Gravure Printing Inks

Gravure Printing Inks Market Outlook

The global gravure printing inks market was valued at approximately USD 2.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.5% from 2025 to 2035. This growth is largely fueled by the increasing demand for high-quality printing solutions in various industries, including packaging, publishing, and commercial printing. Furthermore, the rise in the flexible packaging sector has been a significant contributor, as gravure printing offers superior print quality and efficiency compared to other printing methods. Additionally, technological advancements in ink formulations and printing machinery are anticipated to enhance the performance and sustainability of gravure printing inks, making them more appealing to manufacturers. The evolving consumer preferences for environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging are also driving innovation in this market, prompting companies to develop bio-based and water-based ink products.

Growth Factor of the Market

The gravure printing inks market is experiencing significant growth due to several factors that are reshaping the landscape of the printing industry. The rapid expansion of the packaging sector, particularly in the food and beverage industries, is one of the primary drivers for the increased adoption of gravure printing inks. Companies are increasingly opting for gravure printing techniques because they provide excellent print quality and are capable of handling long print runs efficiently. Additionally, environmental regulations and the growing consumer demand for sustainable products have prompted manufacturers to invest in water-based and bio-based gravure inks, which are less harmful to the environment. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce has led to an increased demand for attractive packaging solutions, further propelling the gravure printing inks market. Lastly, the ongoing advancements in printing technology are enhancing the capabilities of gravure printing, allowing for more complex designs and improved overall performance.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The gravure printing inks market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2035.
• Flexible packaging continues to be the largest application segment, driven by demand in the food and beverage industries.
• Water-based gravure inks are gaining traction due to their environmentally friendly properties.
• North America and Europe are leading regions for gravure ink consumption, driven by advanced printing technology.
• Major players are focusing on innovation and sustainability, developing new ink formulations to meet market demands.

By Product Type

Solvent-Based Gravure Printing Inks:

Solvent-based gravure printing inks are widely used in numerous applications, primarily due to their excellent adhesion properties and high-quality finish. These inks are typically utilized in industries that require fast drying times and vibrant color reproduction, making them suitable for flexible packaging, labels, and other commercial printing applications. The formulation of solvent-based inks includes volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can raise environmental concerns and regulatory issues; however, advancements in formulations are leading to lower VOC content inks that still deliver high-performance standards. The versatility and reliability of solvent-based gravure inks continue to drive their popularity in the market, particularly in regions with established printing practices.

Water-Based Gravure Printing Inks:

Water-based gravure printing inks are emerging as a sustainable alternative to traditional solvent-based inks, gaining traction in various industries due to their reduced environmental impact. These inks are formulated with water as a primary solvent, making them safer for both the environment and human health. The growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions has led many manufacturers to adopt water-based inks, especially in the food and beverage sector, where safety and compliance with regulations are critical. The performance of water-based inks has significantly improved in recent years, enabling them to achieve comparable print quality to solvent-based options. As consumers increasingly seek sustainable products, the water-based segment of the gravure printing inks market is poised for substantial growth.

UV-Cured Gravure Printing Inks:

UV-cured gravure printing inks utilize ultraviolet light to initiate a curing process that allows for an instant drying solution, which is particularly advantageous in high-speed printing applications. This type of ink is known for its durability, scratch resistance, and vibrant color reproduction, making it suitable for specialized applications such as labels, packaging, and commercial printing. The curing process also leads to lower solvent emissions, aligning with the industry's shift towards more environmentally friendly practices. With advancements in UV technology and increasing demand for high-quality printing, the UV-cured gravure inks segment is expected to see robust growth in the coming years.

Bio-Based Gravure Printing Inks:

Bio-based gravure printing inks are at the forefront of the movement toward sustainable and eco-friendly printing solutions. These inks are formulated using renewable resources, such as plant-based materials, which not only reduce the environmental impact but also appeal to consumers looking for sustainable packaging options. The development of bio-based inks is driven by regulatory pressures and changing consumer preferences, making them an attractive choice for companies aiming to enhance their sustainability profiles. Though still in the early stages of adoption compared to traditional inks, the bio-based segment is rapidly gaining traction, particularly in regions with stringent environmental regulations.

Specialty Gravure Printing Inks:

Specialty gravure printing inks are tailored for specific applications and requirements, offering unique properties that cater to niche markets. These inks can include metallic inks, fluorescent inks, and inks designed for specific substrates, allowing printers to achieve unique effects and finishes that are not possible with standard inks. As brands increasingly seek differentiation through packaging and printing, the demand for specialty gravure inks is on the rise. This segment allows for creative flexibility and innovation, enabling companies to meet diverse market needs and consumer preferences.

By Application

Flexible Packaging:

Flexible packaging remains the largest application segment for gravure printing inks, driven primarily by the booming food and beverage industry. Due to its ability to provide high-quality graphics and excellent barrier properties, gravure printing is the preferred method for producing flexible packaging materials such as pouches, bags, and wraps. The increasing consumer demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food products has further accelerated the growth of flexible packaging solutions. Moreover, gravure printing allows for cost-effective, high-volume production while maintaining consistent quality, making it ideal for brands looking to enhance their packaging appeal.

Publication & Commercial Printing:

The publication and commercial printing sector is another significant application area for gravure printing inks. This segment encompasses printed materials such as magazines, catalogs, and promotional materials, where print quality is critical. Gravure printing’s capability to produce intricate designs with sharp resolution makes it highly sought after in this market. Additionally, as businesses continue to utilize printed materials for marketing and advertising, the demand for high-quality gravure inks in commercial printing is expected to remain strong. The ability to produce vibrant colors at scale also enhances the attractiveness of gravure printing for publications.

Product Printing:

Product printing involves the use of gravure inks for printing directly on products, packaging, or labels, which is crucial for branding and consumer engagement. This application segment includes items such as labels for bottles, cans, and other retail items where strong visual appeal is essential. Gravure printing allows for precise and high-quality designs that can enhance product visibility on shelves and attract consumers. With the increasing focus on branding and packaging aesthetics within the retail sector, the product printing segment is witnessing notable growth as companies invest in high-quality printing to differentiate their offerings.

Others:

The "Others" segment includes various niche applications where gravure printing inks are utilized. This can range from decorative printing to specialized industrial applications where specific ink properties are required. Although this segment is smaller compared to the aforementioned applications, it still represents a vital market for gravure inks, as it encompasses unique printing demands that cannot be met by conventional inks. The diversity of applications in this segment allows manufacturers to cater to specific customer needs, stimulating growth and innovation in gravure printing technology.

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales:

Direct sales serve as a crucial distribution channel for gravure printing inks, enabling manufacturers to establish a direct relationship with their customers. This approach provides companies with better control over their sales processes and allows them to offer tailored solutions to meet specific customer requirements. Direct sales are particularly beneficial for large printing companies or manufacturers who often require bulk orders and customized ink formulations. By eliminating intermediaries, manufacturers can also enhance profit margins and ensure that their customers receive the latest innovations in gravure ink technology without delay.

Distributors:

Distributors play an essential role in the gravure printing inks market by facilitating the distribution of products from manufacturers to end-users. They typically have established relationships with a wide range of printing companies, enabling them to provide a seamless supply chain for gravure inks. Distributors can offer value-added services, such as technical support and advice on ink selection, helping customers make informed decisions about their printing needs. Furthermore, they often provide inventory management solutions, which can be particularly advantageous for small to medium-sized enterprises that may not have the capacity to stock large quantities of ink themselves.

Online Retail:

Online retail is an emerging distribution channel for gravure printing inks, driven by the growing trend of e-commerce and digital buying behaviors. This channel offers convenience for buyers who can easily browse and purchase inks from various suppliers at their convenience. Online platforms allow customers to compare products, read reviews, and explore various brands, enhancing transparency and competitiveness in the market. As online retail continues to grow, it is anticipated that more gravure ink manufacturers will invest in developing their e-commerce strategies to reach a broader customer base and cater to the evolving purchasing preferences of consumers.

By Ingredient Type

Pigments:

Pigments are a critical component of gravure printing inks, providing the essential color and opacity required for high-quality prints. They are responsible for imparting color stability and vibrancy, making them integral to the performance of ink formulations. The choice of pigments can significantly affect the final printed product's appearance, performance, and durability. As manufacturers strive for innovative packaging solutions, the demand for specialty pigments that can achieve specific color effects or meet regulatory requirements is growing. The increasing focus on color consistency and development of new pigment technologies is expected to further propel the pigments segment in the gravure printing inks market.

Resins:

Resins in gravure printing inks serve as binders, providing adhesion and durability to the printed image. They play a vital role in determining the ink's performance properties, such as drying speed, gloss level, and flexibility. Different types of resins, including synthetic and natural variants, are utilized to achieve specific characteristics based on application needs. The rising demand for high-performance inks with enhanced durability, particularly in flexible packaging, is leading to increased innovation in resin formulations. Additionally, the trend toward sustainable practices is prompting manufacturers to explore bio-based resins, further diversifying the ingredient landscape of gravure inks.

Additives:

Additives are essential in gravure printing inks, enhancing various properties to improve performance and functionality. These can include UV stabilizers, wetting agents, and anti-foaming agents, which help achieve desired characteristics such as stability, flow, and improved print quality. The incorporation of additives allows for greater customization of inks to meet specific application requirements, such as increased longevity or resistance to fading. As the market continues to evolve, there is a growing emphasis on developing innovative additives that can provide improved functionality while adhering to environmental regulations, thus ensuring that gravure inks remain competitive.

Solvents:

Solvents serve as a carrier for the ink components and facilitate the application of gravure inks onto substrates. They impact the drying time, viscosity, and flow characteristics of inks, making them vital in achieving optimal printing results. While traditional solvent-based inks still dominate the market, there is a significant push towards reducing solvent content due to environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Water-based and low-VOC solvent options are gaining traction as manufacturers seek to align with sustainability goals. The balance between performance and environmental compliance is critical in the evolution of solvent usage within the gravure printing inks market.

Others:

The "Others" category encompasses various minor ingredient types that contribute to the unique properties of gravure printing inks. This may include materials such as fillers and stabilizers, which enhance the performance characteristics of inks but are less prominent in standard formulations. The diversification of ingredient types allows manufacturers to create specialized inks that cater to specific applications or market segments. Innovations in this space, driven by consumer demand for sustainable and high-performance printing solutions, are expected to influence the overall growth trajectory of the gravure printing inks market.

By Region

The gravure printing inks market is geographically diverse, with North America and Europe being the leading regions in terms of consumption and market share. In North America, the market is characterized by advanced printing technology and a high demand for innovative packaging solutions across various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. The region is projected to maintain a significant market share, registering a CAGR of approximately 5.2% from 2025 to 2035 as manufacturers increasingly adopt eco-friendly printing solutions and gravure technology enhances production capabilities. Europe, on the other hand, showcases a strong emphasis on sustainability and regulatory compliance, influencing printing ink formulations towards lower environmental impact inks.

The Asia Pacific region is rapidly emerging as a significant growth area in the gravure printing inks market, with countries like China, India, and Japan witnessing swift industrialization and urbanization. The region's demand for flexible packaging is accelerating due to changing consumer preferences and an expanding middle-class population. The Asia Pacific market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of approximately 6.0% during the forecast period, driven by investments in advanced printing technology and an increasing focus on sustainability. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also expected to see steady growth, albeit at a slower pace, as these regions gradually embrace modern printing technologies and sustainable practices.

Opportunities

The gravure printing inks market presents numerous opportunities for growth, particularly in the realm of sustainability. With increasing environmental regulations and a growing consumer preference for eco-friendly products, manufacturers are being pushed towards developing innovative, sustainable ink solutions. This involves not only formulating inks that are less harmful to the environment, such as water-based and bio-based inks, but also ensuring that production processes are environmentally friendly. Companies that invest in research and development to create more sustainable options stand to gain a competitive advantage in the market, attracting environmentally conscious consumers and businesses alike. Furthermore, the push for sustainable packaging in various industries opens up avenues for gravure printing inks, as these inks are integral to creating appealing and functional packaging solutions.

Additionally, the continuous evolution of technology presents significant opportunities for manufacturers in the gravure printing inks market. Advances in digital printing technology, for example, are allowing for greater customization and flexibility in printing processes. This shift is resulting in an increased demand for gravure inks that can perform optimally in digital applications. Companies that embrace these technological advancements and adapt their offerings accordingly can capture a share of this burgeoning market. Moreover, the increasing integration of automation and smart technologies in manufacturing processes leads to more efficient production systems, reducing costs and improving turnaround times, further enhancing market opportunities for gravure printing ink manufacturers.

Threats

Despite the positive growth outlook for the gravure printing inks market, several threats can pose challenges to its progress. One of the primary concerns is the increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ink formulations. Stricter regulations aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainability could lead to higher production costs and necessitate significant changes in manufacturing processes. Compliance with these regulations could strain smaller companies that may lack the resources to invest in necessary changes. Additionally, the competition from alternative printing technologies, such as digital printing, which offers quicker turnaround times and lower setup costs, could also threaten the market share of gravure printing inks if manufacturers do not innovate to keep pace with market demands.

Another significant threat to the gravure printing inks market is the volatility of raw material prices, particularly for key ingredients such as pigments and resins. Fluctuations in supply and demand for these materials can lead to unpredictable cost increases, negatively impacting profit margins for manufacturers. This volatility may compel companies to pass on costs to customers, potentially driving them toward cheaper alternatives or other printing methods. Furthermore, the ongoing global supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and pandemics, could hinder access to essential materials, causing delays in production and affecting overall market stability. It is crucial for companies to develop robust supply chain strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure consistent product availability.

Competitor Outlook

• Sun Chemical Corporation
• Flint Group
• Siegwerk Druckfarben AG
• Toyocolor Co., Ltd.
• INX International Ink Co.
• Van Son Liquids
• Huber Group
• Fujifilm Corporation
• Altana AG
• Wikoff Color Corporation
• Michael Huber Corporation
• Printcolor Screen AG
• Durst Group
• Pigmentan GmbH
• Rohm and Haas Company

The competitive landscape of the gravure printing inks market is characterized by the presence of several key players vying for market share through innovation and strategic initiatives. Companies such as Sun Chemical Corporation and Flint Group have established themselves as market leaders, offering a diverse range of ink formulations tailored to meet the needs of various industries. These companies leverage their extensive research and development capabilities to create high-performance inks that cater to evolving consumer preferences for sustainability and eco-friendliness. As the market continues to evolve, these entities are expected to focus on expanding their product portfolios and enhancing their technological capabilities to maintain their competitive edge.

Furthermore, many of the major players are adopting strategic mergers and acquisitions to expand their market reach and enhance their product offerings. For instance, acquisitions of smaller companies or strategic partnerships can help larger players tap into niche markets and integrate innovative technologies into their existing operations. The emphasis on sustainability practices is driving many companies to invest in R&D for eco-friendly ink solutions, setting the stage for a competitive advantage in an increasingly environmentally conscious market. As industry stakeholders strive for innovation, collaboration among leading companies is becoming more prevalent, fostering a dynamic competitive environment.

In addition to established companies, several emerging players are making their mark in the gravure printing inks market. These newer entrants often focus on sustainable practices and the development of specialized inks to cater to niche applications. As they challenge the incumbents, these players are bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the market, further intensifying competition. The interplay between large established firms and nimble startups is expected to drive innovation and lead to the emergence of new product developments, shaping the future of the gravure printing inks market.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Altana AG
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Durst Group
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Flint Group
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 Huber Group
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Pigmentan GmbH
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Van Son Liquids
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 Toyocolor Co., Ltd.
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Fujifilm Corporation
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Printcolor Screen AG
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Rohm and Haas Company
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 Siegwerk Druckfarben AG
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Sun Chemical Corporation
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Wikoff Color Corporation
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 INX International Ink Co.
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Michael Huber Corporation
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Gravure Printing Inks Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Flexible Packaging
    • 6.1.2 Publication & Commercial Printing
    • 6.1.3 Product Printing
    • 6.1.4 Others
  • 6.2 Gravure Printing Inks Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Solvent-Based Gravure Printing Inks
    • 6.2.2 Water-Based Gravure Printing Inks
    • 6.2.3 UV-Cured Gravure Printing Inks
    • 6.2.4 Bio-Based Gravure Printing Inks
    • 6.2.5 Specialty Gravure Printing Inks
  • 6.3 Gravure Printing Inks Market, By Ingredient Type
    • 6.3.1 Pigments
    • 6.3.2 Resins
    • 6.3.3 Additives
    • 6.3.4 Solvents
    • 6.3.5 Others
  • 6.4 Gravure Printing Inks Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Direct Sales
    • 6.4.2 Distributors
    • 6.4.3 Online Retail

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Gravure Printing Inks Market by Region
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Gravure Printing Inks market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Solvent-Based Gravure Printing Inks
• Water-Based Gravure Printing Inks
• UV-Cured Gravure Printing Inks
• Bio-Based Gravure Printing Inks
• Specialty Gravure Printing Inks

By Application

• Flexible Packaging
• Publication & Commercial Printing
• Product Printing
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Direct Sales
• Distributors
• Online Retail

By Ingredient Type

• Pigments
• Resins
• Additives
• Solvents
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Sun Chemical Corporation
• Flint Group
• Siegwerk Druckfarben AG
• Toyocolor Co., Ltd.
• INX International Ink Co.
• Van Son Liquids
• Huber Group
• Fujifilm Corporation
• Altana AG
• Wikoff Color Corporation
• Michael Huber Corporation
• Printcolor Screen AG
• Durst Group
• Pigmentan GmbH
• Rohm and Haas Company