FESPA 2025 in Berlin was more than just a global expo – it was a clear vision of where the print industry is heading. The event marked a new era for wide-format printing, showcasing a transformation on every level, from AI-enhanced automation to spectacular special effects and a serious commitment to sustainability.
For Kernow Coatings, as a global leader in synthetic substrates and high-performance coatings, it was a proud moment to be part of this exciting evolution, demonstrating how our materials can elevate print quality, enhance workflow efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Here is a look back at what we brought to the show – and the key trends that defined this year’s event.
This year, we were proud to partner with Ricoh Europe Graphic Communications, a globally renowned leader in digital print solutions, to create a space-themed, visually immersive booth powered by the X20 UV Ricoh hybrid proposition technology.
This partnership showcased the seamless synergy between Ricoh’s advanced printing technology and our innovative print media, designed for high performance and impactful visual appeal to deliver an experience of bold colours, tactile textures, and show-stopping special finishes that pushed the boundaries of creative print.
As global awareness of sustainability continues to rise, companies, consumers, and governments alike are demanding more environmentally responsible practices across all industries – and print is no exception. At FESPA 2025, sustainability wasn’t just a trend; it was a defining theme, shaping both the present and future of the industry. With entire stands devoted to eco-friendly materials and waste-reduction innovations, the commitment to greener practices was unmistakable. Kernow Coatings proudly stood at the forefront of this movement, showcasing our expanding portfolio of PVC-free, recyclable, and ISO-certified print substrates – developed specifically for today’s environmentally conscious businesses, including:
All our materials are manufactured by ISO 14001, ISO 9001, and ISO 45001 standards, reinforcing our commitment to responsible manufacturing and environmental stewardship. In addition to being PVC-free and recyclable, our substrates are lightweight, tear-resistant, and compatible with a wide range of printing technologies – including latex, UV, and eco-solvent inks – offering exceptional versatility without compromising on sustainability.
As the industry embraces sustainable innovation, it not only reduces its environmental footprint but also strengthens its position as a progressive, future-ready sector. This shift is crucial to ensuring that print remains a viable and responsible medium in an increasingly eco-conscious world.
Artificial intelligence is making a bold entrance into the print sector, and it made its presence felt at FESPA. From AI-generated visuals to robotic automation for cutting and workflow optimisation, the possibilities were as exciting as they were transformative.
While Kernow Coatings’ focus remains on substrates, we are keeping a close eye on how AI-enhanced workflows and automation robots will reshape the industry – and how our products can help printers get the most out of these evolving technologies and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Key AI trend takeaways:
This year’s show was a visual showcase of what’s possible when creativity meets cutting-edge technology. Special effects printing took the spotlight, with brands showcasing the full spectrum of what’s possible – from neon inks to white layers and metallic finishes that add striking depth, texture, and dimension to print.
These advanced techniques are more than just eye-catching – they are powerful tools in advertising, packaging, and artistic applications, enabling designers and printers to deliver unforgettable, high-impact visuals.
Neon Inks (also known as fluorescent inks) are highly pigmented and vibrant colours that glow under UV or black light. They are formulated with special pigments that reflect more light than standard inks, making them appear brighter and more eye-catching.
White Ink (or white layers) is used in printing to create a solid, opaque base or design element. White is essential for printing on dark or transparent materials, ensuring colors stand out and maintain their intended appearance.
Clear Ink (often called spot gloss or UV clear, or varnish) is a versatile tool in the print industry that adds texture, depth, and visual appeal to printed materials. It’s applied as a transparent layer, often strategically placed over specific areas of a design to highlight elements, create tactile effects, or add a protective coating.
At our stand, we proudly showcased:
These premium materials were brought to life using cutting-edge technology like the X20 UV Ricoh hybrid proposition technology, the HP Latex 730 W, and combined with Color-Logic metallic colours to create unique effects, delivered a powerful mix of tactile and visual storytelling and offering attendees a glimpse into the creative potential of today’s print technology.
Looking Ahead
FESPA 2025 made it clear: the future of print is not only sustainable and smart – it’s also boldly creative, and Kernow Coatings is ready and excited to be part of that journey.
At Kernow Coatings, we’re committed to developing materials that:
To all those who visited our stand, thank you for being part of the journey. And if we missed you, we would love to connect with you and show how Kernow Coating’s cutting-edge print media can power your next project.
