From future promise to growth driver

In the first three parts of our series, we looked at the fundamentals, technologies and challenges of functional printing. Now we have come full circle, looking at which market segments are growing fastest, which applications are already commercially successful, and how companies can benefit from the technology. The road from the lab to mass production has been paved. Now it's a matter of scaling, partnerships and new business models.

One of the most dynamic growth markets is printed electronics. According to IDTechEx, this sector is expected to reach a volume of $12 billion by 2033, with an annual growth rate of 10%. This significantly outpaces the development of many traditional printing markets and shows that functional printing has long been more than just a promise.

The following areas are providing particularly strong impetus:

• Automotive & e-mobility: Printed sensors, antennas and battery management systems ensure weight savings and energy efficiency.
• Medical technology: Printed wearables with integrated sensor systems enable continuous monitoring of vital parameters.
• Packaging & consumer goods: Smart packaging with printed NFC or RFID tags improves product security and traceability.
• Energy supply: Flexible solar cells and printed storage solutions create new approaches to mobile energy.

Functional printing has overcome many hurdles - but industrial implementation requires targeted technology choices. The right printing technology influences cost structure, design freedom and production volume.

• Inkjet: ideal for high-resolution applications and minimised material use
• Screen: robust and efficient for thick, conductive structures
• Flexographic and gravure printing: scalable for high-volume applications such as batteries and solar films

At the same time, advances in conductive inks and flexible substrates are driving commercialisation. Combined with process-reliable inline inspection systems, production environments are being created that enable volume production.

The market potential is not limited to technology companies. Print service providers and suppliers can now actively enter this future-oriented field:

• Specialised manufacturing services: as a service provider for functional printing solutions
• Technology partnerships: with materials and equipment manufacturers to shorten development times
• On-demand & customised printing: for personalised electronics in small batches

Those who position themselves now can secure first-mover advantages - especially in niches that are still untapped.

Functional printing is no longer a vision, but a reality in many industries. The key steps have been taken: Printing technologies, materials and pilot applications are in place. Now it is a matter of translating the potential into concrete projects.

For those who want to experience the development live, meet partners and test technologies, drupa 2028 is the right platform.