55 www.printmonthly.co.uk Issue 361 - July | August 2026 cesses in-house. He explains that traditional die-making can introduce additional costs, lead times, and production bottlenecks, particularly for short-run work. However, digital die-cutting allows printers and converters to move directly from design to finished product, eliminating tooling costs, and significantly reducing setup times. “We’re seeing customers focus on maximising machine utilisation and automating repetitive processes so operators can concentrate on higher value tasks,” Marlow says, continuing: “Systems such as VeloBlade and Razar support unattended production through automated feeding and registration technologies and automated taping with VeloTaper, helping businesses maintain productivity while meeting increasingly demanding turnaround expectations. The ability to switch quickly between jobs without changing tooling is also becoming a key factor in maintaining profitability.” Looking ahead, Marlow says the biggest opportunity is helping print businesses diversify into high-margin applications. He sets out how demand for customised packaging, personalised products, shortrun labels, and premium embellishment continues to grow, creating significant opportunities for businesses that can offer fast, flexible production. On top of this, he highlights “strong potential” in consolidating multiple finishing processes into single workflows, reducing complexity while expanding creative possibilities. However, there will be challenges, primarily maintaining profitability within a competitive market, as Marlow explains: “Rising operational costs, ongoing pressure on turnaround times, and the need to invest in new technology will continue to test businesses. There is also a growing expectation that equipment must deliver both productivity and sustainability benefits. “Manufacturers and print providers alike will need to focus on solutions that reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enable greater production flexibility. Those embracing automation, digital workflows, and value-added finishing will be best positioned to succeed in the years ahead.” Marlow’s closing comments offer an apt conclusion to the discussion: evolution is crucial if print companies are to keep pace with competition in what is a busy market. This is true across all areas of production, with new developments in die-cutting offering PSPs an opportunity to modernise their offering. ▼[Pictured] the VeloBlade Nexus. Vivid Laminating Technologies says digital die-cutting allows printers to move directly from design tofinished product DIE-CUTTING | ROB FLETCHER ▲ According to Duplo, its PFi DI-CUT 310 can support smaller bespoke jobs and repeat shaped applications
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