It is very interesting to watch the evolution of flexible and printed electronics. Some markets that were projected to be huge opportunities in the early days, such as organic photovoltaics, have largely fallen by the wayside. Other segments, such as RFID, have enjoyed good growth. Meanwhile, other applications have developed new markets and even more are poised to grow in the future.

Our Fall 2019 issue features three of the strongest opportunities for flexible and printed electronics. First up is a look at smart packaging. In “Smart Packaging Continues to Find New Opportunities,” which begins on page 12, key systems manufacturers and industry leaders discuss this market.

While smart packaging has yet to reach the mainstream, there are interesting projects that have reached commercialization, and leaders say there are more projects in the pipeline.

In-mold electronics (IME) are one of the most interesting opportunities, with automotive and white goods appliance brand owners working closely with IME specialists on projects that are reaching fruition. In “In-Mold Electronics Makes Gains in Automotive, Appliances and More,” starting on page 15, industry leaders share their insights into this market.

Wearables are of great interest to consumers, as monitoring health and athletic performance are becoming part of everyday life for many people. In “Wearables Market Trending Upward,” beginning on page 18, some innovative designers, as well as key suppliers to the industry, talk about the future of this fast-growing segment.

This issue of Printed Electronics Now also features our annual International Suppliers’ Directory, our comprehensive listing of printed electronics systems, raw materials, equipment, services, researchers and more, and the manufacturers and suppliers who are creating these systems. In addition to this issue, our Suppliers’ Directory can also be found on the web at nitesh_pen.rodpub.com.

Please let us know if your company should also be listed, and I hope you find this issue very helpful!