Konica Minolta has confirmed that its research suggests that, despite the ongoing pandemic, labels will continue to play a significant role in the whole global manufacturing, supply and usage chain.

The company’s own research has shown that in terms of linear metres printed on its AccurioLabel presses across Europe, page volumes jumped by 150% in March 2020 – at the peak of the lockdown – compared to the previous month.

In a recent statement Konica Minolta acknowledged that the increase was partly attributable to consumers stocking up on products, causing a surge in demand. However it went on to say, ‘Digital is the only technology capable of delivering short to medium runs, with a quick turnaround time – with customers reporting a surge in digital production. And with many companies reducing their on-site workforce during the lockdown, the AccurioLabel presses were machines of choice thanks to their ease of use.

‘Despite all the bad news in the market over coronavirus, we’ve seen some positives from our label customer base of more than 500 AccurioPress installations worldwide, of which 200 are based in Europe. Some customers have registered an increase in demand across Europe – including Italy, Norway, Ukraine and the UK – as well as further afield.’