Shave & Gibson at Drupa 2024: Exploring the future of packaging
Shave & Gibson recently had the privilege of attending Drupa 2024, the world’s leading trade fair for the printing and packaging industries, held in Dusseldorf, Germany. This event is renowned for showcasing the latest advancements and innovations, making it an essential destination for industry professionals. Representing Shave & Gibson at this prestigious event were Richard Downes, Michael Downes, Leon Ward, Mike Van der Westhuizen and Andrew Ford.
The primary objectives for the team were to explore the latest trends in products, machinery, and services within the packaging industry. Additionally, we aimed to build on existing relationships with suppliers and customers while forging new connections that could lead to future collaborations. With these goals in mind, the team embarked on an intensive journey through the vast exhibition halls of Drupa 2024.
One of the key activities during their visit was an in-depth analysis of current industry trends. The team explored a wide array of innovative products and state-of-the-art machinery, gaining valuable insights into the technological advancements driving the packaging sector forward. This exposure to cutting-edge solutions provided S&G with a clearer understanding of the direction in which the industry is heading.
Networking played a crucial role in the success of their tour. The team engaged in numerous discussions with both existing and potential new partners. These interactions helped to strengthen relationships with current suppliers and customers, while also opening doors to promising new connections. The networking efforts resulted in several promising leads that could translate into strategic partnerships, enhancing Shave & Gibson’s market position.
In addition to exploring trends and networking, the team attended a variety of seminars, workshops, and exclusive dinners. These sessions covered a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, digital printing technologies, faster and shorter make-readies and automation in packaging processes. The knowledge gained from these informative sessions is expected to significantly contribute to Shave & Gibson’s strategic planning and operational enhancements in the near future. A recurring theme in our meetings has been the global shortage of skilled workers in the packaging industry. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive training programs and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to address this skills gap.
The outcomes of the tour were highly positive. The team successfully established connections with several new suppliers and customers, broadening our network within the industry. Moreover, the insights gained from Drupa 2024 are poised to drive the company’s strategic initiatives and operational improvements, ensuring that Shave & Gibson remains at the forefront of the packaging industry.
In conclusion, attending Drupa 2024 was a highly successful and enriching experience for Shave & Gibson. The team returned with a deeper understanding of the latest industry trends, fortified relationships with key stakeholders, and a wealth of knowledge on forthcoming innovations. This participation underscores Shave & Gibson’s commitment to staying at the cutting edge of the packaging industry and continually seeking opportunities for growth and improvement.