It’s on – drupa 2008 is open!

The printing industries four-year annual mega-party kicked off two hours ago at the Messe (fairground) Düsseldorf on the Rhine.

The most anticipated graphic arts show of them all, drupa has retained its drawing power, increasing in scope and size as it plans to admit some 500,000 visitors from all parts of the globe.

Simon Enticknap, editor of Print 21, is on the spot, already posting news and views on the greatest exhibition of printing technology over the massive 19 halls at the Messe. Already the fun has begun with the first pre-drupa press conferences where rival German press manufacturers try to one up one another with initial announcements. Read Simon’s unvarnished views below.

Over the next 14 days he will lead the Print21online team of journalists and industry experts, including publisher, Patrick Howard, in reporting on the events, releases and personalities of the greatest graphics show on earth.

Be sure to check in here on a regular basis and keep up to the minute with the new and traditional forces that are shaping your industry.