The latest ‘Market Opportunities for Direct-to Technologies 2004-9’ study reveals that although Drupa’04 provided a boost to violet platesetters, thermal address is still the preferred system for the majority of printers. The report, based on confidential sales returns from CtP suppliers, highlights •Worldwide sales of platesetters shot up 19% to some 5,400 in ’04. While violet sales increased by 12%, sales of thermal machines continued to power ahead with sales up 23% to 3,600. •While there are great expectations for the 4pp violet market, thermal 4pp machines outsold those of visible by a factor of almost two to one in ‘04. •In fact, 8pp platesetters continue to be the preferred format for many printers, accounting for 45% of all sales last year – with thermal machines outselling those of visible by three to one. •Europe accounted for 44% of worldwide sales while US sales fell back to 25% as CtP adoption starts to approach market saturation. •Within Europe, the UK took the lead over Germany as being the leading investor in CtP last year. VSM put this down to strong economic performance and business confidence. •CtP sales to the Asia Pacific Region rose by almost 50%, but still account for less than one-third of total worldwide sales. The China market has yet to take off. •Unsurprisingly, thermal CtP plates continue to dominate worldwide demand, accounting for almost 70% of CtP plate consumption in ‘04. •CtP plates now account for 40% or so of the world’s 500 M2 million offset plates and are set to break the 50% barrier within the next couple of years says the report. Reporting on prospects for printing plates, film, CtP, CtF, digital proofing and DI presses, the annual publication is intended as a strategy planning document for worldwide manufacturers and vendors of machines and consumables. It covers the global markets of North and South America, Europe, Japan, Asia Pacific Rim and China and provides forecasts for the next five years. Further information about this and other reports published by Vantage Strategic Marketing can be obtained from Barry Happé at [email protected] or from their website www.vsm.uk.com