Hungary’s Norma invests in Edale FL3 Label and Packaging printing press

Hungary-based label producer Norma has invested in nine-color Edale FL3 label and packaging printing press, in a bid to enhance its production operations. The nine-color Edale FL3 press with UV curing will allow the label and packaging manufacturer to produce IML, self-adhesive, multi-layer and extra-large labels. Edale press will also be used for laminates, hot-melt application and specialities.

The new FL3 press features a special 41 maximum print length for extra-large in-mould labels, second web re-insertion for multi-layer labels, high capacity hot air drying for in-mould label coating and variable length sheeting with CAM profile. Other features of the FL3 press include full servo driven technology and UniPrint technology, which enables to deliver quality print. Edale FL3 press, which is fully upgradeable, offers fast run speeds, quick colour changes and an ultra-short web path to reduce waste and maximize efficiency.

Norma’s managing director Gábor Rostás said: “This step up prepares us for the future. With the Edale FL3, we can achieve lower maintenence costs and reduce waste as well as quicker colour and job changes.

Edale managing director James Boughton said: ‘We are delighted to be working with Norma on this project. With a bespoke set of customer requirements, this has been another great opportunity to show off our engineering capabilities.”

In October, Edale has selected HKM Sp. Z O.O. as its distributor for the Polish market. Edale produces narrow mid-web flexographic and digital printing presses, as well as converting equipment. HKM will distribute Edale’s print and packaging solutions to the customers in the Polish market.

Domino Announces Inkjet Coverage Guide Booklet

Domino continues to provide customers with tools to help their businesses increase top-line growth, reduce costs, increase uptime and decrease downtime. The latest example can be found in the release of its Inkjet Coverage Guide booklet—a tool to help customers and prospects estimate ink costs of the Domino N610i digital UV inkjet label press as compared to running the same label job on other technologies.

“Customers new to digital inkjet often ask about the cost of the ink. As ink is the primary consumable, it is an important question. The Inkjet Coverage Guide is a booklet to help customers better understand ink cost and coverage in digital label production,” says Patrick LaMourie, digital solutions program manager.

In this new booklet, the artwork of various label samples is shown, identifying their ink coverage, cost per msi and details of each labels’ corresponding costs. In an easy-to-read table format, estimates of production costs for various label jobs compare the Domino N610i digital UV inkjet to a typical flexo press and electrophotography (EP). Each job shows the artwork of the label, the quantity of the labels, the label dimensions, number of colors, material cost, ink cost, job cost ($/1000), and total job cost.

Durst North America expands its investment in UV Label Business

Following a successful Labelexpo Durst increases offerings throughout the world. “Our commitment to the label business has been consistent since we launched our first Tau Press in 2011, said Tim Saur Managing Director & CEO of Durst USA and Canada. “The launch of the new Tau 330 RSC in Brussels was extremely well received and furthers our commitment”.

“In addition, we also showcased low migration inks, have launched some aggressive promotions in North America, and have several new installations going in the forth quarter 2017launched great promotions here in North America, and have several new installations going in Q4.  We are also excited to announce that Durst intends to open a demo center in Chicago in 2018.”

With its proprietary single pass UV inkjet technology, Durst provides the required flexibility to produce fast, efficient and with the highest print quality for the complete range of label & packaging applications. Small, medium, and now long runs are highly profitable with digital systems from Durst. The options are virtually unlimited and open up an enormous potential for new products and services in an ever-changing market.

With Durst continuous innovation of the Tau 330 UV portfolio, users can make the most of their investment in high-speed, high-resolution digital UV label production.

At LabelExpo Asia, AVT to showcase Asia debut of 100% Inspection System for Digital Printers

For the first time at LabelExpo Asia, AVT will demonstrate Helios D (digital), a high-end 100% automatic inspection system specifically designed to address digital printing challenges such as missing nozzles, ink drips and color uniformity – all in real time. AVT, the world leader in print inspection, print process control, and quality assurance solutions, will be located at Stand B18 during the show, which occurs December 5-8 in Shanghai.

Helios D works seamlessly on any application and substrate, including label stock, transparent film and even highly-reflective foil. Helios D automatically identifies defects like missing nozzles, spots, damages and color changes as soon as they occur. The result is reduced waste, enhanced production performance and comprehensive monitoring. 

AVT also will show automation and workflow systems for traditional flexo printing amounting to start-to-finish print inspection and quality control solutions. For example, AVT’s well-regarded Offline Setup reduces inspection’s “human factor” through quality standardization and shortens setup time, resulting in reduced waste and streamlined setup workflows – all under the same global quality standards.

Then, AVT’s signature Helios solution provides 100% print inspection, helping ensure that all outgoing materials are within specification for customer satisfaction. Helios is trusted by printers worldwide, even in sectors where exemplary print quality is required to meet consumer safety regulations – such as the pharmaceutical and food industries.

For reporting purposes, AVT’s PrintFlow Manager ensures that production data collected from all platforms is presented directly to overseers. Production managers can monitor, analyze and control production quality right from their desktops.

The entire process is tied together by AVT’s Workflow Link, which serves as a bridge from press to rewinder, increasing line efficiency and productivity while stopping only for designated defects. Slitter rewinders can run at top speeds and, by selecting the extraction of only critical defects, rewinder stops can be reduced by up to 50%.

Finally, AVT also will showcase Offline Proofing for scenarios where in-line inspection isn’t feasible. For example, SolidProof ensures that no critical errors have been overlooked in the print production process, while SoftProof inspects artwork and digital files with pixel precision, detecting missing text and graphics, incorrect fonts and text size, broken type and color deviations. CloudProof is a collaborative, web-based upstream application that reduces approval cycles by sharing inspection projects.

According to Yair Shaharabany, President of Asia Pacific at AVT: "LabelExpo Asia provides an unrivaled opportunity to display our inspection and quality control solutions to many of the world’s fastest-growing print markets. We look forward to demonstrating our unsurpassed systems for both digital and flexo printing, which are utilized by customers around the world to ensure quality, reduce waste and streamline overall production efforts."

Codimarc takes first step into digital with Domino

Codimarc, based in Oliveira Sao Mateus, Portugal, has purchased its first digital label press and will take delivery of a Domino N610i inkjet label press in early December. Founded in 1997, Codimarc, is a specialist label printer and provides services with a focus on identification and traceability, producing around 4 billion labels per year in total.

Codimarc employs 30 people, had a turnover of $4.3M USD in 2017, and us experiencing a growth of almost 20 percent in the current financial period. Codimarc serves a global customer base operating across various sectors including food and beverage packaging, cosmetics and personal care, transport and logistics, and the chemical, pharmaceutical, industrial and automotive sectors.

Currently using flexographic and hot stamping technologies, Codimarc produces self-adhesive product labels, custom labels for special applications, functional tags and tickets, promotional labels and multi-lingual printing and personalization solutions to its customers.

José Sampaio, general manager at Codimarc, said: ‘With increasing customer demand for shorter print runs and lead times, we realized that it was time for us to start investing in digital. We conducted a long and thorough review of the different digital technologies and solutions available and selected the 5-color Domino N610i label press with the new UV90 ink set because it had the best print quality, the highest speed and productivity, and the best total cost of ownership.’

He continued, ‘Our objective is to help our customers identify and sell more products everyday. This new investment into digital inkjet will supplement and complement our existing printing technologies, enabling us to expand our business and product offering to our customers, which in turn, will create new business opportunities for them in the future.’

Cristina Azevedo, finance director at Codimarc, said: ‘We work with leading brands in innovation and with established, financially stable partners to ensure that we provide our customers with the security they require. We are delighted to be taking our first step into digital printing in partnership with Domino, whose extensive experience of developing and manufacturing proven and reliable inkjet technologies was another contributory factor in our decision.’                       

Amjet Shanghai extends Esko Partnership with First CDI Crystal 5080 XPS in Greater China

Leading Chinese flexo platemaker Amjet Shanghai, a division of Amjet Group, has again partnered with Esko to install the first CDI Crystal 5080 XPS system in Greater China. The investment in world-class platemaking process technology includes the latest Automation Engine prepress workflow as well as the latest screening technology for flexo printing. It will enable Amjet Shanghai to focus on the highest definition flexo production technology for flexible packaging and labels.

With the new solution, Amjet Shanghai, a repeated winner of the FTA Award in the United States, aims to combine greater prepress workflow and the highest quality screening technology to improve efficiency and to enhance the quality of its packaging and printing.

Precise Crystal control
The new and unique CDI Crystal XPS is a digitally-controlled exposure unit supporting all photopolymer flexo plates. The combined solution reduces five manual steps in the traditional platemaking process to just one step. The platemaking device integrates with the entire prepress workflow, including Device Manager, to optimally control the output of plates.

Plates are placed onto the glass surface, where very accurate back and main exposures - by patented LED UV light technology that allows very precise control - are conducted simultaneously. The consistent light source and nearly concurrent back and main exposure deliver unmatched relief and image consistency combined with perfectly formed flat-top dots. As a result, these plates deliver the highest level of consistency and quality on press.

One of the primary factors influencing plate stability is UV exposure. It has also been proven that the shorter the time (dwell) between main exposure and back exposure, the finer the detail, such as highlight dots, tiny linework, and text, can be held on the plate. The CDI Crystal XPS completes these exposures nearly simultaneously, providing the absolute highest quality dot and fine elements.

Automation Engine manages Flexo Platemaking
Automation Engine enables a fully-automated platemaking workflow, from ripped files all the way to the exposed plate on the CDI Crystal XPS, without operator intervention. With Device Manager, anyone that needs to know what the status of a job is, can check from the comfort of their desks. Jobs can quickly and easily be placed in queues, and queues can be modified as needed. This automation not only saves valuable operator time, but also time in the platemaking process to help meet customer customer demand.

Geert de Proost, Director Solutions Marketing for Esko, states, “With our new flexo platemaking solutions, we ensure that flexo printing maintains its prominent position and is ready for the business challenges of label and flexo converters today.”

The CDI Crystal and XPS Crystal UV exposure unit was unveiled by Esko at Drupa 2016. Accolades include the Red Dot Design Award, the Printing Industries of America (PIA) InterTech Technology Award, the American Flexo Association / Graphic Arts Association of Technology Innovation Award and the FlexoTech Innovation Award.

Amjet Graphics was formed in 1998 and is a privately-owned high-tech enterprise that focuses on professional flexo prepress packaging design and high-end flexo plate-making. It currently has over 200 specialties including plate-making expertise, color management, digital data processing and packaging design.

Amjet Graphics owns Amjet (ShenZhen), Amjet (Shanghai), Amjet (ZhongShan), Amjet (QingDao) and Amjet (XiaMen). The group has seven CTP production lines and has won many domestic and international awards, including Excellence in Flexography Gold and Silver from from the FTA and 12 DuPont Asian-Pacific GrandPrix Awards.

Headquartered in Gent (Belgium) with sales and service organization all over the globe, the Esko product portfolio supports and manages the packaging and print processes for brand owners, retailers, designers, premedia and trade shops, packaging manufacturers, and converters. For 9 out of 10 retail packages, Esko solutions are used in packaging management, asset management, artwork creation, structural design, prepress, 3D visualization, flexo plate making, workflow automation, quality assurance, sample-making, palletization, supply chain collaboration and/or the production of signage and displays.

The Esko solutions consist of an extensive suite of software and two hardware product lines: CDI flexo computer-to-plate imagers and exposure units as well as Kongsberg digital cutting systems, complemented with professional services, training and consultancy.

Enfocus, with its suite of automation solutions and PDF quality control tools for printers, publishers, and graphic designers, is an Esko subsidiary. MediaBeacon, with its digital asset management (DAM) solutions is also part of the Esko family.

Labelexpo Asia 2017 focuses on digital and smart technologies

Labelexpo Asia 2017 will present the Digital Trail and Smart Zone features for the first time. Taking place in Halls E1 and E2 of the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) from 5 – 8 December, they will highlight the latest advances in these technologies and their respective applications for label and package printing.

Featuring HP, Domino, Fuji Xerox and Xeikon, the Digital Trail will demonstrate the benefits of adopting a digital printing operation. Visitors will see several new major presses launched for the Asian continent as part of the Trail including, HP Indigo’s WS6800 digital press, the Durst Tau 330E UV digital inkjet press from Fuji Xerox, Domino’s N610i digital color press and Xeikon’s 3500 press. The Trail will involve live press runs and offer a good overview of color management, origination and pre-press, workflow, print quality, speed ability and finishing solutions using digital technology. Visitors will also be able to collect samples and those completing the Trail will be entered into a competition prize draw to win an Apple Watch series 3.

Located in Hall E2, exhibitors including DPS Innovations, Shanghai Jion Point Information Technology, ST, Thinkgo Technology, Visualnet and Voyanic will take part in the Smart Zone and be displaying some of the newest active and intelligent label and packaging applications available to the market. Visitors will see a variety of products such as RFID/NFC labels, 3D holograms, nano materials and special inks which have all been designed to improve customer engagement and appeal, increase security or help prevent fraud.

Covering every angle of label and package printing, Labelexpo Asia is aimed at printers/converters, label, packaging and graphic designers and technicians, brand owners and industry suppliers. Showing the most up-to-date presses, ancillary equipment and print materials, the event hosts over 300 leading manufacturers such as Avery Dennison, Bobst, Codimag, Lintec, Omet, UPM Raflatac, Wenzhou Rhyguan Machinery Co, Zhejiang Weigang and Zhejiang Zhongte Machinery.

James Samuel, events portfolio director, Labelexpo Global Series said: “Short print runs are here to stay, as is the increasing role of packaging being used in customer marketing. These trends are making digital printing, along with smart and interactive solutions, massive growth areas for the global label industry. Both are developing extremely quickly, so for printers thinking about investing in updating their plant or expanding their product offering, the show’s feature areas will give them a useful taster of how these versatile technologies can add real value and competitive edge to their businesses.”

Entry to Labelexpo Asia 2017 is free of charge and visitors can pre-register for their show badges at www.labelexpo-asia.com.

EyeC to exhibit fastest print inspection technology at the Labelexpo Asia 2017

EyeC China and EyeC GmbH, the German expert for print inspection systems, will present its high-speed print inspection systems at the Labelexpo Asia 2017 in Shanghai from December 5 to 8, 2017. The company’s inspection systems support the most modern processes and ensure the print quality throughout the entire production process.

At Stand B35 in Hall E1 EyeC will demonstrate together with the rewinder manufacturer Onemech the EyeC ProofRunner Label. The solution delivers 100% print inspection, even on the fastest presses or rewinders on the market, running at speeds of up to 600 meters per minute (2000 fpm).

The company also offers the EyeC Quality Link, which enables the inspection results from the press to be evaluated at a separate station and used later on the rewinder to remove all defective labels. The benefits are clear: The press operator can react more quickly to avoid expensive material waste, while rewinders can run more efficiently by avoiding unnecessary stops.

Moreover, EyeC will show its pre-press proofing software the EyeC Proofiler Graphic and its off-line inspection system the EyeC ProofBook. The latter checks the print quality of multi-page samples such as booklets, leaflets, catalogues, or user guides.

Exhibition visitors who would like to know more about the benefits of efficient quality control can see EyeC’s inspection systems in action at Labelexpo Asia that includes  100% print inspection for printing or finishing with the ProofRunner Label, Integration and Optimization of inspection process with the EyeC Quality Link and Fast and secure off-line testing of multi-page samples with the EyeC ProofBook.

Founded in 2002 in Hamburg, Germany, EyeC is the market’s only supplier to ensure the product quality throughout the entire printing process – from the first artwork file to the finished product. The product portfolio includes file-to-file comparison for artwork revision control and prepress applications, as well as print-to-file inspection systems for press sample testing and 100% print quality control of products such as folding cartons, labels, leaflets, or flexible packaging. The market’s most intelligent algorithms ensure that the systems show only relevant defects.

With EyeC products, users avoid recalls, keep production costs and material waste in check and optimize their quality control. Worldwide, there are over 1,600 EyeC inspection systems in use by pharmaceutical companies, printers, and branded good manufacturers. The company currently has 56 employees in Hamburg and has international sales partners in more than 20 countries.

Flexo Concepts Building 100% Solar-Powered

Flexo Concepts announced that it has completed the installation of a solar renewable energy system. The system “went live” on October 17, and the building occupied by the company is now 100% powered by solar-generated electricity.

Last fall, company owners Kevin McLaughlin and Greg Howell hired Hopkinton-based Solect Energy to do a solar feasibility study for the multi-use commercial property housing Flexo Concepts and several tenants. The study confirmed the economic viability of the project, and Solect began work on the development, design, engineering, construction and interconnection of a solar energy system.

Installation, which included 850 panels on the roof, 40 power inverters and all materials required to connect the energy to the building and electric grid, was completed over a 5-month period. The system generates 290kW of power – equivalent to the electricity used by about 30 average-sized homes in the U.S. – and powers all lighting, heating, air conditioning, and machinery and equipment for Flexo Concepts and the co-located companies.

The solar project is part of a bigger Flexo Concepts’ initiative to “go green.” In 2016, the facility was outfitted with LED lighting, a move that resulted in an annual reduction in energy use significant enough to power six homes for a year. The company also recycles about 80% of its blade material scrap along with all its cardboard waste and employee food packaging.

Headquartered in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Flexo Concepts manufactures TruPoint doctor blades and wash-up blades and MicroClean dry media anilox cleaning systems. All products are designed to improve print quality and reduce operational costs for flexographic and offset printers. Flexo Concepts maintains distribution locations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.

Pulse Roll Label Products & Partners to Promote Innovative Ink Solutions at Labelexpo Asia

Narrow web ink and varnish specialist Pulse Roll Label Products Ltd will exhibit at Labelexpo Asia 2017 in Shanghai from 5-8 December alongside with its partners Shanghai Value Tech Co. Ltd and ANO, to showcase its flagship PureTone ink system and new innovative PureScreen inks.

George Lyle, General Manager – Asia-Pacific, Pulse Roll Label Products said, “The region offers tremendous market opportunities and so we are very pleased to introduce our PureTone UV flexo ink system as a total colour management solution for companies looking to move into the next generation of flexo printing. We will also be promoting our unique concept for UV screen inks, PureScreen, which offers substantial savings to printers using both UV flexo and screen technology. Our presence in Shanghai demonstrates our commitment to the regional label market and we are delighted to attend Asia’s largest event for label and package printers alongside our Chinese partners.”

Pulse Roll Label Products is focused on providing innovative solutions for the global narrow web label market and helping its customers around the world achieve optimal print quality, increased pre-press efficiencies and enhanced productivity.

The company’s growing presence in Asia is part of the company’s global strategy for further growth. Pulse Roll Label Products is represented in China by Shanghai Tech Co. Ltd in Eastern China and ANO in Southern China. Both companies provide local product supply of UV flexo and UV screen printing inks and varnishes formulated by the British-based manufacturer and offer technical services and expertise to the Chinese narrow web label market. Other international partners located in India, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam form part of a strong network of distributors representing Pulse Roll Label Products in Asia.

Pulse Roll Label Products will be exhibiting with Shanghai Value Tech Co Ltd. on stand E90 at Labelexpo Asia 2017.

Sun Chemical Completes the Formation of Joint Venture with Alliance Holding Company, Ltd.

Sun Chemical has finalized the formation of a joint venture with Alliance Holding Company LTD (parent company of Ink Products Company, Ltd.) and will now operate under the name Sun Chemical Saudi Arabia Ltd.

A leading manufacturer of printing inks in the Arabian Peninsula, Sun Chemical Saudi Arabia LTD will continue to be a leading ink supplier to the packaging and publication market in the region. The joint venture reinforces Sun Chemical’s commitment to the growing packaging printing markets across the Middle East. Sun Chemical previously announced that it will own the majority share in the new joint venture. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

AHC is a large Saudi investment conglomerate with a diversified portfolio of companies in the retail and wholesale trading of electrical products and building materials. AHC’s subsidiaries are engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of lighting products in Saudi Arabia (through a JV with Philips), Egypt and Malaysia, as well as the manufacturing of industrial paintings and ink products in the Kingdom. AHC is a limited liability company registered in Riyadh. The company was advised by Legal Advisors in association with Baker & McKenzie Limited and regional M&A boutique Broadgate Advisers.

A member of the DIC group, Sun Chemical is a leading producer of printing inks, coatings and supplies, pigments, polymers, liquid compounds, solid compounds, and application materials. Together with DIC, Sun Chemical has annual sales of more than $7.5 billion and over 20,000 employees supporting customers around the world. Sun Chemical Corporation is a subsidiary of Sun Chemical Group Coöperatief U.A., the Netherlands, and is headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, U.S.A.

Luxe Pack Shanghai unveils its 2018 common thread

Next April, Luxe Pack returns to Shanghai for the eleventh year, taking place at the Shanghai Exhibition Center on 11-12 April 2018. Widely recognized as the best show in Asia for packaging creativity and trends, Luxe Pack Shanghai is providing a unique experience each year.

Unveiling its 2018 common thread : “Experience the future of luxury packaging” the show is an exclusive way for exhibitors and visitors to have a global view of how creative packaging is evolving to answer the market’s expectations.

2018 Common thread
Luxury brands in China have understood the importance of packaging to gain new and loyal consumers. They are increasingly gaining access to high-quality materials, finishes, decoration, innovative shapes, digital or connected solutions, designs that enhance the consumer experience of the product. In order to concretely show visitors what the trends are, Luxe Pack Shanghai 2018 will highlight through its common thread, “Experience the future of luxury packaging”, all the innovative packaging solutions exhibitors are offering, on fields where luxury brands’ expectations are very strong.

The show will thus provide visitors with a global vision of what packaging can be today and tomorrow: new functionalities, new technologies, new decoration techniques, new materials….all features that take packaging to a new/ next level, in order to assist the product and brand, and to answer today’s consumers’ requirements.

Exhibition Highlights
The common thread will go through 200 exhibitors’ solutions, but also through forward-thinking activities and special areas to meet the general trend of innovation, sustainability and market development. Tech Hub is a special area responding to market’s growing demand of new technological proposals: connected solutions, 3D printing, digital printing, augmented Reality and other cutting-edge technologies. Luxe Pack Innovation Wall offers instant visual access to exhibitors’ latest achievements and sustainable innovations. It is an exclusive opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their latest developments. It is also an opportunity for visitors to capture new solutions and inspiration!

Luxe Pack in green is the world’s leading packaging awards on sustainable innovations and responsible initiatives, at a time when sustainability has become a central concern for luxury brands in China. Turbo Talks, a 2 minute speech live from exhibitors, presenting their latest packaging developments. The programme of conferences will also enrich the visit, bringing some more insights on the future of packaging in luxury sectors such as perfumery, wines & spirits, health and beauty, jewelry, High Technology….Innovations, trends, materials, consumers’ points of view…..and many more will be at the core of the 2-day show. Not to mention some special areas for inspiration…

New Synergy for 2018: MakeUp in Shanghai
Luxe Pack Shanghai will share the show platform with MakeUp in Shanghai, same dates, same venue. MakeUp in: a professional makeup show held each year in Paris, New-York, Seoul, Sao Paulo, Los Angeles, gathering the most innovative, creative and cutting-edge products of the make-up universe from ingredients to formulation, make-up packaging and full service.

API foil answers Hopes & Dreams of satirical new bourbon

A hot stamping foil from brand enhancement specialist API is adding texture and sophistication to the bottle of a unique new bourbon. Hopes & Dreams, which wittily satirises stereotypical handcrafted whiskey marketing in its promotion, features API Copper Kettle foil on its vintage label.

Differentiating itself from other bourbon brands, Hopes & Dreams publicises itself with such underwhelming pull-quotes as ‘Meh’ and ‘It’s good… enough’, and is squarely aimed at millennials, as well as any whiskey drinkers who don’t take themselves too seriously.

On the drink’s attractive Wild West-style label, the API hot stamping foil creates a subtly luxurious feel. It forms the ‘Hopes & Dreams’ lettering, provides a double-line trim around the perimeter, and adds gleam to two sardonic seals of approval that, upon close inspection, boast ‘Unlimited release’.

“I selected the Copper Kettle foil because of its stand-out, gorgeous tone, which had an authenticity that paired nicely with the label design,” says Chad Michael, whose studio designed the label. “As the entire brand is about a ‘boilerplate’ bourbon that has been ‘machine-crafted’, the glamour of the foil might seem ironic – but of course, even a satirical bottle has to look great.”

The foil is printed onto the label by Clove St. Press using an Original Heidelberg press and a copper plate.

“The printer told us the API foil laid down beautifully against our rather toothy paperstock selection,” continues Chad. “From start to finish, the whole job ran very smoothly, with no setbacks encountered, which is testament to the quality of API’s service and product.”

Based in Dallas, Texas, Chad Michael Studio specialises in unique branding, package design, and product innovation. Chad Michael has received numerous accolades since the studio opened in 2014, including Awards of Excellence from Communication Arts magazine, and is a recent recipient of the Young Gun 15 award.

Sona Papers introduces StarDream 2.0 by Gruppo Cordenons in India

Delhi-based trader of specialty papers, Sona Papers, in association with Italy-based Gruppo Cordenons, organised a gala event in Delhi on 15 November 2017 to launch Gruppo’s new offering Stardream 2.0 in India. The event also highlighted another new launch from the company, Leatherlike.

StarDream 2.0, the new addition to Pearl&Dream by Gruppo Cordenons, is now orbiting the creative paper galaxy. As the brightest of the stars, StarDream 2.0 gives its special effects to every project, designed to shine with its own light: sparkling packaging, luminescent consumer products, pearlescent editions... creative works projected into the hall of fame of successful applications.

As part of the evolution of the well-known StarDream brand, version 2.0 has the distinctive feature of outstanding pearlescent and shimmering effects that change depending on exposure to light. Gruppo Cordenons’ R&D department has worked to make StarDream 2.0 not only brighter, but also to give it a higher bulk. In addition to its beauty, StarDream 2.0 also shines with its eco-friendly features: it is produced with 40% post-consumer waste fibres.

The new StarDream 2.0 colours complete the wide range of pearlescent papers by Gruppo Cordenons: in addition to the hypnotic icy white of Eris and the delicate white/blue of Pluto, the new paper is available in the shimmering black/blue of Neptune, the elegance of Saturn bronze and the warm gold of Venus. StarDream 2.0 is offered in three grammages: 110 gsm (one-side coated), 200 gsm and 340 gsm (both two-side coated) weights.

To promote StarDream 2.0 we have chosen a concept that links the universality of visual communication languages, of which paper is a key element, to music. – says Katia Tedeschi, Marketing Director of Gruppo Cordenons – The visual book created for the new paper combines the double meaning of the word star: it is inspired by celestial bodies as well as by popular rock stars and it is designed to enhance the StarDream 2.0 features with various printing and finishing techniques".

Unique solutions by Omet for a smart converting process

The converting process is a strategic part of label and packaging production which involves time, costs and risks. To cope with these criticalities and streamline the processes, Omet has developed exclusive, integrated in-line solutions creating a valuable option for current and future customers.

Every printing line of the Omet product portfolio can be configured with unique die-cutting systems conceived to make the die-cut changeover quicker, safer and easier compared to standard processes that usually require long machine downtime.

The Omet iFlex, the Omet X4 and the Omet X5 can be supplied with the patented Easy-Change Die Cut – ECDC, a compact and ergonomic die-cutting unit that allows a job changeover in less than one minute. It makes the entire workflow easier and safer eliminating the need for lifting devices.

The Omet X6 line features an innovative and high-performing die-cutting module. Omet Twist is a smart unit with double cassette for smooth and effortless changeover operations. It simplifies the operator’s life and minimizes set-up time thanks to the Omet Easy-Change Die Cut system, which enables the preparation of the die-cutting job off-line during production and the cylinder changeover with a simple push through the innovative Omet In&Out sliding device. After just a few seconds needed for the automatic pre-registration the machine is back in production. Numbers speak for themselves: with standard converting groups a full die cutting changeover may require 20 to 30 minutes, while with the Omet Twist the same is done within one minute.

Omet MonoTwinCut is the unique format-free die-cutting unit available on the Omet X6, which works with one single magnetic cylinder for all label shapes or dimensions, minimizing operational costs and changeover downtime. With the Omet MonoTwinCut the only operation to be conducted is the change of the flexible die, while the magnetic cylinder remains in place. It includes also fully automatic pre-register and register control, which facilitates from one die-cutting repeat the other, with no waste involved.

Omet is the only manufacturer to offer different, unique and patented solutions for the converting process. The Omet Varyflex line can be configured with different options dedicated to special applications, labels or cardboard production.

All Omet machines are designed to be flexible and provide customers with tailor-made die-cutting solutions for special applications. Modules for carton or paper window punching or for the production of dual-shape labels are available too.

Omet solutions provide added value and prove once again how Omet technology creates a real competitive advantage for its customers.

Fespa Asia returns to Bangkok in February 2018

The FESPA Asia 2018 exhibition will provide print service providers and signage professionals, as well as textile specialists, with the chance to see the latest product innovations and applications in the market and discover new opportunities for business growth. The exhibition will feature more than 100 exhibiting companies, with many leading international brands already confirmed to participate including M&R, Siser, d.gen, Multicam, JK Group, Caldera, Fimor, Sensient and Hexis, the official World Wrap Masters Partner.

To demonstrate its commitment to the Asian market, FESPA has strengthened its direct communications in the region by appointing an Asian Business Development Manager, Hannah Pan, to liaise and assist exhibitors in the local language. FESPA is also working with local marketing and advertising agencies in the pan-regional promotion of the exhibition.

The inaugural FESPA Asia, which took place from 15 to 17 February 2017, attracted over 4,500 regional and international visitors. Attendees travelled from 63 countries, with the largest delegations coming from Thailand, Singapore, India, China and Malaysia.

The reputation of the exhibition following the 2017 edition is affirmed by the high level of interest from new exhibitors, with Stahls, Monti Antonio, Foilack, Chemica and many others already placing confirmed stand bookings for the 2018 event. The success is also reflected in the re-book rate with 60% of exhibitors to FESPA Asia 2017 having confirmed stands for 2018.

FESPA Divisional Director Roz Guarnori comments: “Having delivered a successful event in 2017, we’re delighted to have such strong commitment from many major international companies for FESPA Asia 2018 and such resounding endorsement from a broad spectrum of regional Associations. Visitors from across the ASEAN region can benefit enormously from the opportunity to access such diverse international exhibitors all under one roof in Bangkok.”

FESPA Asia 2018 is supported by Thai Garment Manufacturers Association, Thai Advertising Business Development Association and the Thai Textile Institute (THTI) who are proactively promoting the exhibition to members.

Further support comes from FESPA’s ASEAN member associations in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Republic of Korea, Japan, China, Philippines and Australia, who represent a combined regional membership of more than 2,000 print service providers.

Visitors to FESPA Asia 2018 will also have access to a focused programme of educational and inspirational content including a textile printing workshop, the Wrap Masters Asia and a series of seminars featuring notable speakers from Asia and beyond. International visitors travelling to FESPA Asia can take advantage of discounted flights with Thai Airways.

For more information on FESPA Asia 2018, visit www.fespa-asia.com. For free entry to the exhibition, register online using code: ASAM801

Toyo Ink SC Holdings Purchases Land to Expand Business in Turkey

Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co., Ltd., the parent company of the Toyo Ink Group of companies, announced today that its subsidiary company Toyo Printing Inks Inc., a major manufacturer of inks and coatings in Turkey, has decided to purchase approximately 62,000 sq. m. of land for the future expansion of its operations in the Manisa Province in western Turkey. The new plot is located in the Manisa Industrial Zone, the same industrial park that is currently home to Toyo Printing Inks.        

Toyo Printing Inks plans to use the land to build not only a new manufacturing facility for the upgrading and expansion of existing R&D and production facilities, but also to construct a new production site for polymers, a key material component in Group products, such as inks, coatings and adhesives. The polymers manufactured in Manisa will be used to improve the quality and performance of Toyo Printing Inks' products, and to diversify its portfolio and markets. Construction of the new polymer plant is expected to begin in 2018 and be completed by late 2019, followed by further capacity increases to ink and coating production within three to five years. With the increased capacity, annual sales is estimated to reach 300 million Turkish lira by 2022.         

“Toyo Printing Inks has simply outgrown its current space” said Katsumi Kitagawa, CEO of the Toyo Ink Group. “We've reached the point where we need to invest in advanced manufacturing technology that will allow us to better serve our customers with greater flexibility and product mix capability. The proposed expansion is expected to take a total investment of 3 billion yen (approx. USD26.7 million) and will be carried out in phases over a period of five years. This investment reaffirms our commitment to providing long-term solutions tailored to the needs of the printing and packaging industries in Turkey and rapidly growing markets in the MENA region, with Manisa serving as the supply hub.”

Driven by the anticipation of strong demand in MENA, Central Asia and Eastern Europe, Toyo Ink SC Holdings has steadily been increasing its operating foothold in Turkey as part of its growth strategy to expand its businesses throughout the region. The company established a liaison office in Istanbul in 2014, a sales company in the city one year later, and purchased Toyo Printing Inks (then DYO Printing Inks) in 2016, marking the start of its manufacturing operation in the country. Looking ahead, the Toyo Ink Group will continue to focus on building on its strong local presence and expanding its product offerings to meet regional demand.

Direct Container Print 2017 confirms conference programme

18 technical presentations will discuss the latest developments in direct-to-shape decoration of plastics for various market applications during the second edition of Direct Container Print conference. Organised by ESMA (European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association) with media support of “Specialist Printing Worldwide”, DCP brings together machine manufacturers, ink suppliers, colour management experts and curing system providers, as well as printers, designers, packaging manufacturers and brand owners. The second edition of the conference takes place on 27-28th November 2017 in Radisson Blu Scandinavia Düsseldorf.

According to a report by Smithers Pira, the global packaging market has been growing with 4% per year and is estimated to reach 885 bn. EUR in 2020. The share of rigid plastics in that amount exceeds 20%, with only PET packaging growing with an estimated CAGR of over 5%. The advent of digital printing opened up new decoration opportunities and at the same time, the traditional, screen and pad printing technologies are not standing still. Launched in 2015, the Direct Container Print conference focuses on techniques which enable premiumisation, personalisation, mass customisation and “wow” effects in plastic containers in various shapes, such as bottles, cups, pots, tubes or boxes.

“It is our goal to demonstrate and explain technical opportunities which respond to the specifics of such distinct and demanding markets as food and beverages, personal care, cosmetics or pharmaceuticals. During DCP, we discuss aspects ranging from food safe inks, to adaptable or standalone printing systems, handling variable data and mass customisation techniques”, says Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA. “Why does direct-to-shape raise interest of the brand owners? Compared to labels or shrink wraps, direct print is not as easy to remove and replace, it involves less process steps and less materials, such as adhesives or liners.”

DCP 2017 features educational presentations which provide a comprehensive insight in all processes contributing to an innovative, directly printed packaging. The submitted titles include:

·         “Achieve perfect printing result on plastic objects with a scalable and easy to use industrial system for screen printing” by Dr Bernard Fritsche from Gallus

·         “Brand colour management: Meeting customer requirements and expectations” by Gerrit Andre from ColorGATE

·         “Can digital direct printing spice-up your brands? Here is how” by Jean-Marc Moriggia from Polytype

·         “Inkjet printing onto spheres” by Debbie Thorp from Global Inkjet Systems

·         “Label and Safety Data Sheet: Important information for workers‘ safety” by Gabrielle Heller from ESMA Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Committee

·         “Late stage customisation: Zero lead time, zero material waste and mass customisation” by Peter Schkoda from Hapa

·         “Requirements for ‘low-migration’ screen printing inks for food packaging” by Dirk Friedrich and David Turner from Marabu

·         “ServoJet approach to direct container decoration with inkjet process” by Vittorio Ferrari from OMSO

·         “The importance of inkjet inks in direct to container applications” by Phil Jackman from Sun Chemical

·         “The Omnifire world” by Bobby Kleinveld from Heidelberg

·         “UV print as a tool for prototype printing and industrial production” by Uwe Niklas from Mimaki

·         “VDCIS industrial scanner for direct-to-shape prints” by Dr Nikolaus Tichawa from Tichawa Vision

·         “What you need to know when specifying a UV-LED system” by Koen Santegoeds from Integration Technology

Keynote speeches complete the agenda with a holistic view of the supply chain, presenting trends in packaging and challenges faced by the brand owners:

·         “Direct container decoration: Business cases regarding current technologies, applications and challenges” by Jochen Christiaens and Oliver Kammann from ESMA Expert Team

·         “Direct container printing opportunities for future growth across pharma and other packaging” by Chris Waterhouse from iDiPac

·         “Direct digital print: Threat or opportunity for the label industry?” by Sami Mulari from Alexander Watson Associates

·         “Global trends and how they shape the packaging requirements of the brand owner” by Ger Standhardt from NVC Netherlands Packaging Centre

·         In the morning of the second conference day, the DCP Live panel discussion will take place, featuring a specially selected panel of industry experts answering questions from the audience about topical issues.

The full conference programme is available at www.dcp2017.org/programme

Next to the presentations, a networking arena will feature 25 international tabletops for further technology and business information exchange. The companies present at the tabletops include: Alexander Watson Associates, ColorGATE, ESMA Expert Team, Gallus, Global Inkjet Systems, Hapa, Heidelberg, Integration Technology, iDiPac, INX Digital, Isimat, KBA Kammann, Lüscher, Marabu, Mimaki, NV, OMSO, Photo Electronics, Polytype, RKS, RUCO, Sefar, Sun Chemical, Tichawa Vision and UViterno.

Altogether, an audience of 120 technology suppliers and users is expected to attend Direct Container Print conference 2017. For delegate booking please visit www.dcp2017.org/registrations

Label Academy publishes new industry textbooks

The Label Academy has extended its book series with the publication of two new reference books, ‘Shrink Sleeve Technology’ and ‘Label Markets and Applications’.

‘Shrink Sleeve Technology’ is an introduction to shrink sleeve labels and gives information to help troubleshoot problems, improve quality, prevent errors and correct faults. Technological advances have vastly expanded the market for shrink sleeve labels and the book aims to guide readers through the film, pre-press, ink, printing and application processing stages. The book was compiled by Mike Fairley, founder of the Label Academy and Séamus Lafferty, Accraply president.

‘Label Markets and Applications’ explores material specifications, print and finishing requirements, and key global and national regulations for the consumer and industrial markets as it examines each of the main end-user sectors. Outlining the primary factors needed to produce quality labels that are compliant, marketable and cost-effective, the book helps printers navigate modern label production, with chapters dedicated to the major global label markets: food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, non-food retail and industrial. ‘Label Markets and Applications’ was authored by John Penhallow.

Fairley commented: ‘The books are an extremely useful reference for anyone involved in designing and printing labels and product packaging. Whether it is for industry learning, or for on-the-job research or investment purposes, both publications consist of succinct practical information and are illustrated with a wide range of label and packaging examples. It is hoped that readers will find the books valuable in the future growth of their businesses and in enhancing their quality and performance standards.’

The Label Academy is the global training resource for the label and package printing industry and is supported by Finat, the TLMI, LMAI and BPIF. The Academy combines educational textbooks with access to free articles and videos. The Label Academy is sponsored by Cerm, Flint Group, Gallus, MPS, Taghleef Industries (Ti) and UPM Raflatac. The Academy’s books are retailed by Amazon and available directly at www.label-academy.com.