Issue 348 - May / June 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk
3 CONTENTS Issue 348 May / June 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 ISSN 2976-9213 NEWS Industry 06 Business 12 Kit & Media 20 People 26 events - the print show 2024 31 Major names such as Agfa, CMYUK, Fujifilm, and swissQprint have already confirmed their spaces SPECIALS Under the Hood: canon labelstream LS2000 39 Company Spotlight: kyocera 43 Under the Hood: axzyra ultra 47 COLIN SINCLAIR MCDERMOTT: INDUSTRY TIPS 51 Data Protection and Digital Information Bill 54 event spotlight: drupa 2024 special 56 We look at what we can expect to see at drupa 2024 with exhibitors planning to make lots of launches focus on: recycling solutions 65 FEATURES die-cutting technologies 69 With printers wanting to improve efficiency, we look at how die-cutting technology can assist in this goal bookletmakers 73 digital inkjet printing 77 direct-to-object printers 81 IN THIS ISSUE 60 06 77 14 26 33 51 56
ISSUE 348May / June 2024 Drupa May 28th to 7th June Messe, Düsseldorf, Germany www.drupa.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 May / June 2024 - Issue 348 4 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Hello and welcome to Print Monthly May / June! With the last event not having taken place in person since 2016, drupa fever is well and truly underway. Exhibitors have been sharing details of what they will be launching and demonstrating with some set to showcase as many as 20 new machines on their booths. I made the trip to the historic Stationer's Hall in London in April to hear from drupa head, Sabine Geldermann, about what the team have been up to over the past eight years (not forgetting virtual drupa) in preparation for drupa's long-awaited return. The key themes that keep cropping up are sustainability and digitalisation and this will be seen reflected across exhibitor booths as well as within in-show features and conference schedules such as the drupa cube and drupa DNA. We have detailed all the things you can expect to see from drupa this May in our bumper eight-page special on P56. Also in this issue, we dive under the hood of the AXZYRA AX-Ultra and find out how the small-footprinted mahcine still packs a punch (P47), as well as find out more about Kyocera and its strong environmental credentials with the company also debuting a new machine in Düsseldorf this drupa (P43). In the news, we celebrate some company milestones (P18), hear of a number of potential collaborations from major industry players (P06 & P12), and find out how an exhibition held by Canon and the RNIB has enabled blind and partially sighted visitors to experience the photography shown thanks to tactile print (P08). You can also watch our video coverage of the event by scanning the QR code below. As always, we love to hear your stories so 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 coverage over on our Print7 YouTube channel
INDUSTRY / NEWS 6 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine DS Smith and International Paper Company have announced a combination of the two companies following a £5.3bn deal which has gone ahead after a failed deal with rival paper company Mondi. Under completion of the combination, DS Smith shareholders will own approximately 33.7% and International Paper shareholders will own around 66.3% of the combined company. Mark S. Sutton, chairman and chief executive officer of International Paper, comments: "Combining with DS Smith is a logical next step in International Paper's strategy to drive profitable growth by strengthening our global packaging business. “We are confident this combination will drive significant value for our employees, customers, and shareholders." Under the terms of the combination, DS Smith shareholders will be entitled to receive 0.1285 new International Paper shares for every DS Smith share. The two company boards believe the combination will create a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions which is focused on the growing regions of North America and Europe. The deal is expected to become effective in the fourth quarter of 2024 subject to the satisfaction of the combination terms and approval of DS Smith shareholders. International Paper and DS Smith combine Goldman Sachs, Citi, and J.P. Morgan Cazenove consider the terms of the combination fair and reasonable An industry collaboration has recently been formed to entice young people into print. The collaboration is a partnership between cosmetics retailer LUSH, Dayfold Printing Services, and Foilco, with paper specialist G.F Smith also involved in this latest competition. First-year students on Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)’s BA (Hons) Graphic Design course were tasked with selecting one of five wellbeing-themed briefs and using this to produce “aesthetically beautiful”, creatively printed and packaged wellbeing kits containing LUSH cosmetics. Partners of The Creative Print Collab announced the winners, runners-up, and those shortlisted from more than 90 entries at a ceremonial event on the AUB campus. Julia Anderson took first prize with her project ‘Mane Memories’. As a result, she will complete an eight-week internship at LUSH as well as see her wellbeing box be produced by Dayfold using Foilco foils which will then be distributed at major music festivals. Simon Allen, senior R&D creative production support at LUSH, says: “We don't use social media or mainstream media so our print needs to work harder for us on the high street to communicate our messages and values.” Creative Print Collab rewards young talent [L to R front row] Marten Sims, Annabelle Turner, Julia Anderson, and Lauren Gardner By David Osgar By David Osgar For the past couple of years, direct-to-film has been a rapidly growing area of the print industry with new launches and technology innovations not showing signs of slowing. At FESPA 2024, the focus was on powderless DTF technologies with Brother demonstrating a prototype and Kornit Digital previewing a new DTF-like solution. Now, Keypoint Intelligence has revealed its 2022-2027 Global DTF Forecast: Navigating the Future of Direct-to-Film Technology. This forecast is designed to reveal the projected growth and dynamics of the DTF industry and whilst the DTF industry has shown significant growth, it hasn’t been without its challenges. The forecast will act as an essential guide for navigating the industry and offers a deep dive into the DTF market’s current state and future growth outlook. Including expert analysis of DTF printers, inks, and technology platforms, the report provides a comprehensive view of hardware placements, installed base, print volume and value, and other metrics. The report is available to purchase individually or through a subscription to Keypoint Intelligence’s advisory services which provide ongoing market information and timely insights. First Global DTF forecast report revealed Keypoint Intelligence has revealed its first Global DTF Forecast Report which will act as an essential guide Part of the Koehler Group, Koehler Renewable Energy’s new wind farm Wetzlar-Blasbach is now up and running. Marking a “major milestone” in Koehler Renewable Energy’s mission to promote sustainable energy, the wind farm has been over ten years in the making with planning starting back in 2012 along with the inception of Koehler Renewable Energy. Final approval for the wind farm was given ten years later with construction beginning that same year. Now finally up and running, the Wetzlar-Blasbach wind farm features two Vestas V150 turbines with a total output of 8.4 megawatts and is expected to produce 23,000 MWh of electricity – roughly the equivalent to the annual power consumption of 9,000 average two-person households in Germany. The opening of the wind farm will also support the city of Wetzlar’s climate protection plan with the city aiming to reach net zero emissions by 2035, except energy-intensive industry. The Koehler Group has been addressing the issue of renewable energy generation for many years and through its 2030 Koehler Promise, aims to produce more renewable energy with its own plants than is required for its paper production. Koehler’s Wetzlar-Blasbach wind farm now live Koehler Renewable Energy’s WetzlarBlasbach wind farm is now live after ten years of planning By Carys Evans By Carys Evans
INDUSTRY / NEWS 8 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine World Unseen exhibition debuts in London With the World Health Organisation estimating there to be at least 2.2 billion people in the world who have some form of visual impairment, efforts have gradually been made to make locations and events more accessible to those who are blind and partially sighted. ‘World Unseen’ is a photography exhibition that took place from April 5th to 7th, with a media screening on Thursday 4th, and was organised by Canon Europe and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). The in-person exhibition was fully booked over the course of its three days but can still be experienced online through a range of photographs and projects from well-known and award-winning photographers. Photos were brought to life at the in-person event via elevated print created with PRISMAelevate XL a "sophisticated yet easy-to-use software application" that can be used with Canon’s Arizona Series of flatbed printers. The exhibition offers visual and tactile experiences for blind, partially sighted, and sighted people as photos at the exhibition are printed with elevated effects and braille. Pieces were also displayed behind obscured screens which demonstrate the different types of visual impairments people can experience like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. ProSign Print & Display delivered the relief, braille, and sight condition simulation prints while CBB (Netherlands) created the relief interpretations and accompanying braille for images. SignLink was lucky enough to visit the exhibition where we spoke to the likes of Dave Williams, Inclusive Design Ambassador at RNIB, and Karen Trippass, a mother whose 3D baby scan was included as one of the projects at the exhibition. Trippass explained: “I had my baby scan at 32 weeks pregnant and because you don’t get to hear the heartbeat at that stage you get given the picture at the end, so as someone who is partially sighted it’s not the same experience. “Getting to experience this 3D image (created with tactile print) and know what my baby’s features would be like is life changing as it gives access to photographs in a completely different way. I hope in a few years to come that this option will be made available to blind or partially sighted parents as it’s such a simple technology that could be accessed by everyone.” Speaking about working with Canon, Williams (RNIB) said: “It’s been incredible to work with Canon who are clearly committed to making photography available and accessible to everyone, and as we all know photographs are about stories and who doesn’t connect with a story? “Canon is demonstrating a new technology with multiple layers of ink which can provide rich and tactile descriptions which represents a real step forward in terms of the detail and aesthetic experience we’re able to have.” Matthew Faulkner, head of marketing for Canon Europe’s wide-format group, commented: “We really hope that this will inspire our customers to think about new applications. We have more than 8,000 Arizonas installed around the world and as print can now enable people to experience imagery in a completely different way I hope this imagery can inspire new types of solutions which print-service-providers can take on.” The exhibition featured works from photographers and Canon ambassadors from around the world including South African photojournalist Brent Stirton; sports photographer Samo Vidic; fashion photographer Heidi Rondak; and Pulitzer-winning photojournalist Muhammed Muheisen. Canon’s PRISMAelevate XL and Arizona printer series have been used before to make art more accessible through projects with art galleries and museums utilising tactile print and braille signage. Williams says: “We’ve had tactile images for a while but they are usually produced with heat on swell paper and often they’re quite cartoon-like and simplistic so there are limitations to what you can do. But when you come to an exhibition you want more than just information, it’s not just about function but having an aesthetic experience which allows you to connect with something on an emotional level.” Speaking about the impact of the exhibition on LinkedIn, Sarah Vloothuis, EMEA external communications senior manager at Canon, said: “The reactions we’ve had so far are heart-warming and remind me how much our technology can enable change and impact people’s lives.” Speaking to visitors of the exhibition it was clear how much emotion the images elicited as the technology could lead to a whole new group of print users as suddenly wedding photos or family pictures could be experienced by blind or partially sighted people. ▲Pictured centre: Rhino Wars by Brent Stirton with a simulation of moderate diabetic retinopathy By David Osgar
INDUSTRY / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine 10 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 Fujifilm has announced price increases for a range of its hardware, consumables, and services. Citing economic challenges in Europe, Fujifilm has increased prices for a range of its hardware, consumables, and services. The company, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, says the news comes as the European market continues to be impacted by “geopolitical influences and inflationary challenges”. Some of the challenges listed by the company include an unprecedented increase in labour costs; sharply rising freight and warehousing rates; continuously high energy prices; and increased prices from Fujifilm’s own suppliers. “Despite our best efforts to absorb the impact of these increases, we can no longer avoid raising the prices of many of our products and services,” says Taku Ueno, senior vice president of Fujifilm Graphic Communications, Europe. According to Ueno, the prices have been increased by double digit percentages with the exact amount dependent on the product range. Customers directly affected will be contacted by Fujifi lm. “At Fujifilm we remain committed to providing high quality products and services and will continue to work to mitigate any further cost impacts,” Ueno adds. Fujifilm announces increases in prices Fujifilm increased the prices of a range of its hardware, consumables, and services from March 18th Following an online competition by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) two new braille printers have been named with help from the public. The sight loss charity has announced the winning names as ‘Bill Brailey’ and ‘Dottie’ which were chosen via social media channels before a shortlist was voted on by staff. The printers are two Braillo 650 SF2 Braille Embossers. Embossing devices produced by Braillo are capable of the heavy demands of true braille production, the 650 SF2 is referred to as “the world’s only fully automated braille book and magazine production system”. RNIB was able to acquire the kit thanks to the help of the People’s Postcode Lottery which supports the charity through funds awarded by Postcode Care Trust. Mari Jones, RNIB chief operating officer, says: “We are grateful to everyone who took time to suggest names and vote for their favourite and we couldn’t be happier with the choices and welcome ‘Bill Brailey’ and ‘Dottie’ to our Gateshead site. The new braille printers can produce 650 braille characters a second and 1,950 pages an hour. RNIB printers named ‘Bill Brailey’ and ‘Dottie’ Players of the People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £8.3m for the RNIB over the past six years By Carys Evans By David Osgar Having celebrated a successful FESPA Global Print Expo and European Sign Expo in Amsterdam in March, FESPA has announced the events will return to Berlin from May 6th to May 9th, 2025. Features will include Personalise Make Wear, World Wrap Masters, Club FESPA, and the bi-annual FESPA Awards. This year’s events (FESPA Global Print Expo, European Sign Expo, Personalisation Experience, and Sportswear Pro 2024) took place at the RAI in Amsterdam and featured a variety of technologies and exhibitors. According to organisers, the 2024 co-located events attracted 12,706 unique visitors with 45% of visitors spending more than one day at the events. Michael Ryan, head of FESPA Global Print Expo, says: “Following three successful events in the city and positive feedback on the venue from all participants, we are pleased to be returning to Berlin in 2025. “We’re looking forward to welcoming exhibitors – as well as visitors – to Messe Berlin next May for an event that I am confident will help printers and sign-makers uncover new technologies and solutions to expand their business and unleash their full potential.” Dates and venue confirmed for FESPA 2025 This year’s co-located shows welcomed visitors and exhibitors from all around the world The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) has announced details for its 2024 Annual Networking Lunch which will take place at Orelle restaurant in Birmingham. The event will take place on June 19th and promises to be an opportunity for attendees to foster connections and ‘drive momentum’ within the print industry as the IPIA looks to "invigorate and re-energise" the print economy. Included in the event are welcome drinks, a three-course lunch with wine, beer, or soft drinks, and a host of networking opportunities and presentations from industry professionals. A special presentation will be given by Rob Cross from Micropress Printers about how the company has adapted to critical industry trends. Matthew Ruff, chair of the IPIA Events Subcommittee, says: "Our Annual Networking Lunch isn't just another industry event; it's a catalyst for growth and collaboration in the print sector. We've meticulously crafted an experience that fosters meaningful connections, sparks innovative ideas, and drives expansion.” In recent years the IPIA has put particular emphasis on the development of its industry events due to the networking, idea sharing, and collaborations that can be generated. IPIA to hold 2024 Networking Lunch The IPIA’s first physical networking event will be held at the Orelle in Birmingham By David Osgar By David Osgar
BUSINESS / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine 12 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 FUJIFILM Business Innovation and Konica Minolta have announced they are exploring a potential strategic alliance to optimise procurement, toner development, and production efficiencies. The potential partnership aligns with the increasing number of collaborations taking place amongst manufacturers as well as businesses as profits tighten and competition gets fiercer. Recently Agfa and EFI entered into a global partnership to integrate one another’s technologies into both portfolios. Ricoh has also looked to expand its hardware capabilities via a partnership with Flora Digital. FUJIFILM and Konica Minolta’s alliance would be in the multifunction printer (MFP), office printer, and production printer segments of the two companies. Konica Minolta says the “rapidly evolving market landscape” requires “proactive measures” hence the consideration for a business alliance. The agreement would include the procurement of raw materials and parts with the venture aiming to be established by the second quarter of 2024’s financial year, of which FUJIFILM Business Innovation would have a majority share. The partnership would also look at the development of toner and other potential strategic collaborations in the future. Naoki Hama, president and chief executive officer of FUJIFILM Business Innovation, comments: “We are confident that this partnership will create a new framework to enhance our supply chain and build a robust business foundation.” Konica Minolta and FUJIFILM explore alliance Zund UK, which is a part of Zünd, a manufacturer of multifunctional digital cutting systems, has celebrated the opening of its new 40,000sq ft UK headquarters based in Hertfordshire. Held on April 17th, the grand opening was attended by customers, partners, and local dignitaries who got to experience an exclusive tour of Zund UK’s brand-new site. The event also acted as an opportunity to unveil the new Q-Line with BHS180, a new system made for industrial, pallet-to-pallet production. The machine is tailored to the requirements of highly automated, industrial finishing in the digital production of displays and printed packaging. The BHS180 will have its trade show premiere at drupa 2024 along with robotic solutions like the Robot PortaTable 130 made to quickly pick and sort through finished products. Speaking about the choice to invest in a new headquarters, Oliver Zünd, global chief executive officer at Zünd Systemtechnik AG, says: “The decision to purchase a new, larger building to create an innovative space for digital cutting systems and to serve as the new home for Zünd UK underlines the importance of the UK market to Zund.” The day also included demonstrations from Zünd Generation 3 technology and presentations highlighting the advancements in G3, S3, and D3 cutting capabilities. Zund UK celebrates grand opening Zund UK’s new HQ is based in Acuta House, Letchworth Garden City in Hertfordshire By David Osgar By David Osgar Konica Minolta and FUJIFILM have begun proceedings to collaborate in the future Following its purchase of Kingsbury Press in 2021, Bluetree Group has announced changes to the company leading to a number of job losses. Bluetree Group has continued to evolve its various print businesses over the past few years like with the investment of new kit like the Landa S10P Nanographic Printing Press and the closing of its medical division at the end of 2023. Moving away from ultra-luxury and craft-style work the business will now produce more standardised products on its industrialised platform switching the focus to publishing and servicing the requirements of the group's trade brand Route1Print. Kingsbury Press was founded in 1966 with an ever-present focus on craftsmanship and commitment to quality producing works with exotic materials which could cost thousands of pounds. James Kinsella, co-chief executive officer for Bluetree Group, says: “It was a big decision for Kingsbury Press to move out of the market for very high-end craft-style books. Although we’re excited for the future and the opportunities in the marketplace, we acknowledge that this is a big change for some long-standing clients who are part of Kingsbury’s heritage". Kinsella acknowledges that this change has led to job losses, adding: “This change has unfortunately impacted a number of specialist roles and we are currently in discussions with affected team members.” Sarah Kilcoyne-Guilliam, former deputy general manager at Kingsbury Press, took to LinkedIn to express her sadness in leaving the company after nearly 14 years. Kilcoyne-Guilliam said: “As I embark on a new chapter, I’ll carry with me invaluable lessons and memories from my time here. While it's bittersweet to say goodbye, I'm excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.” The craft and passion of Kingsbury’s work have been evident in the raft of reactions and messages online as well as the company’s recent awards success. Bluetree Group announces changes to Kingsbury Press Having been acquired by Bluetree Group in 2021, Kingsbury Press will now be servicing the group’s other brands like Route1Print By David Osgar
Having appointed Rebecca Elliott as its new Sustainability and Compliance Manager last November, Elliott Baxter Group has highlighted the projects and initiatives achieved so far. This includes 74% of the company’s waste being recycled and avoiding landfill in 2023. This year EBB is partnering with new suppliers to improve this and to explore waste reduction strategies, including customer secure shredding. Aside from sustainability, EBB has also introduced a charity match funding programme which will see the company match contributions for employees and immediate family members to selected charities. The company has installed defibrillators across all its sites, prioritising the safety and wellbeing of its staff and visitors. Staff at each branch have been trained in the use of the units. Rebecca Elliott, Compliance and Sustainability Manager at EBB, comments: “The strides we have made since I took on this role in November 2023 shows our dedication to creating a positive impact on the environment and in our local communities. “I have been working alongside so many inspiring colleagues, customers, and suppliers and I can’t wait to continue to implement positive changes.” BUSINESS / NEWS 14 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine By Carys Evans EBB updates on its recent initiatives EBB has installed defibrillators at all its sites with staff trained on how to use the units Prodigi, a global print-on -demand company with production facilities in the US, UK, and Europe, has acquired Amsterdam-based business, Peecho. Peecho, which was founded in 2009, is described as an innovator of cloud printing solutions which enables platforms featuring user-generated content to integrate print-ondemand modules directly into their apps or interfaces. The new acquisition means Prodigi can capitalise on new market opportunities and cater to a wider range of clients. The deal is the third acquisition made by Prodigi following its purchase of Kite from Canon in 2019. James Old, founder and chief executive officer of Prodigi, says: "The print-on-demand industry is at an inflection point, and we're thrilled to be driving this transformation. "By integrating Peecho's innovative technology with our global reach and expertise, we're well-positioned to redefine what's possible for the sector. This acquisition is about more than just growth; it's about pushing the boundaries and creating new opportunities worldwide.” Peecho has previously reported year-on-year revenues of over 40%, however scaling the company’s people, systems, and software presented challenges for the business which Prodigi believes it can solve. Peecho has been acquired by Prodigi Members of the Prodigi group board [L to R] James Old, Tom Gallard, Eric Kickert, and Steve Levin Taiyo Pacific Partners LP is reported to be considering raising its ¥61.9bn (£321m) tender offer for Roland DG after Brother Industries threw its hat into the ring. In March, Brother announced plans to acquire the common shares of Roland DG Corporation which was dubbed a ‘hostile takeover’ due to pre-existing MBO plans. Brother plans to commence the tender offer in mid-May with an offer to buy all of the common shares in Roland at ¥5,200 (£27) per share, ¥165 (£0.86) more than the tender offer by Taiyo of ¥5,035 (£26.10), an offer Roland’s board of directors were in favour of. Now, according to Taiyo CEO, Brian Heywood, the company, which is Roland’s biggest shareholder with a 19.4% stake, is also considering accepting Brother’s takeover bid of ¥5,200 (£27) per share or abandoning the buyout when the tender offer expires later this month. Speaking to Bloomberg UK, Heywood said: “We will study which of the three is most strategically correct for Roland DG,” with Roland DG shares having soared 50% this year to ¥5,400 (£28.01) at the time of writing – well above both offers. Decisions to be made in bid for Roland DG Brother made a hostile bid for Roland DG in March and now Taiyo Pacific Partners LP is onsidering its options Solopress has launched its revamped Design Service, which demonstrates a renewed focus for the now award-winning printer, which recently won Company of the Year at the Printweek awards. The company’s graphic design service has been rebranded as ‘Solopress Design’ to become more accessible and user-friendly to customers who want to outsource their artwork. Solopress says by opting for its design services customers can avoid common issues like surrounding resolution, bleed area, and colour gamut. The experienced in-house design team as well as one new hire will use their history in prepress and commercial graphic design to make Solopress Design work to the best of its ability. Richard Kemp, senior designer at Solopress, says: “Customers who aren’t used to procuring design work are often apprehensive about the process. What assets would they need to provide? How do they brief the job in? Most importantly, will the costs spiral out of control? “The Solopress Design Service takes away those worries, with a straightforward briefing process and a transparent pricing structure.” Other benefits of the service include digital asset creation as well as logo and brand creation/ guidelines. Solopress announces Design Service Solopress Design includes a five-tier price structure with clear guidelines and set expectations By David Osgar By David Osgar By Carys Evans & David Osgar
BUSINESS / NEWS 18 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Celebrating ten years in business on April 22nd, Apprintable has made a milestone six-figure investment. Apprintable produces a wide range of products for direct clients mainly in the drinks, events, hospitality, and nightlife industries. The company also produces business cards, flyers, and posters through its website with its specialties including Tyvek wristbands, paper cup sleeves, and other die-cut products such as hotel key card wallets and kiss-cut stickers. Based in Wembley, London, Apprintable produces a lot of same-day work and is well-positioned to turn work around and deliver quickly across the city. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Apprintable was outsourcing 100% of its work and managing director Peter Haddad describes this period as “the real driver” for the company in its recent growth period. Making use of the Government Bounceback Loan, Haddad decided, rather than using it to manage cash flow, to invest in equipment. “This allowed us to massively increase our margins and continue to invest in our own equipment,” he explains. “With more and more people going online, particularly since 2020, we were already positioned quite well with our existing website and have continued to develop it and to develop products to help us stand out.” As a result, the company has gone from around £300-400k in revenue pre-Covid with a very low margin, to just over £1m in the 2023/24 financial year. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, Apprintable has invested in a range of hardware and finishing equipment. Most recently, the company has made a significant investment into a Ricoh Pro C9500, its first six-figure spend on an upgrade. Having gone from outsourcing 100% of work pre-pandemic to running over 15 pieces of kit in-house and achieving over £1m in the 2023/24 financial year, it’s an exciting future for Apprintable as it celebrates a decade in business. Apprintable celebrates 10 years with investment [L to R] Peter Haddad, managing director and Stephen Pho, production manager of Apprintable with the new Rioch Pro C9500 machine By Carys Evans Fedrigoni, a supplier of specialty paper, self-adhesive materials, and RFID solutions has announced it has acquired certain assets of Mohawk Fine Papers based in North America. The two companies formed an industrial partnership in September 2022 to strengthen the distribution of specialty fine papers in the North American market. This is the third merger and acquisition from Fedrigoni this year following deals with SharpEnd in the UK and Arjowiggins in China. This latest deal is being finalised through a NewCo - a corporate spin-off or subsidiary company established before a final name is made. The transaction took place following a period of “significant financial distress” that affected the US-based company over the past few months. The NewCo cleared the new company from existing indebtedness while preserving the majority of existing jobs, industrial activities, and customer relationships. Fedrigoni acquires assets of US-based Mohawk Fine Papers Venture Banners, a large-format print supplier to the print and signage trade, is celebrating its 15th anniversary with investments in equipment, production space, and seven new team members. In total, the company has invested £400,000 into the business with a particular focus on new technology which will expand its production capacity and optimise turnaround times. Venture Banners has invested in its third EFI VUTEk FabriVU, with the latest 3.4-metre 340i+ dye-sublimation printer expanding the company’s textile printing capabilities. Venture Banners has also invested in a 3.2-metre-wide Zünd cutter, the business’ fourth Zünd device. Scott Conway, director and co-founder of Venture Banners, comments: “This new investment in the business has expanded our capacity such that we can now offer an express turnaround with confidence and ease, something that we’re very excited about.” A member of the Venture Banners team with the EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340i+ Mohawk and Fedrigoni share many values including focuses on innovation and the environment Venture Banners marks 15th anniversary Elliott Baxter & Company (EBB) has acquired 100% of the shares of Realt Paper in Dublin, Ireland. This latest move from EBB will make the 100-year-old family business the largest merchant in the Irish market and signifies its commitment to Ireland and will generate combined group turnover in Ireland of around €50m (£43m). Realt Paper will continue to trade from its Swords premises and EBB Ireland will continue to trade from Rathcoole and Belfast. EBB will integrate Realt Sales with the EBB logistics network. EBB first entered the Irish market with its acquisition of UniBoard in 2019 and Matt Elliott, group managing director of EBB says Realt Paper has always been on the company’s radar. Chris Sandwell, group sales and marketing director of EBB, adds: “The combined entity offers the best chance for EBB to support all of the local markets.” EBB acquires Dublinbased Realt paper [L to R] Matt Elliott, EBB group managing director and Ger Barron, managing director of Realt Paper
NEC Birmingham | Hall 17 | September 17-19 | 2024 The UK’s Largest Dedicated Print Exhibition •KNOWLEDGE ZONE •DIGITAL PRINTING •LARGE-FORMAT •PRE-PRESS •SOFTWARE •FINISHING •PAPER 17-19 September 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 REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY AT www.theprintshow.co.uk
20 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 KIT & MEDIA / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Manufacturer of print finishing technologies, Duplo has launched its latest saddle stitcher for a production environment. Championing Duplo’s Japanese roots, the new iSaddle SENSHI is named after the Japanese word for ‘warrior’, symbolising strength and agility. The iSaddle SENSHI has been designed for a modern high-production environment with fast-paced operations. Features include flat-tofinished book, heavy-duty stitching, significantly reduced makeready times, increased productivity, end-to-end automaton, and the intelligence to handle increasing numbers of short runs and complex jobs. Max booklet thickness for the iSaddle SENSHI is 6mm (30 sheets of 80gsm, 120-page booklet); and the max flat sheet size possible is 356mm W x 610mm L with some media possibly limited to 356mm W x 508mm L or 230mm W x 610mm L. The saddle stitcher has a stitching capability of 3mm (30 sheets of 80gsm), it has the option of up to four stitching heads, and has a max scoring thickness of 1mm. Building on Duplo’s iSaddle 5.0 solution, the iSaddle SENSHI is said to set a new benchmark by providing the quality of a saddle stitcher with the convenience of flat sheet. By Carys Evans Duplo launches iSaddle SENSHI The newly launched iSaddle SENSHI builds on Duplo’s iSaddle 5.0 solution Provider of print and imaging solutions, Ricoh, has unveiled the first compact-footprinted hybrid printer - the Flora X20 UV Hybrid. The new hybrid solution is part of a collaboration with Flora, a brand owned by Shenzhen Runtianzhi Digital Equipment. The Flora X20 has been made to give sign and display specialists greater flexibility and versatility in their output. Following last year’s partnership agreement with Flora this is the first compact-footprinted hybrid printer developed by the two brands which incorporates Ricoh printhead technology. The machine also includes ColorGATE RIP software and ICC profiles with the capability to run both rigid and flexible media of up to two metres wide and 5.1cm thick. “The X20 UV has been developed in response to market demand from sign and display specialists who are increasingly looking for flexible and versatile solutions for indoor and outdoor applications,” says Angelo Mandelli of Ricoh Graphic Communication’s Large Format & Flatbed EMEA Product Marketing Group. Features of the machine include the delivery of “day one” quality with three ink configurations - CMYK, CMYKWW, and CMYKWClear as well a dedicated ICC profile portal, Ricoh Colorbase. Ricoh unveils Flora X20 UV Hybrid Demonstrations of the Flora X20 can be arranged at Ricoh’s Customer Experience Centre in Telford DS Smith, an advocate and supplier of sustainable fibre-based packaging, has detailed its latest investment in a new 4-colour converting machine for its Eerbeek packaging plant in the Netherlands. The investment has been made in response to the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to plastic in exchange for fibre-based packaging solutions. The machine will produce the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers (FEFCO) 0201 bespoke boxes for customers as well as alternative grades. Currently the machine is in start-up phase and equipped with an advanced automatic inline error detection system. The computer-controlled technology checks the quality of the printing and gluing and enhances the accuracy of the machinery. Philip Bautil, managing director of DS Smith Benelux, comments: “With this new investment we are continuing to meet our customers' supply chain challenges and respond to their requirements for growth. We are still seeing an increased demand for products that require sustainable plastic replacement and fibre-based solutions.” In 2020, DS Smith launched an initiative named Now & Next to set near and long-term sustainability targets. DS Smith invests in converting machine DS Smith’s purpose is: “Redefining Packaging for a Changing World” and the new machine is in response to demand for eco alternatives Humidity Solutions, the exclusive Vapac distributor in the UK, has announced the launch of the new Vapac Electrode Boiler. This solution incorporates advanced technology to minimise water and energy wastage and features a unique pulsed energy control system. According to Humidity Solutions, the Vapac Virtuoso VE is able to provide variable steam output from 8% up to 100% of full capacity, ensuring maximum efficiency and cost savings compared to previous models. For ease of use, the boiler features a user-friendly touchscreen display panel making it simple for engineers to operate and monitor with instant access to key performance information. An optional Room Distribution Unit is also available for models up to 9kg/hr for applications where air handling units or ducts are unavailable. This can be fixed directly to the humidifier or remotely mounted within a room. Founded in 2008, Humidity Solutions offers solutions for many individual and commercial applications. In addition to being the exclusive UK distributor of Vapac in the UK, the company is also the distributor of Neptronic in Canada, Cotes in Denmark, and HiDew in Italy. Vapac Electrode Boiler launches Humidity Solutions has announced the launch of the Vapac Electrode Boiler By David Osgar By David Osgar By Carys Evans
KIT & MEDIA / NEWS 24 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine May / June 2024 - Issue 348 The Shetland Times has invested in a new binding line for its commercial printing division, Studio Graphic Design & Print Shop. Having celebrated its 150th anniversary in June 2022, the company has now upgraded its production capabilities by replacing the Linotype Trimstitch with a Horizon Stitchliner. Located in Lerwick, Shetland, it’s suspected that this is the most remote northerly installation in the UK for this machine. Larger paginations on the older machine required up to four people to run jobs, however, the Horizon Stitchliner can be operated by a single team member, meaning the additional staff can be deployed in both the finishing and printing departments. With requests becoming increasingly varied in terms of booklet formats, Studio can now keep more production in-house and have complete autonomy over jobs with binding requirements. To streamline production further, the Komori Color+ Spectral colour management system was also recently retro-fitted to the Komori S26 five-colour B2 commercial printing press. Studio has praised Komori engineer Kevin McHale for “invaluable training and advice” whilst installing the new densitometric scanning head and associated equipment. In addition, Studio’s Screen Platerite 8000 II CTP system from Marlowe Graphics was calibrated and the Komori was quickly running full-colour commercial work. The company has noted an increase in colour brightness and colour consistency on both short and long runs as a result. Studio’s Xerox V180 digital press is being updated with a new Xerox Versant 280. This is expected to increase control over colour output through the use of a handheld spectrophotometer and more accuracy when duplexing/backing up. The Stitchliner will now complete much of the finishing of digital work as it is capable of handling larger paginations than the previous Xerox three-knife trimmer. An area of growth for Studio is wide-format print and signage with the company producing bespoke stickers, posters, pull-up banners, outdoor banners, window graphics, and more. New binding line for The Shetland Times Studio Graphic Design & Print Shop, a division of The Shetland Times, has invested in a Horizon Stitchliner By Carys Evans Over the last few weeks and months SCREEN Graphic Solutions has released details of new product launches and investments within the print and label markets including a new roll-fed digital inkjet press. Most recently SCREEN has detailed the 100th worldwide sale of its Truepress LABEL 350UV SAI-S 5 colour inkjet press. The press has been installed at Italian label specialist Impronta Digitale, becoming the third SCREEN press installed at the company. Linda Picello, co-owner of Impronta, comments: “This new press opens doors to new markets, increases our production capacity, and guarantees that our clients receive labels of consistent quality, quickly and efficiently.” Speaking about the investment in the technology, Picello adds: “What drove us to invest in digital presses is their ability to start production at any moment and produce labels of consistent quality and brilliance on every print run, while remaining competitive in the market. “Our SAI machines operate ten hours a day, in two shifts, five days a week, with an average production length of 1,000 metres per job – handling print runs from 30 to 10,000 metres. Investing in SCREEN’s technology was the right choice to allow us to grow and improve over time.” At the start of February, SCREEN announced it had finalised the development of its new Truepress JET 560HDX rollfed digital inkjet press. The system joins SCREEN’s line up of presses for the commercial printing, direct mail, and publishing markets. The JET 560HDX has been developed for the complex and fast turnaround times of commercial printing as well as the flexible format sizes and shortening of production runs for publishing. In order to respond to changing markets, SCREEN introduced its Truepress JET 520HD+ and 520 HD AD printers with the Truepress SC and SC+ ink sets. This made SCREEN the first manufacturer to provide a practical solution to printing directly onto offset-coated papers with an inkjet system without the need for inkjet treatment. The new press will be displayed at SCREEN’s Inkjet Innovation Centres in the US and in Europe as well as at drupa 2024. A series of launches from SCREEN Graphic Solutions The new Truepress JET 560HDX will be showcased at drupa 2024 from May 28th to June 7th in the Messe DÜsseldorf By David Osgar
26 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 PEOPLE / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Hardware manufacturer and supplier of smart data and digital IT services, Konica Minolta has grown its industrial print team with the appointment of Mark Bladon as major accounts sales specialist. Bladon will join the experienced team to help organisations in the print and packaging sectors harness the potential of Konica Minolta’s portfolio of digital print solutions. Working in the product and industrial print industry since 1987, Bladon brings with him a wealth of experience following senior sales, business development, and account management roles in the UK and Australia. Between 2012 and 2014 Bladon was a senior account manager at Konica Minolta Business Solutions in Australia. “I am a printer by trade, so having confidence in the product I sell to print businesses is extremely important to me,” says Bladon, adding: “Konica Minolta has a strong reputation for delivering innovative and reliable equipment that do their jobs effortlessly. “The company offers commercial print companies a truly impressive portfolio whether they are looking for creative embellishment techniques, high-quality short-run label production, or high-volume digital inkjet print runs.” Konica Minolta appoints sales specialist Mark Bladon brings with him a career in print spanning over 35 years FESPA UK has named Paul Noble as its new president and Nathan Swinson-Bullough as its new vice-president following their close work with the association over recent years. The announcement was made at an official ceremony held at FESPA Global Print Expo in Amsterdam last month. Noble has spent the majority of his career at Specialised Canvas, a contract sewing factory that supplies custom-made textile products and repairs. Noble takes over the role from Nicole Spencer, managing director at RMC Digital Print, a trade supplier of large-format print and signage solutions. Managing director of Imageco, Swinson-Bullough has worked in the wide-format print industry for over 20 years and recently has become well-known for his commitment and championing of sustainability, winning several green awards in the industry as well as being involved in Make it Happen’s Sustainability Bootcamp. Swinson-Bullough comments: “I am very proud to be named vice-president of FESPA UK. I have worked with the team for a long time and have admired the work they have done to provide opportunities for the print community both in the UK and Europe.” FESPA UK names new presidents The FESPA UK team at FESPA Global Print Expo 2024 in Amsterdam Provider of integrated digital services and print solutions, Ricoh has announced the appointment of its new board director of sales following Glenn Griggs being appointed as Ricoh UK chief executive officer in July 2023. Paula O’Brien has joined the company with over 30 years of sales experience in a range of digital services and IT portfolios. O’Brien will be leading a team of over 250 salespeople in the UK with the responsibility of growing and driving value within Ricoh’s customer base. O’Brien says: “It’s an incredibly exciting time to be joining Ricoh as both the company and the market are in a period of evolution. We have a great opportunity to help our customers solve a plethora of business challenges and support their business and technology functions, in what is an increasingly complicated digital journey. “I look forward to working with Glenn and the rest of the leadership team to deliver success for our people and our customers and can’t wait to meet and listen to my new colleagues as I get to know the business.” Paula O’Brien announced as sales director Paula O'Brien joins as board director of Sales at Ricoh Inkcups, a supplier and manufacturer of printing equipment, has announced strategic changes to its executive team to keep driving business growth. Benjamin Adner, founder and chief executive officer has taken on a new role as chief innovation officer allowing Rick Hajec to take on the role of Inkcups chief executive officer. Hajec has been on the Inkcups Advisory Board for nine years and on the Board of Inkcups’ private equity partner, MPE Partners, for two years. Speaking about Hajec’s appointment, Adner comments: “I have been running Inkcups with great success for the last 23 years. However, the organisation is ready for some new professional leadership that will help accelerate growth. “I have known Rick for a long time, and his guidance over the years has been invaluable to the company and to me. He knows our business, our people, and our customers, and there is no one more suited to take Inkcups to the next level. I feel very lucky to be handing over the reins to him.” James Burns, vice president of sales has also been promoted to chief commercial officer. Senior restructure announced at Inkcups [L-R] Benjamin Adrier, james Burns, and Rick Hajec By David Osgar By David Osgar By David Osgar By David Osgar
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