Packaging Printing in 2026: Digital vs Offset for Short-Run and Custom Production

Packaging Printing in 2026: Digital vs Offset

The packaging printing market is undergoing a significant shift toward digital production. Short-run packaging, custom packaging, and versioned packaging are growing segments that favor digital printing over traditional offset.

Market Context

The packaging printing market is growing at approximately 5.9% annually, driven by e-commerce, brand proliferation, and the demand for personalized packaging. Digital printing enables brands to produce packaging in smaller quantities with faster turnaround times.

Digital Packaging Advantages

Digital packaging printing eliminates plate costs, enabling economical short runs. Variable data printing allows each package to be unique. Turnaround times are measured in days rather than weeks.

For label printing specifically, the digital labels market is growing at 8.2% annually, significantly faster than the overall packaging market.

Offset Packaging Advantages

Offset printing remains cost-effective for large runs of the same design. Color consistency across large quantities is excellent. Specialty inks and coatings are more readily available in offset than digital.

Equipment Considerations

For shops entering digital packaging production, Mimaki's UV flatbed and roll-to-roll systems provide the print quality and substrate flexibility required. Amcad & Graphics provides these systems with application-specific guidance.

Sources: Packaging Dive, Labels & Labeling, Amcad & Graphics