The first edition of Screen Print Innovations (SPI), a trade fair dedicated exclusively to screen printing, took place in Essen from 3 to 5 June. SPI proved to be a showcase for the strength and ongoing development of screen printing technology.
Almost 1,000 professionals from 50 countries took part. Hardware manufacturers, colour formulators, integrators, resellers and brand owners gained an overview of how screen printing can drive innovation in the automotive, printed electronics, luxury packaging and healthcare sectors. SPI is organised as a platform for suppliers, system developers and end users in a wide range of application areas.
‘Today confirms that focused niche events are taking the place of mega trade shows – that a targeted audience creates community rather than anonymity,’ said Jon Bultemeyer and Robin McMillan, representing the organisers and the ESMA Board, in their opening address. ‘In 2025, screen technology will not only survive, but thrive – with solutions for printed electronics, touchscreens, fuel cells, antennas and more.’
‘Few trade shows have really stood out to me over the years – our first international appearance at FESPA in 2017, our debut in printed electronics at LOPEC in 2022 and now SPI 2025. Each of these events marked a turning point for INO and SPI was no exception,’ said Blaž Mur, CEO of printing system manufacturer INO.
‘Attending the show has given me a unique perspective on the latest trends and technologies,’ added Aad van der Spuij from Henkel.
‘Screen printing has a new home base,’ said Stefan Zäh from Pröll.
The highlight of the SPI was the Innovation Theatre, which showcased practical case studies and innovative applications, from smart textiles and transparent antennas to security printing and hydrogen fuel cell components.
ESMA
ESMA has been active in the industrial printing sector since 1990 and, as the 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.
