The Initiative Online Print (IOP) reaffirmed its leadership in the European online print sector during its Autumn Conference held on October 22–23 in Berlin. Nearly 60 representatives from 40 member companies attended the two-day event, which combined knowledge exchange, strategic planning, and discussions on sustainability and artificial intelligence.

IOP Chairman Bernd Zipper emphasized the importance of collaboration in navigating current market challenges. “Our members show, year after year, that joint action creates real impact,” he said. “Especially in a challenging market environment, knowledge transfer, collaboration, and the willingness to take responsibility are essential.”

The association announced three new members, Hoodie Hoo Agency GmbH, Mail Druck + Medien GmbH, and Lyto Brands Group GmbH, and welcomed the reinstatement of Spread Group. Hoodie Hoo specializes in textile production, product design, and e-commerce shop management; Mail Druck + Medien is known for data-driven print communication; and Lyto Brands Group operates at the intersection of print, e-commerce, and brand communication. Sattler Media GmbH was also introduced as the successor to Primus International Printing GmbH, expanding IOP’s reach and diversity.

Sustainability remained a key theme, with the ESG Working Group presenting updates on initiatives for 2025, including an ESG Boot Camp in Essen and the development of the EUDR-X data standard to support implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation in printing workflows. The group also announced cooperation with the German Printing and Media Industries Federation (bvdm) to develop recommendations for the German Sustainability Code. “Our goal is to provide member companies with pragmatic tools to implement ESG principles in an economically and legally sound way,” said project manager Dominik Haacke.

The conference also explored future-focused topics, including social commerce and artificial intelligence. Hoodie Hoo’s Johannes Kautz and ENKIME’s Matteo Sidiropoulos discussed how influencer marketing and creator commerce are reshaping print’s role in brand communication. Meanwhile, the AI Working Group, represented by Levanty’s Leon Mehlau and Christoph Clermont, shared insights on using AI for print automation and marketing optimization, underscoring the importance of data quality and experimentation.

Looking ahead, the IOP announced its 2026 agenda, centered on the “Twin Transformation” of sustainability and AI. Planned initiatives include a certified AI skills training program in partnership with Härting law firm and Blackboat agency, scheduled for January 2026. “Our Agenda 2026 combines sustainability and artificial intelligence – the two key drivers for the future of online printing,” said Haacke. The conference closed with a call for continued collaboration, innovation, and responsible leadership across the online print community.