Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom

Rotogravure Printing Machine in United Kingdom Trends and Forecast

The future of the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, commercial, and publication markets. The global rotogravure printing machine market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 3.6% from 2025 to 2031. The rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the increasing need for flexible packaging, the growing interest in printed packaging, and the rising demand for printing of superior quality.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the substrate type category, plastic will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its resilience to moisture and robustness.
• Within the end use category, packaging is expected to witness the highest growth due to its ability to print on the substrate‘s two sides.

Emerging Trends in the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom’s rotogravure printing machine market is experiencing a technological transformation, driven by evolving consumer expectations, sustainability pressures, and Brexit-induced shifts in supply chains. UK packaging converters are focusing on localized, precision-based printing with increased demand for compliance-ready and automation-enhanced machinery. These changes are also being shaped by high-end packaging applications, digital integration, and a growing emphasis on data-driven productivity. As brands pursue packaging that is not only visually compelling but also environmentally sound, the UK market is moving steadily toward smarter, leaner, and more versatile gravure printing solutions.

• Adoption of Hybrid Gravure-Digital Systems: UK converters are increasingly incorporating hybrid rotogravure systems that integrate digital inkjet capabilities for short-run customization. This enables mass production with on-the-fly personalization, meeting growing demand for tailored packaging. These hybrid models reduce waste and setup time, offering versatility without sacrificing gravure’s high print quality. The trend is driven by brands seeking personalized consumer engagement and more agile print capabilities.
• Rise in Recyclable Barrier Film Printing: With increasing pressure to move away from multilayer plastics, UK converters are adopting gravure presses optimized for printing on mono-material and recyclable barrier films. These machines offer precise ink laydown and drying control, critical for maintaining barrier integrity. This trend aligns with the UK’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies and supports a circular economy for food and household packaging.
• Integration of Cloud-Based Press Monitoring Systems: UK facilities are deploying cloud-enabled platforms that monitor gravure press performance, ink usage, downtime, and quality metrics in real time. These systems facilitate predictive maintenance, reduce unplanned stoppages, and support remote decision-making. It reflects a broader digital shift toward Industry 4.0 within the UK’s print and packaging sectors, enhancing operational visibility and long-term cost control.
• Growth in Gravure Applications for Security Packaging: As demand grows for tamper-evident and anti-counterfeit features in packaging, UK rotogravure lines are being adapted to apply micro-patterns, hidden codes, and specialty inks. Gravure’s ability to produce consistent high-resolution effects makes it ideal for high-value items such as pharmaceuticals, alcohol, and electronics. This trend is strengthening packaging’s role in brand protection and supply chain transparency.
• Implementation of Carbon Reduction Printing Protocols: UK companies are aligning with national net-zero targets by introducing energy-efficient gravure presses with heat recovery units, low-friction components, and eco-solvent ink systems. These machines are optimized to reduce electricity and gas consumption. The move helps companies meet ESG goals and appeals to sustainability-conscious clients while lowering long-term production costs.

Emerging trends in the UK’s rotogravure printing machine market emphasize smarter, sustainable, and more secure production capabilities. Hybrid configurations, recyclable substrates, and digital connectivity are leading the charge, while carbon reduction and personalization remain top priorities. These innovations are transforming gravure into a highly adaptive solution for the UK’s evolving packaging demands.

Recent Developments in the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom

The UK’s rotogravure printing machine market has seen targeted developments focused on performance enhancement, sustainability compliance, and local service expansion. With an eye on post-Brexit operational resilience and green packaging mandates, manufacturers are optimizing workflows, upgrading existing presses, and introducing user-friendly features. Demand for precision, speed, and regulatory conformity has accelerated investments in modernized gravure systems. Below are five notable developments shaping the present-day rotogravure landscape in the United Kingdom.

• Rollout of Compact Gravure Presses for Urban Facilities: UK packaging firms operating in constrained urban areas are adopting compact gravure machines that deliver high-speed performance with a reduced footprint. These systems are ideal for short runs and can be easily integrated into existing infrastructure. Their space-saving design, coupled with minimal installation requirements, supports agile production in city-based operations.
• Launch of Biodegradable Ink Compatibility Modules: Gravure machines across the UK are being upgraded with modules that support biodegradable inks for compostable and paper-based substrates. These modules control ink temperature, drying balance, and pH levels, ensuring consistent performance with new formulations. The enhancement supports eco-label packaging production and aligns with changing consumer preferences and supermarket sustainability policies.
• Growth of Gravure Print Services for Brexit-Adjusted Supply Chains: To reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, UK converters are boosting in-house gravure capabilities for items previously imported. New machine installations are tailored to local substrate specs and volume needs. This development increases flexibility, strengthens domestic supply networks, and helps companies control lead times more effectively in a post-Brexit environment.
• Installation of AI-Based Waste Reduction Tools: UK-based printers are introducing AI-driven modules that track substrate movement, color density, and ink absorption in real time. These tools reduce excess material use and optimize ink flow, significantly cutting operational waste. They’re increasingly seen as essential components for meeting cost targets and environmental benchmarks.
• Launch of Enhanced Operator Training Platforms: UK equipment vendors have rolled out interactive training platforms using VR and simulation software to upskill press operators. These tools offer immersive learning on machine functions, safety protocols, and troubleshooting. It improves operator performance, reduces setup errors, and supports workforce modernization in an industry facing skill shortages.

Recent developments in the UK’s rotogravure printing machine market reveal a clear push for leaner, greener, and more localized printing operations. Compact press design, biodegradable ink modules, and AI integration are enabling firms to adapt quickly to regulatory and market pressures. These innovations are positioning the UK gravure sector as both sustainable and strategically independent.

Strategic Growth Opportunities for Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom’s rotogravure printing machine market is evolving under pressure from sustainability mandates, e-commerce growth, and demand for premium, export-ready packaging. As manufacturers upgrade capabilities, rotogravure systems offer precise, consistent prints ideal for high-volume applications. The convergence of automation, recyclability requirements, and consumer expectations is steering investment toward state-of-the-art equipment. These conditions create fertile ground for rotogravure expansion across sectors like food, pharma, beauty, industrial, and retail packaging, aligning technology adoption with modern industry needs and ecological objectives.

• Food and Beverage Flexible Packaging: UK food producers are adopting rotogravure printing for flexible packaging formats like pouches and wraps. High print fidelity enhances branding and complies with nutritional labeling laws. Long production runs are cost-efficient with rotogravure, and runs on recyclable film support corporate sustainability goals. As retail chains emphasize environmentally friendly packaging, businesses that deploy rotogravure systems can leverage complex print effects while maintaining compliance, strengthening their position in both domestic and export markets.
• Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Labelling: UK pharmaceutical manufacturers require precise, error-free labeling for medicines and medical devices. Rotogravure systems enable durable printing on foil blister packs and laminated sachets with microtext, barcodes, and batch codes. The speed and print clarity support compliance with MHRA guidelines and EU export regulations. As contract packaging services expand and healthcare regulations tighten, rotogravure printing provides reliability, traceability, and scalability essential for both domestic production and international distribution.
• Beauty, Cosmetics and Luxury Packaging: The UK cosmetics sector demands premium-looking packaging to align with brand positioning. Rotogravure printing enables metal effects, textured finishes, and vibrant imagery on flexible and rigid formats. These features elevate consumer perception and justify premium pricing. With rotogravure, manufacturers can reliably reproduce intricate branding across large runs, improving speed to market for new product launches. This enhances brand reputation domestically and supports exports to high value markets like the Middle East and Asia.
• Industrial and Chemical Product Labelling: UK producers of industrial adhesives, lubricants, and solvents require robust labels resistant to chemicals and harsh environments. Rotogravure printing on PVC and laminated film ensures print durability and clarity under challenging conditions. Clear hazard symbols and multilingual instructions support compliance with CLP regulations. As industrial and agrochemical firms expand export operations, rotogravure labelling solutions ensure packaging meets international safety standards while maintaining quality and legibility over long distribution chains.
• Retail and E commerce Fulfilment Packaging: Growth of e commerce in the UK is driving demand for branded mailers, pouches, and protective wraps. Rotogravure printing enables consistent brand presentation on high volumes of shipping materials. The technology supports vibrant graphics with fast production speeds. As consumer expectations for unboxing experiences increase, retailers can adopt rotogravure systems to produce recyclable, visually engaging packaging at scale. This enhances brand image while aligning with circular economy goals and strengthening online market presence.

These opportunities in food, healthcare, beauty, industry, and e commerce packaging are helping advance rotogravure adoption in the UK. By delivering on quality, compliance and volume needs while supporting sustainable practices, rotogravure systems are becoming central to modern packaging strategies. This positions the UK industry to compete globally and meet evolving customer and regulatory expectations.

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Driver and Challenges

The UK rotogravure printing market is influenced by automation trends, export channel growth, and stringent sustainability rules. Investment in advanced machinery is increasing across packaging, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors to meet speed, quality, and environmental requirements. However, high capital costs, energy challenges, and competition from digital technologies pose barriers. Understanding the interplay between these drivers and obstacles is essential for firms navigating equipment upgrades and regulatory adaptation. Strategic investment in efficiency and innovation will determine success amid evolving market conditions and ecological imperatives.

The factors responsible for driving the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom include:
• Sustainability and Recyclability Regulation: UK packaging rules require recyclable materials and limit single use plastic. Rotogravure systems can handle recycled films and low VOC inks, enabling compliance. Manufacturers benefit from controlled ink usage and minimal waste, improving their environmental footprint. This regulatory pressure drives demand for rotogravure machines that support eco-packaging, while reducing landfill impact and improving brand credibility in green markets.
• Automation and Smart Factory Integration: Industry 4.0 adoption is accelerating across UK manufacturing. Rotogravure machines equipped with remote monitoring, auto registration, and predictive maintenance improve efficiency and reduce downtime. Integration with ERP systems enhances traceability and order control. Manufacturers deploying these systems can increase output quality, reduce labor dependency, and accelerate digital transformation across facilities.
• Growth in Export and Contract Packaging Demand: UK businesses depend on export markets that require consistent, high-quality packaging. Rotogravure printing ensures colour accuracy and long-run capacity meeting international standards. Contract manufacturing needs flexibility for multiple client brands, and rotogravure supports this with rapid changeover capabilities. As exports grow, adoption of rotogravure technology becomes a strategic asset for UK packaging providers.
• Premiumisation of Consumer Goods: Consumer demand for visually expressive packaging is rising in food, cosmetics, and premium FMCG. Rotogravure delivers complex finishes like metallics and textures that support premium positioning. Brands leveraging these capabilities enhance shelf impact and justify higher price points. Rotogravure enables scalable production aligned with marketing strategies aimed at lifestyle and luxury segments.
• Increasing Energy Costs and Supply Security: Rising energy prices in the UK raise operational costs for rotogravure machines. Drying units and motors require power, making energy efficiency essential. Volatility in supply can disrupt production schedules. Firms must invest in efficient technology, energy recovery and backup systems to maintain competitiveness. These challenges add pressure but also push advancement in machine design.

Challenges in the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom are:
• High Capital Investment: Rotogravure systems demand significant upfront investment in machines, cylinders and automation features. SMEs may struggle to finance these costs, limiting access. Without leasing or shared infrastructure models, adoption remains concentrated among larger manufacturers. This financial barrier slows widespread uptake across sectors with less capital.
• Workforce Skill Shortages: Operating rotogravure machines requires trained technicians who understand mechanics, inks, and digital controls. The UK’s print sector is experiencing conformance and maintenance skill gaps. Without skilled staff, companies face underutilisation and quality issues. Training and apprenticeships are needed to support sustainable growth of rotogravure installations.
• Competition from Digital and Flexo Printing: Flexographic and digital presses are more agile for short runs, personalization, and rapid changeovers. Brands using seasonal or bespoke packaging favour these methods. Rotogravure’s strength in long runs faces pressure from technologies offering flexibility and lower setup cost. Adapting with hybrid solutions may help maintain competitiveness in varied production contexts.

UK demand for sustainable, automated, premium and export compatible packaging is fueling rotogravure investment. Yet, energy costs, capital intensity and workforce constraints pose barriers. Companies that integrate smart manufacturing, support training, and innovate in service models can leverage rotogravure’s strengths. Strategic adaptation will ensure relevance in a market where quality, compliance and eco performance are vital for future competitiveness.

List of Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, rotogravure printing machine companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the rotogravure printing machine companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5
• Company 6
• Company 7
• Company 8
• Company 9
• Company 10

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom by substrate type, ink type, and end use.

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom by Substrate Type [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Plastic
• Paper & Paperboard
• Metal
• Others

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom by Ink Type [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Water-Based ink
• Solvent-Based ink

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom by End Use [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Packaging
• Commercial
• Publication
• Others

Features of the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom

Market Size Estimates: Rotogravure printing machine in United Kingdom market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Rotogravure printing machine in United Kingdom market size by substrate type, ink type, and end use in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different substrate type, ink type, and end use for the rotogravure printing machine in United Kingdom.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the rotogravure printing machine in United Kingdom.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

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FAQ

Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are the increasing need for flexible packaging, the growing interest in printed packaging, and the rising demand for printing of superior quality.
Q2. What are the major segments for rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom?
Answer: The future of the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, commercial, and publication markets.
Q3. Which rotogravure printing machine market segment in United Kingdom will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that plastic will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its resilience to moisture and robustness.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.

This report answers following 10 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the rotogravure printing machine market in United Kingdom by substrate type (plastic, paper & paperboard, metal, and others), ink type (water-based ink and solvent-based ink), and end use (packaging, commercial, publication, and others)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Size, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Growth, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Analysis, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Report, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Share, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Trends, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in United Kingdom Forecast, Rotogravure Printing Machine Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.