Xerox is dropping out of next year’s DRUPA trade show, with speculation that the “document company” may also be on its way out of the production print marketplace.

The show – which runs from May 28-June 7 next year – is expected to rearrange stands in one of its new ‘digital’ halls after space in Hall 8B previously allocated to Xerox became vacant.

Half of the space allocated to Xerox was reported to have been quickly taken up by Chinese wide format, flatbed UV and industrial inkjet manufacturer HanGlory, with the balance to be split up into smaller-sized stands.

A Xerox spokesperson said the company “remained committed to investing in our production print clients, partners, and prospects”, but had decided against exhibiting in 2024. “Print remains an important part of our business, and we will continue to support our network through thought leadership, Xerox-led global events, new product innovations, and client-centric trainings and demos.”

Xerox arrived at DRUPA as suddenly as it looks set to depart: nothing in one Düsseldorf show, and a hall to itself in the next. In Australia, PR was being handled by Red Balloon entrepreneur (and now TV personality) Naomi Simson. Print trade media were entertained to lunch at Sydney’s “Toaster” ahead of the event so that local team members could learn from their knowledge of the event.

Last DRUPA – in 2016 (pictured) – came as Xerox was presenting inkjet offerings in both sheetfed and web. The company is an exhibitor at America’s Printing United show in Atlanta, Georgia, next month (October 18-20).

• Investor “activist” Carl Icahn is reported to have received US$542 million (Xerox A$858 million) for his 21.8 per cent shareholding in Xerox, in a deal which reportedly closed on September 29.

Icahn directors Jesse Lynn and Steven Miller, and independent director James Nelson, are resigning from the board, to which Scott Letier has been appointed chairman. Icahn had taken a 7.1 per cent share in Xerox in 2015, increasing it over time.