Dugraf’s participation in METPACK 2026, the world’s leading trade show for the metal packaging industry, underscored a trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years: the market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technology, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

Representing Dugraf at its sixth consecutive appearance at METPACK, Affonso Carvalhaes, Business Director – Sheetfed Metal Printing, closely monitored the key trends expected to impact the industry in the coming years. Held in Germany, the trade show brought together the world’s leading manufacturers of equipment, supplies, and solutions for metal printing, offset printing, and the production of steel and aluminum metal packaging.

Industrial modernization takes center stage

One of the most striking trends observed during METPACK 2026 was the market’s strong shift toward technological upgrades in manufacturing facilities.

Rather than simply expanding production capacity, many industries are focused on replacing outdated equipment with more modern, efficient, and automated machines. In conversations with customers and manufacturers from different countries, it has become clear that the industry’s current goal is to increase productivity, stability, and operational efficiency.

Another key highlight was the presentation of solutions for digital printing on metal sheets and even directly onto metal packaging. The trend indicates that the combination of offset and digital technologies is likely to become increasingly prevalent in metal packaging plants, enabling them to more efficiently meet the demands of small, medium, and large production runs.

This trend reinforces an industry that is increasingly focused on flexibility, performance, and process control.

Growth of China's presence in the sector

Another key highlight of the trade show was the growing presence of Chinese manufacturers of offset equipment for metal engraving.

According to Affonso Carvalhaes, approximately 30% of the exhibition space was occupied by Chinese companies, many of which featured robust infrastructure and technologically advanced solutions. Manufacturers such as Shanghai RUIYUAN Printing Equipment Co. Ltd. showcased new machine models, including groundbreaking eight-color presses, demonstrating these companies’ competitive edge on the global stage.

Other Chinese manufacturers, such as FLJX FULIN Machinery, stood out by presenting various solutions for upgrading existing offset printing equipment, including UV curing systems, UV-LED curing systems, and automatic camera-based inspection systems for printed sheets, among other options designed to control and improve performance in the offset printing process.

Another notable development was the emergence of European companies specializing in adapting offset presses—originally designed for printing on paper—to the metal packaging market.

The landscape reflects an increasingly competitive and globalized market.

Sustainability is no longer just a trend—it has become a priority

Discussions on sustainability were also a key focus at METPACK 2026.

Solutions involving electron beam (EB) curing systems, new types of inks, and alternatives to reduce solvent use have demonstrated that the industry is seeking more efficient and environmentally responsible processes.

The search for materials and technologies that reduce environmental impact is no longer just a future trend—today, it is part of the strategy of the industry’s leading companies.

Dugraf is in step with global trends

During the trade show, Dugraf welcomed Brazilian customers to the Continental booth, strengthening relationships and bringing the Latin American market closer to the industry’s leading global innovations.

More than just attending a trade show, Dugraf’s participation in METPACK underscores the company’s commitment to closely following industry developments and aligning global technology with the market’s real needs.

A new generation connected to the future of industry

METPACK 2026 also held special significance for Dugraf: it marked Letícia Carvalhaes’ first time participating in the event, marking the start of her career in the metal packaging and industrial printing industry.

Your presence represents the continuation of a legacy built over decades, rooted in relationships, technical expertise, and a passion for the printing industry.

In a year in which Dugraf is celebrating its 30th anniversary, this milestone symbolizes not only the strength of the legacy we have built so far, but also our focus on the future and on the next generations who will continue to drive the market forward.

The future of metal engraving has already begun

METPACK 2026 made it clear that the metal packaging industry remains strong, dynamic, and constantly evolving.

Technology, sustainability, and operational efficiency are shaping a new phase in the industry—and companies attuned to global changes will play a key role in this process.

Dugraf continues to closely monitor this trend, strengthening partnerships, expanding technical expertise, and helping to bring greater performance and innovation to the printing and packaging industry in Latin America.

METPACK 2026: Insights into the Future of the Metal Packaging Industry