Press release submitted on behalf of GEW Inc.

GEW Inc., Crawley, United Kingdom, a UV curing systems manufacturer, has announced its appointment of Jeffrey Stone as sales manager for Midwest USA. Stone is an experienced stalwart of the flexographic printing industry and has built up over 35 years of technical expertise in this field. His career has included four years in Sales with Mark Andy, eight years in Technical Sales with Anderson & Vreeland and four years as a category Sales Manager with Fujifilm North America’s Graphic Systems Division. In all, he has spent over 20 years in sales of Hardware Solutions, Prepress and Platemaking Software.

Stone will manage Label & Narrow Web sales for the entire Midwest region and will be centrally based within the territory. He begins in the role with immediate effect and will support and report to Amir Dekel, who is vice president, Sales at GEW Inc.

Dekel comments on the new appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Jeff into the fold, and we look forward to him getting to grips with his new role. He has a huge amount of relevant experience and will be a great asset in building on GEW’s ever-increasing success in this market. Our current sales structure needed to be strengthened to cope with demand, and Jeff is perfectly suited to the challenge.”

Dekel continues: “In addition to GEW’s recent appointment of a Sales Manager for Latin America, Jeff’s arrival brings our Sales team for the Americas up to full strength and we are all set to serve our customers, old and new, in the best possible way.”

Stone is Level I & II Certified with the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA). His career began with several years in Graphics and Print Production, which formed the foundations on which to build his strong technical knowledge and expertise in the field.

About GEW
GEW (EC) Limited designs and manufactures Arc and UV LED curing systems for printing, coating and converting applications. The company is the leading manufacturer of UV systems for label and narrow web printing and is experiencing a growing global presence in sheetfed and web offset for commercial printing and packaging, as well as the wood coating market.

GEW’s UV systems are available for all new machinery, and can be retrofitted to any active press, allowing printers to breathe new life into older printing equipment. GEW has a world-class production facility at its UK headquarters, a subsidiary in the USA and a branch office in Germany, all supported by an extensive list of worldwide distributors.

For more information, visit www.gewuv.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of Tecnomac

TECNOMAC, an Italian-based manufacturer of custom-made thermal laminating lines, has introduced the ultimate model LQM 105 EVOLUTION – an advanced 2D/3D cold foil application unit engineered for seamless integration into screen-printing lines.

In today’s market, finishing plays a crucial role in turning a simple printed item into a compelling communication tool.

Designed for precision and efficiency, the LQM EVO applies metallic foil across a wide range of substrates, serving industries from luxury packaging and publishing to stationery and premium labeling. From soft-touch films offering tactile elegance to embossed effects with gold, silver, any other colors, also holographic foils, the LQM EVO allows printers to elevate their output and stand out. Most importantly, no dies or clichés are required: the foil is directly transferred to paper or plastic substrates using a simple yet highly effective cold foil system.

The unit is positioned after the UV dryer and before the stacker, where the foil adheres to the cured UV varnish.

Foil can be applied to precise areas, or to the full substrate width, with maximum accuracy and minimal foil waste – enabling both spot foiling and full-width coverage.

In addition to its integration in screen-printing lines, the LQM EVO is also available as a stand-alone unit, compatible with digital toner or ink-based printing technologies.
For more information, visit www.tecnomacitalia.it/en/.

Press release submitted on behalf of IST METZ GmbH & Co. KG

UV Days 2025, organized by IST METZ, will offer a unique opportunity for printing industry professionals to find out about the latest trends and technologies from June 3-5, 2025. Under the motto ‘Mission to Zero’, IST METZ will present ground-breaking developments in digitalization, sustainability and innovative curing solutions that will revolutionize the industry.

From June 3-5, 2025, IST METZ will be hosting UV Days 2025, the world’s largest industry event for UV and LED UV technology. Trade visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the latest developments, deepen their expert knowledge and make valuable contacts.

Highlights of UV Days 2025
• Specialist presentations on current industry topics: Renowned experts present exciting insights into key future topics:
o Digitalization in the printing industry: How digital transformation is optimizing processes and enabling new business models.
o Sustainability: Innovative strategies and technologies to reduce the ecological footprint.
o New curing methods: Innovative processes that take the efficiency and quality of UV curing to a new level.

• Product premieres: A particular highlight of the event will be the presentation of the latest generation of LED UV curing systems. These innovative systems impress with higher performance, significantly increased energy efficiency and even more flexibility in application.
• Live demonstrations of digital printing applications will take place in cooperation with SwissQprint. Participants will experience first-hand how innovative printing technologies are revolutionizing and optimizing the production process.
• Workshops on FREEcure and SMARTcure technologies offer participants the opportunity to familiarize themselves with two revolutionary approaches for efficient and sustainable curing in the printing process.
• Exclusive company and manufacturing tours will provide an in-depth look at IST METZ’s innovative production facilities and the manufacturing processes and technologies that make the company’s leading UV solutions possible.
• Networking: With more than 40 exhibitors, the event offers an ideal platform for exchanging experiences and making new contacts. UV Days is the ideal meeting place for professionals worldwide to learn from the best in the industry.
• A convivial end to the day in the Swabian wine village: round off the day with regional specialities and fine wines in a relaxed atmosphere. Take the opportunity to socialize and relax after a successful day at the exhibition.

Participation in UV Days 2025 is free of charge, but prior registration is required. For more information and to register, please visit the official IST METZ website (www.uvdays.com).

About IST METZ
IST METZ is a leading supplier of UV and LED UV technologies for the printing industry. With over 45 years of experience, the company develops innovative curing systems that meet the needs of a changing industry.

Press release submitted on behalf of Standard Finishing Systems

Standard Finishing Systems, Andover, Massachusetts, a leading supplier of post-press and paper handling solutions, has announced that Finishing 360, their annual event for print service providers in the U.S. and Canada, will be held at Standard’s National Demonstration and Training Center in Andover, MA, on May 21st and 22nd, 2025.

Finishing 360 brings visitors from across the country to Standard’s state-of-the-art demonstration center to experience a comprehensive lineup of the latest Horizon and Hunkeler print finishing and paper handling solutions. During the two-day event, Standard offers hands-on, personalized equipment demonstrations as well as high-level tours of their complete finishing line. This year, attendees can expect to see the latest finishing solutions including the new Horizon BBS-56 Book Block Solution, the new Horizon HSF-50 High-Speed Sheet Feeder, the Horizon BQ-300 Perfect Binder, and the Horizon SPF-2000 Bookletmaker. Other featured solutions include the Hunkeler/Horizon Roll-to-Saddlestitch line featuring Hunkeler’s Generation 8 unwinder and cutter and Horizon’s iCE StitchLiner Mark V Saddlestitcher, Hunkeler’s Roll-to-Cut/Stack solution, Horizon’s iCE LiNK Bindery Control System, and more.

Visitors will also be able to learn about Standard’s pre-owned equipment program and trade-in and buyback programs. Additionally, the Standard service team will be available to discuss Standard’s service support options including service contracts, parts, preventative maintenance, and technical support.

Each afternoon, attendees will be invited to take part in a specially catered lunch, and a local barista will be visiting each day to serve up made-to-order coffee, espresso, and more. The event will also feature raffles and giveaways for every attendee.

“The doors of our National Demonstration and Training Center are always open to visitors, but Finishing 360 gives us the opportunity to invite the entire print community at once,” said Paul Steinke, Director of Sales at Standard. “We look forward to this event every year, and we hope you’ll join our team of finishing experts as they demonstrate, live, the latest in feeding and finishing solutions from Hunkeler and Horizon.”

Those with interest in attending can contact their Standard sales manager or visit https://www.sdmc.com/about-360/.

About Standard Finishing Systems
Standard Finishing Systems is based in Andover, Massachusetts, and is a leading supplier of Horizon and Hunkeler feeding and finishing solutions. Standard utilizes a network of independent dealers and a direct sales force in the United States and Canada. For more information, call (800)-526-4774 or visit the Standard website at https://www.sdmc.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of Bobst

BOBST, Mex, Switzerland, a provider of substrate processing, printing and converting equipment and services for packaging and label manufacturers, and LEONHARD KURZ Stiftung & Co. KG (KURZ), Fürth, Germany, a global provider of surface embellishment technologies, have decided to increase their collaboration. The aim is to push the boundaries of hot-stamping technology, leveraging the combined expertise and innovative capabilities of both companies. Together, they are set to drive significant advancements to respond to the growing demand for sophisticated box embellishment, promising major achievements that will benefit customers and the industry at large. The partnership will focus on developing and testing cutting-edge technologies, with initial tests designed to assess customer-driven improvements and deliver tailored solutions.

As part of this initiative, the state-of-the-art NOVAFOIL 106 H hot-transfer stamper has been installed at KURZ’s premises in Fürth. The NOVAFOIL 106 has been developed by BOBST to optimize box embellishment and equipped with a dedicated, re-designed hot stamping transfer section. Combining increased dwell time, high stamping pressure and stable temperature with the BOBST no-sheet-contact ACCUREGISTER, this compact and innovative hot-transfer stamper guarantees exceptional precision and embellishment quality for sheets of up to 106 width.

The NOVAFOIL 106 can be equipped with a cross-foil module which allows the application of complex embellishment designs in one single pass. However, in the KURZ Demo Center in Fürth, visitors can also test the recently introduced hologram version, the NOVAFOIL 106 H. Featuring up to 10 dedicated hologram modules, the machine is transformed into a unique tool designed for highly efficient hologram application, ensuring brand protection and preventing forgeries.

For maximum flexibility, the modules can be mounted individually onto two transversal rails, according to production needs and easily connected to the machine via a “plug and play” system. Each module has its individual motor and braking system which – combined with an individual register for every reel – guarantees optimal application precision. With up to 10 modules running at the same time, converters can run even complex hologram designs in one go, for maximum efficiency and productivity.

“We are very happy to have the unique opportunity to demonstrate this exceptional machine here at KURZ’s and deepen our relationship to create synergies and develop new and exciting technologies,” says Bodo Junge, Product Marketing Director in charge of hot-transfer stampers at BOBST. Both companies are enthusiastic about the potential of this collaboration to bring numerous innovations to the market.

Join us in this exciting journey of innovation! Stay tuned for our upcoming events and presentations where we will showcase groundbreaking advancements and explore new collaboration opportunities. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness cutting-edge technology in action and discover how our partnership can benefit you.

For more information, visit www.bobst.com and www.kurz-world.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of MBO

MBO America, Marlton, New Jersey, has announced the appointment of Kyle Gregory as Regional Sales Manager- Southeast. Kyle brings over 25 years of sales and operations experience in the commercial print and finishing business to his new role, and a wealth of technical knowledge of MBO’s commercial fold and finishing solutions. His background includes Sales and Management roles at industry supplier Scheffer International, and a long stint as a lean manufacturing expert as Japs Olson.

The addition of Kyle Gregory to the sales team reinforces MBO America’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions in print finishing with the most knowledgeable staff in the industry. “I am excited to join an industry leading company, and be able to consult with our customers to ensure that we maximize their finishing operations” says Gregory.

“We are excited to welcome Kyle to the MBO America sales team, and are confident his expertise and consultative style will bring tremendous value to our customers and partners,” said Chad Ferguson, Vice President Sales. “His vast experience in the sales and operation of complex finishing solutions will prove to be a tremendous asset as we continue to broaden our product offerings in the commercial print market.”

Kyle will be responsible for all sales activities in the states of South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.

About MBO America
MBO America is a leader in post-press finishing in the North American Market. Located in Marlton, NJ, it offers a broad portfolio of world-class, high-performance finishing solutions for offset, cutsheet and rollfed digital, hybrid and pharmaceutical production segments. It has also taken on the model of a systems integrator, providing one-step production systems for commercial folding, diecutting, rollfed web finishing and specialty product systems in the direct mail market. MBO gives printers an edge with next-generation achievements. Established in 1984, it now operates under the umbrella of its parent company, Komori Corporation. Visit MBO America at https://www.mboamerica.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of Harris and Bruno

Harris and Bruno International, Roseville, California, a leader in advanced coating and digital embellishment solutions for the printing industry, is excited to announce Paul Furse as its new Global Director of Marketing & Head of Business Development, Americas.

With a lifelong career in signage, technology, and print, and over a decade specializing in digital embellishments, Furse brings unparalleled expertise to the role. His leadership at Scodix as Director of Sales for the Americas and as International Director of Industrial Sales at Konica Minolta played a pivotal role in expanding market presence and driving adoption of cutting-edge print technologies.

“I am thrilled to join Harris and Bruno, a company renowned for its cutting-edge technology, vibrant culture, and commitment to excellence,” said Furse. “The opportunity to collaborate with a forward-thinking team that is consistently shaping the future of print, especially in digital embellishment, is genuinely inspiring. I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive growth and deliver exceptional value to our customers.”

Nick Bruno, CEO of Harris and Bruno, expressed his enthusiasm about Furse’s appointment: “Paul’s expertise in digital print and embellishments is second to none. His strategic vision, deep understanding of customer needs, and commitment to customer satisfaction align perfectly with Harris & Bruno. His contributions will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our product offerings. We are very excited to welcome him to the team.”

In his new role, Furse will focus on advancing Harris & Bruno’s industry-leading technologies, including the ZRX Digital Embellishment System and ZRW Inkjet Web Coater, which combines high-speed precision with eco-friendly solutions. His goal is to enhance customer engagement through cutting-edge print solutions that elevate brand experiences.

After celebrating their 75th anniversary last year, Harris & Bruno remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of print technology while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

For further information about Harris and Bruno International or to schedule an interview with Paul Furse or Nick Bruno, please contact: Ryan Moskun at ryanm@harris-bruno.com.

Press release submitted on behalf of HEIDELBERG and Gallus

• Gallus MatteJet-powered in-line matte finishing brings digital inkjet labels to profitable premium wine and spirits segments worth over $3.5 billion
• Gallus MatteJet supports Gallus’ ‘System to Compose’ concept, offering customers flexible technology to adapt to market challenges – future-proofing their investment and driving new growth opportunities
• New technology introduction further supports industry drive towards a thriving landscape of ‘smart, connected, printing’

Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), St. Gallen, Switzerland, has announced at Gallus Wine Label Days, the global commercial availability of its new matte finishing technology for the Gallus One, Gallus MatteJet. For the first time, this innovative technology allows converters to produce profitable digital labels inline with a high-end matte finish at the touch of a button – set to boost digital adoption in the growing wine label segment.

Initially unveiled as a research breakthrough at Labelexpo Americas 2024, strong market demand led Gallus to fast-track the development of Gallus MatteJet. Achieving a premium look by removing the traditional digitally printed gloss finish, historically one of the foremost barriers to digital label adoption, Gallus MatteJet paves the way for broader use in labels and packaging – particularly in high-end segments like wine and spirits where brands demand a sophisticated, premium matte finish. With the value of the global wine label market estimated at over $3.5 billion and on a steady growth trajectory, projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2033, the new technology delivers a significant opportunity for converters to tap into a lucrative new revenue stream.1

Dario Urbinati, CEO, Gallus Group comments: “Gallus and HEIDELBERG are delighted to announce the commercial launch of Gallus MatteJet technology and the opportunity it represents. Until now, matte finishing for digital inkjet has only been achievable through the addition of integrated flexo units or post-processing equipment to utilize matte coatings – adding time, complexity and cost. Now, by eliminating the need for these types of varnishes, customers can unlock various efficiencies whilst retaining the surface texture of their desired substrate. This also in hand eliminates any required tooling and cleaning of coating machinery, adding up to a significant overall benefit.

“Three years ago, with the launch of the Gallus One, we addressed the TCO barrier to profitable digital labels. With MatteJet, we’ve taken this concept further, bringing all the advantages of digitally printed matte labels to premium brands – including short runs, reduced inventory, enhanced sustainability, personalization, and on-demand printing. These strategic developments demonstrate our commitment to closing the gap between the vast promise of digital technologies and the current reality for businesses across our industry. Making the embrace of digital solutions an accessible and profitable path for more converters and further supporting the drive towards ‘smart, connected, printing’, this innovation effectively completes the circle for premium digital labels.”

Gallus MatteJet is designed to integrate effortlessly with the Gallus One, the company’s flagship digital label press. The new innovation can now be incorporated into both the 340mm printing width and the newly-expanded 430mm web width, further enhancing the System to Compose concept and boosting performance and flexibility for businesses. Offering a modular blend of workflow and service options as well as equipment, System to Compose provides compatibility across Gallus’ leading product lines and enables converters to cost effectively adapt their technology offering to meet changing market needs for long term success. Furthermore, this new addition to Gallus’ ecosystem further strengthens the future of ‘smart, connected printing’ by embracing the shift towards new digital technological advancements and reinventing processes across multiple areas in the printing industry.

Gallus MatteJet also represents the latest innovation from the Gallus Experience Center, launched two years ago as an industry touchpoint to foster innovation through collaboration. Now a valued hub for education, training, R&D and industry advancement, the Center has served as the incubator for a number of pivotal technology and business partnerships, uniting industry leaders. Among them, one of Gallus’ longest-standing partners, GEW, even played a role in the development of Gallus MatteJet – demonstrating the power of collaboration in driving innovation and delivering effective, real-world solutions that drive the industry forward.

Dario Urbinati concludes, “It has been incredible to witness the enthusiastic response to Gallus MatteJet from our customers and to share in their excitement. We believe MatteJet exemplifies the innovation, expertise, and customer focus that Gallus and HEIDELBERG bring to the industry. We look forward to seeing its impact on the market and the opportunities it facilitates for label businesses.”

The launch of the new digital technology reflects 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. 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 Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) with production facilities in Switzerland and Germany, is a leading company in the development, 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 decentralised service operations, and a broad offering of printing accessories and replacement parts, as well as consulting services. Products and services of the Gallus brand are distributed through the global HEIDELBERG Sales and Service network. 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 a clear focus on growth, HEIDELBERG as a total solution provider is driving further development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions and the lifecycle business with service and consumables so that customers can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency. The company is also focusing on expanding into new business areas such as high-precision plant engineering with