Screen printing has moved away from its graphic origins and is now driving innovation in a wide range of industries – from the automotive industry to medical technology, security, energy, packaging and gourmet food. This versatility is the focus of Screen Printing Innovation (SPI) 2025, which will take place in Essen from 3 to 5 June 2025.
Industrial renaissance
‘Today’s screen printing enables high-quality, functional and often safety-relevant applications,’ says Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA. ‘At SPI 2025, we will be demonstrating that this technology is not only relevant – but indispensable for all those who rely on innovation, customisation and performance in industrial manufacturing and product design.’
Visitors can find out on site how screen printing is used in the automotive industry, for example, with intelligent surfaces, touch-sensitive controls and high-quality design accents. Or how antimicrobial touch surfaces and durable diagnostic solutions are used in medical technology. And how changing colours and microprints contribute to authentication. How screen printing components for solar cells and sustainable energy are used in photovoltaics. In the packaging sector, haptic effects and visual highlights can enable strong brand appearances, and in food decoration, intricate filigree, food-safe printed graphics can be used on confectionery.
Edible brand messages
A highlight of the event is food printing – a growing trend that enables personalised and high-quality branding on chocolates and confectionery. With food-safe colours and precise screen printing technology, marketing can be brought directly to the palate.
The future of screen printing
The pioneering developments presented in the SPI Innovation Theatre demonstrate the enormous potential of screen printing for a wide range of industries. Trade visitors, developers and innovation leaders are invited to gain valuable insights into the latest technological trends.
ESMA
ESMA has been active in the industrial printing sector since 1990 and, as a European association for screen and digital printing manufacturers, has developed into an organisation representing industrial, functional and speciality printing. Over the years, ESMA has developed the concept of the Knowledge Hub, which today provides cross-technology expertise to almost 70 European manufacturer members and technology partners. Every ESMA member enjoys favourable conditions at the major trade fairs and ESMA’s own conferences. Other benefits include access to technical seminars and committee meetings. Partners and members receive support and promotion in relation to health, safety and environmental regulations and participate in the setting of industry standards.
