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FEATURES
A tribute to Eric Tanzer 14 22 10 6
10 Standout moments from 2021
In a year plagued with uncertainty, these significant events made an impact on the Canadian print industry
14 Simpson goes from loss to gain
Once a reluctant president, Carla Johanns has now embraced the role
DEPARTMENTS
GAMUT
5 News, People, Installs
5 Calendar
TECH REPORT
18 Exploring the latest in offset printing
NEW PRODUCTS
20 Introducing new solutions from Ricoh, SwissQprint, Konica Minolta and Fujifilm
Earlier this fall, the Digital Imaging Association held a webinar to discuss supply chain bottlenecks that have increased prices of all types of goods globally. During the webinar, industry experts—James Tovell, vice-president of Central Canada, Spicers; Stéphane Degenais, region manager for Canada, Domtar; and Warren McCaffrey, president of Trinet Global Logistics—recommended some steps that printers could take to mitigate these challenges.
Factors
The cost of shipping paper is now averaging $12,000 per container.
Tovell kicked off the webinar by highlighting that this particular instance of supply chain tightness is unique because of its global scale and unusually long duration.
The rising cost of natural gas, labour shortage, lack of shipping containers, the pandemic and the increase in demand due to the reopening of world economies are some of the factors exacerbating the chaos in supply chain.
“We really have no say in the costs that we’re buying paper and product at today, and we really have no say in how much we get. We’re just trying to manage it as best as we can. Based on past history of orders, and by working with clients from project to project, we’re trying to give them the best possible solution,” said Tovell.
To illustrate how dire the situation is, Tovell said that orders placed in April went through five to six price increases before they were delivered.
Transport limitations
McCaffrey explained that transportation companies are deciding who they’re doing business with due to capacity limits, which doesn’t bode well for SMEs. He added the industry as a whole is making huge investments in technology to increase visibility over the entire supply chain. McCaffrey warned increases to transportation rates are imminent.
Tovell said that it is averaging out to $12,000 per container of paper whereas in the past it would be around $1500.
Lagging imports
Degenais explained the challenges brought on by a shortage of imports. In the past, 30 per cent of paper needed for North America would be imported. Due to a disruption in imports, addi-
tional demands are being placed on paper manufacturers.
He also mentioned that many paper and pulp manufacturers moved from paper production due to a slump in demand in the last few years as well as with the intention to right-size the company and their services. So, demand has increased this year while production capacity of paper has decreased. However, Domtar is planning to add capacity in the near future.
Long, dark tunnel
McCaffrey believes printers can expect some relief only in Q2 or Q3 of 2022.
“This situation is going to destroy demand, and a lot of people are going to be affected. We’re all trying to avoid this destruction in demand the best we can because it’s a long-term business. We all want to be in it,” said Degenais.
Advice to printers
Tovell urged printers to be upfront with clients, explain the dynamics and what can be realistically done, and be open to substituting products. He encouraged printers to also include price escalators in their contracts.
Another strategy would be to have regional print partners who are better placed to source certain types of inventory or freight partners who can offer you some degree of control over the supply chain.
“Don’t change your buying behaviours. Secure your supply. Make sure to work with your current suppliers. Also, have a good understanding of what raw materials will be available for you as well as when they’ll be ready. If you’ve built your relationship with suppliers; it would be easy. It’s the new customers that are very difficult to serve right now,” added Degenais.
Degenais also cautioned against stockpiling or hoarding of raw materials, as “this will help the system to recover faster than if there’s hoarding.”
To summarize, set your customers’ expectations, do not stockpile raw materials and patiently endure this crisis, as relief is on the far, far horizon.
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Solimar Systems, Inc., announces significant and demonstrable results following a recent Keypoint Intelligence analysis of their PDF optimization solution, ReadyPDF prepress server. Keypoint Intelligence rigorously tested Solimar Systems’ ReadyPDF solution for its PDF file cleansing and optimization capabilities on a variety of job types. The results show reductions in PDF file sizes, decreased processing times and an uncomplicated approach to file optimization.
The Flint Group Packaging Inks reveal its ZenCode CG and ZenCode CS ink series were assessed against the requirements of the Material Health category of the Cradle-toCradle Certified Product Standard, achieving Gold and Silver levels respectively. ZenCode solvent-based inks were designed to promote the development of a circular economy in packaging.
As part of its 28th Annual Gold Leaf Awards, the Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) recognized a project produced by Ontario-based Print Panther on Konica Minolta equipment.
In the Category of Best Foil/ Coatings Selection Guide, Print Panther was awarded the Gold Award for the Konica Minolta Extreme Digital Guide – Capturing the Feel of Creativity, a labour of love for
Christine Yardley, president, Print Panther, and her production team. The project also earned a Best in Show Honorable Mention.
Esko has delivered a world-first in connected packaging production, supercharging secure variable data print (VDP) capabilities for a new collaboration with Scantrust and ePac Flexible Packaging. With its VDP technology, Esko Automation Engine enables the printing of QR codes on flexible packaging on a mass scale. Since every ePacConnect flexible pack includes a Scantrust QR code, every pouch becomes an online gateway.
Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C4080 and C4070 high-speed
digital presses have earned Idealliance Digital Electrophotographic Press Certification and ISO/PAS 15339 System Certification.
According to Idealliance, the AccurioPress C4080 and C4070 are all-in-one print manufacturing powerhouses, providing features to streamline workflow and print output that will exceed expectations.
Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems acquires MultiCam, a US manufacturer and distributor of computer numerical control (CNC) cutting machines and digital finishing processes.
The acquisition of MultiCam expands Kongsberg PCS’ market reach across North America and Europe, and creates one the world’s first diversified provider of digital finishing and CNC cutting machines.
The Best Graphics Group is partnering with Heiber + Schroeder, a 30-year-old, Germany-based specialty manufacturer known for window patching and tray forming equipment.
This partnership will expand the sales, marketing and support for Heiber + Schroeder window patching and tray forming equipment in the US and Canada.
Heidelberg U.S.A. signs an agreement with AN Corporation of Japan to represent its range of Kawahara blank separator equipment in North America. The Kawahara blank separators complement the Heidelberg-Masterwork range of diecutters by offering automated solutions for separating die cut blanks from a printed sheet.
CALENDAR
January 17-21, 2022
EFI Connect
Las Vegas, Nev.
January 22-25, 2022
Color22
La Jolla, Calif.
March 16-18, 2022
Print UV
Las Vegas, Nev.
April 20-21, 2022
Visual Graphics Industry Grand Rendezvous Laval, Que.
May 31-June 03, 2022
FESPA Global Print Expo Messe Berlin, Germany
June 02-03, 2022
2022 Supporting Women in Trades Conference
St. John’s, N.L.
June 14-16, 2022
Amplify Print Minneapolis, Minn.
The Techstream Group of Companies (TGC) names Connecting For Results (CFR) as exclusive sales agent for its Virtual Procurement System (VPS). The VPS enables enterprise clients to manage and procure all aspects of physical and digital graphic communication from conception to end of life. The CFR-TGC service offering is unique because it incorporates process automation that connects with internal ERP tools using the Virtual Procurement System platform. The VPS enables the enterprise to be in control, as the enterprise owns the data and uses SAAS for its own business intelligence.
ReadyPDF is a PDF optimization solution from Solimar.
Print Panther was honoured with multiple Gold Leaf Awards by FSEA.
Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C4080 earns Idealliance Digital Electrophotographic Press Certification.
Agfa appoints Mike Horsten as global business manager for its InterioJet family of water-based inkjet printers for the flooring and furniture industries. Horsten has over 30 years of experience in marketing strategy and sales development. In his new position, Horsten will perform market research, define marketing and sales strategies and help enhance Agfa’s product roadmap. Additionally, he will co-ordinate all global sales activities for InterioJet.
Zund America names Martin Thornton as business segment manager for graphics and packaging. Thornton brings with him over 25 years of technical sales experience in the graphics and packaging, printing, die-making, aerospace, automotive, apparel, furniture and textile industries.
Montreal-based commercial printer Accent Impression recently expanded its folding carton production by purchasing an Easymatrix diecutter from Heidelberg.
Drytac appoints Michael Morano as North American sales support specialist, providing support to the region’s sales and customer service teams. Morano will also co-ordinate initiatives between the North American sales and production teams. Additionally, Glen Fitzgerald joins Drytac’s Canada team as technical sales manager for industrial products. In this role, he will be responsible for increasing Drytac’s custom and contract adhesive coating business in the North American packaging, construction, medical, automotive, label and industrial markets.
Little Rock Printing is the first Canadian company to install a Valiani Optima V250 system, a vacuum flatbed plotter for diecutting.
The Mitchell Group names Patrick Guerini as e-commerce and variable data systems manager at Mitchell Digital. Guerini is responsible for systems administration, installation, training and facilitation of all matters related to variable data processing, along with the creation and administration of customer-facing online marketing storefronts. He continues to be Mitchell’s Idealliance G7 expert
Actega appoints Jan Franz Allerkamp as head of global business line paper and to the board of Actega. Allerkamp was previously the managing director of Actega Metal Print. He replaces Andreas Gipp, who will become the third managing director of Eckart, another division of the Altana group.
Cober Solutions is investing in the HP Indigo 100K Digital Press and HP Site Flow solutions to grow business in highly automated print production for on-demand consumer applications in the Canadian market.
Michael Morano
Glen Fitzgerald
A tribute to Eric Tanzer
Iconic graphic arts equipment distributor helped launch Roland presses in the UK
By Nick Howard
n a rainy, cold January morning in 1985, I spied a short man wearing a three-quarter dark grey overcoat and clutching a plastic shopping bag in England’s Gateshead printing plant of Her Majesty’s Stationary Office. I was inspecting a machine that was on sale. I recognized him immediately as Eric Tanzer, the legendary director of the United Kingdom’s largest graphic arts machinery distributor, the Pershke-Price Service Organization.
For decades it was impossible to find anyone in the UK printing scene who didn’t know Eric. I knew him through my father, as Eric’s brother Siegfried once employed my dad in Montreal. On that aforementioned morning, I missed the chance to speak with him. Luckily, a few hours later we both found ourselves at the Newcastle airport departure lounge waiting to board a flight to London. I took the opportunity to introduce myself and have a chat. We talked about his brother, my father, whom he fondly remembered, and a myriad of other topics lost to memory. Tanzer was warm, kind and sincere.
In the presence of a legend
Like many European Jews who were born in the 20th century, Eric led a tumultuous life. He was born in Budapest in 1906, in what was then the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Eric learned the printing equipment business through his family’s distributorship firm, Globus, which then represented many printing equipment including the famous German Rockstroh Victoria art platen.
Eric immigrated to England in 1931 where he met Pierre Bausch, a Luxembourg businessman. Eric was
immediately offered a job as a salesman in the newly incorporated Price Service & Co., which was financially associated with another machine dealer, Frank F. Pershke. Pershke’s fledgling business, which dates to 1908, also represented the Victoria platen. Although Pershke’s name was on the door, a good portion of the ownership was held by Pierre Bausch. In 1934, Eric married Bausch’s daughter.
Life in England at least meant some of the horrors beginning to take place in Hungary was at a distance. Both businesses sputtered along through the depression years until the end of WW II. In March 1947, BUGRA, Germany’s first postwar print expo, was held in Leipzig.
BUGRA-47
Faber & Schleicher AG had taken space at BUGRA. They are one of
the world’s oldest offset press manufacturers, eclipsed only by Harris-Seybold-Potter in the USA, and George Mann & Co. Ltd. in England. Their brand, “Roland,” is still used today. The first rotary sheetfed offset would leave their Offenbach factory in 1911, quickly followed up by more advanced designs in one, two, and, by 1950, a four-colour “Ultra” version. The five-cylinder design was unique. A module (often referred to as a “machine”) would incorporate a user-friendly upper and lower printing unit while printing on one common-impression cylinder. The resulting design would become a worldwide favourite of both presspersons and owners. However, in 1947, Roland was struggling to rebuild along with other German firms.
A deal was struck at BUGRA that would last an amazing 55 years, ending with Man Roland Germany tak-
Eric Tanzer in 1992.
The letterhead of Price Service in early 1950s.
Eric Tanzer was born in 1906 in Budapest, Hungary.
ing over the UK agency. Perhaps, and it’s just conjecture, Eric may have considered the Planeta range of presses. However, in the mid-1930s, Planeta had agreed to license two of its designs, the “Quinta” and “Tertia” to George Mann & Co. Mann had been selling their “Fast Three” and Fast Five” versions of the Planeta all over the UK and British Empire, and Eric would have known that importing German-built originals would end in court. Besides, at the end of the war, the Planeta factories were stripped of machine-tools as reparations to the Soviets. Many East German firms had faced similar fates, which gave West Germans, such as Roland, a distinct advantage.
The union between Roland and Tanzer
As excited as the two men were to win a major dealership, they soon found a British import license was needed. Surprisingly, it would take four years to get one, and in 1951, the same year as the first Drupa trade show, Roland presses started to pour into Britain.
The first sale was made to Ben Johnson Limited of York. Britain wasn’t thrilled with anything made in Germany so soon after the war, and it’s a credit to Eric that he was able to successfully compete with British makers such as Crabtree and Mann.
In 1951, the American “Miehle” company caught wind of the happenings in the UK and jumped at the chance to work a similar deal with Roland. The Miehle/Roland relationship would last 39 years.
The results of the United Kingdom’s success with Rolands reached as far as East Asia. The models “Favorit,” “Parva,” “Rekord,” and “Ultra” were best-sellers globally.
I doubt early acceptance of the Roland would have been as dramatic without Eric. Britain’s love affair with Roland offsets made other regions take notice and catapulted Roland into the premier position, if not the top-selling rank over the next 40 years. As many have mentioned, Eric met the right press manufacturer at exactly the right time.
Eric loved to entertain customers
1947
In March 1947, BUGRA, Germany’s first post-war print exhibition, was held in Leipzig.
at the symphony or opera, but never in a nightclub. He jogged regularly, was fluent in many languages, and, ultimately, changed the way graphic arts equipment was sold. It was said that after his retirement in 1992, some loyal customers insisted on only dealing with “ET.”
I was fortunate to catch up with Eric again in the early 1990s. Eric, in his eighties, still spoke in a soothing voice. His unmistakable kindness along with an amazing ability to remember intricate details of each customer solidified his place in the global printing industry.
Eric died in 1996 at the age of 89. He was an outstanding human being and printing equipment salesman, and, above all, a true gentleman.
NICK HOWARD, a partner in Howard Graphic Equipment and Howard Iron Works, is a printing historian, consultant and Certified Appraiser of capital equipment. nick@howardgraphicequipment.com
Serving the US market for nearly a decade, RM Machinery (RMM) proudly brings our expertise to Canada’s printing industry. We deliver the highest quality sheetfed o set, digital inkjet, and flexo printing presses by partnering with the finest manufacturers in the industry.
RMM is the premier distributor in Canada for Mitsubishi, RMGT, and Miyakoshi printing presses; Böttcher rollers, blankets, and chemistry; Standard Horizon finishing systems; GEW UV curing systems and TOYO inks.
The Return of Excellence
For years, Mitsubishi set the superior technology standard for Canadian printers. Today, RM Machinery returns that innovation to Canada, but with an even higher standard: Ryobi Mitsubishi Graphic Technology (RMGT).
We are stable, local, and o er the best-in-class technology. We maintain an ample supply of parts, and for as long as you own one of our supported presses, you are guaranteed ongoing service and support programs that are among the best in the industry.
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THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Presenting the defining moments of 2021
By Nithya Caleb
The world played one of the longest waiting games in 2021— waiting for vaccines, inoculation shots, businesses to reopen and for the pandemic to end. The pandemic is ongoing, but Canadians have begun to cautiously restart some of their pre-COVID activities.
While continuing to deal with the pandemic, PSPs also had to contend with the pandemic-recession, supply chain issues and rising costs of raw materials. In this roller-coaster of a year, we’ve compiled a list of significant moments that have impacted the industry both positively and negatively.
COVID impact
A sharp rise in material, logistics and other procurement costs forced many companies, such as Heidelberg and Huber
Group, to adjust their prices. Raw material shortage was an ongoing concern for printing companies around the world.
Agfa increased the price of its offset printing plates and chemicals for the third time in less than 10 months. Sun Chemical raised prices across its entire portfolio of publication, packaging and commercial sheetfed inks, coatings and adhesives in North America.
Day International increased the prices of its printing blankets. Flint Group Packaging also had to raise prices of all its ink and coating products multiples times this year.
On the other hand, Dylan Westgate, managing director of Sydney Stone, vowed, in an open letter to Canadian print producers, to not raise prices.
PrintAction turns 60
This year, PrintAction turned 60. For more than six decades, we have been at the forefront of
Clockwise from left: Kodak and West World Paper sign reseller agreement; CCL Industries installs HP press; The West Canadian Digital Imaging executive team; TC Transcontinental Packaging wins FPA sustainability award; Wide Open Throttle Graphics wins an award; Keypoint determines Canon leads the production inkjet market; Martin Habekost; and CJ Graphics.
the Canadian printing industry, offering commercial printers news and innovative ideas that would help them succeed in their professional lives.
First Virtual.drupa
Virtual.drupa made history as the first digital version of the global trade fair. It took place from April 20 to 23, 2021. More than 210 exhibitors from 35 countries, as well as team participants from global subsidiaries e-presented their product portfolios and innovations.
Spicers Canada consolidates its divisions
Spicers Canada merged all its divisions under a single brand – Spicers. Previously, in addition to Spicers in Canada, Shippers Supply and All Graphic Supplies operated as separate entities.
Printing United Alliance and Idealliance merge
Printing United Alliance and Idealliance have officially merged. Each organization will retain its events and services.
Connecting for Results expands
Connecting for Results expands business by opening offices in the US and the Maritimes. Howard Conway heads the Maritimes office. The firm helps customers in commercial print and packaging to achieve their goals with mergers and acquisitions, recruiting and consulting.
Flash Reproductions
installs first Valiani Omnia in North America
Sydney Stone, the exclusive dealer of the Valiani Omnia diecutter in Canada, has announced the first North American installation of the machine at Flash Reproductions, Toronto. The Omnia was designed to automatically feed and contour cut media.
10West Commercial
Graphics places Canada’s first HP Latex 800W order
Oshawa-based 10West Commercial Graphics has placed Canada’s first order of two HP Latex 800W series of roll-toroll printers with white ink. The print shop will primarily use the printers for custom signage, pop displays and vehicle wraps.
Cameron
Advertising installs first Jeti Tauro H3300 UHS in Canada
Toronto-based Cameron Advertising purchased the Jeti Tauro H3300 UHS LED printer. The printer combines “industry-leading print quality with versatility, productivity and cutting-edge automation at 30 per cent faster speeds.”
The Printing House, Canon are Canada’s Greenest Employers
Canon Canada and The Printing House were recognized as two of Canada’s Greenest Employers for 2021 by Mediacorp Canada.
Canadian Printing Awards 2021 winners
The 15 th annual Canadian Printing Awards, organized by PrintAction and its parent company Annex Business Media, was held virtually due to the pandemic. Nearly 50 trophies were presented to printers and technology suppliers.
Gordon A. Griffiths, president, Connecting for Results, won the John A.Young Lifetime Achievement Award. Robert Dale, COO, Connecting for Results, earned the Community Leader of the Year award. Brett Hueston, vice-president of sales & development, AE Graphics Group, was named Emerging Leader of the Year (Under 35). Len Larose, CEO, PBI/ Printing by Innovation, was honoured as Printing Leader of the Year.
CCL Industries installs world’s first HP Indigo 35K press
CCL Industries installs the world’s first HP Indigo 35K Digital Press at its CCL Label Healthcare facility in Montreal. The CCL fleet of more than 100 digital presses includes many from the HP Indigo portfolio including labels and packaging presses.
CJ Graphics and Manroland partner with Brand iQ
CJ Graphics and Manroland join the Brand iQ Partner Programme, reselling the latter’s software to end brands and other North American print companies. CJ Graphics is also the master reseller for Central and South America.
West Canadian Digital Imaging rebrands itself
West Canadian Digital Imaging launched a new corporate brand identity and name. The organization will now be known as WCD. Among the changes will be its logo, building and delivery fleet signage, and website domain name to www.wcdconnect.com.
Printed mail industry leaders launch the Sustainable Mail Group
The Sustainable Mail Group (SMG) has launched officially with a new website and a LinkedIn Group.
With tens of thousands of jobs involved and over 6.3 billion pieces of mail printed, produced and delivered in Canada each year, SMG invites interested parties from the sector to join them in fostering a better understanding of the environmental impact of their industry with the goal of adopting best practices.
Martin Habekost named chair of Ryerson’s GCM school
Dr. Martin Habekost was appointed chair of the School of Graphic Communications
Management, effective July 1, 2021. Habekost holds a PhD in analytical chemistry from Leibniz University in Hanover. After working for 10 years in various roles within the ink manufacturing industry, he joined the School of Graphic Communications Management in 2005. Martin continues his research into colour measurement and colour differencing equations.
Little Rock Printing first in Canada to install Valiani Optima
According to Sydney Stone, Canada’s exclusive Valiani Omnia dealer, Little Rock Printing is the first Canadian company to install a Valiani Optima V250 system.
The Optima series of flatbed cutting tables from Valiani offer extreme versatility in a wide range of sizes.
Wide Open Throttle Graphics wins a 2021 Premier Print Award from the Printing United Alliance
Alberta-based Wide Open Throttle Graphics earned a 2021 Printing United Alliance Premier Print Award for its outstanding graphic design and print work.
It won the Wrap Installer Best-of-Category award for its themed “Abominable Voodoo” wrap project designed for a client’s RAM 1500 Sport pickup truck, Cross Traxx Sled Deck, and Ski Doo Summit Snowmobiles. All the wraps were printed on a Roland DG TrueVIS VG2-540 eco-solvent printer/cutter.
CJ Graphics joins Brand iQ Partner Programme.
MOVING FROM LOSS TO GAIN
Once a reluctant president, Carla Johanns has now embraced the role
By Nithya Caleb
In 2012, when Carla Johanns, president of Simpson Print, Bloomingdale, Ont., moved back into her parent’s home to support a grieving family and stabilize a struggling business due to the tragic death of her brother, she didn’t realize that her life had indefinitely changed.
Carla, a single mother of two girls at that time, was living in Niagara, Ont., and pursuing a master’s degree. Carla never imagined that one day she would be leading the family business. However, the death of her younger brother, who was the company’s principal shareholder then, propelled Carla into unchartered waters.
“We lost almost $3 million in 90 days. I sat in the hallway and did what comes naturally: sell,” recalls Carla, who was always involved in sales in some capacity throughout her professional life.
In a hyper-competitive market, Carla, a goal-oriented individual, managed to successfully turn around the business. Simpson Print posted a profit of $9.7 million last year. This year, it earned $13.1 million. Carla is forecasting a revenue of $15 million for the next fiscal year. After almost 10 years, Carla is no longer the “reluctant” president of Simpson Print. The 49-year-old has embraced her role as the company’s executive head, and has ambitious
Carla Johanns
We’re not in the business of conventional prints. When others say no, we say yes.
plans for the printing business. She also owns 25 per cent of the company’s shares.
About Simpson Print
Simpson Print is known for integrating art effects, coatings and unique finishes with special effects and embellishments on diverse and unusual substrates.
“We’re very substrate-savvy.We’re great at merchandising, metallic packaging, obscure postpress, diecutting and finishing, and managing budgets for a Cadillac end-result,” explains Carla.
The urban legend
Carla’s father, Martin Johanns, is the minority shareholder, chair and founder of Simpson Print. An immigrant from the Netherlands and an aspiring arborist, he discovered his entrepreneurial calling in offset printing.
In 1964, he began a company called Johanns Graphics. This was the heyday of conventional Renaissance printing of annual reports
and magazines. Carla remembers watching designers working on storyboards in a 1,000-sf room.
“My father is an extremely passionate ambassador of ink on paper and the craft of print. His enthusiasm and think-ahead mentality carry us even today,” says Carla.
Even though the company was successful, technological changes, such as the introduction of desktop publishing and elimination of film, were starting to emerge. Martin sold the company before the economic crash of 1990.
Two years later, Carla’s mother, Maddy, found, in the middle of another farm field, a screen printing company called Simpson Screen Printing with one client, MTD. The company made $1.3 million in sales of label identification on lawnmowers and other industrial applications.
As an early adopter of an increasingly popular technology, Simpson Screen Printing began to grow. It soon had US clients so much so that 70 per cent of its customers resided south of the border.
$13.1M
Simpson Print earned $13.1 million in 2020.
In 1994, when Martin’s old offset company went into receivership, he bought it along with the building where Simpson Print is currently located.
Diverse offerings
Carla believes Simpson Print’s biggest strength is diversity.
“I don’t see myself as a screen printer or a digital printer. I view us as an all-under-one-roof print manufacturing and merchandising solutions provider,” says Carla. “Our business is very diverse. Forty per cent of our business is industrial nameplate identification. Another 40 per cent is wide-format solutions from custom through in-store signage programs, and then we have offset, which is actually doing remarkably well. The name of the game is to be diverse,” says Carla.
Simpson Print is known for combining art effects with unique finishes on diverse substrates.
The company has the capabilities to print spot colour face down; UV litho print with spot UV screen print with specialty inks; different touches, such as textured, powdered and soft; clear; sparkle; tinted; glitter; raised clear with glitter; screen print spot matte; and digital print on vinyl, plastic or paper. It can also do custom diecut, folding, embossing, shrink wrapping, laminating, grometting, hemming, drilling, heat bending, heated platen diecutting, gloss coating and spot reticulation.
“We’re not in the business of conventional prints. When others say no, we say yes. We offer multiple products. We offer still high-resolution screen prints and have an extensive line of wide-formats, digital and UV offset and finishing solutions. In the last few years, I invested around $3 million in new technology and capitol investments. The print industry is capitol intensive, and I do not believe you can remain relevant if you are not continually investing,” adds Carla.
SwissQprint as partners
Simpson print is proud to have two screen printers while everybody is eliminating their screen presses. They’re also the largest Canadian client of SwissQprint, which is very dominant in Europe.
“SwissQprint is easy to maintain. I spend $14,000 on maintenance on three SwissQs, and they contribute to 75 per cent of my bottom line. SwissQ is also the most versatile press. They all have varnishes and
primers, which means I can print on an unusual amount of substrate, such as tempered glass, building materials, laminate flooring, wood, aluminum and polyethylene. Since it has UV-LED, it is significantly reducing a project’s carbon footprint. It limits the conventional, heavy screen deposit. The fact that I have three of them ensures that I can do small, multiple or 5,000 sheet jobs with an in-store deadline of 24 hours,” explains Carla.
Sustainability
As someone who was taught to work hard and use sustainable practices in all walks of life, Carla is keen on adopting eco-friendly principles in the business.
“Print is naturally a very toxic industry. It generates a lot of waste. In the early days, we used recycling ponds at the cost of $14,000 to $20,000 monthly to decontaminate water. We also looked at living walls to control dust. We’ve been thinking green because it’s not just about marketing and the end product, but also being lean in our manufacturing workflow by adopting automation. When you’re lean in your manufacturing principles, you’re
passing on savings to your customers,” she says.
Pandemic’s impact
Carla admits having many sleepless nights in the initial days of the pandemic, but the company was able to pivot quickly.
While some of their clients (e.g. event organizers) didn’t need printing services, others increased their orders. Simpson Print’s label business increased by 20 per cent, and it is still growing.
Carla attributes this resiliency to the fact that the company has seen many ups and downs, especially a big one (the death of its principal shareholder) in 2012, so it was able to navigate the pandemic pretty well. It also helped that Simpson Print offers diverse solutions.
space in her print plant by another 20 million sf. “I see my fulfillment and warehouse businesses significantly increasing,” adds Carla.
1964
Johanns Graphics was established in 1964.
“Post-COVID, you’ve got to go back to the basics of great pressing and quality, and on time execution. We recognize it’s going to be the Wild West domestically. [Thankfully] our business is now evenly spread between Canada and the US,” says Carla.
Future plans
Carla’s main focus is restructuring the company including finance and operations and maintaining strategic growth either organically or through “sensible US acquisitions.” Carla is also keen on enhancing the company’s digital marketing capabilities so as to complement its print services.
As indicated earlier, Carla has expanded the company’s inventory to maximize potential and take on new projects. She’s also expanding
Since Simpson has been in the printing business for 16 years, Carla feels it’s critical for the company to be leaders in innovation and sustainability as well as to champion the importance of print as a marketing channel.
Carla believes the industry would soon be shifting focus from the need for speed to software that increase workflow automation.
“The beauty of the industry is you have to commit to change.You have to be creative,” says Carla. Her ambition is to make Simpson Print “omni marketing intelligent.”
As she explains, “You cannot install a press and deliver value; you have to build all silos of the business to be better and to drive innovative solutions that work with your customers. Print is no longer just about placing ink on paper; it is about the pre- and post-show.”
printing
Showcasing technologies from Heidelberg, Koenig & Bauer, Komori and Baldwin
Heidelberg
Heidelberg has unveiled the Speedmaster CX 104, its latest product in sheetfed offset printing.
With the new Speedmaster CX 104, Heidelberg is looking to meet the growing demand for flexible printing systems with a variety of automation solutions and variants in the commercial sector. The new 104-sheet format press offers com-
mercial, packaging and label printing customers access to cutting-edge sheetfed offset technology from Heidelberg.
Baldwin
Baldwin Technology Company has added TowerClean G2 for coldset offset presses to its range of cleaning systems and consumables. The product, which is a combined blan-
The Speedmaster CX 104 is Heidelberg’s latest product in sheetfed offset printing.
ket and guide roller cleaning system for fast and efficient cleaning cycles, complements the Impact Fusion and Prepac product lines.
TowerClean G2 distributes spray evenly across the web, and its optional brushes help remove lint. Using Baldwin’s precision spray technology, the TowerClean G2 offers various operation modes, including combined blanket and
The GL & GLX Advance line of printers from Komori enhance automation by reducing the number of operator touchpoints.
guide roller cleaning, blanket cleaning only and guide roller cleaning only.
Komori
Komori has released their newest offset product, the GL & GLX Advance. The Advance line, built on the existing GL and GLX press platforms, features enhanced automation powered by Komori’s KP-Connect Pro workflow system to allow for virtually “lights-out” production with fewer operator touchpoints, addressing the industry-wide challenge of finding skilled press operators. The Advance presses represent Komori’s commitment to continuous innovation and are currently being manufactured in Japan with shipments already begun.
Koenig & Bauer
The most recent addition to the ErgoTronic AutoRun feature set is Rapida LiveApp, a
press-monitoring app. The operator can manage details of the job on press remotely and determine the next steps.
Simultaneous Plate Change operates on all printing units. In the basic scenario, all lithographic plates can be removed and reinstalled in approximately 34 seconds.
Koenig & Bauer’s PlateIdent technology identifies the location of printing plates by using registration marks. Reading of a data matrix code verifies that the plate in position is the correct plate for the current print job.
In order to allow printers to respond more effectively to the demands of shorter runs and faster job turnarounds, the ErgoTronic AutoRun was developed for the Rapida series. Among other functions, AutoRun automatically manages make ready; initiates job changeover and production startup, as well as colour and register control.
Your Superior choice for Print
1. ONE-STOP SHOP — Die Cutting, Bindery, Data & Lettershop.
2. SUPERIOR TECHNOLOGY — Die crease without a die, then fold and even glue all on the same machine, up to 30 pt.
3. INTEGRATED MODULAR UNITS — Combined in-line finishing: crease, fold, glue, tipping, envelope inserting, ink jetting (Duplex), clip seal (3 sides), mail prep.
4. SAVE ON POSTAGE COSTS —As a Certified Canada Post Direct Marketing Specialist, we get contract pricing reductions.
5. RETURN MAIL PRODUCTS — Customized “Return Mailers” created in-line with “U” or “BOX-shape” remoistenable glue, time perfed applications and envelope formation.
The Qualitronic Color Control System was developed to shrink makeready times by minimizing the waste sheets associated with bringing the press up to colour.
6. MINI-BOOKLETS — Saddle-stitch and trim 2-up booklets in-line to the size of a business card. No need to trim off-line, or do 2 passes. 7. HIGH SPEED EQUIPMENT — High speed Tipping, Folding, Saddle-stitching and soft folding ensuring on time delivery.
The QualiTronic Color Control system that is built into the Koenig & Bauer Rapida press automates colour control.
Showcasing the latest offerings from Konica Minolta, Fujifilm, Ricoh and SwissQprint
the AccurioPress C7100 series of digital
Konica Minolta launches AccurioPress C7100
Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada) introduces the AccurioPress C7100 series, digital colour presses with innovative technologies to create more profitable business opportunities. The new AccurioPress C7100 model runs at 100 pages per minute (ppm) with the AccurioPress C7090 at 90 ppm.
“We are excited to launch the highly anticipated successors to the impressive Accurio-
Press C6100 Series, providing a complete package of stability, dependability and productivity,” said Mario Mottillo, president, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada).
SwissQprint launches new flatbed printers
SwissQprint unveils its flatbed generation 4 series of printers. New print heads are the centrepiece of generation 4 printers. Maximum resolution of 1350 dpi and ultra-high-precision droplet placement boost the
print quality of the Impala and Nyala models.
SwissQprint has incorporated various mechanical improvements into generation 4, singling out the Tip Switch Vacuum (patent pending) as a highlight. The new range offers a host of options for individual configuration. Users can have their printer assembled exactly in line with what they require today. If their needs or requirements change, they can add a diverse range of options to the printer at any time.
Ricoh releases neon Touch7 Colour Guides
Ricoh launches the world’s first neon Touch7 Colour Guides.
The four digital neon Touch7 Colour Guides enable the consistent reproduction of 1,520 colours when running neon pink and neon yellow toners on the five colour Ricoh Pro C7200X digital colour sheetfed press.
Fujifilm previews digital UV inkjet label press
Fujifilm North America Corporation recently showcased its new digital UV inkjet label press, LP350, at the Label Congress 2021 event. Planned for release in early 2022, the LP350 is designed to meet the demand within the prime label market for short-runs, high quality and variable content. By combining newly introduced UV inks with an inkjet print engine, this new press offers the “optimum combination of productivity and quality available on the market for a digital label press.”
Sakurai: 1, 2 or 4 colours and any size (newer model)
Polar: any size/older or newer models
(66/72/76/78/82/90/92/107/115)
Horizon-BQ: 220/240/260/440/460
Konica Minolta introduces
colour presses.
The LP350 can print at 164 ft per minute.
Ricoh unveils the world’s first neon Touch7 Colour Guides.
HAND BINDERY AND SHIPPING RECEIVING
Bindery: Feed machines, assemble goods, some folding, stitching, drilling, shrink-wrapping, store goods. Shipping: Packing boxes, banding material, arranging couriers, quality control. Call John 905-764-5949 ext 290, john@ mormarkonline.com
SMALL PRESS/BINDERY/ FOREMAN
(PM) QM-46-2 Heidelberg, running 1-2 colour work, running stationary, letterheads, envelopes, forms, NCR, business cards. Be able to do some cutting, small bindery hand work, and folding, letterpress as well, work in a foreman’s role. Call John: 905764-5949 ext 290, john@mormarkonline.com.
Christine Yardley/ President/ Print Panther
Earlier this year, Print Panther, Oakville, Ont., won multiple Gold Leaf Awards from the Foil & Specialty Effects Association. In the Category of Best Foil/Coatings Selection Guide, Print Panther was awarded the Gold Award for the “Konica Minolta Extreme Digital Guide – Capturing the Feel of Creativity”. It also earned a Best in Show Honourable Mention.
The award-winning project was a labour of love for Christine Yardley, president of Print Panther, and her production team.
For 24 years, Yardley has led Print Panther whose clientele is largely international. An industry veteran with a global perspective Yardley has some interesting thoughts about the state of the Canadian printing industry.
What is the state of the print industry today, in your opinion?
CY: I think everyone is looking for ways to increase business opportunities. It doesn’t matter where you are or what business you are in. I think high value, exciting, innovative print is a leader in helping companies, especially small and luxury brands, regain market share and position. Print allows brands to communicate on a tangible level. I think that is paramount after the last 18-24 months. It is difficult to imagine a post-pandemic world, but history proves innovation and creativity prevail during difficult times. From direct mail to packaging, tactile, meaningful print will be at the forefront when we come out of this digitally saturated period of history.
What attracted you to the print industry?
CY: I have always been attracted to the printed page in some form. My background in typography, graphic design and marketing positions me to create beautiful print that legitimately helps my clients connect with their customers. My love of print has been an organic flow of ideas and design. A life-long love affair, really.
How can the industry attract more young people?
CY: Like any industry, there are ebbs and flows. I think we all, no matter our age, suffer from some sort of digital
fatigue. When someone enrols in a program at Ryerson University [Toronto] for example, they are taught design needs to cross over between print and digital. Print is a large part of the curriculum. Further, successful brands need print. I am not sure if there is truly an issue with attracting young people. I can tell you that everyone working for me is about half my age, and they love it.
In such a competitive landscape, how can printers win more sales?
Christine Yardley has been president of Print Panther for 24 years.
CY: I do not think the industry has become more competitive than previous years. Having said that the industry is not only competitive, but also turbulent. I think printers need to embrace new technologies. It is our job to show customers what they can do to help elevate their brands and support their businesses. During times of crisis, opportunity is everywhere. Just think: you can provide a small company a custom brand colour that’s fresh and different. With metallic and fluorescent inks, foils and spot varnishes, the opportunity to make a product and/or service stand out is at our fingertips, literally! We must help managers and others who help promote companies and products understand the positive impact of innovative printed solutions.
What are some of the biggest opportunities in the print industry?
CY: We should all see opportunity as the world re-opens. Everyone is craving some sense of normality. Businesses will be looking at ways to move forward. With the holidays upon us, it is the perfect time to reconnect with clients with a wonderful, printed piece. I love receiving cards; it never gets old. Getting something physical and personal is more meaningful than a “pop-up” on a website. Print creates a touchpoint with customers.
What do you think is the most exciting thing about print today?
CY: I think print is exciting and beautiful. We need the tactile experiences that only print can provide. Quality has never been better, thanks to new digital printing capabilities. The technology has transformed design. We are seeing more customized and personalized print products. I love foils and bright inks. Bright colours, clever bindery and textured papers for creating tactile, sensory products are certainly going to lead in 2022.
Yardley’s responses were edited for length. For more Q&A Spotlight interviews, please visit www.printaction.com/profile.
CONGRATULATIONS to the 2021 WINNERS
The 2021 Annual Canadian Printing Awards, organized by PrintAction and its parent company Annex Business Media, was held virtually this year due to the pandemic. The Canadian Printing Awards is a celebration of world-class printing, environmental leadership and individual industry achievements. Nearly 50 trophies were presented to award-winning printers and technology suppliers.
In the second edition of Champions of Print podcast series, we speak to some of the companies that won the 15th Canadian Printing Awards.
Each winning company will share their stories in a new PrintAction podcast series. This series will begin on December 10. To receive a notification for each of the podcasts, subscribe to the PrintAction e-Newsletter at PrintAction.com. Click on the Subscribe button.
Season Two
Set your table with the right plates
Introducing the newest product from Fujifilm in the portfolio of true processless plate technology.
The Fujifilm SUPERIA plates delivers outstanding printing quality and efficiency plus additional features including:
•Increased durability extending the range of print performance
•Use with UV/curable ink applications
•Wider range of market applications while delivering reliable on-press performance
The table has been set to make your offset printing more profitable with SUPERIA plates.
