ance should not be overlooked. A cutting system is a core part of production, so it needs to deliver consistent results day in, day out, while also being capable of supporting future growth.” At Vivid, Evans says its VeloBlade range has become popular for printers looking to bring finishing in-house and expand into higher value applications. Within small-format digital die cutting, he highlights the VeloBlade Volta range, saying it combines automation with precision, allowing users to handle cutting, creasing, and perforating in a single pass. “Features such as automatic cut depth setting help to reduce setup time and minimise operator error, making it an efficient and accessible solution for businesses of all sizes,” he says, adding: “This capability makes it particularly well suited to applications such as labels, short run packaging, greetings cards, and bespoke print products where accuracy and flexibility are essential. For those looking to move into larger-format or more industrial applications, Evans points to the VeloBlade Nexus range, saying it offers additional capability by bringing together flatbed digital cutting with routing functionality, enabling users to work with thicker and more rigid materials, including display board and plastics. “Across the VeloBlade range, the focus is on helping printers increase productivity while also diversifying their services,” Evans says, adding: “By removing the need for traditional tooling and enabling fast job changeovers, these systems allow businesses to respond quickly to demand and take advantage of short run and customised work.” Striking a Balance Elsewhere in this market, Terri Winstanley, marketing manager for the packaging and labels business unit at Plockmatic Group, says there is no single rule for when to upgrade small-format cutting kit. She explains that it depends on a printer’s requirements: whether their production volumes have changed, finishing needs have evolved, or they are managing with fewer skilled staff. “In some cases, upgrading is about adding automation to make up for workforce shortages; in others, it’s about meeting higher quality or faster turnaround expectations, or adding new materials into the mix,” Winstanley says, adding: “Ultimately, it’s a balance between what your current system can deliver and what your customers now demand. “Accuracy is key, both in cutting and registration. Companies should also look at flexibility, productivity, and how easily the equipment integrates with existing workflows. Machines need to handle a mix of short, medium, and longer runs efficiently, depending on the work a shop takes on. “Whether automated or manual, the system should match the business’s production model. There is no one size fits all answer but knowing your volume and application mix helps you choose the right fit.” As to how Plockmatic can help, Winstanley highlights the ColorCut range, which she says “answers every finishing challenge with precision and power”. Within this collection is the new SC7800 Pro-RS XL, which Winstanley says is “redefining” small-format performance with patent-pending male and female creasing technology for improved crease quality. Also within this portfolio is the ColorCut 6500, which delivers both kiss and through cutting, as well as the production-ready SMALL-FORMAT CUTTERS | ROB FLETCHER If customer expectations around speed, flexibility, and personalisation are increasing, older cutting systems can quickly become a constraint Estimated value of the global print finishing equipment market by 2033 $15bn 58 Issue 360 - May | June 2026 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk ▼ Vivid’s VeloBlade Volta range allows users to handle cutting, creasing, and perforating in a single pass
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