AI is now a given in newspapers, but AI in newspaper printing... who knows what the future holds? With exactly that part of the keynote address at this year’s World Printers Summit, attendees may become the best-informed.

The WAN-Ifra event – with its mix of conference, supplier meetings, networking and social gatherings – is being held in Munich’s Design Offices (below) from October 8-9.

Keynote speaker is Thomas Schultz-Homberg, chief executive of Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger Medien in Cologne, Germany. Artificial intelligence is being in routine processes, and the presentation will use specific cases to explain how intelligent AI agents optimise daily workflows in print-related areas, how digital transformation of logistics and delivery is setting new standards, and how the reader market and customer service are benefitting. A focus will be on the future potential of AI in print-related areas, with the publisher increasingly relying on AI-base automation.

The session is being moderated by WAN-Ifra president Ladina Heimgartner, who heads Ringier Media and is chief executive of Ringier Media Switzerland.

The programme will include discussions on cutting-edge technology, a review of the state of materials with a panel discussion and a speaker, and address the pressing issue of how best to attract young talent to the industry.

All in the afternoon of the first day, speakers will also include Ladina Heimgartner, WAN-Ifra chief executive Vincent Peyrègne, WPF director Ingi Rafn Olafsson, and Andreas Gierth, managing director of Medienservice and head of production at Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

A session will present results of the World Printers Survey and World Press Trends, with contributions from Olafsson, Erritsø Tryk production director Flemming Heding Pedersen and Rodi Groep chief executive Dick Ranzijn.

Winners of the Sustainability and Print Innovation Awards will be honoured in an awards ceremony.

Thursday’s programme includes a DACH panel discussion moderated by Andreas Gierth with Monopteros partner Michael Has; supplier meetings, a networking lunch, a sponsored session, and roundtables.

The event concludes with a visit to the to the Süddeutscher Zeitungs printing plant (top).