The Impact of Changing Run Lengths on Packaging and Labels to 2027

This new Smithers report provides a comprehensive overview of the landscape and trends driving run lengths for labels and all formats of printed packaging. It provides critical insight and data to assist print OEMs and operators to identify new commercial opportunities.

• Run lengths of less than 1,000m2 will see the largest increase between 2022 and 2027, with a projected growth rate of 16.2%
• Run lengths greater than 15,000m2 have the largest share of the market in 2022 and this will remain the case to 2027
• In 2022, 78.7% of all printed packaging was produced in run lengths that exceeded 5km2.

This report provides a comprehensive overview of the landscape and trends driving run lengths for labels and all formats of printed packaging. It provides critical insight and data to assist print OEMs and operators to identify new commercial opportunities, and make confident business decisions within a rapidly transforming print value chain. It authoritatively examines the leading print buying trends driving shorter and longer run lengths, backed by specific analysis and forecasts in major end-use application. Detailed run length forecasts are given for individual analogue and digital print processes, further sub-divided across leading regions

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In Europe, deeper penetration of digital and hybrid in the labels markets and growing adoption in the broader sectors of flexibles and board, along with increased competition and language requirements for SKUs, will continue the downward trend for average run lengths

In North America there is increased adoption of digital and hybrid technologies across broader packaging sectors. Popularity of flexo printing will help support the growth of product variety and SKU proliferation driving shorter run lengths. Growth in marketing initiatives for mass customization and individualized packaging will continue the downward trend on run lengths.

What will you discover?

Across the packaging and label industries, print ordering, design and delivery all have to respond to new exigencies. Print service providers must pursue new revenue. OEMs must act to secure future sales. These changes are examined in detail, with a specific emphasis on how they will transform print runs in leading packaging segments. This is quantified, with additional insights into where print can capitalise on FMCG marketing departments’ willingness to pay a premium for customisation, responsiveness in designs, and quicker order turnarounds, as the market moves towards on-demand ordering.

The Smithers methodology

This report is based on extensive primary and secondary research. Primary research consisted of targeted interviews with material suppliers, converters and experts drawn from key markets. This was supported by secondary research in the form of extensive literature analysis of published data, official government statistics, domestic and international trade organisation data, company websites, industry reports, trade press articles, presentations, and attendance at trade events.