Enews September 2024

FSEA and PostPress Exhibit at PRINTING United and Labelexpo

September 17, 2024

Both PRINTING United Expo and Labelexpo Americas 2024 took place the same three days last week – September 10–12, 2024. The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) and PostPress team were at both events representing the association and PostPress magazine.

“It was a challenge to work both of the events at the same time, but we were able to work it out and have representation at both events,” stated FSEA Executive Director Jeff Peterson. “We were excited to see so many of our FSEA members as well as our PostPress advertisers and readers.”

At PRINTING United, FSEA held a Digital Embellishment Alliance (DEA) Catch-Up were those at the show involved in digital embellishment processes, gathered to discuss current DEA programs and events. Over 40 attendees participated. In addition, Jeff Peterson presented at PRINTING United where close to fifty attendees learned more about metallics for print and the different choices available.

Both PRINTING United and Label Expo were well attended and many of the exhibitors were pleased with the leads and responses at both shows.

For more information, visit PRINTING United Expo at www.printingunited.com and LabelExpo Americas 2024 at www.labelexpo-americas.com.

Embellished Roll-to-Roll Labels

September 16, 2024

By Liz Stevens, writer, PostPress

The design and production of roll-to-roll embellished product labels evolve as the buying public becomes more discerning and as pressure increases for greater sustainability in the production process. To keep up with demand, label producers must explore and embrace new technologies for creating stand-out labels while simultaneously adopting new production methods that cut costs and tread more lightly on the planet. PostPress took a look at forecasts for the label market and drew insight from players in the sector about the current state of affairs.

Market Stats and Forecast for the Near-Term

According to Labels and Labeling’s “Sustainability and digital innovation to power label market’s growth,” ¹ which cites information from Smithers’ “The Future of Printed Labels to 2029 Report,” the total global market value will reach USD 44.8 billion in 2024. A stable market should lead to 3.8% CARG through 2029, which will increase total global market value to USD 54.1 billion. Growth in sales of packaging labels will be prompted by sustainability issues and innovations in digital printing.

The Smithers report predicts that new graphic and embellishment techniques, along with connected label technology and security markings, also will drive growth. The adoption of artificial intelligence for label design and layout, and the use of advanced QC and visual inspection technologies, will continue to be time-saving positives for label production. In the largest end-use segments for printed labels – beverages and food products – healthy market growth will stem from new labeling requirements for ingredient, allergen and nutrition data, as well as the continued push for label recyclability.

Per the recent Alexander Watson Associates (AWA) evaluation of the label and package printing market, as cited in Label and Narrow Web’s “Mid-Year Economic Report,” ² significant challenges as well as plentiful opportunities will affect the industry. Emerging advanced technologies will be welcomed to mitigate continuing economic and workforce challenges.

Digital Embellishments and Labels

As digital printing technologies continue to grow for roll-to-roll label applications, embellishing labels through digital inkjet and digital toner technologies continues to grow as well. Specialty markets with smaller label runs have helped spark this growth.

Kurz has introduced roll-to-roll digital embellishment technology with its patented process where the inkjet image is printed on the back of the transfer foil, opening up applications for metallic finishes that have never been done before. The process can be used on a wide range of substrates beyond just coated label stock, including uncoated stocks and thin film materials. “This technology allows for automatic job recognition and instant order change,” commented Michael Aumann, global director – Digital Embellishment Solutions at KURZ. “This results in continuous operation with no stops for job changeover, set-up or makeready.”

Kurz also offers the versatility to apply metallic decoration to printed materials from a toner-based printing platform. The technology is based on its combination of Xeikon’s durable TITON toner and KURZ DIGITAL METAL© transfer foil applied inline on the Xeikon TX500 press and KURZ R520 embellishment unit. KURZ also has 3D inkjet technology for roll-to-roll applications, combining the spot-coating process with the application of a raised or flat metallic decoration, which can be completed in one pass.

*CARTES provides digital embellishment and finishing solutions for roll-to-roll labels.*

CARTES offers many digital embellishment and finishing solutions for label applications. These include incorporating laser diecutting with digital foil embellishments all inline, providing a complete digital finishing solution. “Our Jet D-Screen for digital foil embellishments is a state-of-the-art technology designed to create outstanding labels garnished by multi-layered effects,” explained Michael Debard, president of Diversified Graphic Machinery, representing CARTES. “This includes spot coating, complex tactile raised volumes and braille printing, as well as detailed foiling of metallic-doming transferring.”

A B Graphic International’s digital embellishment module, DigiJet, is a fully digital system for roll-to-roll label decorating either inline or offline. “The DigiJet allows for multiple processes in one pass, including spot varnishing, digital cold foiling and tactile screen effects on any size print runs with no tooling,” stated Floriana Montella, product manager. “Our technology allows users to maximize their productivity with zero tooling, zero waste and market-leading levels of efficiency. The Digijet is a module of the Digicon Series 3 and is the perfect match with Digilase, ABG’s laser diecutting machine.”

Another option for roll-to-roll label embellishments is Konica Minolta’s new JETvarnish 3D Web 400, a 100% web-fed digital embellishment solution that integrates spot UV varnish, hot foil stamping and variable data printing in a single pass. “Tailored for the evolving needs of the self-adhesive label and flexible packaging sectors, the JETvarnish 3D Web 400 enables converters and printers to reduce customers’ time-to-market, while transforming the impact of their labels and packaging on the shelf,” commented Frank Mallozzi, president, Industrial & Production Print, Konica Minolta. “It meets the requirements for short, medium and long runs by enhancing basic four-color production with digital spot UV varnish and hot foil stamping in fixed or variable data, flat or embossed, facilitating multi-runs and versioning.”

Cold Foil Transfer on Labels

*K Laser Technology offers cold foil for an array of roll-to-roll label applications.*

The use of cold foil transfer inline with roll-to-roll label printing has been popular for many years. However, in the past, there was a question on overall brilliance of a cold foil transfer compared to hot stamping the foil inline on a roll-to-roll flexo press. The quality of cold foil has improved tremendously and has its place with label embellishments.

“Brands often use foil because of its glossy, high-visibility effects. Research has shown that packaging decorated with foil rates more effective than non-foil packaging,” remarked Gary Bibler, director of new creative business for K Laser Technology (USA) Co. “The use of cold foil on roll-to-roll can be less expensive for production than other applications. Roll-to-roll also can be beneficial for certain jobs, reducing waste as opposed to sheet-run projects.”

Bibler added that cosmetics packaging is a highly competitive market, and the luxury component is key. The cold foil – even in a minimal application – adds distinct value. Cannabis and the CBD market have become increasingly powerful as well. The use of foil embellishment, combined with creative artwork for packaging, has allowed for higher consumer awareness.

Another advantage of a cold foil transfer unit is the ability to use it to apply Cast and Cure. The Cast and Cure process provides a clear holographic pattern over the label and can be applied in a similar manner as cold foil, using a clear adhesive that then is UV-cured inline. The main difference is that nothing from the film carrier is applied to the label stock and the Cast and Cure film can be used several times.

Hot Foil Stamping for Roll-to-Roll

Although there has been tremendous growth in both cold foil transfer and digital foil technologies in the decoration of labels, more traditional hot stamping still is popular for many roll-to-roll label applications. Hot stamping is being performed both inline on a flexographic press using an engraved brass rotary die or offline on a dedicated roll-to-roll hot stamping press utilizing flat engravings.

The advantage of the inline process certainly is the ability to add the foil and embossing in one pass. The advantage of the offline process, where flat dies can be used, is that the overall tooling costs are much lower. The size of the label job usually will determine the best approach.

Telstar’s Interprint Die Station is an inline option for most flexo printing machines and bridge-mounts above any two flexo print units. Die frames match the dimensions of the parent machine so that all press tooling is interchangeable. The servo drive features auto and re-register capabilities. The hot stamp system features a digital touchscreen control unit with recipes for steel, brass and magnetic dies. There also are various anvil coverings available for improved performance on hot stamping, heat sealing and embossing.

“[With] many applications for high-end labels, including wine and cosmetic labels, the brand owner still wants the crisp hot foil stamping look,” stated Tom Kirtz, president at TelStar Engineering, Inc. “In addition, many wine labels are produced on an uncoated, textured stock. Hot stamping is the best choice when adding a metallic finish.”

Future Trends with Label Embellishments

Paragon Label, Petaluma, California, offers high-quality labels for the wine, beauty and food brand markets. The company offers a variety of printing and embellishment options for its clients. Jeremy Jolly, general manager for Paragon, has seen embellishments and other specialty techniques continue to grow for label applications.

“At Paragon, we offer rotary screen, flatbed foil stamping and embossing, as well as decorative laser cutting, with decorative laser cutting being our newest addition,” stated Jolly. “The spirits market is doing the most interesting things with embellishments currently. We are seeing a wider range of stocks and methods being used there vs. other markets.”

“More and more, manufacturers are beginning to realize the opportunities that digital embellishment technology allows – such as instant order change,” remarked Aumann. “The ability to combine multiple label jobs on one roll and instantly change from job to job based on automated job recognition can result in higher levels of production efficiency and time savings in the digital embellishment process.”

Aumann also explained that combining digital embellishments with conventional embellishments can produce stunning effects mixed with variable imaging and versioning.

Woodcock has seen a rise in the need for embellishments on fast-moving consumer good labels. “The rise in popularity of fitness supplements and protein powders has required more premium labels to rise above competition and look more appealing on supermarket shelves,” he said.

“Every day, it becomes more important to preserve the image of products and guarantee that their quality is consistent with market requirements,” added DeBard. “To this end, companies in constant competition always seek to differentiate their products with special features like foil embellishments to make them stand out on the shelf, so that consumers feel identified as much as possible.”

“Consumer-attention timespan is at an all-time low,” explained Bibler. “Beyond shelf appeal, foils and embellishments can be utilized as a more affordable security feature. Social media has revolutionized how we shop; it isn’t only about buying the product anymore. It has become about the entire experience of shopping, purchasing and unboxing. Eye-catching, unique labels and packaging can make or break a product.”

The future for roll-to-roll label embellishment looks bright, with plenty of fresh, new effects, techniques, consumer accessibility enhancements, advances in sustainability and technologies for streamlining production.

For more info, visit www.kurzusa.com, www.abgint.com, www.coldfoil.com, www.paragonlabel.com, www.dgmna.com, and www.telstareng.com.

References

“Sustainability and digital innovation to power label market’s growth,” Labels and Labeling. August 1, 2024. www.labelsandlabeling.com/news/market-trends/sustainability-and-digital-innovation-power-label-market%E2%80%99s-growth.
Greg Hrinya. “Mid-Year Economic Report,” Label and Narrow Web. August 1, 2024. www.labelandnarrowweb.com/issues/2024-07-01/view_features/mid-year-economic-report-852946/?widget=listSection

Gluing Poly-Coated Substrates: Dyne Level

September 16, 2024

By Capital Adhesives

The process used to glue folding cartons or other products that are poly-coated and/or cartons that require a window film can create a series of challenges if pre-planning is not involved. In both instances, whether it be a poly-coated board stock or a window film to board, the surface is considered a poly surface and is not easily glued. The surface can, in fact, appear to be glued, only to have bond failure sometime after the process is complete. Below are key questions to consider when developing a strategy for improvement.

What does “dyne” mean?

Dyne is simply a mathematical term used to measure surface tension. All surfaces have a “surface tension,” but for a poly-coated surface to respond well to gluing it is important that the surface tension or dyne level of a poly board or film be equal to or greater than 38 at the time of gluing – noting that the higher the dyne number, the better the treatment. For incoming film or material that has poly coating, the minimum dyne should be 44 as it will lose treatment during the normal use and processing of the material.

What is a good process to manage dyne?

Five components should be managed to monitor dyne treatments of a poly material.

Purchase properly treated material with a specification as to the dyne level. As a reminder, the incoming treatment of a poly surface board or film should be 44 or greater.
Check dyne level and record results at time of receipt of the material. Sometimes a shipment will not meet the specification requested, but without the quality check upon receipt there is no way to be certain. Also, capturing the data will help identify reliable sources and provide the ability to track the degradation of the treatment.
Check dyne level throughout storage of material to avoid printing, cutting and gluing of low dyne materials – or at the least, to help prepare the manufacturing process for dealing with materials that have less than desired treatment levels.
Check dyne level at time of gluing as material will lose surface treatment within the process and storage. As previously mentioned, the dyne level at point of gluing is to be greater than or equal to 38 for more consistent results. As a note, there are special solutions and markers available for testing dyne levels. Dyne solutions are the best measuring tool and give more accurate results.
Work closely with an adhesive professional to identify test methods for measuring dyne levels properly and to identify the best adhesive product for bonding the poly surface material being used.

Does the dyne level of a poly surface stay the same?

Absolutely not. As stated previously, treatment levels dissipate from the moment they are treated. The average life span of a treated surface for gluing purposes is approximately 12 months. Aged poly-treated material is a high-risk glueable surface. The more aged a poly surface is, the more difficult it becomes to glue.

What can be done to help ensure the glueability of a poorly treated, low-dyne-level poly material?

In some applications, skiving the material provides a solution to a poorly treated poly surface, but skiving creates dust and oftentimes is inconsistent. A more reliable and cleaner process is to use inline plasma or corona treatment systems. These systems can be expensive, and proper use is essential to increase the consistency in gluing. Whatever the issue, having a knowledgeable resource that understands these challenging applications is essential. Aged poly-treated material is a high-risk glueable surface. The more aged a poly surface is, the more difficult it becomes to glue.

Does it matter what adhesive is used?

Emphatically yes. Too often, the wrong glue is proposed or used for gluing poly surface. The reality is that using the wrong glue will create more cost than any factor related to the price of the adhesive. Be cost effective more than simply price conscious. Choosing the right adhesive supplier will make money and retain better customer relationships. Selecting the wrong or cheaper glue may be more costly and create inconsistent gluing and wasted product.

As with any process, many factors contribute to success. The dyne level is not the only factor to consider when gluing a poly surface, but it is a critical component. Understanding and managing the “dyne factor” will promote a better first step in the process.

This article was submitted by Capital Adhesives, a leading supplier of high-performance adhesives and coatings. For more information, visit www.capitaladhesives.com.

The Neuroscience of Touch

September 16, 2024

*This example of elegance uses four-color process printing with a spot reticulating varnish, gold pearl UV coating and a rainbow foil.*

How the sense of touch creates physical and emotional experiences that engage customers, drive sales and build brand loyalty.

By Vicki Strull, design strategist, Vicki Strull Consulting

As designers, marketers, printers and converters, most of us can’t help but think about the power of touch when we think about the essence of print marketing and packaging. Over the past several years, the latest research attests to the relationship between touch and human emotional connection. The importance of special effects and embellishments for the entire print and packaging industry can be summed up quite simply: touch creates memorable customer experiences that build connection, sales and brand fans.

*To achieve credibility, this packaging, with bold typography and color blocks, is printed using a four-color process, chrome silver and a spot pearl UV coating.*

The Neuroscience of Touch

There are dozens of studies on the sensory connection of touch. Neuroscientists have discovered that more than half of our brain energy is devoted to processing sensory input. The part of the brain that receives input from our sensory receptors is called the somatosensory cortex, and a significant portion of that is devoted to our sense of touch.

Findings like these are revealed in “The Neuroscience of Touch,” an extensive piece on “neuroscience, communication, paper, persuasion and touch,” conducted by Sappi North America in conjunction with neuroscientist Dr. David Eagleman. ¹ For example, one of the questions explored in the research is whether or not we remember content differently when we read it digitally (such as online or on an iPad or Kindle) vs. when we read it on paper (such as a newspaper, catalog, magazine or book).

When we consume content online, we tend to read or scroll pretty quickly. But when we read something on paper, we engage in touchpoints, such as folding down a page or marking an item or highlighting a passage. Actions like these help us remember the content better, longer and more accurately. That’s the mental sensory mapping that occurs in our brain when touch is involved. The answer is yes, we do remember content we read on paper better than content we read online.

Following that study, researchers began to wonder if the medium of paper itself could explain the memory advantage of print vs. digital. Turns out, that is exactly what makes the difference. One theory is that the physicality – the realness of print and packaging – has a powerful effect on how we comprehend and retain messages, as compared to digital mediums. ² And, because more parts of our brain are activated when we are touching or holding a printed piece or packaging, we again are creating stronger memories and remembering the content better.

Touch, Texture and Trust

This tactile research also applies to substrates, special effects and embellishments. A texture on a package may encourage someone to take it off the shelf or hold it a little longer. That kickstarts a connection to the product or brand that is both physical and emotional. It affects our perception of the product’s quality and value, too. And since research shows that 95% of our purchasing decisions are subconscious and based on emotions ³, you can see how haptics drive sales. One more important finding is that because paper and paper-based packaging have a tangible quality – that realness mentioned above – humans also put greater trust in it. And trust is essential to building brand loyalty.

Recently, Sappi partnered with Clemson University to undertake a series of custom research studies to compare premium packaging and non-premium packaging to see which sold better. For the studies, premium packaging was defined as printed on Sappi’s Spectro®, a solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard of the highest quality, and with at least one special effect or embellishment – namely metallic foil, spot gloss or embossing. Non-premium packaging was defined as printed on coated recycled board (CRB), typically used for household goods or nonfood-contact dry food packaging, such as cereal, crackers or processed foods.

To test the comparison, 60 participants shopped in a mock retail store. One data point became very clear: people overwhelmingly chose the premium packaging over the plain. They touched it, held it, turned it over in their hands. Specifically, 93% of people chose to purchase premium; they also chose the packaging with metallic foil 50% more often than any other packaging.

“The Packaging is the Product.”

Twentieth-century graphic designer Saul Bass liked to say, “The packaging is the product.” For examples, see Sappi’s Standard 7, “A Guide to Designing for Print: Tips, Techniques and Methods for Achieving Optimum Printing Results.” On one page, a brand that uses a uniquely shaped box with subtle color and jewel-like metallic foil creates a sense of elegant luxury beyond the product itself. On another page, a package with bold typography, pearlized graphics and straight-forward information offers the credibility of a high-quality brand that reassures shoppers. In another instance, a package with muted gradations and a spot gloss wave pattern evokes serenity and tranquility. All of these examples show how packaging becomes the product, how it reflects the brand and how it creates a positive perception that gives the consumer confidence, builds trust and creates a memorable customer experience so people will choose that brand. Sensory embellishment can drive that.

Although multiple techniques are both inspiring and effective, the Sappi and Clemson study showed that even just one embellishment, just one special effect, can have a very big impact on consumer behavior and conversion.

Outside the Box: From Packaging to Other Touchpoints

The data regarding the power of touch and the influence of haptic techniques also are relevant to general commercial print, marketing materials, direct mail, catalogs, magazines, hang tags and book covers. Marketers and printers recognize that these various touchpoints are all critical for creating a comprehensive customer experience of a product or brand. Consistency of design, story, color, quality and imagery across the digital and print world is imperative. Everything needs to work together as an integrated, omnichannel marketing strategy, with a cohesive look and feel, while sensory print and packaging reinforce the entire branding ecosystem and enhance the human emotional connection.

With today’s competitive marketplace, brands continually are looking for new and more powerful ways to connect with their consumers and create memorable experiences. While digital may be an early impression consumers see via e-commerce or online ads, print marketing materials and packaging drive the connection, the engagement, the influence and the sale.

Vicki Strull has more than 25 years of experience in the marketing and design industry as a brand strategist, creative director and packaging designer. She has advised both emerging and top-tier brands, such as Sappi, HP, Bayer, Coppertone, Pizza Hut and Wildfare, on how to leverage the power of design and packaging to increase sales, create new revenue streams and build brand loyalty. In addition to writing articles in global trade publications, Strull is an international speaker and an adjunct professor at Tulane University. Join fellow trendsetters at vickistrull.com or follow her on LinkedIn @vickistrull.

Reprinted with permission from Sappi.

See and feel how Sappi makes packaging come alive through “The Standard” by ordering your own copy at https://go.sappi.com/l/405492/2023-10-23/gnkx9c.

References

Dr. David Eagleman is a neuroscientist, author, and adjunct professor at Stanford University.
“How the Medium Shapes the Message,” study referenced by Dr. David Eagleman; see more at www.SappiPops.com
Harvard Business School Professor Gerald Zaltman, Working Knowledge, “The Subconscious Mind of the Consumer (And How To Reach It)”

Scodix Enhances Design Inspiration Kit with Digital Embellishment

September 16, 2024

Edited by Cori Watkins, editor, PostPress

Scodix began the journey of developing its Design Inspiration Kit with creatives and brand managers in mind to provide a comprehensive collection of 21″ x 21″ cards that showcased what can be accomplished with digital embellishment technologies. The collection of cards that were printed digitally on a LANDA S10 seven color press and then digitally embellished on the Scodix Ultra 6000 showcased the spectrum of capabilities that digital inkjet embellishments can offer. This included raised and flat spot UV coatings, textured coatings, raised metallic finishes and combinations of both. Hudson Printing, Salt Lake City, Utah, was responsible for the full production of the kit.

“The Design Inspiration Kit was inspired by our “WOW” sheet that is printed and embellished on a full 28″ x 40″ sheet that we have used to demonstrate the Scodix capabilities at tradeshows and open houses,” commented Scodix Regional Marketing Manager April Lytle. “The kit includes a variety of different applications being used to display the story of how digital embellishments can become an important addition to a printed piece.”

All of the separate Inspiration Kit cards fit into a sample case that was digitally printed and included spot clear raised coating and a copper metallic raised foil. The front of the case includes a diecut window where a portion of the first card of the kit shows through, displaying paint brushes and dripping paint embellished with raised copper metallic. Both the case and the individual cards were printed and embellished on a 130# satin cover stock. The foil for the kits was supplied by KURZ.

The outer case and some of the cards were designed by Lytle, and the others were coordinated and put together by the Scodix application team. Files and the artwork for each card were built to highlight the possibilities of different applications. The artwork was carefully laid out for each pass on the Scodix press to ensure that each intended application is applied on top of one another in the correct order for the appropriate outcome.

Once the design and final artwork files were complete, they were sent to Hudson Printing to complete the printing and digital embellishment processes. Through the newest technology of its LANDA digital printing press and the Scodix Ultra 600 with smart high-definition capabilities, the completion of the project went extremely smooth.

“Scodix was under a considerable time crunch to complete the kits,” stated Steve Furlong, vice president of operations at Hudson. “The Scodix press allows for finer lines and smaller text through its intelligent software and capabilities that offer new embellishment applications in addition to economic and sustainability benefits.”

Lytle shared that the Scodix Design Inspiration Kit has been well received by those who have viewed it.

“The premier of this box hit the FSEA Gold Leaf Awards soon after the production, concluded Lytle. “A limited-edition series of the sample kits were produced. Naturally, those who received them were ‘inspired’. It really is a toolkit to help designers and brands understand what’s possible through digital embellishment and through the creative services as a whole at Hudson Printing.”

HEIDELBERG and Gallus Announce New Matte Finishing Technology for Digital Inkjet

September 13, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of HEIDELBERG

• Fast, cost-effective, and high-quality in-line matte finishing process brings digital inkjet to profitable new market segment
• New MatteJet technology to drive digital adoption across the industry, further empowering converters to embrace inkjet technology for a smart, connected printshop

Gallus Group, St. Gallen, Switzerland, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), is poised to transform the narrow-web print landscape with its latest research breakthrough: Gallus MatteJet technology. Announced at Labelexpo Americas 2024, the landmark innovation represents an important advancement in inkjet printing, unlocking a premium matte finish previously unachievable with digital inkjet, bringing the possibilities of inkjet technology to the wine label market for the very first time.

Exemplifying HEIDELBERG’s position as a total solution provider for all modern printing processes – offering the entire spectrum from toner to inkjet, offset printing to flexo and all controlled from a common Prinect workflow – MatteJet was developed in-house at Gallus’ innovation hub in St. Gallen, the Gallus Experience Center. At Labelexpo Americas 2024, Gallus will exhibit alongside HEIDELBERG, where it will explain how this transformative innovation addresses one of the key challenges that has historically restricted the growth of digital inkjet technology. Importantly, visitors at the show will also learn how MatteJet will transform the entire market segment for wine and spirit labels and provide converters with the key to a profitable new area of business growth.

The glossy finish inherent to digital inkjet technology has been one of the foremost barriers to its widespread adoption across labels and packaging – specifically in premium segments such as wine and spirit labels where brands traditionally expect a sophisticated matte finish. Until today, this was only achievable through conventional printing, or the addition of post-processing equipment to utilize matt varnishes, adding time, complexity and cost.

Now, in a groundbreaking industry milestone, Gallus MatteJet technology delivers fast, cost-effective, and high-quality matte finishing capabilities, integrated directly into the digital inkjet process. This will allow converters, for the first time, to achieve a high-end matte finish at the touch of a button, without changing inks or adding overprint varnish, eliminating the need for external finishing processes or separate conventional machines. By removing one of the key barriers traditionally restricting the expansion of inkjet printing, Gallus’ new innovative process presents an enormous opportunity for converters to now access a highly profitable market segment. Importantly, MatteJet will also enable more converters and brands than ever before to enjoy the benefits of digital printing, such as more profitable short runs, personalization, and on-demand printing – representing a huge leap in the industry’s digital transformation.

“The development of Gallus MatteJet technology marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of inkjet printing, opening up a world of new opportunities and ultimately, completely transforming the very foundation of what’s possible with inkjet technology,” comments Dario Urbinati, CEO, Gallus Group. “By unlocking matte finishing for digital inkjet, we’ll be able to make an entirely new market segment accessible to converters without the sizeable investment into separate offset solutions – boosting profitability and exemplifying our commitment to building a new era of flexibility that will enable our industry to thrive long-term.”

Developed as part of the company’s ongoing R&D efforts at the Gallus Experience Center – established last year to drive innovation through collaboration for long-term industry-wide success – the new finishing process leverages advanced, cutting-edge technology never-before-seen in labels and packaging. “The new MatteJet technology is revolutionary not just in the opportunities it opens up, but also in what its development represents,” continues Urbinati. “We opened the Gallus Experience Center with a vision for a dynamic, collaborative industry hub that would drive significant, meaningful industry change. Gallus MatteJet exemplifies and is testament to the kinds of transformative developments that can be achieved when you combine this vision with real-world insights as to what the market needs today, and of course the essential resources and expertise of our parent company, HEIDELBERG. MatteJet truly embodies our long-term mission and brings the smart, connected print future within touching distance.”

Designed to integrate with Gallus’ Digital Printing Unit, the new MatteJet technology also represents further expansion of Gallus’ System to Compose concept, which provides unprecedented levels of compatibility across its leading product lines. Under the System to Compose, converters can add, adjust and remove units to their Gallus One as their business needs evolve – now further expanded to comprise workflow and service options as well as equipment, following its overwhelming reception at drupa 2024. Labelexpo will see Gallus demonstrate how the System to Compose concept is key to empowering converters to pivot, adapt and therefore thrive long term, with MatteJet now providing an additional piece to this puzzle.

The latest iteration of the Gallus One also makes its global tradeshow debut at this Labelexpo, in the newly-expanded 430mm web width, unlocking more application possibilities than ever before. Visitors to the stand will see first-hand the possibilities achievable with its recently-extended color gamut, with the integration of Orange and Violet Saphira inks developed jointly in-house with HEIDELBERG, and helping converters to achieve shelf standout for brand differentiation.

HEIDELBERG will also showcase various aspects of its label offering alongside Gallus, having recently continued its expansion into new business areas, solidifying its position as a leader in delivering end-to-end solutions. Together, they will highlight a number of innovations in the label space – including the latest developments in its Screeny® screen printing solutions and Prinect workflow software. Prinect, the backbone of System to Compose from Gallus, is key to digitizing production and realizing the smart, connected printshop of the future – brought to life live on the Labelexpo booth (3523).

As a subsidiary, Gallus remains an important pillar in the company’s growth strategy for the packaging and label market and will continue to play a key role in the HEIDELBERG future.

About Gallus

Gallus, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) with production facilities in Switzerland and Germany, is a leading company in the development and production of conventional and digital narrow-web, reel-fed presses designed for the label and packaging business. The machine portfolio is augmented by a broad range of screen printing plates (Gallus Screeny), globally decentralized service operations, and a broad range of printing accessories and replacement parts. Products and services of the Gallus brand are distributed through the global HEIDELBERG Sales and Service network. The comprehensive portfolio also includes consulting services provided by label experts in all relevant printing and process engineering tasks. Gallus employs around 300 people, of whom 160 are based in Switzerland, where the company has its headquarters in St. Gallen. For more information, visit www.gallus-group.com.

With its dual-track strategy, HEIDELBERG is pursuing two key strategic approaches. Firstly, the company wants to make its mark on the printing market beyond its sheetfed offset press business – especially in the packaging or label market and digital printing. Secondly, HEIDELBERG will open up new markets alongside its core business, as has already happened with the wallbox business.

Building Lasting Partnerships and Products: The Entourage Yearbooks Story

September 10, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of Book Automation

Streamlining yearbook production with continuous roll-fed smyth-sewing technology.

Entourage Yearbooks, a New Jersey-based company, began with a focus on photobook publishing but soon discovered its niche in creating high-quality, smyth-sewn yearbooks. Their journey into printing and binding started with the Columbia University MBA program yearbook, which inspired them to dedicate their efforts exclusively to yearbook production. Despite their strengths in technology and customer service, they initially struggled to find a printing partner that could meet their high standards for quality and quick turnaround times. This challenge ultimately drove them to enter the digital printing and binding industry on their own.

“For Entourage, partnering with the right company isn’t just about buying a machine—it’s about securing dependable, long-term service and support to ensure our products meet the high expectations of our customers,” says Edward Jo, COO of Entourage Yearbooks. “Our goal is to produce yearbooks that stand the test of time, with a focus on exceptional smyth-sewn binding. Partnering with Book Automation and Meccanotecnica has been a transformative experience for Entourage Yearbooks, and the recent decision to invest in the Universe Web has proven to be a game-changer. The machine’s ability to produce high-quality, durable bindings ensures our yearbooks are built to last for generations, which is a key selling point for our customers,” continues Edward Jo.

Book Automation, the U.S. branch of Meccanotecnica, has been a leading provider of high-quality industrial book finishing machines to the North American market since 1975. Based in New Milford, Connecticut, Book Automation brings Meccanotecnica’s expertise and innovation to U.S. soil. With a dedicated team of factory-trained technicians and a fully stocked spare parts warehouse, Book Automation ensures exceptional after-sales service and support for its customers, making it a trusted partner in the industry. For more information, visit www.meccanotecnicagroup.com/book-automation/en/.

Introducing the Servo-Driven MS-80DDS Series from Sakurai USA

September 10, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of Sakurai USA.

Sakurai USA, Schaumburg, Illinois, a manufacturer of screen and offset presses, has introduced the Servo-Driven MS-80DDS Series. Sakurai’s reimagined Maestro MS-80DDS eliminates gears and sprockets for drive control with each part directly driven by a servomotor. The fully automated, labor-saving DDS was designed for easier operation and a scratch free conveying function — even for difficult materials. New features to improve operability and efficiency include a larger LCD touch screen operating panel, a presetting mechanism for sheet size and plate positioning and remote access function to simplify operation and maintenance. Sakurai’s exclusive CCD optical camera registration system checks register marks for sheet alignment to improve productivity and performance.

The MS-80DDS Utilizes Servo-Driven Motion Insuring Precise Deposits of Ink and Laydown
• No gears or sprockets for drive control
• Fully automated
• Remote access for operation and maintenance
• Higher running speed of 3,000 IPH

The Most Precise Cylinder Screen Presses
Available for Industrial Multicolor Overlay Printing
• MS-80DDS 24-3/8″ x 31-1/8″
• MS-102AX 28-3/8″ x 42-1/8″
• MS-80AII 24-3/8″ x 31-1/8″
• MS-102AII 28-3/8″ x 42-1/8″
MSDR-60 Servo-Driven Web-Fed Cylinder Screen Press
Designed for precision screen printing of thin materials in roll form
• Multi-layer ceramic capacitors
• Flexible printed circuits
• Biometric sensors
• Membrane switches
• Transfer printing
• Available in 11-13/16″ and 23-5/8″ web widths

The LQM 105 Hot Foil Stamper
Embellish your printing and increase profits with ScreenFoil™.

Achieve amazing flat, tactile or 3D effects with the new LQM 76 and LQM 105 Evolution Series, a cost-effective in-house solution for hot foil finishing.

The LQM Series has many new features to increase productivity including a larger 3″ web core diameter, an alignment conveyor to precisely transport printed sheets, a user-friendly touch screen and foil saving capability.

Natgraph UV Drying Systems
Increase productivity and reduce energy costs with a Natgraph UV Drying System regardless of the model of your current screen press
• Automotive dials, trim and sensors
• Bio sensors and medical devices
• Graphic overlay and conductive
• Credit and security cards
• Finishing and spot UV
• Transfers and tagless labels

For more information, visit www.sakurai.com.

Streamfeeder and Postmatic Forge Strategic Alliance in Mailing and Graphics Industry

September 5, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of BW Flexible Systems.

BW Flexible Systems, Duncan, South Carolina, a leading global manufacturer of flexible packaging machines, today announced a strategic partnership between its Streamfeeder product line and Postmatic, an industry-recognized brand known for its mailing and packaging equipment. Together, the equipment brands will leverage resources and expertise to drive product innovation and increase manufacturing capacity. Both brands are industry leaders that share reputations for excellence in automation solutions.
Established in 1990, Streamfeeder is a globally recognized leader in designing and manufacturing automation solutions for many industries, including commercial printing, packaging and mail fulfillment. Applications include mailing, batch counting, print packaging, collation, packaging, e-commerce distribution and fulfillment.

Founded in 1972, Postmatic is a global leader in self-adhesive postage stamp affixers and transport bases, offering mailing, packaging, printing and imaging solutions servicing both the mailing and packing industry. Postmatic recently expanded its capabilities to include custom machine building and automation engineering, enabling the development of new industry solutions. BW Flexible Systems’ Streamfeeder team says customers will experience advancements in product quality, parts delivery and product innovation.

“We are thrilled to partner with Postmatic, a company that shares our commitment to quality and innovation,” said Doug Schulz, Streamfeeder Product Line Leader. “This collaboration will undoubtedly strengthen our production capabilities and enhance our product offerings.”

Looking ahead, the Streamfeeder and Postmatic strategic alliance will enable additional opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Future steps include co-engineering solutions, developing new products and expanding Streamfeeder’s capabilities to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers.
“Partnering with Streamfeeder goes full circle back to our previous collaboration more than three decades ago,” said Dipesh Patel, Postmatic President and CEO. “We are excited to combine our resources and manufacturing expertise with Streamfeeder to continue innovating and strengthening our commitment to our customers across the mailing and packaging industry.”

BW Flexible Systems is one of three divisions — alongside BW Filling & Closing and BW Integrated Systems — comprising BW Packaging, Barry-Wehmiller’s packaging machinery group. With a global footprint spanning 25 countries, BW Packaging is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability, performance, integration and lifetime support for every solution.

ABOUT BW FLEXIBLE SYSTEMS
BW Flexible Systems creates flexible packaging solutions for food and non-food products by bringing together some of the industry’s most trusted and innovative brands, including Hayssen vertical form/fill/seal and horizontal flow wrap machines, SYMACH palletizers and Thiele bag filling and sealing machines. With eight locations throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Italy and the Netherlands, BW Flexible Systems offers unparalleled lifetime support to its customers globally. For more information, visit bwpackaging.com/bw-flexible-systems.

ABOUT BARRY-WEHMILLER
Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of highly engineered capital equipment and consulting services for a wide variety of industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3.6 billion organization with more than 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world. CEO Bob Chapman shares the story of the company’s transformation in his book, Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family. To learn more, go to barrywehmiller.com.

Baumer HHS Expands Services at HHS Solution Center in Krefeld

September 5, 2024

Press release submitted on behalf of Baumer

Customers of Baumer hhs are familiar with the hhs solution center at company headquarters in Krefeld-Uerdingen, Germany, primarily as a place where they can test new applications and business ideas in industrial gluing and quality control. Recently, Baumer hhs expanded services at the center to include an extensive training program. It offers customers from around the world a variety of courses to enhance the qualifications of their machine operators, service staff and other employees—and in turn to better manage the skilled labor shortage in the industry.

“We work with customers to tailor our training courses to their specific needs. The program ranges from basic training for career beginners and career changers, to seminars for advanced staff. Courses are limited to a maximum of four participants, ensuring an intensive training and education experience. The ultimate goal of all courses is the same: We want to upskill our customers so they can master the challenges of day-to-day production. They learn how to get the most out of gluing and quality control equipment from Baumer hhs, achieve maximum efficiency and flexibly meet market demands. Participants also gain a deeper understanding of the technical processes involved in their applications, helping them be more efficient at work in production”, explains Lars Scherberich, team lead at the Baumer hhs solution center.

The new state-of-the-art training facility at the center creates the perfect atmosphere for goal-oriented, focused learning. Here, on some 200 m2 of space, Baumer hhs has various test set-ups fitted with the latest equipment for gluing and quality assurance. In live demonstrations, they show how customers can use innovative solutions from Baumer hhs in packaging production and end-of-line processes. Further applications include, for instance, dispersion and hot melt adhesives, new developments in low-temperature and biobased adhesives, and securing pallet loads with anti-slip adhesives. Working hands-on with the various application heads helps participants to internalize what they have learned.

All of the training courses have high practical relevance, which is reinforced by the fact that Baumer hhs manufactures its gluing systems right in Krefeld. Participants get insight into how the products are fabricated and the high quality standards they are subject to. Once participants complete training, they receive a certificate from Baumer hhs documenting the courses they attended.

“Baumer hhs is known across the global industry for responding in a special way to the individual needs of its customers. The hhs solution center is an important part of this close connection to customers. Our new training program is our response to requests from many customers, who want to better train their employees and overcome the industry-wide skilled labour shortage. We look forward to welcoming numerous participants from all over the world”, says Lars Scherberich. The team at the solution center not only collaborates with customers to adapt training courses to their needs, it also meticulously prepares for each visit. In addition, it offers guests full service, including hotel reservations and transfers.

A number of major packaging manufacturers recently took part in new training courses at the hhs solution center. “Companies later reported that training increased productivity and efficiency in their production operations”, says Armando Orellana Galán, Director of Sales for DACH and Benelux at Baumer hhs:

The hhs solution center in Krefeld specialises in folding carton and corrugated packaging production, end-of-line processing and print finishing. Baumer hhs maintains another competence center at the site of its Italian subsidiary in Cesano Boscone, near Milan, which specializes in the tobacco industry.

For more information on the services of the hhs solution center in Krefeld, visit: https://www.baumerhhs.com/de/unsere-services/solution-center.