Issue 349 - July / August 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk 210 x 219mm •KNOWLEDGE ZONE •DIGITAL PRINTING •LARGE FORMAT •PRE-PRESS •SOFTWARE •FINISHING •PAPER 17-19 Sept 2024 · NEC Birmingham The UK’s only event dedicated to showcasing the latest printing technology Back for its eighth edition, The Print Show will again play host to some of the leading brands from across the print industry, showcasing new opportunities to visitors from all markets. From commercial print to wide-format production, The Print Show 2024 is an event that simply cannot be missed. @theprintshow The Print Show The UK’s Largest Dedicated Print Exhibition NEC Birmingham | Hall 17 | September 17-19 | 2024 REGISTER for FREE ENTRYat www.theprintshow.co.uk
3 CONTENTS Issue 349 July / August 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 ISSN 2976-9213 NEWS Industry 06 Business 10 Print.com has announced plans to expand into the UK following its success in Europe Kit & Media 14 environment 18 People 22 events - the print show 2024 27 SPECIALS Under the Hood: Ricoh PRO Z75 36 Company Spotlight: ANGLIA PRINT 39 Under the Hood: Bobst NOVAFOIL 106 H 42 COLIN SINCLAIR MCDERMOTT: INDUSTRY TIPS 45 EVENT SPOTLIGHT: Drupa 2024 Review 48 Focus On: Personalisation and Gifting 52 FOCUS ON: Nathan Ward, Paper Artist 55 We find out what goes into producing paper art for a range of clients and print requirements FEATURES Guillotines 61 AI and Print 65 We look at the ways printers are implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their production Toner-based Kit 69 Packaging Materials 73 IN THIS ISSUE 55 48 18 39 61 06 14 10
ISSUE 349July / August 2024 Printing United Expo September 10th to 12th Convention Centre, Las Vegas, US www.printingunited.com The Print Show September 17th to 19th NEC, Birmingham, UK www.theprintshow.co.uk Publishing director Page Tuck Sales director Chris Davies Lead contributor Rob Fletcher Contributors Brian Sims, Colin Sinclair McDermott Contact Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 Production: 0117 980 5041 Accounts: 0117 980 5042 Find us online www.printmonthly.co.uk Socials All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher. The views expressed by contributors to Print Monthly magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editorial team and Link Publishing Ltd. takes no responsibility for any errors that may have occurred. The publisher also accepts no responsibility for the advertising content, including any error, omission or inaccuracy therein. Calls may be recorded for training purposes. Link Publishing Ltd. retains the right to publish and re-publish any images or information sent to the publication. Link Publishing Ltd, Unit G, Link House, Britton Gardens, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 1TF Editor Carys Evans carys@linkpublishing.co.uk Online editor David Osgar david@linkpublishing.co.uk Production Shaun Edwards shaun@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales Tim Hall tim@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales Luke Stoneham luke@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Kathryn Quinn kat@linkpublishing.co.uk Office therapist Skye PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Printed on Sappi Magno Satin from EBB Paper CBP00015512002182040 July / August 2024 - Issue 349 4 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Hello and welcome to Print Monthly July / August! With drupa now behind us and our feet just about still intact, we have been taking the time to reflect on the themes and trends of the mega show dubbed ‘the Olympics of print’. One of the key themes I took away during our week-long visit was the number of strategic partnerships and collaborations between key industry players with Canon and Heidelberg, EFI and Packside, HP and Canva, Landa and Gelato, and more all announcing partnerships across the 11-day show. As the industry continues to diversify, these partnerships are enabling manufacturers to offer increasingly broad product portfolios to their customers. The concept of the ‘and’ era of print presented by Kodak was another interesting takeaway which saw the company position offset and inkjet as complementary rather than competitive. This ethos was something we saw reflected across the show within other areas of the industry too. You can read more about my takeaways from my first drupa on P48. In other news, congratulations are in order to our very own office therapist Skye who received special recognition in the inaugural Pets in Print competition run by Innotech Digital. The awards were judged by Eye on Display’s Jack Gocher and Kathryn Ridout along with Colin Sinclair McDermott aka The Online Print Coach, who crowned smiley Juno from Type Creative as the overall winner. Although she didn’t quite make the top spot, Skye was delighted to receive the Long Service Award. Thanks also to Rider Press Printers for Skye's doggy biscuits received in the post! As always, thanks for reading and please do get in touch with any news you have to share! EDITOR S NOTE Carys Evans MEET THE TEAM DATES FOR YOUR DIARY VIDEO COVERAGE Scan the QR code to watch our video recap of this year’s drupa over on our Print7 YouTube channel
INDUSTRY / NEWS 6 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine The British Printing Industries Federation’s Printing Outlook report for Q2 of 2024 shows that while growth of output and orders didn’t match the expectations from Q1, the industry has had two consecutive quarters of growth. The Printing Outlook survey received “mixed signals” regarding trade as well as many opinions on numerous issues companies are currently facing. Takeaways regarding the economy are that inflation is coming down, but not as quickly as expected meaning interest rates are staying high, much to the frustration of those repaying Government Covid-19 loans. Respondents also stated that business rates are still remaining critically high which is increasing administrative and compliance burdens. The BPIF says the most voiced “annoyance” was the increase in the National Living Wage. Regarding the environment, 70% of respondents to the report said they were measuring their carbon emissions, up from the 56% reported in October and 38% in April last year. Other key findings from the report are that cost control remains a priority for most businesses while for many, average price levels continued to decrease in Q1 with a small majority managing to hold prices steady. Tight margins and Living Wage highlighted The new report by the BPIF contains an expanded section on sustainability in the industry The Printing Charity, a provider of practical, emotional, and financial support to the industry, has confirmed that King Charles III has accepted the role of Patron of the charity. Following a major review of more than 1,000 Royal Patronages and charity Presidencies, the charity announced the news on the first anniversary of the King’s Coronation. The role was previously held by the late Queen Elizabeth II and every monarch since Queen Victoria making it a long-standing tradition and reflection of the importance of print. Neil Lovell, Printing Charity chief executive officer, says: “We are really delighted and honoured that His Majesty has agreed to be our charity Patron. “His Majesty’s patronage is incredibly important to us, not just because of our long association with the Royal family, but as recognition of the work we do and services we offer for people who work or have worked in our sectors. “As we approach our 200th year in 2027, and we look to how best to develop our future services, it’s a real boost to receive this news and the continued recognition for our organisation.” King Charles III becomes Patron of The Printing Charity King Charles III was previously Charity President in 1977. Image: Benjamin Wareing By David Osgar By David Osgar The People Powered Press (PPP), a non-profit established in the wake of the pandemic through the “These Northern Types” project, recently hosted a new exhibition in Salts Mill, Shipley. Recognised by Guinness as the largest letterpress printing press of its kind in the world, the initiative works with community groups, printers, artists, and writers to create large-scale letterpress works from its workshop in Salts Works. The exhibition was opened by Shipley-based design studio, Split, which helped form the PPP, which it is continuing to work with on projects such as this. Works featured included collaborations from community groups from across Bradford and beyond who have worked with the PPP’s poet-in-residence, Anthony Dunn. Groups included Shipley & Saltaire Men’s Shed, People Poetry (Space2, Leeds), and Queer Saltaire. The exhibition was open throughout May and showcased “the Brico system” which has been used to create all the works and was designed for the press by Oli Bentley. Also exhibited were the very first A-Z of Brico letters created by Split in collaboration with Anthony Burrill and Thomas Mayo. People Powered Press showcases art The exhibition included an A-Z of Brico letters along with letters and numerals designed by visitors The Glasgow Stamp Shop has launched two books containing genuine original stamps that date back to the origins of the postal product. The books contain stamps like the Penny Black, the Penny Red, and two versions of the Two Penny Blue. In the early Victorian era, the Post Office introduced the Penny Red and the Tuppeny Blue after concerns people were re-using the Penny Blacks. The stamps are featured in the first book – The World’s First Postage Stamps 1840-1841: The Personal Collection. The second book, The Penny Black, features all 12 versions of the world’s first stamp with the plates used to produce them. Both books detail the introduction of stamps as a form of receipt and how they went from a British invention to a globally used product. Available from The Glasgow Stamp Shop in high-quality editions the company believes the titles will appeal to non-specialists and enthusiasts. Gordon Carroll, owner of the Glasgow Stamp Show (a name which has existed since 1908), says the idea came from his son Austin who has been involved in the business for a number of years. The world’s first postage stamps Gordon Carroll, owner of The Glasgow Stamp Shop, with the new Penny Black book By David Osgar By David Osgar
INDUSTRY / NEWS 8 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine PRINTING United and drupa have announced a new strategic partnership to reach new areas of the print market globally. PRINTING United Expo is organised by the PRINTING United Alliance – a combination of Printing Industries of America (PIA), Speciality Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA), NAPCO Media, and Idealliance. The show is believed to be the largest in the Western Hemisphere and takes place in North America with exhibition locations in Las Vegas, Orlando, and Atlanta. PRINTING United Expo 2024 takes place this year between September 10th to 12th at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Over many years both organisations have worked to evolve with the industry, demonstrating the diversification and changes taking place within print. Ford Bowers, chief executive officer of PRINTING United Alliance, comments: “Our partnership with drupa underscores our commitment to advancing the entirety of the printing industry. Together, we will be able to deliver even more opportunities for growth and collaboration to all who participate in the marketplace of events.” Sabine Geldermann, director of drupa, says: “PRINTING United Expo’s one-roof approach aligns very strongly with what drupa has brought to the industry over the last seven decades. Showcasing the many applications printing technology has these days, not only in the graphic arts field but in packaging, industrial, and textile is what our attendees appreciate.” Bowers concludes: “We look forward in the coming months to sharing our conversations on how this partnership will unfold and the benefits to all our partners.” PRINTING United and drupa announce partnership [L to R] Ford Bowers, CEO of PRINTING United Alliance, and Sabine Geldermann, director of drupa Canon has revealed the next step of its ‘Creative Futures’ project in collaboration with The Drum. Bower Collective, the start-up that won the pitch to participate, will now benefit from a multi-stakeholder agency collaboration featuring not only Canon and The Drum, but also Nutshell Creative, The Strategic Mailing Partnership, Join the Dots, Herdify, Jicmail, Latcham, Royal Mail Marketreach, and Autlay. A provider of natural household products in reusable packaging, Bower Collective’s core business is a refill subscription service, with marketing efforts focusing on driving new subscriber acquisition. The omnichannel marketing campaign launched in May 2024, allowing for a testand-learn environment across digital and print channels. Results of this will be shared later in the summer. Canon plans Creative Future with The Drum collaboration Bower Collective provides natural household products in reusable packaging By Carys Evans A first for the UK Coatings industry has been announced by the British Coatings Federation (BCF) in a bid to encourage diversity within the sector. The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) Charter is a public commitment that recognises and celebrates companies in the industry that are committed to a more balanced, fair, and high-performing sector. Since 2021 the BCF’s ED&I Committee has championed a set range of principles which led to a further commitment by the BCF Board of Directors in 2023. Lisa Kelly, BCF ED&I Committee chair, explains: “By signing up to the Charter, companies are demonstrating their commitment to an inclusive workforce [and] the steps they are taking towards making this goal a reality.” BCF launches new diversity Charter Drupa visitors and exhibitors wrapped up a packed 11 days full of product releases, new sales, handshakes, bell ringing, daily presentations, and of course the daily motivation and send off that is the infamous drupa song. This year’s theme titled “Let us Create the Future” was created by songwriter Julius Tratvetter (also known as NAKED CAT) and singers Gerald Oppong and Maria Nicolaides. The song was produced with Hallgrimson Entertainment Group (The HEG) and was designed to invoke the anticipation and excitement of the industry after eight years away from drupa. In creating the song, drupa wanted to reflect the sense of community, joy, creativity, colours, and themes within the print industry. The song features vocals from singers Gerald Oppong and Maria Nicolaides The new Charter demonstrates the BCF’s commitment to a more balanced industry Drupa wraps with final rendition of theme song Walstead UK, a large commercial web offset printing company with over 800 staff across five sites, has celebrated the renewal of a long-standing contract with The Camping and Caravanning Club. By renewing the print contract for the Club’s monthly magazine, it means the two companies will have worked together for over 30 years. The magazine has been produced for members of The Camping and Caravanning Club since 1906 and has a circulation of around 327,000. The publication is produced at Walstead Roche in Cornwall using the facility’s Lithoman and Komori presses as well as the business’ finishing and binding operations. Walstead UK is part of the Walstead Group. Walstead renews historic contract The Camping and Caravanning Club is 123 years old and is the world’s oldest and largest organisation for all forms of camping
BUSINESS / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine 10 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 Canon and HEIDELBERG announce partnership HEIDELBERG and Canon officially announced a global co-operation in sheetfed inkjet printing at drupa. Both companies wish to support commercial print businesses looking to establish hybrid offset/ digital production to meet the changing needs of print buyers and increase the capability of businesses to handle shorter runs of more diverse jobs. Akira Yoshida, president, chief executive officer, and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Canon Production Printing, says: “Canon has channelled significant energy and investment to develop its leading inkjet technology. We are confident that our collaboration with HEIDELBERG will accelerate the move to blended offset/ digital production.” As part of the agreement, HEIDELBERG will expand its technology portfolio by introducing an own inkjet product family based on the newly announced Canon B2 sheetfed inkjet press and the established B3 sheetfed inkjet press. The presses will be integrated into the HEIDELBERG Prinect workflow with Service and Saphira Ink delivered through HEIDELBERG. [L to R] Peter Wolff, Canon CPP and Dr David Schmedding, HEIDELBERG Print.com reveals UK expansion Print.com, an online print platform established in the Netherlands in 2018, has announced it will soon open in the UK following its success in Europe. The business is part of a group that includes Brezo, a textile printer, and Print.com Productions, a full-service print company. Print.com operates in eight countries and employs over 350 “crew members”. In 2019, Print.com opened an office in Brussels, Belgium and went on to expand into France, Germany, and Austria. Currently, Print.com leverages production capacity within its own group and partners with a network of 160 European businesses for print fulfilment. Print.com has taken on a flight/airline theme dubbing its print professionals, brands, and agencies “Frequent Flyers”. Fiona Reid, Country Captain for Print.com UK, adds: “We're in the process of establishing a local UK service team, composed of professionals who have earned their stripes in the industry. We believe in a small-scale approach, with short lines of communication. The Print.com team made the announcement at drupa 2024 SF Taylor wins at Business Awards UK SF Taylor has been awarded the Environmental Award for Exceptional Customer Satisfaction at the Business Awards UK 2024. The accolade recognises SF Taylor’s commitment to integrating sustainability into their customer relations and operational efficiencies. The company has a proactive approach to reducing its carbon emissions and offering sustainable product options. Initiatives include employee recycling and energy saving programmes, the use of recycled paper and vegetable-based inks, and non-toxic substrates. Carol O’Gorman, marketing manager at SF Taylor, comments: “We’re thrilled to be recognised for our efforts in sustainability and exceptional customer service. We understand the importance of making sustainable choices for the benefit of our clients, community, and environment. “Every business has a responsibility to minimise its environmental impact." Carol O’Gorman, marketing manager of SF Taylor with the award The Antalis Packaging division of Antalis has strengthened the technology line-up at its Smart Packaging Centre (SPC), adding a burst test device and two new corrugate-testing machines. Located in Leicestershire, the SPC provides the opportunity to discuss packaging requirements and see packaging automation in action. Those who visit the site can also learn more about opportunities to develop packaging design solutions and create samples. Antalis says this helps customers to evaluate current or new packaging solutions. New kit at Antalis' SPC Domino opens Print and Apply Centre in Malmö Domino Printing Sciences has announced the opening of its new Print and Apply Knowledge Centre. Located in Malmö in Sweden, the home of Domino’s Print and Apply manufacturing centre, the new facility will provide a designated space for print and apply product testing, as well as demonstrations tailored to individual customers. Domino will also use the site to support product development and on-site amenities include two modular and adjustable conveyor systems. Kicking off the first day of drupa was a dynamic presentation and demonstration of Landa’s Nanograpy technology by founder Benny Landa himself. The company also announced a multi-press partnership with Cimpress which will see two to three of Landa’s brand-new S11P presses installed in the next quarter initially across Cimpress’ locations. The press conference ended with a ribbon cutting for the newly launched S11 and S11P Landa models. Also announced at the show was a collaboration between Landa and print on demand software company, Gelato. New partnerships and kit from Landa
Plockmatic Group, a manufacturer and supplier of document finishing systems, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The group comprises Plockmatic, Morgana, and Intec brands and has seen big success in the mail, folding, creasing, binding, and document finishing markets. The company was formed in Sweden in 1974 and has continued to evolve and introduce a variety of different solutions for the industry. Plockmatic is moving to a new 10,000sq m purpose-built factory in Riga to allow for further growth in production and sales. At the start of the year Accent Equity acquired 60% of the Plockmatic Group in order to grow and support its plans over the next few years. Plockmatic launched several new products at this year’s drupa exhibition in Düsseldorf including the new PowerSquare 7000 range of production bookletmakers and the latest in the ubiquitous DigiFold range – the DigiFold Pro Ultra. The stand also included several new ColorCut digital die-cutters from the Intec line-up including a larger format version of the SC6500 digital die-cutter, the SC7000Pro XL. BUSINESS / NEWS 12 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine By David Osgar Plockmatic Group celebrates 50 years Plockmatic’s new 10,000sq m purposebuilt factory based in Riga, Latvia Creative and digital agency LEWIS has announced the acquisition of branding agency Tayburn in a six-figure cash and equity deal that combines almost 100 years of creative and digital expertise. Joining under a single umbrella, the combined entity will develop a new agency model to allow clients to work directly with experts in the areas in which they require support. Working as a single business, this will see the agencies deliver a streamlined service covering strategy and insight, brand development, packaging, creative design, multichannel campaigns, and web development. Founded in 1973, LEWIS has the likes of Santander, National Museums Scotland, Whyte & Mackay, and Scottish Power among its long-standing clients. Tayburn was established in 1979 and works across professional services, food and drink, and FMCG. Its expertise lies in brand development and packaging for high-profile clients such as Heineken, Princes Foods, and Pet’s Choice. LEWIS CEO, David Lewis, comments: “We want to be at the heart of every great business. This means offering a level of expertise and a unique approach that’s unparalleled in the industry.” LEWIS swoops for Tayburn [L to R] Tayburn joint managing directors Malcolm Stewart and Richard Simpson and LEWIS CEO David Lewis Commercial web offset giant Walstead will majorly reorganise its operations in the European Union, with several businesses coming together under a single umbrella. Walstead Iberia, Walstead CE, and Walstead Leykam are coming under common leadership in response to the changing market for commercial print across Europe. The new-look business will be known as Walstead European Union Walstead UK will remain unaffected by this change in operations. José Maria Camacho will lead Walstead European Union as its chief executive. He takes on the role after a spell as chief executive of Walstead Iberia The reorganisation will also see other personnel changes. Grzegorz Czech, chief executive of Walstead CE, will leave the business after the handover has completed. Stefan Gutheil, chief executive of Walstead Leykam, will exit after the full handover has taken place. Walstead Group chief executive Paul Utting backed the reorganisation, saying the newlook business will benefit all stakeholders, both internal and external. “I believe that our customers will see improvements by having access to a wider range of the group’s services,” Utting says. Walstead details major reorganisation Walstead is unifying its operations in the European Union under the new name 'Walstead European Union' Family-run print company for trade, designers, and creative agencies, Regal Print is celebrating 40 years in business. Co-founder and current owner, Marco Rigali started the business in 1984 with his factory manager and took full ownership in 2003 when he retired. Regal Print started out in a small rented shop in the mining village of Horden, and most of the work was NHS contracts. Soon outgrowing the shop, the pre-press division was moved to a new site down the road with print production remaining in the current premises. This is how the business still operates today. In 2007, Regal Print was forced to diversify when it lost out on a big tender for the NHS work it had been producing for the previous 20 years. Playing to its strengths, Regal Print used inserts in Print Monthly to promote its NCR work and Rigali says this was a big turning point. “We have seen many changes over the years, changes in technology, and how people want to do business, but we still remain focused on providing a good service with a personal touch,” Rigali says. Regal Print celebrates 40 years Regal Print owner, Marco Rigali, has reflected on the business’ history as it celebrates 40 years By Rob Flecther By Carys Evans By Rob Flecther
14 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 KIT & MEDIA / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine S&G first in UK to buy latest Speedmaster XL 106 Stephens & George has become the first in the UK to invest in the latest HEIDELBERG Speedmaster XL 106-8-P with CutStar which officially launched at drupa. The eight-colour perfecting press is described as a “first of its kind” running with a maximum speed of 21,000sph with conventional inks. Paul Enoch, manufacturing director at Stephens & George, says the noise-cancelling Speedmaster installed has significantly improved working conditions with operators commenting on how quiet the press is. In addition, the new direct drive feeder means the press is noticeably reducing makeready times. HEIDELBERG and S&G also partnered to reduce spray powder usage on and around the new press by developing a new highly efficient spray powder system in the form of the new PowderStar XL Duo. Built with AI and automation capabilities, the new press features an automatic bearing care system which reduces maintenance time and delivers more uptime. According to Enoch, the new machine will enable S&G to produce over 8 million additional sheets per year. Paul Enoch, manufacturing director of Stephens & George Konica Minolta rolls out new AccurioPress C84hc Konica Minolta has announced the launch of the AccurioPress C84hc series, a new platform that features high chroma toner, which the manufacturer says enables commercial printers to reproduce bright vivid colours more consistently. Boasting production speeds of up to 81 pages per minute, the AccurioPress C84hc is billed as a suitable solution for creating prints such as studio photos, photo books, and nature photos, as well as web-to-print orders for commercial printers, design houses, advertising agencies, corporates, and brands. Konica Minolta also says the new release is the only platform in the world that uses a toner free of the restrictions imposed by the colour gamut of ordinary toners. This, it says, allows for brighter, clearer colours. Other features include a wide colour gamut and the ability to incorporate the latest finishing technologies, such as Konica Minolta’s unique TU-510 inline finisher. In addition, it can be used with Konica Minolta's Auto Inspection Technology (AIT). Designed as a fully automated closed-loop inspection technology, AIT automatically inspects each printed sheet. The new AccurioPress C84hc has a top speed of 81 pages per minute S1 Envelope Printer dubbed top choice According to AMS Mailing Systems (AMS), the S1 Envelope Printer has become the top choice amongst its customers across different sectors. Launched in 2018, AMS says the S1 is renowned for its compact design and has become popular due to its versatility. Powered by Memjet technology, the Envelope Printer can produce high-resolution, full-bleed prints up to 1600dpi. A popular feature is its ability to handle diverse media and accommodate material up to 10mm thick. This enables it to print onto cardstock, boxes, paper bags, padded envelopes, and window pouches with a speed of up to 9,000 envelopes per hour. For user experience, the S1 features a 7” touchscreen display. The S1 also offers additional media guides, expanding capabilities to print items as small as business cards and small folded boxes. Mansur Ali, managing director of AMS Mailing Systems, comments: “The S1 has been our most sought-after desktop printer since its launch. Its flexibility and adaptability make it popular across various industries.” AMS says its S1 Envelope Printer has been its most popular machine due to its versatility Morgana Systems debuted its new DigiFold Ultra creasing/ folding machine with full-bleed trim capabilities at drupa. The machine can slit, cut, crease, perforate, and fold in one pass and is designed for mid-to-high volume digital and offset production presses. The DigiFold Ultra builds on the capabilities of the DigiFold Pro XL by adding the slitting and cutting functionality for full-bleed trim applications with full-bleed applications such as six or eight-panel brochures becoming an “easy task” for A4 landscape finished formats. DigiFold Ultra debuts Duplo launches die-cutter Duplo International has enhanced its growing line of automated print packaging machines with the launch of the DSM-1000 B2 Die-Cutter. The new solution is the company’s first B2+ flatbed die-cutter and has a specific focus on advanced automation, user safety, and intuitive technology all of which Duplo sees as setting a new standard within the industry. The DSM-1000 can produce packaging, POP displays, pocket folders, and shaped cards of various sizes and types all on a number of substrates. International Graphic Supplies (IGS) has taken delivery of four Titanium cutters from Chinese cutting manufacturer JWEI. Titanium 2516 machines will be installed at Colour Banners in Fleetwood and The Cut Factory in Pontyclun while Titanium 330-R Label cutters will be installed at The Sticker Shop in Bristol and a label printer based on the East Coast. Peter Flynn, MD at IGS, says: “We recognise the power of repeat customer orders. Their continued patronage helps increase brand credibility and spread positive word-of-mouth on new prospects looking to purchase similar machinery.” IGS takes delivery of four JWEI cutters
ENVIRONMENT / NEWS 18 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine July / August 2024 - Issue 349 Climate campaigner Jonathon Porritt has raised concerns over a lack of awareness of the sustainable qualities of print and paper, calling on the industry to continue to champion its planet-friendly qualities. Speaking at the Carbon Balanced Paper 2024 Partner’s Meeting, Porritt joined experts from Carbon Balanced Print and Paper programme and World Land Trust for a discussion on the current situation. Porritt hit out at the “worst year ever” in terms of manifestations of the climate crisis, highlighting how climate records are being broken on an almost daily basis and the need to address this. However, he praised the work being done within the print industry and for companies wanting to become more sustainable, saying this should be recognised by consumers - if they can change their preconceived conceptions of the sector. Porritt finished with a plea to the paper and print sector to continue its sustainable journey to the point where it cuts out all use of fossil fuels. He says: “The real test is how soon the paper industry can get rid of every last burn of gas that’s being used today.” By Rob Fletcher Lack of awareness of print’s sustainability CarbonCO says its carbon balanced print and paper programme is also now used by over 5,000 brands Since adopting the scheme into its comprehensive carbon policy in 2016, Denmaur has sold 200,000 tonnes of Carbon Balanced Paper. Carbon Balanced Paper enables participants to offset the emissions of the paper in their media communications and supports the activities of the World Land Trust (WLT). It’s taken little over two years for Denmaur to double its 100,000 milestone which was achieved in March 2022. Danny Doogan, marketing and sustainability director at Denmaur, comments: “The growth of our Carbon Balanced Paper sales is definitely a reaction to how the print industry is continuing to raise its sustainability profile, but it’s also reflective of how end-users increasingly want to reduce their impacts and promote the sustainability of their printed media.” Denmaur, an SBTi-validated business, uses WLT’s Carbon Balanced programme as part of its carbon action strategy which means continuously reducing and offsetting its carbon footprint. Paul Opie, partnership director for Carbon Co, which managed Carbon Balanced Paper for WLT, adds: “The Carbon Balanced Paper and Print Programme gives leading, environmentally focused businesses in the print and paper industry an essential tool to deliver positive action today.” 200,000 tonnes of Carbon Balanced Paper sales Denmaur has hit 200,000 sales of its Carbon Balanced Paper. Pictured: Denmaur’s Bescot site Industry group Two Sides called for greater vigilance of greenwashing claims after research found over 2,500 companies were communicating inaccurate messages to their customers. According to Two Sides, over 2,650 organisations were found to be communicating greenwashing, though more than 1,180 have now removed misleading anti-paper statements. In Europe, to date, 749 companies have removed unsubstantiated claims about paper such as AXA Insurance, Calor Gas, O2 Telefonica, Menton, Bredband 2, and Citygross. Two Sides is now calling on other businesses that are misleading their customers over the sustainable qualities of print to take similar action and be more accurate in their messaging. The group gives the example of “misleading and unsubstantiated” environmental marketing messages such as: ‘Go Green – Go Paperless’ or ‘Choose e-billing and help save a tree’. Jonathan Tame, managing director for Two Sides Europe, explains: “Far from ‘saving trees,’ a healthy market for forest products such as paper encourages the long-term growth of forests through sustainable forest management. Many of the organisations we challenge are surprised to learn that European forests have actually been growing by 1,500 football pitches every day.” Warning over increased greenwashing More than 1,100 companies removed greenwashing claims after being contacted by Two Sides Manufacturer of inkjet ink, JETRIX printers, and media, InkTec’s PEB pigment ink has achieved Green Guard Certification. The certification is described by InkTec as marking a significant achievement in environmental safety and sustainability standards. Green Guard Certification is an internationally recognised mark for products to show that they meet stringent chemical emissions standards and are able to contribute to healthier indoor environments. The ink is ideal for Epson, Mimaki, and Roland printers with Epson Piezo Heads such as the Epson Stylus 7000/9000/9500, the Mimaki JV22, JV33-160A & JV4130/160/180, and Roland FP-740 and Hi-Fi JetPro FJ740, Pro II 540/640. According to InkTec, its PEB pigment ink is known for its vibrant colours, durability, and compatibility with a wide range of printing applications, and with the new Green Guard certification, customers can now be assured PEB ink supports a healthier indoor environment. Joey Kim, managing director of InkTec, comments: “We are incredibly proud to receive the Green Guard certification for our PEB pigment ink. This achievement reflects our ongoing dedication to innovation and sustainability, ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of environmental safety.” InkTec’s Pigment Ink receives Certification InkTec’s PEB pigment inks have achieved Green Guard Certification By Rob Fletcher By Rob Fletcher By Carys Evans
22 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 PEOPLE / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Solopress, an online print company and trade printer based in Essex, has announced the appointment of Sarah Kilcoyne as sales and customer success director. The role has been newly created to utilise Kilcoyne’s skills and experience within the industry as an effective leader, charismatic sales operative, and a “proactive agent of change”. Kilcoyne is joining the company following changes at Bluetree Group, where she worked for 14 years within roles at Route 1 Print and most recently Kingsbury Press as deputy general manager. In April, Bluetree Group announced it would be moving away from the ultra-luxury sector of print and integrating Kingsbury Press (which it acquired in 2021) more within the Group’s commercial offerings, resulting in a number of job losses. Regarding her new role, Kilcoyne says: “Solopress is the rising star of print, and my appointment is an amazing opportunity to be part of the next stage of its growth. Kilcoyne will report directly to managing director of Solopress, Simon Cooper, who says: “Recent growth has demanded that we create a high-level strategic position within our senior management team to oversee sales and customer experience, and Sarah is the perfect fit.” The appointment has been made during a year of celebration for Solopress as it is marking 25 years in business and is continuing to evolve and change to the demand of the industry. Sarah Kilcoyne joins Solopress [L to R] Simon Cooper, managing director, and Sarah Kilcoyne, sales and customer success director Koenig & Bauer Durst has appointed Benjamin Bösch to the newly created role of sales director. Koenig and Bauer and Durst, two manufacturers of print technologies, joined forces in 2019 with a 50/50 joint venture agreement for digital packaging printing systems. The latest appointment has been made to capitalise on the growing folding carton and corrugated markets. Bösch will be managing territories and communicating with sales departments to develop new sales strategies and add value to Koenig & Bauer Durst by working closely with existing customers and sales teams. Daniel Velema, managing director of Koenig & Bauer Durst, says: “We welcome Benjamin with open arms into the Koenig & Bauer Durst family. “This appointment is an important strategic development as we continue to leverage the capabilities and know-how of our parent companies to offer an unrivalled portfolio of digital printing machinery that uses water-based, food-safe inks that comply with all regulatory requirements.” Bösch, who is described as a keen road and mountain biker from Augsburg, originally trained at Stuttgart Media University before working in sales and project management. Most recently Bösch worked as regional manager for the Landa DACH team. Bösch says: “I am incredibly excited to be taking up this new challenge and am looking forward to meeting new colleagues and existing customers to bring value to corrugated and folding carton markets.” New sales director at Koenig & Bauer Durst Benjamin Bösch, the new sales director for Koenig & Bauer Durst Sustainable marketing agency, Webmart, has announced changes within its leadership with the promotion of Kelly O’Sullivan and a new role for Tom Maskill. O’Sullivan is taking on the role of chief executive officer from Richard Boon who has been with the company for around 18 years, first joining the company as a key account executive in 2007. Boon will continue to work with the company in an advisory role alongside his new venture which he says will be announced soon. Maskill, who has assumed the new position of chief client officer, will oversee the sales, marketing, and strategy functions of the business having previously held the role of sales and sustainability director at Webmart. In recent years Webmart has continued to champion its in-house talent and push for a more environmentally friendly industry with a number of community and eco projects. Speaking about his successor, Boon says: “Having worked closely with Kelly for a number of years since bringing her back to Webmart, I know she will make a brilliant chief executive officer.” “Webmart has always held a special place in my heart,” says O’Sullivan, adding: “It’s where I was introduced to the wonderful world of print and marketing. I have absolutely loved being back and feel very honoured to be able to lead us into the future with an amazing, talented team.” O’Sullivan started her career at Webmart in 1998 as an account manager before heading print and publications at Sainsbury's for over two decades. Founder of Webmart, Simon Biltcliffe, concludes: “These appointments mark a significant step in our journey to be the UK’s most sustainable marketing agency. “With Richard’s 18 years of amazing service, we are eternally grateful and delighted to have retained his ongoing strategic input. Together this team will collectively ensure our continued growth and commitment to excellence for all our clients.” Webmart makes senior leadership changes [L to R] Kelly O’Sullivan, chief executive officer and Tom Maskill, chief client officer from Webmart By David Osgar By David Osgar By David Osgar
24 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 PEOPLE / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine James Cropper has also announced Dr. David Hodgson as chief technology officer of its Technical Fibre Products (TFP) division. Hodgson will lead the global Advanced Materials Innovation Group, partnering with the TFP leadership team to achieve the company’s innovation and growth strategies. With over 30 years’ experience in electrochemistry, Hodgson brings a “wealth” of experience to his new position, transitioning from founder and managing director of TFP Hydrogen, a company acquired by James Cropper in 2021. Steve Adams, chief executive officer of the James Cropper Group, comments: “The strategic appointment of David as our chief technology officer comes at a pivotal time in the company’s growth journey. This newly created role will bring together our R&D and technical functions under a central leader, fostering collaboration and utilising the strengths of our global teams. “The appointment reinforces our steadfast commitment to innovation and ensures we have the right leadership in place to continue to pioneer new advanced materials, supercharging exciting growth opportunities in markets including aerospace and advanced air mobility (AAM), wind energy, battery, automotive, and hydrogen.” New chief technology officer at James Cropper Dr. Hodgson has been awarded several industry awards and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry Flint Group, a developer of print consumables and equipment, has announced that its chief executive officer, Steve Dryden, will leave the Group later this year. Dryden has informed the newly established Board of Directors of his intention to leave following what Flint Group dubs a “successful completion” of the Group’s debt restructuring last September. The Board will make a further announcement regarding Dryden’s successor soon, but until then Dryden will continue to perform his duties supported by the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. Dryden comments: “Leading this company through the challenges of a restructuring and change in ownership has been a privilege. I’m extremely proud of what we have accomplished together, despite the headwinds that we faced in these past years. “With the restructuring process complete, a new Board appointed, and at a time of strong operational performance, I believe it’s the right moment to hand over to the person who will lead the business through its next chapter.” Jason Clarke, chairman of Flint Group thanked Dryden for his “leadership and dedication to Flint Group and its stakeholders during a period of change”. CEO Steve Dryden to leave Flint Group Flint Group produces a range of conventional and energy curable inks, coatings, and additives James Cropper, a producer of advanced materials and paper products, has announced its new head of sales, Gareth Fisher. The appointment has been made to align with the company’s drive for new growth areas across speciality paper, luxury packaging papers, and moulded fibre products. Fisher has over a decade of industry experience with experience in sales, negotiations, sustainability, and strategy development. Fisher comments: "It’s exciting to join James Cropper at this point in the company's journey, lead the sales team, and contribute to the growth strategy. Working closely with the team to deliver outstanding results is a fantastic opportunity.” By leading and coaching the James Cropper sales team, Fisher will seek to devise sales growth strategies and business opportunities across the UK, Europe, and Asia. Nick Barnes, commercial director at James Cropper, says: "This appointment marks an important milestone for James Cropper as we strengthen our strategic position for growth. Gareth's extensive experience and leadership skills will be instrumental in driving our business development ambitions and furthering our commitment to delivering exceptional paper and packaging solutions." James Cropper appoints new head of sales Gareth Fisher, the new head of sales, will be based at James Cropper’s Cumbria paper mill By David Osgar By David Osgar Duplo International has announced its new chief innovations officer as Peter Jolly, a well-known figure within the industry due to his years of experience in print and finishing. Recently, Jolly stepped down from his role as country manager for the UK and Ireland at HP International to work on new innovations and initiatives. With Duplo International evolving its packaging and B2 formats, the company seemed a good fit for Jolly who started his career with the company over 20 years ago. In his new role, Jolly will lead innovation initiatives and drive forward strategies which Duplo hopes will further consolidate Duplo International as a leader in its field. Bruno Picquet, chief executive officer and chairman of Duplo International, comments: “Peter’s visionary leadership and passion for groundbreaking ideas will play a crucial role in shaping our organisation’s trajectory. We are excited to welcome Peter back into our Duplo family.” Duplo International is a manufacturer of print finishing technologies and its portfolio is known for its precision and automation. Duplo International is the sales and distribution arm of Duplo Corporation in Japan for the EMEA region. Peter Jolly returns to Duplo in new role Peter Jolly started in his role in May having returned to Duplo after 20 years By David Osgar By David Osgar
EVENTS - THE PRINT SHOW / NEWS 27 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 First UK showing of AGFA's new Anapurna Ciervo H3200 hybrid model Taking place from September 17th to 19th in Hall 17 of the NEC, The Print Show is Europe’s largest annual dedicated print expo and will bring together big names such as Fujifilm, CMYUK, Agfa, Mutoh, and more under one roof. Exhibiting for the first time at a show located in the UK in a number of years, Agfa will use its presence at The Print Show to launch the new Anapurna Ciervo to the UK market. First introduced at FESPA Amsterdam in March, the Anapurna Ciervo H3200 is the latest in the Anapurna range’s 29-year history. The 3.2m hybrid model offers enhanced print quality and higher productivity than its predecessor and includes an almost 70% increase in printing speeds in Production Mode. Sign-makers and digital printers can produce a wide range of applications using the Ciervo including high-quality prints on uncoated rigid media such as exhibition panels, stage graphics, and advertising boards. Users can also produce prints on roll media such as film, vinyl, banners, canvas, and coated textiles, and backlit applications can be produced using the white ink function. All Agfa machines are driven by Asanti workflow software. Susi Roesner, marketing content manager at Agfa, says: “This machine is the perfect fit for The Print Show and the UK market. Depending on the size and needs of your company, we have more products in our portfolio to fit everyone’s needs. Visibility is KEY for this show and introducing innovative technologies and connecting with existing and new contacts.” Mike Horsten, senior president PR manager for Agfa, says: “We are very excited to come to the UK for a local show. It is going to be an opportunity for people to talk to us, look at samples, and the quality of output that we are producing. Agfa hasn’t done any shows in the UK in recent times so this is the right place and the right moment.” In addition to launching the Ciervo within the UK, Agfa’s focus at The Print Show will be to show the power of its solutions and its team. Agfa can be found on Stand D10 The brand-new Anapurna Ciervo will be launched in the UK by Agfa on its stand at The Print Show 2024 this September By Carys Evans
28 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 First UK showing of swissQprint's Kudu flatbed SwissQprint will be showing the Kudu flatbed model at a UK show for the first time this September at The Print Show. Launched at FESPA 2022 in Berlin, the Kudu is a 3.2 x 2m high-end UV LED printer incorporating the latest printhead technology resulting in a resolution of up to 1350dpi. Like all the models offered by swissQprint, the Kudu is expandable with a roll-toroll option but is the first swissQprint model to feature ten colour channels, increasing application diversity. Inks are available in CMYK, light cyan, light magenta, light black, white, effect varnish, and primer, as well as spot colours orange and neon yellow and pink which are exclusive to swissQprint. The application capabilities of these channel options will be highlighted at The Print Show on swissQprint’s booth through a range of samples. Commenting on swissQprint’s decision to exhibit at The Print Show for the first time, Erskine Stewart, managing director of swissQprint UK, says: “This will be the first show in the UK that we demonstrate the new Kudu flatbed printer. This high-end machine has been a game changer for businesses seeking high productivity and quality as well as expanded capabilities. “We will demonstrate a range of applications on the printer including roll-toroll production, neon, and varnish effects and other specialty applications. It’s a great opportunity to present our equipment’s capabilities to a new audience. Exhibitions, like The Print Show, are incredibly important to swissQprint.” Besides introducing the Kudu, Stewart says the company’s presence will be used to highlight its industry leading supported reliability in the form of its newly launched 36-month warranty which covers the entire swissQprint range. SwissQprint can be found on Stand C10 The Kudu was launched at FESPA 2022 and will be shown at a UK show for the first time at The Print Show this September InkTec to show DTF developments and JETRIX kit Manufacturer of JETRIX printers, inks, and media, InkTec Europe will showcase some new developments in its DTF (direct-tofilm) and UV-DTF printer and consumable ranges. On the stand will be a 60cm DTF printer with vertical shaker and horizontal shaker, plus inks, film and powder along with a 60cm UV DTF printer with inks and film. InkTec will also be demonstrating a cutting plotter. Building on the success of last year’s show, InkTec says it will use its presence at The Print Show 2024 to demonstrate its knowledge and understanding of the DTF sector to visitors. “As a business, we have long been committed to innovation and are now excitingly at the forefront of the DTF revolution,” the company says, adding: “So, this year’s show will be used as a platform to discuss this more with visitors.” Visitors to the InkTec stand will be able to see the company’s latest DTF and UV-DTF solutions in action, as well as discuss its extensive consumables range. Members of the engineering team will also be on-hand to discuss how they support InkTec’s DTF customers, from installation, training, and beyond. In addition, InkTec’s stand will feature a dedicated JETRIX area where the company says visitors can “learn more about the technology inside the printers, understand the capabilities of the range, explore their versatility, and discuss the ability to open up additional printing opportunities”. Showcased in this area will be the JETRIX LXa5 LED UV flatbed printer through a promotional video. EVENTS - THE PRINT SHOW / NEWS By Carys Evans
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