Specialty Ink Market Analysis

• Rising demand from packaging sector is driving the market growth

Increasing from USD 36.8 billion in 2016 to USD 42.2 billion in 2021, the worldwide packaging sector is predicted to rise, according to a report released by PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. This is because of the rising need for packaging that is anticipated to result from the growing population, greater sustainability concerns, and more disposable income in developing nations. Production of labels and electrophotography are both quickly incorporating digital printing. The growing use of digital printing in the packaging business is predicted to bring about a dramatic shift during the next ten years.

Furthermore, digital printing has become quite popular among many brand owners because of its short turnaround time. The possibility for more uses in flexible packaging, corrugated packaging, and folding cartons has expanded as a result of recent advancements in digital printing, including digital carton cutting, creasing, and other completion technologies. Rigid packaging has grown over the past few years as a result of advancements in the food sector and the expanding populations of nations like China, India, and the United States.

As a result, it is anticipated that over the projection period, the demand for specialty inks from the packaging industry will increase rapidly.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic chemicals, and other substances are frequently the focus of these laws in a variety of businesses. Such laws apply to inks because they are a chemical product. The environmental impact of the things people buy is also becoming a growing concern for customers. They favor sustainable, non-toxic, and green items over other types. As a result of the shift in consumer tastes, businesses are using eco-friendly inks and implementing sustainable practices throughout their supply chains.

Thus, driving the specialty ink market revenue.ALTANA is greatly expanding its Cubic Ink 3D material range for high-performance resins in October 2023. This extension makes ALTANA a supplier of system-open, manufacturer-independent materials suitable for DLP, LCD, and SLA, as well as inks for jetting.

The Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is projected to experience substantial growth over the coming years. With a market value of 0.56 USD Billion in 2024, it is anticipated to reach 0.96 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory suggests a compound annual growth rate of 5.02% from 2025 to 2035. Such projections indicate a robust demand for specialty inks across various sectors, including packaging, electronics, and printing. The increasing emphasis on sustainability and technological advancements is likely to further fuel this growth, positioning the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry as a dynamic and evolving sector.

The packaging industry is a significant driver of the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry, as specialty inks are essential for creating visually appealing and functional packaging solutions. With the rise of e-commerce and retail sectors, the demand for innovative packaging designs has surged. Specialty inks, such as those used for flexible packaging and labels, are increasingly sought after for their ability to enhance product visibility and shelf appeal. As the packaging industry continues to expand, it is anticipated that the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry will experience robust growth, with a projected market value of 0.96 USD Billion by 2035.

The Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is witnessing a notable shift towards eco-friendly inks, driven by increasing environmental awareness among consumers and businesses. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by developing inks that utilize sustainable materials and processes. For instance, the demand for water-based and soy-based inks is on the rise, as they are perceived as less harmful to the environment. This shift not only aligns with regulatory pressures but also caters to consumer preferences for greener products. As a result, the market for eco-friendly specialty inks is expected to expand significantly, contributing to the overall growth of the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry.

The integration of specialty inks in the electronics sector is emerging as a key driver for the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry. Specialty inks are utilized in various electronic applications, including printed circuit boards and flexible displays. The growing demand for consumer electronics, coupled with advancements in technology, is likely to propel the need for specialty inks that offer superior conductivity and performance. As the electronics industry evolves, the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is expected to benefit from this trend, potentially leading to a compound annual growth rate of 5.02% from 2025 to 2035.

Technological innovations in printing processes are significantly influencing the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry. The advent of digital printing technologies has enabled the production of high-quality prints with greater efficiency and reduced waste. For example, advancements in inkjet and laser printing technologies allow for the use of specialty inks that enhance color vibrancy and durability. This evolution in printing technology is likely to drive demand for specialty inks, as businesses seek to leverage these advancements for competitive advantage. Consequently, the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is poised for growth, with projections indicating a market value of 0.56 USD Billion in 2024.

The Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is influenced by changing market dynamics and evolving consumer preferences. As consumers become more discerning, there is an increasing demand for specialty inks that provide unique features such as enhanced durability, vibrant colors, and quick-drying properties. This shift in consumer expectations is prompting manufacturers to innovate and diversify their product offerings. Additionally, the rise of customization in printing solutions is further driving the demand for specialty inks. As a result, the Global Global Specialty Ink Market Industry is likely to witness sustained growth, adapting to the changing landscape of consumer needs.

By region, the study provides the market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World. The North American specialty ink market area will dominate this market. The demand for specialized substrates has grown significantly with the rise of 3D printing in American industries like healthcare and development. The market is expected to track progress, especially in light of recent breakthroughs in local development. For instance, a U.S.-based development company called Sunconomy has teamed up with the Russian 3D printer company Apis Cor to produce 3D-printed homes all around the country.

According to trends in the specialty ink industry, a 3D printer uses eight kilowatts of energy while it is operating and produces almost no waste because it also fabricates more materials.

Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, German, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.In March 2023, Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co., Ltd., the Japan-based parent company of the specialty chemicals company Toyo Ink Group, announced that it and its consolidated subsidiary Toyo Ink (Thailand) Co., Ltd. concluded a share purchase agreement to acquire Thai Eurocoat Ltd., Thailand’s largest producer of outer coatings for unprinted cans intended for food industry use exclusively.

Figure 2:  SPECIALTY INK MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

Europe specialty ink market accounts for the second-largest market share. The region is anticipated to maintain its dominance over the course of the forecast period as a result of rising demand from end-use sectors including printing & publication, flexible packaging, safety & security, and others. Production of specialty ink is expected to be boosted in this area by elements including cheap labor costs and access to raw materials. Further, the German specialty ink market held the largest market share, and the UK specialty ink market was the fastest growing market in the European region

The Asia-Pacific Specialty ink Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032 due to a large number of flexo presses, particularly those headquartered outside of China that primarily serve the domestic market, significant product demand from the flexographic printing application segment is driving overall regional growth. The growing demand for inventive packaging solutions across a variety of industries, including personal care, food and beverage, and healthcare, is also a major driver of the specialty ink market in this area.

Moreover, China’s specialty ink market held the largest market share, and the Indian specialty ink market was the fastest growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the specialty ink market, grow even more. Market participants are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to expand their  footprint, with important market developments including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, specialty ink industry must offer cost-effective items.

Manufacturing locally to minimize operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by manufacturers in the  specialty ink industry to benefit clients and increase the market sector. In recent years, the specialty ink industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to market. Major players in the specialty ink market attempting to increase market demand by investing in research and development operations include IIMAK (U.S.), Sun Chemical (U.S.), Toyo Ink International Corp. (U.S.), TOKYO PRINTING INK MFG CO., DAIHANINK Co., Siegwerk Druckfarben AG & Co.

KGaA (Germany), Huber Group Holding SE (Germany), Bordeaux Digital PrintInk Ltd. (Israel), T&K TOKA Corporation (Japan), and Royal Dutch Printing Ink Factories Van Son (the Netherlands).

One of the top experts in the world for printing inks, coatings, and press room chemistry is Hubergroup. High-quality products are produced by the prosperous, family-owned business with more than 255 years of experience and skill for use in packaging, commercial printing, and news printing. Electricity is produced by Huber Group Holding SE using renewable resources. The business provides services in the areas of real estate, property management, health care, electronics, and mobility. International clients are served by Huber Group Holding.

Pigments and printing inks are made and sold by Sun Chemical Corporation. The business provides covert, semi-covert, and overt inks in addition to heatset process, coldset black and color, water-based, solvent-based, energy curable, and sheetfed inks. Serving clients ly is Sun Chemical. In order to surpass customers' expectations, Sun Chemical and DIC are always promoting and creating sustainable solutions. The DIC Group firms serve a wide range of international clients with combined annual revenues of over $8.5 billion and more than 22,000 workers.