of the workflow network designed for the printing industry that will span all tasks and even link up companies. Starting with the client who orders the printed product, it will cover production and distribution all the way down the chain to the product’s end user.
Alexander Schorsch concludes: “Knowing what the industry will hail as state of the art in the coming years will help you set the right course for your company’s future.” Make use of the information offerings at drupa 2004 to prepare for your next investment decisions”.