Mission to Zero: Charting the Evolution of Inkjet at UV Days
This article is inspired by a recent podcast interview with Holly Steedman at IST INTECH. To listen to the podcast click here.
In an industry where innovation is as much about chemistry and curing as it is about connectivity, few events capture the full spectrum of print technology advancement like UV Days. Hosted by IST Metz in southern Germany, UV Days has emerged as one of the most distinctive showcases of ultraviolet (UV) and UV LED curing systems. This year, IST INTECH, the inkjet-focused sister company to IST Metz, is taking centre stage with a forward-looking conference segment: "The Evolution of Inkjet."
This year at UV Days, IST INTECH, the inkjet-focused sister company to IST Metz, is taking centre stage with: "The Evolution of Inkjet."
The initiative is co-led by Holly Steedman, Business Development Director at IST INTECH, and Frazer Chesterman of FuturePrint. Together, they have assembled a concise, high-impact programme on June 3rd designed to demystify inkjet's growing influence across industrial and graphics printing. The segment brings together eight thought leaders and technologists, providing a snapshot of where inkjet has come from, where it is, and crucially, where it is headed.
"There is still a misconception that inkjet is limited to wide-format graphics or commercial print," Steedman notes. "But what we’re seeing is a rapid expansion into industrial processes. That’s why we felt the need to create a platform at UV Days that could engage a broader audience."
From Chemistry to Connectivity
The Evolution of Inkjet session promises more than a theoretical overview. With speakers ranging from machine OEMs to ink specialists, software developers to application engineers, the focus is on actionable insight. IST INTECH itself will debut its new Smart UV Connect system, a plug-and-play solution designed to simplify UV integration with industrial print systems.
Steedman is careful not to reveal too much ahead of the demonstration. "What I can say is that it's not a prototype. It's a working system. And it represents the future of smart curing integration."
A Curated Journey Through Inkjet
The conference segment will open with Didier Rousseau, CEO of Kelenn Technology, who will explore the breadth of industrial inkjet applications. From textiles to metal and packaging, Kelenn Technology’s custom inkjet systems showcase the versatility of modern print technologies.
Following Rousseau, Markus Stickel from MPRINT (Kurz Group) – will delve into application-focused print machinery and the evolving demands from customers across sectors. Imprint has been a long-time partner of IST INTECH, reflecting the kind of close collaboration that has helped drive innovation.
No inkjet event would be complete without attention to ink. Dr Simon Daplyn of Sun Chemical, a veteran in ink formulation, will explain how inks are being tailored to new substrates and curing conditions. His insights aim to bridge the gap between chemistry and application, illuminating the central role ink plays in enabling print quality and durability.
The technology architecture behind inkjet will also be addressed. Jochen Christiaens of ImageXpert will present on testing and quality assurance systems, offering a view into how precision measurement is critical to optimising performance. Also featured are sessions from Meteor Inkjet and Matthias Schieber of Marabu, who will discuss software control and digital transformation respectively.
The segment concludes with SwissQprint, the high-end Swiss manufacturer of wide-format printers. Represented by Achim Herzog, their presentation includes a live demo and a fireside chat with Frazer Chesterman, offering a case study in precision engineering and market leadership.
Inkjet for All
UV Days attracts a wide spectrum of professionals—engineers, chemists, equipment manufacturers, and end users. This diversity is what makes the inclusion of the Evolution of Inkjet conference so potent. "These are people who may be beginning their inkjet journey," says Steedman. "They are curious, they want to know what’s possible."
With sustainability high on the agenda, this year’s UV Days operates under the theme "Mission to Zero," a nod to the industry's shared commitment to reducing environmental impact. Contrary to assumptions, that mission encompasses both LED and arc lamp technologies. As Steedman explains, "It’s not about one solution replacing another. It’s about progress across the spectrum."
Beyond the Booth: Experience and Community
UV Days is not just a trade show; it’s an immersive experience. Visitors are treated to live technology demonstrations, guided factory tours, and evening networking in a traditional German wine village atmosphere. The event takes place at IST Metz’s headquarters in Nürtingen, a short journey from Stuttgart airport, with shuttle services and local accommodation provided.
Participation is free, and attendees can register at uv-days.com. With attendance often reaching over 1,000 across several days, it is both intimate and international. For those working in print technology, UV Days offers not just insight but inspiration.
As Steedman puts it, "This isn’t just about inkjet. It’s about how we adapt and lead in an industry that is changing. The Evolution of Inkjet conference is one step on that journey."
For the future of industrial print, the road to zero begins with knowledge—and perhaps, with a glass of Riesling.