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Umar Ghias
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Junaid Butt
art Director
Aneeq Khalid
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Ahmed Anver
A Majid Naik
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Pre-press is a term used in printing that describes the process that files go through before printing actually takes place It's the stage where they're prepared and edited, where graphics are checked, and all proofing is performed to ensure the information is correct and arranged so that it will print just the way the customer desires Digital pre-press is visual information taking on an electronic form in order to output film for printing Over 75 percent of all prepress work is now being done digitally in the graphic arts world
Today, pre-press houses are able to work with large, complex files to produce film with special screenings, drop shadows, four-color images, traps and bleeds This results in beautifully crafted pieces with lifelike photographs, sharp text and stunning graphics, all creating visual interest for the reader
The pre-press process begins with the creation of digital artwork saved in a software layout program such as QuarkExpress, the industry standard The file is given to a prepress house, where transparencies of photos are drum scanned, turned into high resolution digital information, downloaded onto a disk and output on thick specialty paper for proofing At this stage, color correction (minor adjustments) or retouching (major additions or deletions to an image) are done in Adobe Photoshop, an image manipulation and special effects software program The high resolution images are dropped into the layout and a sent to the preflight department, where disks are scrutinized, with specialized software, like Extensis ProFlight, for corruption, missing logos, fonts and correct color Once a file has passed thorough inspection, it is sent through a complex computer network to an image setter, a computer controlled device that outputs images as a pattern of millions of tiny dots on photographic paper that will be developed into film
High end print jobs would not exist without the preparation of digital files and the creation of film by pre-press houses, which are the two main applications for this industry Both designer and printer rely heavily upon the pre-press house to produce quality film that will manifest itself into an ad, brochure or coupon
The printing and publishing industries are among the most geographically dispersed in the United States While pre-press jobs thus are found throughout the country, large numbers are concentrated in large printing centers such as the Chicago, Los Angeles–Long Beach, New York City, Minneapolis–St Paul, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, DC metropolitan areas
The worldwide printing consumables market, including film, plates and proofing materials, is a $5 billion industry With companies needing to produce more and more promotional materials to market their goods and services, quality pre-press work has become critical. Growth in this industry is inevitable, but it is an expensive proposition. With client needs expanding, pre-press houses must stay current on changing technology and make shrewd, timely investments in software and equipment Macintosh hardware continues to dominate this segment of the market, to the point that many pre-press houses will reject PC files because of consistent problems with this format
Employment of prepress technicians and workers is projected to decline rapidly through 2019, because of improvements in printing technology that require fewer of these workers Despite this, job prospects are good for prepress technicians with good computer and customer service skills
A key trend observed in the global prepress market for packaging is the crucial emphasis given by packaging converters to color management and proofing requirements The steady growth of e-publishing and the advancement in traditional pre-press services has enabled the expansion of the printing industry as a whole. With the growth of e-publishing and rapidly changing ways in which people consume the print media, it is imperative for pre-press professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest changes
The publisher does not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any advertising or editorial material Acceptance of any ad does not imply endorsement from the publisher All rights reserved The publisher assumes no responsibility for materials submitted Letters to the editor are welcome and will be considered for publishing in whole or in part
Kodak to highlight innovative solutions for high-quality, sustainable and efficient printing at PrInTPaCK InDIa 2025
Kodak will participate in the 16th PRINTPACK INDIA held at the India Expo Center & Mart in Greater Noida, India, from Saturday, February 1 to Wednesday, February 5, 2025. At booth K-34 in hall 16 C-11, show visitors will
customers
Kodak continues to lead the market with innovation in ecofriendly and resource-saving process free plate technology with its highly successful KODAK SONORA Process Free Plates. At PRINTPACK INDIA, the Kodak team will present the SONORA XTRA Plate which makes process free a desirable option for printers in search of a plate that can reduce costs in both prepress and on press without compromising print quality or productivity As an ideal solution for high-quality imaging SONORA Plates, the Kodak booth will feature a KODAK T R E N D S E T T E
SQUARESPOT Imaging Technology, providing unmatched precision, and reliability for efficient platemaking and ultimate print quality
Esko Pack Proof Secures World-First Fogra55 Certification for ECG Printing Process
Esko Pack Proof has become the first image processing software in the world to secure the prestigious Fogra55 certification for the Extended Color Gamut printing process, offering ultimate confidence in color matching
Doğa opens PET bottle-to-bottle recycling facility in Türkiye
PET bottle-to-bottle recycling is picking up momentum in Türkiye: Istanbul-based construction corporation Doğa has set up a PET recycling facility in Kırklareli and recently commissioned two Starlinger PET bottleto-bottle recycling lines The recycling site, operated under the name of DOĞAPET, is located in the city of Kırklareli in Marmara province close to the Bulgarian border and features sustainable construction and the use of renewable energies and resources The two Starlinger recoSTAR PET 165 HC iV+ PET recycling lines have been commissioned during the fourth quarter of 2024 and reach a combined output of 3 6 tons of bottle-grade recycled PET pellets per hour, amounting to a total capacity of 28,000 tons per year The Starlinger PET bottle-to-bottle recycling process has been approved for food-grade applications by national and international authorities such as FDA and EFSA as well as by important brand owners
PT argha Karya Prima Industry Tbk Purchases First BOBST Metallizer
The decision to purchase this machine is to further increase capacity due to a growing demand in the market. BOBST was chosen to supply this new machine due to its reputation in the market and process expertise
The Pack Proof software accurately models the spot color and expanded gamut ink systems used to print brand colors to deliver a contract proof that matches the final packaging The new Fogra55 certification adds to its existing Fogra39 and Fogra51 accreditations which demonstrate the ability of the Esko solution to match ISO12647-7 quality.
“We are thrilled with this world-first achievement,” said Martin Cusack, Product Manager, Color & Digital with Esko “Accuracy of brand colors is of paramount importance in packaging, with a key challenge for converters being maintaining consistency between plate production and proofing This new certification complements our existing Fogra certification to demonstrate how using Pack Proof now makes it possible to output industry standard proofs first time, enabling businesses to maximize press production and reduce errors.
The EXPERT K5 is fully equipped with BOBST unique innovations, AluBond® and AlOx GEN II and will be used for the production of opaque and transparent UHB BOPP and BOPET. The BOBST AluBond® process was developed to provide excellent adhesion levels on any substrate. When applied to BOPP films, AluBond® also provides enhancement of both oxygen (OTR) and water vapour (WVTR) barrier levels and as such can be used for production of opaque high barrier, sustainable films BOBST AlOx GEN II is a development of the original BOBST AlOx process which has been established in the market for over 15 years for the production of high barrier, clear PET films. AlOx GEN II is focused on the production of high barrier, clear BOPP films in response to the sustainability trend in the flexible packaging industry In addition to providing high levels of oxygen and water barrier at a reduced optical density, film produced using the AlOx GEN II process is transparent straight off the machine.
Esko announces Planned Sale of advanced Vision Technology to Porat Itay Holdings
Esko, a global provider of integrated software and hardware solutions that accelerate the go-to-market process of packaged goods, today announced the sale of its Advanced Vision Technology (AVT) print inspection business to Porat
the transaction in Q1
under applicable local
The Dupont Cyrel flexographic division has received the Indian Flexible Packaging and Folding Carton Manufacturers Association (IFCA) Star Award 2024 in the innovations
launched Cyrel Easy Fast EFM
photopolymer plates are
excellent print results on various paper substrates,
environment through the reduced use of solvents, energy efficiency and increased productivity in plate processing
property specific to AVT Under its new ownership, AVT will maintain its brand name, identity, and product portfolio Porat Itay is a private company based in Israel, founded by Roy Porat and Yaron Itay Roy Porat had previously held the role of President, AVT from 2020 until 2022, and Yaron Itay has successfully built and led several industrial technology companies
Prime Packaging implements ErP/MIS from HiFlow Solutions
Chicago-based Prime Packaging has implemented a new MIS/ERP system provided by HiFlow Solutions for label and packaging manufacturers to help manage the business more efficiently
The company operates roll-fed flexo presses that offer up to 11 colors using water-based and UV inks. Kevin Kollman acquired Prime Graphics in February 2010 and formed Prime Packaging The company produces various labels and flexible packaging, including shrink
some time ago and whose system ran on Windows 7,’ Kollman said. ‘We finally decided it was time to find a better technology Some of the
Reports and a specialized language that made it difficult to maintain the functionality of the reporting. Our data collection and inventories were manual inputs versus a real time system It was certainly time to upgrade ’ Kollman explored a number of options to replace the older system and determined that his best option was an onpremises system from HiFlow.
These plates enable the paper bag, tag & label, envelope, paper napkin, folding carton and corrugation industries to use greater volumes of recycled content in their paper substrates
With this recognition, Cyrel flexographic division seeks to introduce innovative and sustainable products to the market, leveraging technologies that ensure reliability without compromising print quality
OPa to Elect new Leadership for 2025-26
resonates with innovation, resilience, and unity in the printing and packaging world, is poised for a historic
moment. On December 15, 2024, OPA's South City headquarters in Ludhiana will host the much-anticipated elections to choose its new President and General Secretary for the 2025-26 term during the Annual General Meeting Since its founding in 1988, OPA has stood as a guiding light for India’s printing fraternity, transforming challenges into opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging within the industry These elections are not just about selecting leaders they are a heartfelt reaffirmation of OPA’s unwavering mission to empower every printer, big or small, and ignite a shared vision of progress “This is more than an election it’s a call to action for the future of our industry Together, we will continue to ensure that no printer is left behind,” aid Parveen Aggarwal, President of OPA, with passion and pride
InX International launches brand extension for InXhrc rC inks
INX International is launching a brand extension for INXhrc RC natural-based inks: a new UV LED dual cure low migration formulation for plastic and foam-based packaging joins the UV curable formulation
INXhrc RC LM is a Nestle-compliant ink system with sustainable ingredients used for low migration applications
and formulated without
footprint of packaging materials by up to 30 percent These inks are food safe for sensitive packaging applications
'Consumer expectations for manufacturer accountability in regards to safety and sustainability continues to increase, so l o w m i g r a
o n i n k s
consideration for the packaging industry,' said Renee Schouten, INX International’s vice president of marketing
'This is especially true for the impact of plastic and foambased rigid containers, so we are replacing petrochemicalderived resins with natural and renewable materials
Flint Group expands in India
Flint Group has planned a new manufacturing facility in Salvi, Vadodara, in Gujarat. The plant will produce water-based inks and coatings for the paper and board market and energy-curable inks for the label and narrow web sector
The new 9,000 sqm facility is part of the company's expansion plan in India, tailored to meet the rising demand in the region’s paper and board packaging and narrow web label
Located within 10 km of Flint's existing flexible
g site in Lamdapura that produces solvent-based inks and operates a separate unit dedicated to non-toluene inks
This development further strengthens Flint Group's robust presence in India, which includes an ISO 9001:2015-certified manufacturing plant in Hosur specializing in inks for narrow web labels and a blending site in Noida Additionally, the company operates warehouses in Kolkata, Mumbai and Hyderabad, ensuring comprehensive coverage and service across the country.
The new site will also manufacture its award-winning EkoCure Dual Cure range to serve the growing Indian label and narrow web market.
5-layer OPTIMEX II for new Customer Summit Films
S u m m i t F i l m s , t h e f i l m s d i v i s i o n o f I n n o t e x P
g
Solutions formerly known as Summit Plastics, is expanding its blown film production capacity with the acquisition of a 5layer OPTIMEX II blown film extrusion line from leading machinery manufacturer Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) This investment highlights the c o m
to enhancing production
customers, and preparing for future growth.
“We are excited to add the 5-layer W&H line, building on our existing capabilities and furthering integration within our films and converting sites,” said Joe Piccione, CEO of Innotex Packaging Solutions
Jack Shields, President of Summit Films, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment. “This is a pivotal m o m e n t f o r o u r b u s i n e s s a s w e
technologies that will allow us to continue delivering on our unwavering promise of unparalleled service to our customers. That is the core of who we are The OPTIMEX II will provide the adaptability needed to meet the evolving demands of our customers and expand into the growing value-added films markets ”
Esko partners with BOBST to deliver incredible efficiency gains with innovative smartGraVurE system
smartGRAVURE has been created by BOBST, one of the world’s leading suppliers of substrate processing, printing and converting equipment and services, and BOBST has partnered with Esko, the global provider of integrated software and hardware solutions that accelerate the goto-market process of packaged goods, for the pre-press and inline color reading element of their s m a r t G R A V U R E solution. The result is a new tool that enables gravure printers to benefit from a fully digitalized workflow, optimally producing exceptional and consistent quality, minimizing waste of substrates and inks and maximizing efficiency across the print process.
Davide Rossello, BOBST Competence Center Manager & R&D Process Manager, Gravure, said the project began in 2019 when Esko was undertaking exciting work in Extended Color Gamut printing in prepress “In Bobst Italy we always manufacture gravure,” he said. “Ink control is the final step on this journey –but while this process began in prepress, it has now moved to the end of the printing process
Çevikbaş reaps the rewards of double gravure investment with BOBST
The strategic deployment of BOBST gravure technology has laid a solid foundation for growth for the Turkish packaging manufacturer. Since the installation of two highly efficient RS 6003 presses, Çevikbaş Packaging has enjoyed the benefits of higher speed, exceptional quality and format flexibility, supporting the company in meeting its customers’ demands
Founded in 1988, Çevikbaş Packaging in Turkey has a long history in gravure printing, lamination and converting, manufacturing a range of flexible food packaging applications, such as Doy packs, flat bottom and Quadro bags, single and double twists, flow packs, and recyclable, blister, and peelable packaging To support growth and meet customer requirements, the company needed to substantially expand printing capacity and upgrade production speed
After reviewing the market carefully, CEO Mehmet Çevikbaş and CFO Ahmet Çevikbaş made the decision to partner with BOBST and signed a contract for two RS 6003 gravure presses Representing a large uptick in output, both 8-color machines were installed in 2021, immediately extending capacity at Çevikbaş by 40% to a total of 18 000 tons annually
Xsys launches nyloflex XSn for narrow web printing
designed for narrow web printing
'With the nyloflex XSN, we’ve introduced a plate that empowers narrow web printers to meet rapidly changing
Technology ensure cleaner plates, longer print runs and minimal press downtime, making it a game-changer in the narrow web segment '
The nyloflex XSN is a flat-top dot plate compatible with both thermal and solvent processing methods, providing versatility This dual compatibility allows adaptation to evolving customer demands without the need for additional equipment or process changes.
formulation prevents ink buildup on the plate surface. This reduces the need for frequent cleanings and press stops, improving overall equipment efficiency
MPS upgrades VirtualCoach
MPS has upgraded its real-time operator tool, VirtualCoach, now personified with a face and name - Emmy
Previously known for its advanced data-driven insights and artificial intelligence, VirtualCoach now brings a more personal touch to its capabilities Emmy is designed to bridge the gap b e t w e e n m a n a g e m e n t objectives and operator actions, offering a more relatable and engaging user experience.
Emmy builds on VirtualCoach’s legacy of real-time support with an enhanced interface that helps operators monitor the quality and efficiency of their tasks. What sets Emmy apart is her ability to provide personalized, actionable guidance tailored to each operator’s behavior - turning data into realtime, specific advice that improves both efficiency and performance.
Emmy ensures that management’s objectives, such as cost minimization, align seamlessly with operators’ day-to-day actions
MD Labels installs third Mark andy hybrid press
Polish converter MD Labels has installed a Digital Series HD press, becoming Europe's first printer to install three Mark Andy Digital Series hybrid machines
The first Mark Andy hybrid started operation at MD Labels, a converter based in Kalisz, Poland, in 2018 and helped grow the company's production capability. It was joined in 2022 by a second hybrid, this time a Digital Series HD The third press, also a Digital Series HD, started production this year All three use a combination of flexo and UV inkjet technology.
MD Labels’ co-owner Marcin Jasinski said: 'These presses are the ideal response to market needs that are constantly changing Today's consumers expect more high-quality personalized products at affordable prices
The market also demands shorter print runs or different versions of the same product and label With Mark Andy presses, we have the right technology to meet these challenges '
The Mark Andy presses have helped secure new orders and customers for MD Labels In addition, they have allowed the company to grow its workforce and expand its total production capacity.
nu-Maber installs two ThermoFlexX Catena-E 80 units
Nu-Maber, an Italian flexo plate producer, has significantly enhanced its production capabilities by installing two ThermoFlexX Catena-E 80 exposure units from Xsys
This investment underlines Nu-Maber’s dedication to precision, efficiency, and sustainable practices while reinforcing its commitment to digital t r a n s f o r m a t i o n , certified under the Industry 4.0 guidelines by Polo Tecnologico Alto Adriatico Andrea Galvani.
This latest step in the company’s growth journey is centered around the ThermoFlexX Catena-E 80 exposure units, technology that ensures consistent, high-quality plate production. With a maximum plate size of 1,270 x 2,032 mm (50 x 80in) and advanced LED technology for both main and back exposures, these units provide precision imaging and robust performance, ensuring superior results for flexographic printing applications.
Incorporating Xsys’s ProServX software, the new equipment ensures easy integration with Nu-Maber’s digital infrastructure. ProServX supports Industry 4.0 compliance with features such as real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and remote diagnostics.
Flexopolis diversifies into new label segments with Bobst investment
Mexican label producer Flexopolis has invested in its second Bobst Master M5 flexo press to address new markets through greater agility, increased sustainability and higher value-added products.
Founded in 2010 as part of the Litopolis Group, Flexopolis, located in Mexico City, specializes in packaging, focusing on labels and shrink sleeves for the automotive, personal care and food industries
Over the past 15 years, Flexopolis has multiplied its production capacity more than five-fold, delivering quality products to the Mexican market that are exported worldwide by its customers
After poor experiences with flexo technology in the past, the company decided to invest in the Bobst Master M5 label press.
‘With the special features from Bobst, we can do coupon labels and we’re almost ready to start producing in-mold labels too This is very interesting because Mexico is not yet as developed in this market,’ said Patrícia Ruiz, CEO of Flexopolis
Flexocolor invests in Shine LED Lamp Kits from Miraclon
Spanish pre-press provider Flexocolor has switched to 100 percent LED plate exposure with the installation of two Shine LED Lamp Kits, innovated by Miraclon.
Flexocolor installed Spain’s first Flexcel NX wide system in 2012 and was the first trade shop in
PureFlexo Printing from Miraclon in 2021
‘
technology is to ensure we always offer our customers the best efficiency, repeatability, and consistent quality in flexo plate production,’ said Vicente Belda, owner of Flexocolor. ‘LED technology is by far the most dependable exposure process, so it’s a logical addition to our capabilities
‘With the Shine LED Lamp Kit, we are producing plates 15 percent quicker than we did with our fluorescent units, the results are more consistent, and power consumption is lower Having LED also dispels my concerns about the future of f
technology.’
Label Tech boosts productivity with two Mark andy presses
Irish converter Label Tech has taken steps to improve productivity by installing two 13-inch Mark Andy Evolution E5, 8color presses equipped with full UV curing, unwind roll lifts and dual frame rewinds, die stations and sheeting units with a conveyor
Established in 1992 and managed by James Costello and Johnny Woods, Label Tech, now part of the Asteria Group, has built a reputation among its clients for delivering h i g h - q u a l i t y , innovative selfadhesive labels.
Operating from its
20,000sqft headquarters in Santry, close to Dublin’s international airport, the company has used its knowledge and expertise to serve industries as diverse as food, beverage, health, nutrition, pharmaceutical, transport and logistics.
‘We have always stressed the “Tech” part of our business, enabling us to build strong, collaborative relationships with customers who value support at all stages of a job from creation to delivery, especially on some of the more complex labels we are now manufacturing,’ explained Costello
Parveen aggarwal re-elected as President of OPa
In a landmark decision reflecting unity and trust, the members of the Offset Printers Association (OPA) have once again placed their confidence in Mr. Parveen Aggarwal, unanimously re-electing him as the President during the 37th Annual General Meeting (AGM) The meeting, held at Ludhiana, witnessed an overwhelming consensus as Prof. Kamal Mohan Chopra was also re-elected as the General Secretary for the
term 2025-26.
This reappointment of seasoned leaders is a testament to their unwavering dedication and the remarkable progress achieved under their stewardship Both Mr Aggarwal and Prof Chopra have played pivotal roles in elevating the OPA’s stature in the printing industry, fostering collaboration, and championing innovation
In his address, Mr Parveen Aggarwal expressed heartfelt gratitude to the members for their enduring support “It is an honour to serve this esteemed association, and I am deeply humbled by the trust placed in me once again
all4Labels invests in two Bobst machines
All4Labels, one of the world’s leading print and packaging companies, has strengthened its partnership with Bobst by investing in a Bobst Novacut 106 and Bobst Expertcut with Power Register to power its global digital transformation Guenther Weymans, All4Labels CEO, said: ‘As leaders in the realm of digital and sustainable packaging, we prioritize the use of digital technologies to refine our processes and respond to the changing preferences of consumers. The integration of interconnectivity and automation is essential for us to create the smart factories of the future, where sustainability and digital advancement coexist seamlessly ’ Bobst shares the same values and commitment with the All4Labels Group to continuously improve workflows with the aim of enhancing communication with customers, streamlining the supply chain, and driving continuous development in quality and safety performance.
C K Print and Design installs Konica Minolta digital label press
C K Print and Design has installed an AccurioLabel 400 digital label press from Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA C K Print and Design, a division of C K Enterprises, is a commercial printer and label converter in Lone Jack, Missouri
C K Print and Design's partnership with Konica Minolta began in 2017 when it purchased a bizhub PRESS C71cf label press to insource its label manufacturing The production team named the press 'Tank' for its robustness Since then, CKE has
press
CKE has also added the
AccurioWide 200 wide-format press and, most recently, the AccurioLabel 400.
Most recently, CKE has decided to upgrade its bizhub label PRESS C71cf to the AccurioLabel 230
'C K Enterprises' loyalty to the Konica Minolta brand is something we have cultivated for many years, and we are honored they continue to place their trust in us and invest in our products to move their business forward,' said Frank Mallozzi, president, IPP, Konica Minolta 'We are grateful for partnerships like this and proud to play a role in this fastgrowing, innovative company's success
Esko, Fiery, and HanGlobal/Hanlabel announce Strategic Collaboration to revolutionize Digital Label Printing
Esko, a global provider of integrated software and hardware solutions for the packaging and label industry, and Fiery, LLC, the print industry’s leading innovator of digital front ends (DFEs) and workflow solutions, today (4 December 2024) announced a g r o u n d b r e a k i n g partnership with HanGlobal/Hanlabel to deliver a customized Digital Front-End (DFE) for the LabStar series inkjet digital label presses.
This strategic c o l l a b o r a t i o n integrates Esko’s advanced color management expertise, Fiery’s leadership in developing innovative and powerful DFEs, and HanGlobal/Hanlabel’s state-of-the-art digital label printing technology Together, the companies are addressing the evolving needs of label converters with an end-to-end solution that streamlines production workflows, enhances color precision, and accelerates time to market The partnership’s centerpiece is the optimized compatibility between the LabStar series digital label presses and the combined Esko-Fiery solutions
Priya Printers adds
second
Mark andy Performance Series
Sonipat, Haryana, India-based Priya Printers has added 26inch Mark Andy Performance Series P9E press The press was installed by Flexo Image Graphics (FIG), distributor and service provider of flexo presses and associated equipment in the Indian sub-continent spanning Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka
The converter owned a 13-inch Mark Andy Performance
has now added the new press
Digiflex invests in second Flexcel nX System from Miraclon
Digiflex, one of the leading Indian flexo trade shops, has ordered a Flexcel NX Wide 4260 system. The larger-format option will complement its Flexcel NX Mid System installed in 2014 The deal
2024
The Hyderabad-
itself on offering
its converter and printer client base exceptional pre-press expertise and the latest technology to fulfill even the most demanding brand demands
According to Muralidhar Nalli, CEO of Digiflex, the decision to add another Flexcel NX system was driven by customer demand for Flexcel NX plates that have proved to deliver better efficiency, quality and consistency on press.
‘The plates’ performance on the press is essential in what we’re experiencing to be a fast-growing flexo market, and Flexcel NX plates are many of our printer and converter customers’ technology of choice; not only does it address all their productivity, efficiency and quality concerns, but also help cement flexo’s growing status as packaging print production method of choice,’ said Nalli
Paramount Labels installs rotatek Brava 450
Dubai, UAE-based Paramount Labels Printing Press has installed new Rotatek Brava 450 press. The new Brava 450 press, installed by Vinsak, can handle a variety of print runs and offers high quality.
fully-equipped production facility and a vast clientele Gourav Roy, managing director, Flexo Image Graphics, s a i d
advanced brand new Mark Andy Performance Series press ’
He continued: ‘Mark Andy Performance Series P9E is such an efficient press designed and engineered to redefine Priya Printers’ productivity through the press’ advanced features and capacities like simple design, efficient waste saving, and fast changeover times
The press integrates technology that ensures high print accuracy and color consistency, whether the job involves a small batch of labels or a large-scale production run. Brava 450 offers both web handling systems for infinite repeats, semi-rotary system for short and medium runs and full-rotary system for long runs. The semi-rotary system allows customers to change repeats fully automatically from the machine’s touch screen panel, there is no need to change format cylinder or use tools, which is critical for short runs in order to keep job costs to a minimum.
Founded in 2017, by Sadiq Ali, Paramount Labels has quickly made a name for itself in the UAE market, initially operating from a modest 1200sqft trading space. The company has grown substantially over the years, with strategic investments in the latest equipment to cater to the evolving needs of its diverse clientele, which spans industries such as FMCG, automobiles and personal care.
7-layer VarEX II for Canada's Malpack
Canada-based Malpack, a division of Trioworld, has invested in a 7-layer VAREX II blown film line for agricultural film production, positioning itself to set a new industry standard
The new VAREX II will enable Malpack to produce highperformance agricultural and stretch hooder films that meet the stringent demands of modern applications, enhancing s
features of this line are
Koenig & Bauer MetjET OnE Digital Press Shines During Successful Factory acceptance Test
production
FILMATIC II N winder, which ensures excellent quality
intervention through automated loading, and off-loading.
“We are excited to collaborate with W&H and introduce this state-of-the-art production line,” said Ricardo Cardoso, CEO of Malpack, president of Trioworld North America “This expansion not only enhances our manufacturing capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to delivering industryleading products
Fujifilm Introduces new rEVOrIa Presses
Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint, a global leader in metal decoration technology, and Reynolds Services, Inc , a leading provider of metal packaging solutions, have joined forces to usher in a new era of digital printing for metal Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint has successfully developed the MetJET ONE, its fully integrated digital production line for metal decoration This groundbreaking solution as a complete production line offers unparalleled flexibility and quality, enabling customers to produce highly customised metal packaging solutions with ease Reynolds Services, Inc. has embraced this technological advancement by selecting RSI Metal Litho Greenville as the site for the first installation of the MetJET ONE. This strategic decision enables Reynolds Services, Inc to provide innovative, customized, and sustainable packaging solutions, even for very short production runs
GSE appoints Weldon Celloplast as new India agent for Colorsat ink dispensing programme
GSE has appointed Weldon Celloplast Ltd as exclusive agent in India. The agreement covers support for GSE’s
S
t o n e r s t a t i o n i n a d d i t i o n t o i t s f o u r - c o l o r t o n e r s , e n a b l i n g
f i v e - c o l o r p r i n t i n g i n o n e p a s s
T h e n e w R E V O R I A P R E S S E C 2 1 0 0 ( E C 2 1 0 0 ) a n d R E V O R I A
P R E S S S C 2 8 5 ( S C 2 8 5 ) a r e f o u r - c o l o r p r e s s e s . A l l n e w l y
a n n o u n c e d p r o d u c t s a r e c o m p a c t i n s i z e w i t h h i g h p r i n t
q u a l i t y a n d s p e e d A v a i l a b i l i t y i s e x p e c t e d i n e a r l y 2 0 2 5
“ T h e s e n e w m o d e l s w e r e f i r s t p r e v i e w e d i n t h e i r
d e v e l o p m e n t s t a g e a t d r u p a i n M a y 2 0 2 4 , t h e w o r l d ' s l a r g e s t
p r i n t i n g a n d m e d i a i n d u s t r y t r a d e f a i r , h e l d i n G e r m a n y , ” s a i d
H i d e t o s h i “ T o s h i ” K i n o , G M , F U J I F
C o r p o r a t i o n , G r a p h i c C o m m u n i c a t i o n D i v i s i o n “ S i n c
automating the handling of ink, for label and packaging converters in the country.
Founded in 1982 and based in New Delhi, Weldon
leading global manufacturers of printing equipment,
besides offering tamper evident security label materials GSE’s Colorsat dispensing systems, for flexo, gravure and screen inks, automatically prepare accurate spot colours, by blending base colours in precise weights according to ink formulations Using the company’s ‘Ink manager ’ software programs, the dispensers also reuse the ‘press return’ inks left over in the press after production runs in new print jobs, by recalculating ink recipes
swop 2024 Concludes with Success, Paving the Way for Future Innovation in the Packaging Industry
Shanghai World of Packaging (swop) came to a successful close on November 20, 2024 in Shanghai, China, marking a remarkable conclusion to the annual grand show for the packaging industry in Asia This year’s event stood out as a premier annual exhibition, highlighting a fresh vision and a deep alignment with the dynamic needs of the market With a focus on globalization, swop has firmly established itself as an essential platform for exhibition, communication, and collaboration across the entire packaging value chain
Covering more than 65,000 square meters, swop 2024 attracted 903 distinguished companies from across the globe, including those from China, Germany, Spain, Finland, the United States, and many other countries and regions. The event drew 33,192 trade visitors from around the world, offering a vibrant space for exhibitors and buyers to engage in fruitful discussions and explore opportunities for collaboration in response to the evolving landscape of global supply chains
Ms Evian Gu, General Manager of Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., said: “As an essential bridge connecting production and consumption, the demand for the packaging industry continues to grow
Kodak to Showcase World’s Fastest Inkjet Press at Hunkeler 2025
Food africa and pacprocess MEa again with significant increase in visitor numbers
More exhibitors, more space, more visitors: Food Africa and pacprocess MEA 2024 were held from 3 to 5 December in Cairo and served as the central platforms for the food, beverage, processing and packaging industries in the MEA region and Africa More than 1,000 exhibitors from 35 countries took the opportunity to showcase their innovations
With a total of 31,000 visitors, the interpack alliance trade fair duo set new standards and impressed both with its international composition and the high level of expertise of the participants Matchmaking formats and a high-calibre supporting programme helped visitors to make new contacts and discover innovative solutions for the industry. Thomas Dohse, Director of interpack, emphasises: "This year's pacprocess MEA and Food Africa have shown how much the industry benefits from a platform that combines innovation and networking in an exciting market, and is also supported at the highest political level We look forward to building on this success in the future Food Africa celebrates its tenth anniversary next year
Fast-Curing Silicone Ink Opens new Doors for 3D Printing
Kodak will highlight unmatched speed and versatility in inkjet production printing by running live demonstrations of the KODAK PROSPER 7000 Turbo Press, the world's fastest webfed full-color inkjet press, at Hunkeler Innovationdays 2025 (Feb 24-27, Lucerne, Switzerland), booth P4 in hall 1 The show will be the PROSPER 7000 Turbo Press’s first appearance in Europe Kodak will showcase the PROSPER 7000 Turbo Press printing with water-based KODAK EKTACOLOR Inks in a roll-to-roll configuration with an unwinder and a rewinder designed and manufactured by Kodak The PROSPER 7000 Turbo Press is the world’s fastest inkjet press, according to Kodak, capable of printing at speeds of up to 410 mpm (1,345 fpm). Its three print modes Turbo, Performance and Quality enable printers to easily fine-tune optimal speed and quality balance for each job. These capabilities make the PROSPER 7000 Turbo Press an excellent solution for migrating larger direct mail, commercial, transactional, and book printing jobs from offset to digital.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) have developed a new method to 3D print sturdy silicone structures that are bigger, taller, thinner and more porous than ever before The team’s two-part “fast cure” silicone-based ink for direct ink writing mixes just before printing and sets quickly at room temperature, allowing for longer print times, simplifying the fabrication process, and ensuring structures will not collapse or sag, even in complex
configurations. Their research appears on the front cover of the October issue of
this is the simplest solution and the bulletproof one,” said Anna Güell Izard, a postdoc in the Materials Engineering Division (MED) and the paper’s first author. “There is nothing extra to worry about; you can just print ” Silicone is a widely used polymer known for its flexibility, resilience and biocompatibility, making it ideal for protective materials, biomedical devices especially implants and prostheses flexible electronics, soft robotics and more 3D printing, a type of additive manufacturing, makes the material even more versatile by fabricating hollow or porous structures that traditional manufacturing cannot.
VISTaFLEX II for Bema Incorporated
Illinois-based Bema Inc has installed a new VISTAFLEX
I I f l e x o g r a p h i c p r e s s T h i
demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer service and innovation. The press will dramatically
interfaces, and
roland DGa announces north american Launch of new Ty-300 DTF Printer
Roland DGA Corporation announced the North American launch of the new Roland DG TY-300, a state-of-the-art direct-to-film (DTF) printer engineered for exceptional image quality, productivity, and cost-efficiency.
The TY-300 delivers vibrant, detailed transfer graphics for apparel customization at speeds up to four times faster than competitive models while minimizing running costs
manage diverse job sizes efficiently.
Bema and W&H have been partners since 2007, when they purchased their first press, a PRIMAFLEX Since then, they have continued to invest in W&H technology, which also includes a MIRAFLEX II and blown film lines for their sister company, Elite Extrusion Technology.
“This investment aligns perfectly with our core business p h i l o s o p h y o f e x c e p
adaptability,” said Glen Galloway, President at Galloway Consolidated Holdings “We are known for our ability to handle high-quality small to medium sized jobs The VISTAFLEX II’s advanced features, like fast makeready times and robotic interfaces, will further enhance our capabilities ”
While the DTF transfer method is a relatively new solution for creating custom apparel and textiles, it has gained tremendous popularity over a short period of time The process involves just four simple steps After printing on a special film, hot-melt powder is applied and thermally melted, then the film is layered on fabric and heat-pressed
One of the primary reasons the DTF method is becoming so popular is that it allows complex printed designs and even smaller text to be transferred effectively to a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, cotton polyester, denim, nylon, and rayon, as well as dark and light pigmented materials The DTF process also allows for the creation of garments and accessories with a “soft-hand” natural feel and outstanding washability
The TY-300 boasts newly developed printheads that allow for the precise expression of fine lines, small letters, and detailed designs, as well as highly accurate photo reproduction
Konica Minolta’s Laura Blackmer receives best female executive award
Laura Blackmer, president, dealer sales at Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA, has received the 2024 Frank Award for 'Best Female Executive '
The Frank Awards recognize achievements in the independent dealer channel of the office technology industry. This is the eighth time Blackmer has received this distinction Toni Gorveatt and Noah Maphis of Cobb Technologies presented the award to Blackmer during The Cannata Report’s annual gala on Nov 7.
'It was a delight to have again received this accolade I am always humbled by this award since it is open to all dealers I truly appreciate their support and have enjoyed my relationships within this community,' Blackmer said 'I am grateful to The Cannata Report for not only recognizing women in leadership roles with this award category, but also the importance they place on female executives through their Women Influencers program.'
'Laura Blackmer ’s recognition as Best Female Executive reflects the deep respect and appreciation she has earned from dealers across the channel,' said CJ Cannata, president and CEO, The Cannata Report 'Her dedication, approachability and communication skills set her apart as one of the most highly esteemed leaders in the industry, and her multiple wins demonstrate her remarkable influence and unwavering commitment to dealer success.'
Heaford welcomes Tim Paul as sales director
Paul brings industry experience, having served as global a c c o u n t d i r e c t o r, w h e r e h e p l a y e d a p i v o t a l r o l e i n fostering growth and innovation He is a trustee for Automate Best, a charitable trust supporting engineers
role he will continue to serve
’s
d commitment to building
Heaford’s growth
' We ’ r e t h
o welcome Tim to the Heaford family,' managing director
David Muncaster said 'His track record speaks for itself, and we’re confident his vision will have a significant impact on our journey ahead.'
Leadership transition at nextGen Label Group
NextGen Label Group has confirmed that Tom Faugno, who served as chief sales officer, will start a new role as strategic sales advisor as part of a planned leadership transition that reinforces the company’s commitment to strategic growth and innovation
Faugno’s transition reflects a deliberate effort to leverage his extensive industry expertise and insights, ensuring
commercial objectives.
In his new role, he will
NextGen Label Group’s success
‘It has been an honor to lead the sales team at NextGen Label Group,’ said Faugno ‘Transitioning to the strategic sales advisor role allows me to focus on broader initiatives and long-term opportunities to position the company for s
’s
exceptional leadership team we have in place ’
Brotech appoints new European business development director
Shenzhen-based Brotech has appointed Giovanni Perego as its new European business development director With over two decades of expertise in the printing and packaging industry, Perego brings a wealth of knowledge in flexography, rotogravure, screen and digital printing, especially for flexible packaging and labels He deeply understands materials, extrusion, lamination and applications, and he specializes in the food and non-food sectors.
Perego’s role will focus on strengthening Brotech’s relationships with customers and European institutions, fostering partnerships to expand the company's market presence and elevate its brand recognition
Beyond machinery, his solid grasp of processes, working methods and material-saving techniques will enable Brotech to offer not just printing, converting and finishing technology but also valuable insights to enhance efficiency and innovation for the company's customers
