Adobe rejoins the Ghent Workgroup

The Ghent Workgroup (GWG) has announced that Adobe has rejoined the organisation, reinforcing its long-standing role in shaping the future of digital print and publishing standards.

Adobe, credited with inventing the PDF format in 1993, has been a key driver of innovation in digital print workflows since its founding in 1982. Today, the PDF format underpins ISO standards and forms the foundation of the Ghent Workgroup’s technical developments and best practices.

“Print is part of Adobe’s DNA,” said Mike Scrutton, Director of Print Technology and Strategy at Adobe. “From inventing digital printing in the 1980s to driving innovation across creative and production workflows, Adobe has consistently led the way in innovation and standards. Rejoining the Ghent Workgroup reflects our commitment to advancing industry standards, especially in areas like embellishment and textile. We’re proud to collaborate with a group whose objectives closely align with our vision for the future of print.”

Dave Zwang, consulting analyst and Chair of the Ghent Workgroup, welcomed Adobe’s return. “The mission of the Ghent Workgroup is to push the printing industry forward by developing practical standards. For nearly 25 years, we’ve built frameworks widely adopted across global markets. Support from leading vendors like Adobe is critical to extending this reach. Few companies are as integral to our industry as Adobe, and we’re delighted to have them back.”

Formed in 2002, the Ghent Workgroup develops and maintains specifications based on ISO PDF/X standards, ensuring consistent and efficient workflows across print and publishing sectors. Adobe’s renewed membership enables closer alignment between the GWG’s ongoing work and Adobe’s contributions to global standards organisations, including ISO and the PDF Association.