Ghana’s Printing Industry Gains Momentum with Retail Expansion
Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s visual communications and printing industry is experiencing a resurgence, fueled by growth in the retail sector, ongoing urban development and increasing demand for advertising. Investments in large format printing technology are accelerating as businesses seek to capitalize on expanding commercial opportunities.
Industry analysis indicates that Ghana’s retail sector reached a value of approximately $32 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $54 billion by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate of 7.5%, according to DataMintelligence.
The outdoor advertising segment, a significant driver of demand for large format printing, currently generates an estimated $60 million in annual revenue and accounts for over 20 percent of total advertising expenditure within the country. This growth is occurring as brands intensify competition for visibility across shopping centers, storefronts, events, and public spaces.
Chroma Digital Solutions, a local print service provider, recently invested in a Canon Colorado M5W large format printer to enhance its production capabilities. The company stated the fresh system will enable it to produce a broader range of applications, including retail displays, interior décor, and outdoor advertising materials designed to withstand the challenging West African climate.
Kwame Owusu-Kwarteng, Operations Manager at Chroma Digital Solutions, explained that the investment was a response to evolving client expectations. “In today’s market, clients expect speed, consistency and the ability to handle a wide range of print applications from décor to outdoor graphics,” he said. He further noted the printer’s UVgel printing capability will ensure materials can endure the region’s high temperatures and prolonged sunlight exposure.
The Colorado M5W also supports white ink printing and the combination of matte and gloss finishes, allowing Chroma Digital Solutions to offer more specialized print products locally. Canon Central & North Africa reports increasing demand for sophisticated printing services as businesses prioritize brand visibility and customer experience.
Tushar Vashnavi, Business Unit Director at Canon Central & North Africa, stated that Ghana’s expanding retail and infrastructure sectors are prompting print providers to move beyond basic production services. “Ghana is one of West Africa’s most dynamic visual communications markets,” he said, adding that printing companies are increasingly adopting technologies that allow them to broaden their service offerings and respond more quickly to customer needs.
Canon emphasized the importance of reliable local technical support in facilitating the adoption of new technologies and maintaining stable operations in emerging markets. Chroma Digital Solutions anticipates the technology upgrade will strengthen its ability to manage complex projects and expand its service portfolio.
Ghana’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate reached 2.9 percent in 2023 and is projected to climb to 4 percent in 2024, according to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, further supporting the optimistic outlook for the retail and visual communications sectors.
Industry observers anticipate continued growth in demand for high-quality visual communication as Ghana’s economy diversifies and sectors such as retail, real estate, events, and corporate branding continue to expand.
