Packaging Sector Shows Optimism Amid Challenges in Germany’s Print Industry

Apenberg & Partner, a leading consultancy in the print business sector, has published findings from its 22nd annual Print Business Autumn Forecast, shedding light on trends shaping Germany’s print industry for 2025. Despite rising supplier costs, the study reveals mixed sentiments across various segments, with packaging printers emerging as notably optimistic.

Optimism in Packaging Printing

The packaging printing sector stands out with a significant increase in positive outlook compared to the previous year. According to the survey, 24% of packaging printers anticipate growth in earnings (up from 18% in 2023), while 47% expect stable results (up from 33%). Furthermore, only 41% foresee a decline in market performance, a marked improvement of 11 percentage points compared to last year.

Industry Challenges: Rising Costs, Falling Prices

The broader print industry faces considerable challenges, with rising supplier costs exerting pressure on margins. A mere 13% of companies plan to pass these costs on to customers, while 36% are preparing to lower their prices despite these headwinds. The packaging sector mirrors these trends, with 29% of companies expecting increased supplier prices but only 21% planning to raise customer prices in response.

Heatset Offset Printing Under Pressure

In stark contrast, the heatset offset printing sector displays a bleak outlook. A staggering 89% of businesses in this segment expect a decline in market performance, casting doubt on the long-term viability of their business models.

Insights and Recommendations

Yorck Wittkuhn, project leader and consultant at Apenberg & Partner, emphasized the need for strategic adaptation. “The findings highlight the importance of aligning business models with the hard facts of industry developments,” he stated, urging companies to embrace innovation and efficiency in response to shifting market dynamics.

The survey involved 191 companies, down from 221 the previous year, and continues to serve as a vital barometer for the print industry.