The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association’s (SGIA’s) Future of Wide Format survey assesses the growth of wide-format digital imaging, developing technologies, and expansion into new markets. SGIA conducted the survey during the last few months of 2005.

More than half of the 148 respondents indicated that, based on revenue, their primary imaging method was digital printing. Two-thirds said they currently offer wide-format digital printing in house. When asked about equipment, two-thirds answered that they currently use an inkjet printer with solvent inks.

The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association’s (SGIA’s) Future of Wide Format survey assesses the growth of wide-format digital imaging, developing technologies, and expansion into new markets. SGIA conducted the survey during the last few months of 2005.

More than half of the 148 respondents indicated that, based on revenue, their primary imaging method was digital printing. Two-thirds said they currently offer wide-format digital printing in house. When asked about equipment, two-thirds answered that they currently use an inkjet printer with solvent inks.

Responses about market activity show that digital-imaging equipment is primarily used to produce graphics for local businesses and individuals, advertising, retail stores, and corporate identity. Among the most common types of products printed on digital-imaging equipment are P-O-P displays, billboards, indoor and outdoor signage, and exhibit displays. For more information about the Future of Wide Format survey, contact SGIA, 10015 Main St., Fairfax, VA 22031, 703-385-1335, fax: 703-273-0456, Web: www.sgia.org.

Digital Ink/Imaging Systems Top Digital Markets Top Digital Products
Solvent-based inkjet 50.4%

Aqueous inkjet  47.0%

UV-curable inkjet  31.6%

Digital photographic imaging  20.5%

Eco-solvent inkjet  17.9%

Dye sublimation  11.1%

Thermal transfer  10.3%

Electrostatic imaging  10.3%

Other  5.1%

 

Top Digital Markets

Local businesses/individuals  21.6%

Advertising  15.5%

Retail stores  13.5%

Corporate identity  12.8%

Manufacturing OEM  9.5%

Other  7.4%

 

Top Digital Products

P-O-P displays  18.9%

Outdoor signage  12.2%

Other  12.2%

Indoor signage  11.5%

Exhibit displays  9.5%

Fine art/reproductions  6.8%

Decals  6.1%

Source: SGIA