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MARCH 2026

DIGITAL PUBLISHING SOLUTIONS

DIGITAL PRINT, PACKAGING, AND PUBLISHING

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features

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7 7 II Doing Direct Mail Right Trends and Technologies Support Next-Gen Mail 20 11 Role Models Stand-Out Companies of 2025

departments Editor's Letter ....................................................................................4 Readers' Choice Showtime............

Dscoop Edge Rockies

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Best Practices .................... .................................................... ...... 14 Here, There, Everywhere Best Practices ................................................................................ 18 Integration is Key Advertiser Index/Companies Mentioned ................................ 26

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March 2026 II dps II 3

dpsmagazine.com Volume 28, Number 2 • ISSN: 1529-2320

Readers’ Choice Modern technology provides the ability to collect feedback and adapt quickly. Publishing is no exception. Each year, DPS magazine presents the Top 30 awards, which are determined by reader choice through an interactive process, where INFO#s are included on advertisements and editorial.

Find out more information on a product or vendor by visiting DPSMagDirect.com and entering the three-digit code. This year, we asked the Top 30 vendors to highlight their best-selling or flagship products.

Read more in Role Models.

Each year, DPS magazine presents the Top 30 awards, which are determined by reader choice...

Today, direct mail is able to improve with feedback. Integrated mailing campaigns allow for highly targeted lists, personalized messages, and shorter runs. These campaigns may even utilize an online element that triggers print or collects data. Read more in Doing Direct Mail Right.

We also catch up on sheet-fed inkjet. New introductions and product enhancements continue to hit the market, reaching a variety of print segments. Read more about target sheet-fed inkjet applications in Here, There, Everywhere.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Thomas Tetreault 978-921-7850 EDITOR Cassandra Balentine cbalentine@rockportpubs.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Melissa Donovan mdonovan@rockportpubs.com ART DIRECTOR Sarah M. White swhite@rockportpubs.com WEB EDITOR Melissa Mueller CONTRIBUTORS Marco Bohr, Kemal Carr, Richard Huff ADVERTISING SALES PUBLISHER Thomas Tetreault 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11 Rowley, MA 01969 Ph 978-921-7850 x110 • Fx 978-921-7870 edit@rockportpubs.com SALES Amanda Doyon Ph 978-921-7850 x170 • Fx 978-921-7870 adoyon@rockportpubs.com Subscribe online at dpsmagazine.com

No matter the application, print processes improve with automation. We address the current challenges and solutions in print workflow automation in Integration is Key. In this issue, also find coverage of the Dscoop Edge Rockies event.

Visit dpsmagazine.com for web-exclusive content on these topics, as well as industry news, digital editions, webinars, and more!

Additionally, we invite you to participate in our editorial survey, which you can find on our homepage, dpsmagazine.com.

Cheers,

Cassandra Balentine, editor cbalentine@rockportpubs.com

CORPORATE & PUBLISHING OFFICE 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11 Rowley, MA 01969 ROCKPORT CUSTOM PUBLISHING, LLC CHAIRMAN Jeffrey Jensen PRESIDENT & CEO Thomas Tetreault CONTROLLER Missy Tyler

Digital Publishing Solutions is published by Rockport Custom Publishing, LLC. Please send change of address forms to: 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11, Rowley, MA 01969. © Rockport Custom Publishing, LLC 2026. Reproduction by any means of the whole or part of Digital Publishing Solutions without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Views expressed in the editorial pages do not imply our endorsement.

Subscription Rates: U.S. $41.65 per year, seven issues; single copies: $5.95, Canada and Mexico: $52.22 (U.S.D.), Other international subscriptions: $71.05 (U.S.D.) Vendors: We welcome your product news. Include prices, slides, photos, and digital files with your press release. Please forward product samples and media kits to Reviews Editor, DPS Magazine, 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11, Rowley, MA 01969. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited product samples.

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INFO #13

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showtime

Dscoop Edge Rockies Partners and Solutions Shine in Denver

By OPS Magazine Staff

Each year, a community of HP Industrial Print and Large Format owners and users gather for the annual Dscoop confer­

ence. This March, the event heads to Denver, CO to help print providers chart new territory in an era of transformation.

In addition to educational sessions, keynote presentations, and endless networking opportunities, HP and its partners highlight products and ser­ vices for the next generation of print.

ACTEGA highlights ACTDigi LEP Primer, a water-based solution devel­ oped in partnership with HP and now part of HP's expanded primer portfo­ lio. This primer delivers outstanding performance across a range of label applications and substrates-including coated and uncoated papers, synthet­ ics, and metallized materials. Opti­ mized for the HP Indigo 6K, 6K+, and 8K Digital Press series, ACTDigi LEP Primer ensures superior print results in both inline and near-line applica­ tions. INFO# 200 HP demonstrates how its inte­ grated portfolio of digital presses, software, and automation solutions

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works together to unlock profitable growth through intelligent automation.

Together, these capabilities connect production, workflow, and business systems to deliver greater efficiency, visibility, and new revenue opportuni­ ties. INFO# 201 General Formulations {GF) helps print providers make short-run print­ ing simple, fast, and vibrant with its Narrow Format Digital (NFD) line.

Designed for trouble-free production, GF pressure-sensitive films feature a proprietary top coating that prevents blocking-even on static cling-and runs on presses like HP Indigo, Xerox, Ricoh, and Kodak. INFO# 202 GM showcases the DC350Mini con­ figured with Digital Varnish. This com­ pact, all-in-one solution integrates digi­ tal varnish, UV flexographic varnish, lamination, cold foil, cast and cure,

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slitting, and dual rewind on a single platform. INFO# 203 locr GEOservices and MAPS pro­ vides personalized maps and geomar­ keting solutions for print and cross­ media campaigns. The company helps its partners utilize location data for marketing success and cost-efficient campaigns. INFO# 204 Merlin Technology showcases ad­ vanced humidification solutions that ensure optimal printing conditions and maximum press performance. Its systems demonstrate how efficient hu­ midification reduces operating costs as well as increases production reli­ ability. INFO# 205 Michelman introduces the new­ est primer under development in the 1. & 2. Designed for trouble-free production, GF pres­ sure-sensitive films feature a proprietary top coating that prevents blocking-even on static cling .

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INFO #8

DigiPrime Vision series, DigiPrime Vision 9200. Designed for the inline priming units of HP Indigo Digital Presses, this primer offers a combination of versatility, compatibility, and performance, allowing print providers to maximize uptime, increase overall equipment effectiveness, and run a wider range of jobs with a single primer. INFO# 206 MindFire illustrates how its OmniChannel platform proves direct mail return on investment with complete campaign attribution. The highlight— its DM AI agent, which is designed to make mail talk. INFO# 207 Discover the latest in print innovation and experience the future of digital finishing solutions with Muller Martini and Hunkeler. Mike Wing and Richard Allart educate attendees on how to stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends, and show how its digital finishing solutions can solve your daily production challenges. INFO# 208 Neenah features its 2026 Digital Stock Guide, showcasing 15 brands and an array of colors and textures

optimized for the HP Indigo. In addition, Neenah recently launched CLASSIC Embellishment Papers—the only uncoated paper that works with digital embellishment technology, no underprint required. This allows printing to uncoated stock on the HP Indigo and embellishing with digital foil without an extra step. Neenah paper products are also displayed throughout the show floor. INFO# 209 Nobelus highlights the newly launched, entry-level Komfi Junior 52 as well as a range of specialty finishes.

The Junior 52 is the ultimate solution for operator-friendly lamination, making it ideal for printers bringing thermal lamination in house. It accepts B2 and B3 sheets and heats up in as little as six minutes while offering automated quality assurance features such as sheet overlap control and a de-curling system. Explore samples showcasing how specialty finishes are used across different packaging types, including cartons, labels, and flexible packaging, to create more consistent branding. Premium films include the luxurious soft-touch

Karess, rugged sandpaper FineGrit, and the striking, prismatic patterns of Rainbow Holografik. Solutions experts are available for one-on-one discussions about how Nobelus solutions can support your business. INFO# 210 Skandacor features a range of print finishing samples and brochures.

Dscoop Edge Rockies is the perfect chance to get inspired, ask technical questions, and explore new ideas for your projects. The team is on hand to share expert insights, offer practical advice, and discuss how Skandacor’s solutions can help you with the challenges you face in your print shop. INFO# 211 Standard Finishing Systems features the Horizon’s CRF-362 Creaser/ Folder, which creases and folds digitally printed output in a single pass. Standard also features iCE LiNK, Horizon’s cloud-based post-press management system that works across multiple finishing devices for better operational efficiency. INFO# 212 Sylvamo delivers uncoated paper solutions that are designed to run reliably on your digital equipment. The company offers 3‑Star certified papers for HP Indigo presses and inkjet rolls available with ImageLok treatment or untreated, giving you flexibility across applications. INFO# 213 Tecnau exhibits the Stack 1212 for automated cutting and stacking of B2 output from HP Indigo 120K/18K presses. The machine finishes live output from HP Indigo’s exhibited 18K press. It also shares details of the Sitma automated, sustainable packaging solutions for ecommerce and book publishers. INFO# 214

Community Event

INFO #3

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Dscoop Edge Rockies engages visitors through networking events and educational opportunities.

Stay tuned for updates and product releases from this year’s Dscoop event at dpsmagazine.com. dps

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advertorial

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New Levels of Production Efficiency

AU TOM AT ION

Customized Automation

By Signif1cans Automation �

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Processing time cut 20 to 40 percent, labor reduced by three employees, and speed to market accelerated by GA CMP leader with customized automation from Significans Automation.

Benson Integrated Marketing Solutions in Alpharetta, GA offers a unique Cen­ tralized Marketing Platform (CMP) to manage multifamily property market­ ing activities. Services include apparel, creative design, on demand commu­ nication technology with online smart stores, print services, and promotional products and signage. Benson personal­ izes more than 500 physically branded product types, delivering scalable cus­ tomization while maintaining brand consistency. Advanced production capa­ bilities-including HP Indigo 15K and 7900 presses with variable data printing and embellishments, combined with G7 certification-ensure high-quality, color­ accurate results across all outputs.

of printed pieces that each had their own unique production variables. We needed to streamline our data collection and in­ crease our efficiency. First, we wanted to automate all our W2P files from our cus­ tomers online smart stores, to be sent au­ tomatically to one of our two HP Indigo presses, depending on their unique pro­ duction criteria. That was the first project we tackled together successfully."

Next, Lively looked to automate the company's nametag and maintenance­ badge production. "Hundreds of nam­ etags, each with distinctive features, run through our facility each day. Our opera­ tors had to create multi-up layout files manually to fit our presses. We aimed to eliminate this time-consuming process!'

Major Issues Slow Production

Game-Changing Results

With a staff of about 220, thousands of web to print (W2P) jobs are processed daily. This throughput was cumbersome to manage manually and labor inten­ sive. Customer service representatives worked within its MIS system to manu­ ally download, imposition, and drop files to their presses. The process highlighted an opportunity to implement automation and drive operational efficiency.

In Fall 2024, Benson partnered with Marc Raad, president, Significans Auto­ mation. Keri Lively, director of strategic initiatives, Benson Integrated Marketing Solutions, recalls those early conversa­ tions. "We were producing a huge volume

The Benson/Significans Automation team automated the nametag and main­ tenance badge workflow by filtering incoming orders based on specific pro­ duction criteria. They developed a cus­ tomized, automated workflow that opti­ mally ganged all orders to reduce setup time. The new systems also triggered production based on quantity thresholds and accelerated time to market. Finally, they integrated all existing workflow sys­ tems, including W2P and Pace software, for a seamless flow of data. Several months later, Significans Automation further upgraded imposition capabilities by installing Enfocus Phoenix.

dpsmagazine.com

''As far as W2P, we eliminated one entire department staffed by three em­ ployees. Employees who manually drop job files saw a 20 percent reduction in their workload. Our nametag and main­ tenance badge operators reduced their processing time by about 40 percent each week. Moving forward, we intend to automate other areas of our business to boost speed to market," shares Lively.

Brian Benson, founder/CEO, Benson Integrated Marketing Solutions, adds, "we believe employee throughput must increase rapidly to stay competitive as an organization. We monitor this by measuring sales per employee company wide and expect growth year-over-year in all parts of our business. Of course, great people are the backbone of all our success, but we must support them with smart workflows and automations. Sig­ nificans Automation played a major role in helping us achieve this, and work to­ wards our goal of completing 80 percent of our work in 24 hours or less."

For an assessment of your workflow systems, please call Significans Automa­ tion at 877-463-4465. dps

March 2026 II dps II 9

INFO #6

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he future of direct mail is per­ sonal-hyper personal and measurable. The latest direct mail trends are largely driven by the need to improve response rates and reduce labor, fueled by the introduc­ tion and adoption of the technologies that support it.

dpsmagazine.com

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By Cassandra Balentine

Brook Spaulding, BW Converting se­ nior account manager, East Coast, W+D Brand, sees direct mail as far more tightly connected to digital engagement and data analytics than it ever has been.

"Technologies like quick response (QR) codes, augmented reality (AR), personal­ ized URLs, and campaign-level tracking

are no longer optional add-ons. They're becoming central to how marketers jus­ tify mail spend and prove performance."

Above: W+D inserting and finishing systems are designed to handle high levels of personalization, variable data, and complex mailpiece constructions without sacrificing throughput.

March 2026 II dps 1111

INFO #9

There is growing interest in advanced integrations like Near Field Communication (NFC) and other embedded components, especially for higher value campaigns. “These technologies allow mail to function as a true trigger within a broader omnichannel strategy rather than a standalone touchpoint,” says Spaulding.

The common thread is measurability. “Mailers want to know exactly how a piece performs once it leaves the plant, and integrated technologies are what make that possible. This shift is influencing everything from creative design to how equipment on the production floor is configured,” adds Spaulding.

Kevin Crawford, regional business development manager, Quadient Digital Print Group, feels that the value proposition for technology is labor savings through inline automation. “Labor is the highest fixed cost within an organization, and the ability to use automation to reallocate those valuable resources to higher value tasks is highly desirable.”

An added consideration, the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS’) incentive programs. Among its 2026 promotions, USPS is offering a postal discount for qualified mailers that integrate digital technology—AR, NFC, video in print, and artificial intelligence—into physical mail to encourage engagement. Even deeper discounts are available with the inclusion of Informed Delivery.

1

1. Quadient’s Mach 9DS digital printing system with the MACH Symphony suite of software allows for complete full-color envelope customized printing with interactive technologies.

and data segmentation, which naturally lends itself to smaller, more strategic volumes,” comments Spaulding. “This doesn’t mean you can’t run high volumes, but you need enough scale to justify setup, testing, and verification.”

Additionally, many campaigns succeed at moderate run lengths because the response rates are higher. “In other words, it’s less about hitting a magic number of pieces and more about aligning volume with campaign objectives and production efficiency,” shares Spaulding.

When it comes to the effect on production, Crawford explains that the impact of integrated technology on run speed is relative to the number of active background processes used and the processing power and memory buffer deployed to handle the workflow. “For example, Quadient’s Mach Symphony system has plenty of buffer processing to keep the accompanying mail inserting system operating at its top speed.”

When jobs are properly engineered the impact on speed and throughput

COMPANIES MENTIONED

See page 26 for more information.

Integrating Technology Technology-enabled mail makes the most sense for targeted campaigns. “These formats are often tied to personalization

COMPANY

WEBSITE

INFO#

Quadient Digital Print Group

quadient.com

170

U.S. Postal Service

gateway.usps.com

171

W+D, a BW Converting brand

bwconverting.com/brand/w-d

172

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can be minimal. The biggest issues tend to come from inconsistent materials or poor placement of technology elements, not from the technology itself. If a component interferes with feeding, folding, or sealing, it is seen immediately in yield loss or stoppages.

“That’s why design for manufacturability is so important. A clean, repeatable mailpiece design almost always runs better than something that’s pushing the limits. The good news is that once a job is dialed in, it can often run just as efficiently as a conventional mailpiece.

The key is investing time upfront rather than trying to fix problems at full production speed,” notes Spaulding.

Integrated Mail Integrated mail technology is no longer a “nice to have.” It is an integral part of a well-managed marketing strategy that drives better response rates and maximizes postal incentives, states Crawford.

While technologies like printed electronics or video-in-print are still niche, Spaulding stresses that the equipment must be adaptable. “Even if a customer isn’t running those applications today, they want to know their investment won’t box them in tomorrow.” dps

March 2026 || dps || 13

41

best practices

Here/ There/ Everywhere

Sheetfed/Cutsheet Inkjet

By Melissa Donovan 0--------------------------------------------

Sheet-fed/cutsheet inkjet technology is advancing at an impressive rate and branching out into various parts of the print industry. Today's technologies are used in many segments like direct mail and marketing, commercial printing, book pro­ duction, transactional, financial and insurance, packaging/folding cartons, and even photography.

Turning to Cutsheet Inkjet

book manufacturers, and customers in senior manager - inkjet division, KYOC­ Adoption of sheet-fed inkjet is increasing photo and high-end graphic segments ERA Document Solutions America, Inc., believes that the old model of toner and/ across a range of customer segments turn to cutsheet inkjet. and applications. or offset no longer works.

Commercial printers also adopt sheet­ Early adopters, according to Peter fed inkjet as demand for variable data-in­ "Buyers want shorter runs, full color, Kowalczuk, EVP and client services cluding versioning and personalization­ faster turnaround, and personalization, all group president, Canon U.S.A. and chair­ grows, notes Lance Martin, VP product without paying a premium. The harsh re­ ality is offset and toner-based systems can­ man/CEO, Canon Business Process Ser­ marketing, Komori America.

It doesn't matter whether cutsheet ink­ not keep up. Customer expectations have vices, "were primarily direct mail and transactional print customers, migrating jet is used for direct mail or commercial changed;' comments Morrone. communications with pre-printed offset printing-in all scenarios, Fred Morrone, He explains that inkjet fills a gap left by legacy devices that couldn't shells and that had second step variable data printing on toner handle these applications. In this devices. These applications way, inkjet allows print providers Buyers want shorter runs, full color, quickly transition to printing the faster turnaround, and personalization as 1. The KYOCERA TASKalfa Pro 15000c entire communication on an inkhandles everything from high-volume jet press in one step." standard, all without paying a premium. transactional and direct mail to com­ mercial print and publishing applications.

With advancements in print - Fred Morrone, senior manager - inkjet division, 2. Canon's sheet-fed inkjet presses deliver quality, especially on coated and KYOCERA Document Solutions America, Inc. high quality across a range of media. For uncoated papers, Kowalczuk example, the Canon varioPRINT iX1700 says more commercial printers, features resolutions up to 1,200 dpi.

TASKalfa Pro 15000c + Tecnau

1

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to profit from jobs they originally avoided or outsourced.

“In commercial print, it’s the ability to efficiently run short-volume work without setup waste or excessive labor. For publishers, they’re looking to add affordable color. On an inkjet press, doing all this is a piece of cake,” continues Morrone.

According to Tim Bolton, senior manager, inkjet technology portfolio, RICOH Graphic Communications, Ricoh USA, Inc., cutsheet inkjet offers several advantages that have to do with cost, performance, quality, and media versatility.

“These mean more segments and applications adopting the technology.

“Inkjet is a lower overall cost to operate compared to a toner device. With regards to increased performance and print quality—concerns from the past around inkjet quality have significantly reduced

with the advancements in inkjet technology. Inkjet quality can now compete with that of offset. Media versatility and ease of personalization capabilities have expanded opportunities for print offerings,” explains Bolton.

Between price hikes by the U.S. Postal Service and new tariffs, Andre D’Urbano, VP of sales, RISO Inc., believes print buyers and consequently print providers search for more economical ways of printing their messaging.

“Prices goes up, print volume goes down. And with smaller print volumes, come shorter run lengths. Consequently, the print strategy has changed dramatically for those operating production print centers. They can no longer afford a workflow of one or two larger presses to cover all jobs. Instead what is needed is six to 12 light production printers,

multiple devices printing multiple jobs simultaneously in order to get as many jobs out in one shift,” explains D’Urbano.

Improvements Grow Reach Cutsheet inkjet presses benefit from technological advancements on both the hardware and software side.

Hardware specific, Morrone says “image quality has improved, color stability is predictable, and duty cycles now include high- and short-volume tasks.”

Related to hardware is energy usage.

Inkjet is favored over toner-based production devices because it typically uses less a energy, “primarily because they avoid the continuous high-temperature fusing process that toner requires. That tends to reduce both operating costs and environmental impact on electricity use,” explains D’Urbano.

INFO #7

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March 2026 || dps || 15

features automated processes that take care of service and maintenance.

Hesitancy to Adopt

3 Water-, oil-, and UV-based inkjet units are available. The majority are waterbased devices and require a dryer and decurler to dry the ink on paper, says D’Urbano, so they still use heat but their electrical consumption is significantly lower than its toner counterparts.

Oil-based cutsheet inkjet uses less energy, according to D’Urbano. “This technology uses the absolute least amount of power compared to toner and its aqueous inkjet cousin. Oil-based ink is instant dry and uses a cold process that generates the type of flat output that is ideal for mailing inserters/folders. Oil-based pigment ink dries without the need of a dryer or decurler, which means smaller footprint as well as lower operating costs.”

In the realm of software, there are updates in automation and uptime, according to Morrone. “Faster startup, fewer 3. The Kyocera TASKalfa Pro 15000c enables a high print speed of 150 pages per minute, with continuous printing of 9,000 sheets (A4 size) per hour.

maintenance call outs, reduced downtime, and more intuitive operation reduce dependency on highly specialized labor.”

“Upgraded RIPs and integrated software like Komori’s KHS-AI presetting software creates a better workflow for more uptime,” adds Martin.

Finally, media flexibility is growing and translating to more application variety per press. “Media flexibility enables printers to confidently run a broader range of applications, from transactional documents to commercial marketing pieces and books,” shares Morrone.

Proprietary technologies like Canon’s ColorGrip also play into the growth of media flexibility. “ColorGrip conditioning liquid is intelligently applied to imageable areas on the media where ink will be placed and enables high-quality output on a range of standard offset coated and uncoated papers,” says Kowalczuk.

Automation is another advancement.

For example, the Heidelberg JetFire 75

COMPANIES MENTIONED

See page 26 for more information.

COMPANY

WEBSITE

INFO#

Canon U.S.A., Inc.

usa.canon.com

160

Heidelberg

heidelberg.com

161

Komori America

komori-america.us

162

KYOCERA Document Solutions America, Inc.

kyoceradocumentsolutions.us

163

Ricoh USA, Inc.

ricoh-usa.com

164

RISO Inc.

us.riso.com

165

16 || dps || March 2026

There are always hurdles to overcome when it comes to educating buyers on the benefits of am unfamiliar technology.

Cost can be a challenge. Many prospective buyers think an investment in inkjet cutsheet will be too high. “While it is true that inkjet solutions do typically come with a higher acquisition cost when compared to toner, operational costs over the life of the investment is often significantly reduced when compared to the same output on a toner-based device,” admits Bolton.

“Many commercial printers and inplant operations want to transition to sheet-fed inkjet but lack the print volume necessary to justify the investment in a high-quality production press,” agrees Kowalczuk.

Those unfamiliar with inkjet may have a misguided perception of the technology as a whole, which challenges adoption. “Many print providers continue working with outdated technology and believe inkjet lacks quality, can’t handle demanding applications, or is only suitable for certain jobs. Those beliefs are not only wrong, but they are holding them back,” says Morrone.

For those immersed in offset, inkjet might raise some concerns. “Inkjet ink cost is higher compared to traditional offset inks, while zero makeready costs and zero makeready waste offsets require a new mindset. Offset remains optimal for long static runs and there may be coating and embellishment compatibility concerns,” comments Martin.

Adoption Rate Cutsheet inkjet printers are used in various segments, especially as technology advances to meet the individual needs of each. As this occurs, the adoption rate accelerates.

“With increases in quality, reliability, and operational efficiency, sheet-fed inkjet

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is becoming more viable for nearly every segment. Applications in transactional, non-profit, solicitation mail, as well as direct mail and general commercial, all now have the ability to benefit from inkjet,” says Bolton.

Transactional documents with a short lifespan and stored or disposed of after use are also ideal for cutsheet inkjet, D’Urbano believes oil-based technologies serve these applications well.

“Oil-based inkjet provides the speed, productivity, and low operating costs that will generate incremental revenue and maintain high profit margins,” explains D’Urbano.

Martin believes adoption is also found in short- to mid-volume print.

“Commercial printers profitably produce short-run work that previously fell below offset’s economic threshold.” This

is especially true when the press is able to run offset-compatible substrates that reduce paper inventory, offers stable sheet transport for coated and uncoated stocks, and features UV LED ink that prints on offset and standard papers, no pretreatment needed.

The use of cutsheet inkjet in book publishing is expanding as well, primarily as “publishers shift to just-in-time manufacturing while maintaining professional print quality,” explains Martin.

The technology offers consistent color across reprints even from year to year; at the same time, presenting blackonly inkjet body copy, which is very low cost and competitive, adds Martin.

Packaging and/or folding cartons are also a big adopter. With B2+ sheet size an option as well as superb front to back registration in single pass,

“converters gain flexibility and speed without replacing offset for long-run work,” says Martin.

According to Morrone, “the way the industry is going, we’re seeing jobs getting shorter, more frequent, and more complex. Color is expected and personalization is standard. Inkjet aligns perfectly with these demands. That’s why adoption is growing quickly across all industries for sheet-fed inkjet.”

Here, There, Everywhere The use of cutsheet/sheet-fed inkjet continues to increase across direct mail and marketing, commercial printing, book printing, transactional, financial and insurance, packaging/folding cartons, and photography—just to name a few segments. Speed and quality drive this adoption. dps

INFO #14 dpsmagazine.com

March 2026 || dps || 17

41

best practices

Integration Is Key

Breaking Silos with Workflow Automation

By Cassandra Balentine

Across all segments, print providers face common challenges such as labor shortages, increasing job complexity, shorter run lengths, tighter turnaround times, and disconnected systems.

"Commercial and direct mail printers

Breaking Down Silos

struggle to manage high job volumes

Many operations still have islands where

For example, Rick Aberle, founder/ CEO, Propago, notes that without au­

and frequent changeovers, while in­

estimating is separate from production,

tomatic data flowing from storefront to

plants are under pressure to reduce

inventory separate from planning, and

production to fulfillment to billing, print­

costs and improve transparency and

spreadsheets are everywhere.

ers face excessive manual entry, dupli­

service levels," says Kevin Roman, direc­

Data fragmentation and siloed systems

cate records, and errors that slow pro­

tor of professional services, Production

are major production workflow challenges

duction and damage client relationships.

Print Pro Services, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

for modem print and packaging opera­

David Graves, CEO, Aleyant, explains

"Large and multi-location providers of­

tions, especially those with multiple loca­

that a lot of workflow solutions involve

ten lack standardization and real-time

tions or legacy software. "When estimat­

scripting that can be burdensome and

production visibility, creating inefficien­

ing, scheduling, production, inventory, and

involve added personnel or outsourcing.

cies and limiting scalability."

financial data live in separate systems-or

Hans Sep, product line manager,

Printers today face many challenges­

worse, spreadsheets-teams lose real­

Fiery, points to a shift from scripting to

faster turnaround times, rising order vol­

time visibility into what's actually happen­

visual flow-based design, which allows

umes, increased job complexity, multiple

ing on the shop floor," says Mariusz Sos­

production managers to build and mod­

output formats, manual bottlenecks, in­

nowski, CEO, HiFlow Solutions.

ify workflows without IT involvement.

consistent prepress processes, and inte­

Depending on a print provider's cur­

"This addresses the capabilities gap

gration limitations. "Each print business

rent and long-term automation and inte­

directly-the people who understand

will have a unique mix of problems to

gration goals, needs vary depending on

solve;' admits Piet De Pauw, head of mar­

the type of print business and/or amount

keting, Enfocus, emphasizing the need for

of throughput, admits Marc Raad, presi­

flexibility in automation software.

dent, Significans Automation.

1. Customer's Canvas package editor creates die· cut templates and three-dimensional models of packaging. 2. Canon PRISMAprepare streamlines document preparation.

1

18 II dps II March 2026

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best practices

what needs to happen can now imple­ ment it themselves."

Complexity at Scale When brands demand more personal­ ized materials, traditional workflows buckle. ''As order volumes increase along with turnaround time expecta­ tions, many workflows are still held to­ gether by manual steps, emails, and last­ minute checks that don't scale," adds Alex Bowell, managing director, Infigo.

Technical complexity also increases with personalization. "Managing dynam­ ic variable data logic without special­ ized software becomes error prone and unmanageable at scale. Furthermore, a disconnect between sales channels and production systems often creates a disjointed workflow where orders from ecommerce portals must be manually re-entered into the MIS. This not only introduces typos and data discrepancies but slows down the entire operation," cautions Dmitry Sevostyanov, CEO, Cus­ tomer's Canvas.

Mid-volume providers often rely on custom scripts and institutional knowl­ edge, which also makes automation dif­ ficult to scale and increases operational risk. "Exception handling and rework fre­ quently become bottlenecks," comments Chris Odden, director, Digital Transfor­ mation & Integrated Solutions, Software & Strategic Solutions, Commercial & In­ dustrial Printing Group, Ricoh USA. Ben Parker, director of sales, Roch­ ester Software Associates, finds that the biggest workflow challenges-like manual prepress and makeready bottle­ necks, disconnected ordering systems and production workflows, labor short­ ages requiring higher automation, and integrating legacy transactional data into modern workflows-are mostly seen in high-volume, multi-device, and enterprise environments, but workflow solutions are used to help overcome these challenges.

3. Propago enables print providers to better manage, personalize, produce, and distribute marketing assets.

dpsmagazine.com

Additional challenges may relate to governance, compliance, and system in­ tegration. "Managing multiple delivery channels from a single data source, in­ tegrating legacy platforms with modern workflows, and ensuring uptime and disaster recovery readiness are ongoing concerns," comments Odden.

Nicole Miller, COO, Nordis Technolo­ gies, adds that growing security threats demand stringent digital and physical protocols and practices for data and re­ cord protection that must evolve to keep pace with changing risks, such as artifi­ cially intelligence-generated attacks.

Solving Challenges with Workflow Print providers in all segments continue to evolve, accepting shorter runs, more complex orders, and demands to hit tighter turnaround times, this among a skilled labor shortage, increasing costs, and an uncertain economical climate.

The solution? Workflow automa­ tion, which starts with the integration of siloed systems to simplify production, reduce errors, eliminate waste, and im­ prove productivity.

For more coverage on workflow, in­ cluding an extended version of this ar­ ticle, visit dpsmagazine.com. dps

WEBSITE

INFO#

Aleyant

aleyant.com

Canon

usa.canon.com

140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152

Customer's Canvas

customerscanvas.com

Enfocus

enfocus.com

Fiery

fiery.com

HiFlow Solutions

hiflowsolutions.com

Hybrid Software

hybridsoftware.com

lnfigo

infigo.com

Nordis Technologies

nordistechnologies.com

Propago

propago.com

Ricoh USA

ricoh-usa.com

Rochester Software Associates

rocsoft.com

Significans Automation

significans.com

March 2026 II dps 1119

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By DPS Magazine Staff

ach year, DPS Magazine honors the top 30 vendors and five honorable mentions as determined by our readers. The information is gath­ ered throughout the year with INFO#s, which are tied ) ___...J to editorial and advertise­ ments. These companies saw the most engagement over the past 12 months through the lead generation system, DPSMagDirect.com.

Readers' Choice Top 30 Winning vendors share their most recent introductions or flagship products here.

20 II dps II March 2026

Aleyant Designed for commercial print provid­ ers, Pressero enables online storefronts with instant pricing, product customi­ zation, online proofing, and reordering.

Its ability to manage multiple branded storefronts, automate workflows, and integrate with production systems helps print businesses operate more efficiently while delivering a modern, user-friendly buying experience. INFO# 100 Aurigma Customer's Canvas Direct Mail Solution launched in 2025 as an API-first solution, this engine is designed to be embedded

directly into a print service provider's ex­ isting infrastructure-MIS, ERP, or home­ grown systems. It addresses the critical prepress bottleneck in high-volume, vari­ able data publishing by automating file generation without requiring a separate, disconnected workflow. INFO# 101 Canon U.S.A., Inc. The varioPRINT iXl 700 stands out for extending Canon's production portfolio of inkjet innovation and experiences to a broader range of production print environments. The high-quality press leverages Canon's new Qualink inkjet technology to deliver offset-like image

dpsmagazine.com

INFO

registration to analog presses and finishing equipment, supporting vari­ able content in 105 millimeter width increments at speeds of up to 300 meters per minute or 1,000 feet per minute. INFO# 109

2 needs of today's fast-paced production environments-whether for short-run digital work or higher volume cutting demands. By combining advanced technology, durable construction, and user-friendly design at an accessible price point, Graphic Whizard paper cutters are a smart, reliable investment for shops looking to improve accuracy, productivity, and overall finishing per­ formance. INFO# 106 Heidelberg The HEIDELBERG Jetfire 75 is more than a digital press-it's a future-ready production platform. Delivering true in­ dustrial performance, the machine pro­ duces up to 58 million sheets per year at speeds of 9,800 four-up sheets per hour (simplex). Its B2 format-614x750 millimeters-enables both standard ap­ plications like brochures and books and special formats such as posters and ban­ ners. Designed for ease of use, the Jet­ fire 75 combines high automation with intuitive controls to reduce training time 2. The Komori J-throne 29 is positioned as a produc­ tion inkjet press designed to integrate seamlessly into modern North American pressrooms. 3. HP In­ digo V12 makes nonstop production a reality with 12 ink stations, automated ink revolvers, and real-time color and scaling calibration.

2211 dps II March 2026

and manual intervention. Automated maintenance processes and seamless switching between offset and digital production, with automatic color adjustment, further enhance overall effi­ ciency. INFO# 107 HP, Inc. The HP Indigo Vl 2 addresses one of the label industry's toughest challeng­ es, scaling digital production without sacrificing efficiency, quality, or flexibil­ ity. Designed for mid- to high-volume environments, it delivers consistent, on demand output at speeds of up to 120 meters per minute, extending digital into applications traditionally dominat­ ed by analog. INFO# 108 Kodak KODAK PROSPER Imprinting Sys­ tems offer versatile, highly efficient digital print solutions without com­ promising productivity. PROSPER Imprinting Systems supports a range of applications-from variable data and versioned messaging to direct mail, transactional print, packaging, and secu­ rity printing-elevating print productivity across diverse markets. The new PROS­ PER Print Bar adds seamless digital capability and automatic color-to-color

Komori Corp.

Komori'sJ-throne 29 is the company's newest product introduction. It is a 23x29-inch B2+, LED-UV inkjet press capable of speeds of up to 6,000 sheets per hour (sph). It is positioned as a production inkjet press built on offset DNA, designed to integrate seamlessly into modem North American pressrooms. It has the capability to be a longer run ma­ chine and take advantage of 6,000/3,000 sph production speeds with the push of a button. It complements offset and ex­ tends the reach of sheet-fed economics, incorporating offset-grade sheet han­ dling, industrial uptime expectations, self-maintenance opportunities, as well as LED-UV sustainability and energy ef­ ficiency. The B2+ format is aligned with commercial and packaging needs. Su­ perb front to back registration in a sin­ gle pass eliminates print handling and errors. Double the previous platform production speed. Pallet-style feeder and pallet-style delivery facilitate all run lengths. Automatic registration calibra­ tion reduces downtime. Ambient tem­ perature substrates and low tempera­ ture ink application allows extended uptime and fast start up times. Double LED pin and cure techniques create bet­ ter gloss and deep densities. Upgraded RIP and integrated Komori KHS-AI pre­ setting software creates a better work­ flow for more uptime. INFO# 110

dpsmagazine.com

INFO

INFO

INFO

Therm-0-Type The NSF Ultra B2 size die cutter is the culmination of over 30 years of collab­ orative work between producers of foil stamped, embossed, and die-cut prod­ ucts and THERM-O-TYPE Corporation.

Fast set up, high productivity, accuracy, and high-quality output make the NSF a profitable machine purchase. INFO# 126

HONORABLE MENTIONS These five companies just missed the Top 30, but are also among our readers' favorite vendors.

BW Converting

INFO#130

Kyocera

INF0#131

Print IQ

INF0#132

Tecnau

INFO#133

Ultimate Technologies

INFO#134

Valloylnc.

DUOBLADE FX is a unique automatic, sheet-fed digital knife cutter. It is designed for end customers and designers in high levels of automation and easiness. They can produce various 2D goods like stick­ ers, tags, 3D cards, toppers, and boxes in­ stantly. Creative designs are printable with the automatic inserting of marks and quick response codes, then cutting files will be synchronized with the machine in real time without any limitation. INFO# 127

Xerox Proficio PX300 and PXS00 Produc­ tion Presses, designed to help print provid­ ers perfect the business of print through greater automation, next-level image qual­ ity, application-driven growth, and optional five-color capability. The compact PX300 delivers advanced automation, consistent high-quality CMYK, and versatile applica­ tion support. The higher-volume PXS00 adds increased speed, robust media han­ dling, and scalability for premium, high-de­ mand environments. INFO# 129

Videojet Technologies Ideal for printing on both flat and curved surfaces, Videojet's continuous inkjet (CI]) is a non-contact printing method that utilizes a range of CI] inks to print on almost any substrate. INFO# 128

Editor's Note Congratulations to this year's winners!

Learn more about the vendors and prod­ ucts by visiting the associated INFO#s associated. You can click on these di­ rectly through the digital edition or type DPSMagDirect.com in your browser and search by issue and INFO number.

Help your favorite brands make this list next year by engaging in the content that resonates with you most! dps

Xerox Corporation The Xerox Proficio Production Series marks a new chapter in the company's pro­ duction print portfolio. Led by the all-new

(i) advertiser index & companies mentioned . ,.

AD INDEX

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

·.,-

COMPANIES MENTIONED

Company Alevant Alevant Aurigma BW Converting BW Converting Canon U.S.A., Inc. Canon U.S.A., Inc. Canon U.S.A., Inc. Customer's Canvas Duclo USA Coro.

Enfocus Eoson America Fierv _ilJjifilm Graohic Svstems

26 II dps II March 2026

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2 canonoroductionorint.com 27 duolousa.com 8 I aeneralformulations.com 24 I araohicwhizard.com 21 heidelbera.com 10 luxeoacknewvork.com 15 komori-america.us 7 mullermartini.com

Canon U.S.A. Duclo USA General Formulations Graohic Whizard Heidelbera USA Inc. lnfoPro Diaital Komori America Muller Martini

,.

Company 100 Graohic Whizard 140 Heidelberg 101 Heidelberg 130 Hi Flow Solutions 170 HP, Inc. 141 J_nfi_go 102 Kodak 160 Komori America 142 Komori America 103 Konica Minolta 143 _l()'ocera 104 _l()'ocera 144 MBO America 105 Muller Martini

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9 National Postal Forum 10 Nobelus 11 Share Production Print 15 Sianif,cans Automation 12 Sians365 13 Standard Finishina Svstems 14 Tecnau

,.

106 107 161 145 108 147 109 162 110 111 131 163 112 113

Company Nobelus NordisTechnologies PressWise bv SmartSoft Print IQ Printware LLC Propago Quadient Quadient Ricoh USA, Inc. Ricoh USA, Inc. Ricoh USA, Inc. RISO, Inc. RISO, Inc. Rochester Software Associates

12 23 25 9 28 5 17

,.

114 148 115 132 116 149 117 171 150 118 164 165 119 151

.,

nof.ora nobelus.com business.sharousa.com sianificans.com sians365.com standardfinishina.com tecnau.com

Company Rollem Scodix Screen Americas Share USA _fil_gnif1cans Automation _fil_gns365 Standard Finishing Tecnau Therm OTyoe UltimateTechnologies USPS Vallov Inc. Videoiet Xerox Coro.

,.

120 121 122 123 152 124 125 133 126 134 172 127 128 129

dpsmagazine.com

INFO #2

INFO #12