A word from our President

Trends and Opportunities for the Gravure Industry in 2025

As President of the European Rotogravure Association, I want to take this opportunity to address our industry directly as we step into 2025. The gravure industry is at a crucial juncture in its history, offering us unique opportunities to innovate and lead. The advancements in Trivalent Chrome (Chrome III) plating process technology mark a transformative opportunity for our sector. By embracing this credible and sustainable alternative to Hexavalent Chrome (Chrome VI), which is being phased out globally, we position ourselves as leaders in safety, compliance, and durability. This shift is not just a necessity but an innovation that underscores our commitment to a sustainable future.

Environmental responsibility is not just a challenge; it is an opportunity to lead. The global push for sustainability presents us with the chance to develop eco-friendly inks, such as water-based alternatives, and optimize our processes to meet the rising demand for green solutions. Aligning proactively with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will allow gravure to stay ahead of market trends, offering solutions that are not only compliant but also appealing to an increasingly eco-conscious consumer base.

“Environmental responsibility 
is not just a challenge – 
it is an opportunity to lead.”

Rather than perceiving alternative printing technologies as competitors, we can integrate their strengths into our portfolio. Gravure’s unmatched quality, consistency, and efficiency in high-volume printing can complement digital and flexographic technologies. By leveraging these synergies, we can offer a versatile, full-service approach that meets the diverse needs of modern clients.

Rising costs, while challenging, drive innovation. By exploring new materials, streamlining workflows, and investing in energy-efficient technologies, gravure can not only overcome economic hurdles but also enhance its competitive edge. Similarly, the growing demand for sustainable and flexible packaging materials presents an opportunity for us to showcase adaptability and maintain print quality on novel substrates.

The disruptions of recent years have highlighted the critical importance of supply chain resilience. Gravure printers can establish robust supply networks, explore local sourcing, and adopt predictive analytics to ensure consistency and build customer trust. These steps will solidify our reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking industry.

Finally, our industry’s legacy of excellence, coupled with its potential for technological and sustainable innovation, makes it a magnet for new talent. By fostering partnerships with educational institutions, offering mentorship programs, and highlighting cutting-edge projects, we can inspire the next generation to view gravure as a dynamic and rewarding career path.

In 2025, the gravure industry has the chance to redefine its role in the global printing landscape. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, we can turn challenges into opportunities and secure our place as a vital force in the future of printing.”

— Davide Garavaglia, President of the European Rotogravure Association