When did you first attend Intergraf, and what do you remember most?

My first Intergraf was in Granada, Spain in 2004.

I had the pleasure to be invited by my dear friend Heinz Artmann from ART-Line Project GmbH to share a booth with them at the exhibition. I was with PAV Card at that time and we started with the production of inlays for the brand-new electronic passports. Due to ART-Line’s deep understanding of the industry, I learned a lot in those few days and was introduced to everyone. Both visitors and speakers in Granada were excellent and the interest in the new products and standards was huge. It was amazing to see how the print industry adopted electronics and how important Intergraf Currency+Identity was and is to bring everyone together. For sure we also enjoyed the lovely city and the amazing events at the show. Every Intergraf event has its unique anecdotes which become part of the industry’s history.

What has changed most in the industry since then?

Digitalisation and mobile services are undoubtedly among the main challenges the industry is facing. The graphical sector in particular, must continuously reinvent itself to remain relevant. As a result, innovations, technological advances in machinery, products and processes, as well as environmental shifts and expectations, act as key drivers not only within this sector but also across other industries in Europe and around the world.

Why do you think Intergraf has stayed relevant for so long?

Intergraf unites the industry through its outstanding reputation and exceptional team. Attending is essential to experience the warmth of the Intergraf community and stay at the forefront of the latest developments, news, and trends. New initiatives, including the Intergraf certification programme, the Industry Innovation Arena, the Intergraf Défilé, and the Design Awards, are making a significant and lasting impact on the sector.

What do you hope to see in the next 50 years?

I hope that print will remain both important and relevant over the next 50 years, and that the industry will continue to be a rewarding and enjoyable place to work. There is more to print than meets the eye, and I am confident that the saying “print works” will still hold true half a century from now.

Susanne Timm
MaskTech GmbH