X The missing piece for your print business Web2Print with automated artwork checks Artworker and VB Media have joined forces to bring you the ultimate web2print solution .com Issue 350 - September / October 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk
Who will be exhibiting The Print Show 2024 will see some of the industry’s biggest suppliers, manufacturers, and trade printers come together - representing the full supply chain for a modern printer. The UK’s Dedicated Print Expo ►The Print Showserves as an invaluable hub for visitors to learn more about the latest technologies available to the industry and find out how investment can help them to move into new areas and grow their business as a result. ►Having welcomed around 30,000 visitors since its launch back in 2015, The Print Show is now established asthe key meeting place for the industry to discuss ideas and explore opportunities for business growth. ►The Knowledge Zone provides visitors with tangible skills and wisdom to take away such as SEO tips and insights from successful leaders Operating under the theme ‘Print Without Barriers’, The Print Show is commi ed to helping visitors discover new opportunities for their business, demonstrating that print is so much more than simply pu ing ink on paper. With access to exhibitors from all corners of the industry, all free of charge, The Print Show is an event that cannot be missed.
Now in its eighth year, The Print Show is firmly established as the most important print exhibition on the UK calendar. The ideal blend of well-known and new brands as well as innovative technologies makes the show the perfect place to see the latest solutions in print. Taking place from September 17th to 19th in Hall 17 of the NEC in Birmingham, The Print Show 2024 will again play host to some of the leading names in the print industry and welcome thousands of visitors from all areas of the UK market and related industries. Add in special features such as The Knowledge Zone and the Gala Party, and The Print Show 2024 is an event that simply cannot be missed. The Gala Party Returning after its successful launch in 2023, the Print Show Gala Party will take place just a five-minute drive from the NEC at the National Motorcycle Museum, on the evening of Wednesday, September 18th. Those in attendance will enjoy the chance to relax and network during a three-course sit-down meal followed by musical entertainment from a DJ. With capacity limited to 300, book your tickets early to secure your place at what will be an incredibly popular evening! A popular feature of 2023, the new-look Knowledge Zone will return this year, playing host to a series of expert speakers from a number of key markets. From using SEO to boost your brand’s visibility to diversification and implementing AI, The Print Show’s Knowledge Zone promises to provide visitors with tangible skills and knowledge to take away. This year, The Knowledge Zone will see talks from major brands such as LUSH and the RNIB, as well as insights from leading industry members such as Simon Cooper, managing director of Onlineprinters’ and Solopress’ online business, and Andy Wilson, managing director of PressOn Automotive. The Knowledge Zone over 35,000 visitors since 2015 THE
3 CONTENTS Issue 350 September / October 2024 www.printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 ISSN 2976-9213 NEWS Industry 06 Business 10 Kit & Media 14 software 18 environment 20 People 22 events - the print show 2024 27 SPECIALS Under the Hood: Duplo iSaddle SENSHI 45 Company Spotlight: AGFA 49 Under the Hood: Anapurna Ciervo H3200 53 COLIN SINCLAIR MCDERMOTT: INDUSTRY TIPS 57 Under the Hood: Vivid Veloton 60 Marketing your business 63 Financing and Funding 67 FEATURES The Print Show Preview 71 Paper solutions 77 Trade Printers 83 Web-to-Print 87 MIS Systems 93 Automation 97 IN THIS ISSUE 06 83 71 38 63 93 67 10
ISSUE 350September / October 2024 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 Lead Contributor Rob Fletcher rob@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 September / October 2024 - Issue 350 4 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Hello and welcome to Print Monthly September/October! I am writing with a bitter-sweet feeling as this is my last issue as your Print Monthly Editor. I will be passing the baton over to my colleague and friend David Osgar who I am sure you will all agree will do a stellar job, and I am leaving content in the knowledge that the magazine I have spent the past three years honing and developing, will be in very safe hands. A special mention also has to go to Shaun, our production editor who has become a close friend, mentor, and ear for my ramblings. Still to this day, we have never not pulled it out of the bag! (Thanks to Shaun’s 100 years of experience). I'd also like to thank our long-time contributor Rob who consistently supports with anything and everything thrown his way, not least hoards of features each month. Rob, you're a star! Having joined Link Publishing as a News Reporter back in 2018 and working my way up through the ranks to Online Editor and later Editor, I have spent the past six years developing my skills and growing in confidence as a professional and as an individual, and I have grown to love this friendly and welcoming industry very much. I have always followed the ethos of no question is too silly to ask, and the openness of the experts and specialists I have met along the way has enabled me to hone my knowledge and understanding of this technical and ever-evolving industry to no end. On leaving University, the thought of networking events filled me with dread, however once I began slowly but surely building a wonderful network of industry friends and connections, it quickly became one of my favourite parts of the job. I am very grateful for the opportunities I have had during my time at Link Publishing to bring ideas to the table and to continue to grow and build on the fantastic platform Print Monthly offers for the industry as a source of news and information. I have also been lucky enough to attend numerous industry events and trade shows over the years, and I will look back on these times fondly. As I take on my next challenge in my new role, I am pleased to say I will be remaining in the industry and I very much look forward to catching up with everyone at the next event – which just so happens to be The Print Show! Thank you for all your support and kind words over the years, they really do mean a lot. Carys x EDITOR S NOTE Carys Evans MEET THE TEAM 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 September / October 2024 - Issue 350 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Slow and steady seems to be the path the industry’s growth is taking with the British Print Industries Federation (BPIF)’s Q3 Printing Outlook now publicly available. Whilst the forecast was for stronger growth to come through in Q2, the BPIF’s Q3 report shows this expectation to have downgraded slightly and rolled over into Q3. Despite this, the industry has still experienced three consecutive quarters of growth, with this improvement predicted to accelerate in Q3. The hike in national minimum wage levels and high levels of inflation have both contributed to wage pressures for the industry with most having concluded their pay reviews in Q2. Long-documented trouble sourcing skilled workers has also contributed to this pressure. Whilst these pressures surged further in Q2, they are expected to ease in Q3. Another challenge highlighted is industry competitiveness with companies pricing, or being perceived to be pricing, below cost. This has become the top ranked business concern according to the BPIF Printing Outlook report. However, controlling costs, researching new markets, and putting efforts into driving sales are all key target areas for companies striving to improve their profitability. Kyle Jardine, BPIF Economist, says: “It might be hard for some companies to identify with the slow and steady sentiment – it is important to acknowledge that some companies have reported a quiet spring and summer, whilst others have rarely been so busy. “The aggregated data represents the path the industry is taking – and that is one of improved, but still slightly subdued growth, but waiting expectantly for a stronger pick-up to come.” Jardine continues to explain that with the economic backdrop continuing to improve, the BPIF is waiting to see when interest rates will also track down and whether the new Government can find a stable way to support business. This, he says, will result in improved confidence from the industry. Charles Jarrold, BPIF chief executive, adds: “Whilst the recent growth status of our industry has been subdued, it reflects the period immediately prior to the announcement of the General Election. “While it’s very early days, there is a new level of energy and focus within Government which I hope will feed through to economic confidence going forwards. We’ll be looking for that in our next survey. Meanwhile, we do know that companies have come away from drupa with clear intent to continue to invest, automate, and innovate.” Slow and Steady Wins the Race in BPIF’s Q3 Printing Outlook The BPIF has published its Q3 Printing Outlook report, showing slow and steady growth A new membership program has been announced by Women in Print Alliance, designed to provide enhanced year-round benefits and greater accessibility for women. Part of PRINTING United Alliance, Women in Print Alliance is a key advocate for women in the print industry and the new program aims to foster a supportive community and offer professional development opportunities. With the aim of reaching women with all needs and goals, Women in Print Alliance has developed a comprehensive membership structure, catering to students, emerging professionals, and industry veterans. Each membership offers unique benefits designed to suit the specific stage of career of each member and will include a mix of virtual and in-person benefits focused on career development, executive leadership, and worklife balance. Lisbeth Lyons Black, director at Women in Print Alliance, says: “We are incredibly proud to introduce the new Women in Print Alliance membership program, which reflects our, and PRINTING United Alliance’s, commitment to supporting women at every stage of their careers.” Women in Print Alliance launches new global membership program Women in Print Alliance will host its annual Luncheon at PRINTING United Expo this September By Carys Evans By Carys Evans Print Scotland, a federation which supports its members with financial support and employment advice, has recognised the achievements of print apprentices at the ninth annual Apprentice of the Year Awards. The ceremony, which was held in Glasgow, gave Print Scotland the opportunity to advocate for the industry to attract more young people into print through a speech by Print Scotland president, Susan Graham. Winners of the Pre-Press, Press, and Post-Press awards respectively were Jack Campbell from Deacon Brothers in Kirkintilloch; Adam Dobbie from Newsprinters UK in Eurocentral; and Jack Clark from Bell & Bain in Glasgow. The award for Mentor of the Year went to Gordon Sally, also from Bell & Bain, while the Overall Apprentice award went to Liam Thomson from FLB Group in Dalkeith. Garry Richmond, director of Print Scotland, concluded: “The print sector has significantly enhanced its support for apprentices in recent years and is definitely seeing the benefit of this forward-looking approach for employers and individuals.” “Print is still here, present in all our lives” says Print Scotland [L to R] Liam Thomson, Overall Apprentice of the Year winner, and Susan Graham president of Print Scotland By David Osgar
INDUSTRY / NEWS 8 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Organisations and businesses have recently showcased the increasing profitability and impact of printed campaigns and materials. Advocates for print advertising, Print Power, recently highlighted an analysis from Thinkbox in the UK that showed that print delivers the highest profit ROI. The study undertook an extensive analysis of £1.8bn in media spending across 141 brands and 14 categories in the UK. Statistics also show that on average, a pound invested in advertising returns over £4 in profit. This figure is an average across a wide range of media types, while print specifically yields £6.36 in profit for every pound spent, outperforming the likes of TV and audio. Recently there has also been positive news regarding the response to mail as read rates and purchase conversions have increased. A provider of mail metrics and media campaigns, JICMAIL, has recently reported a strong Q1 in 2024 as 6% of mail prompted a purchase compared to 4.2% in 2023. Purchases were made in an omni-channel capacity as 46% of purchases were fulfilled online and 32% in-store. By David Osgar Positive signs for print in new reports Several reports have highlighted the value and increasing relevancy of print Campaign group 4 Day Week has called on political parties to endorse a four-day working week. The organisation is currently encouraging companies to sign up for a trial starting in November which would allow 4 Day Week to present the government with trial findings in the summer of 2025. The proposition is to reduce the maximum working week from 48 hours per week to 32 hours by 2030 and for the creation of a £100m fund to support companies in the private sector to make the switch. “Hybrid and flexible working is key at the moment especially if businesses want to attract the best talent,” says Matt Hanley, managing director of MTWO, a specialist recruitment agency for the print industry. Peter Jones, founder and managing director of recruitment company Foyne Jones, says: “I understand that anything different and new, typically challenges the norm. But being different is good. Difference lets people thrive and the 4-day week can help your staff by having both a successful career and rewarding personal life.” Four-day working week gains new traction Campaigners are trialling a four-day working week due to its healthier work/life balance Koehler Paper and other European décor paper producers have welcomed the European Commission’s decision to launch an anti-dumping investigation into the imports of décor paper from China. Décor paper is a type of specialty paper used to create quality finishes on wood materials such as laminate flooring and kitchen worktops. These special papers are impregnated and pressed with thermosetting resins which can remain in end products for up to 20 years. Initiated on June 14th, the investigation is the result of a joint complaint lodged by Koehler Paper and three other major European décor paper producers. The complaint highlighted the detrimental impact of distortions in the Chinese economy, which, Koehler says, enables Chinese manufacturers to “flood the EU market” with unfairly priced décor paper. Instead, the complaint calls for “the prevention of further material harm to the European décor paper industry” and “fair and healthy competition for the European market”. As a result, the letter underlines the “urgent necessity of anti-dumping duties to restore a level playing field for all industry players”. Anti-dumping investigation welcomed Koehler Paper has welcomed the investigation and is calling for a fair and competitive trade environment for the décor paper industry in Europe Nearly four in ten people are avoiding the news according to Oxford University’s Reuters Institute The level of news avoidance is believed to be at a record high with negativity and repetition cited as the reasons people are switching off from reporting. The research is bad news for printed news which has been in decline for the past decade. Press Gazette has reported a year-on-year decline of almost all national newspaper circulations in May 2024. According to the latest report from Oxford University’s Reuters Institute, 46% of people said they were very or extremely interested in the news, down from 63% in 2017. According to the report, women and younger people were more likely to feel worn out by the amount of news around with overall trust remaining steady at 40% (36% in the UK, 15 percentage points lower than before Brexit). Speaking to the BBC, Nick Newman, the report’s lead author, said: "You've had the pandemic [and] wars, so it's a fairly natural reaction for people to turn away from the news." News readership in decline says Oxford University report The war in Ukraine and Gaza are cited as examples of events that are putting people off daily news By David Osgar By Carys Evans By David Osgar
BUSINESS / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine 10 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 Solopress has announced it has made a £3.4m round of fresh investment in both litho and digital printing technologies. The strategic investment includes the acquisition of a Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 106 4 litho press with coating unit; a HP Indigo 120K digital press; a Konica Minolta AccurioShine 3600 with iFoil One; a Horizon AFV-566FTK Ice Folder; and an MBO T800 section folder. Solopress says the “dual approach” will ensure the company can leverage the strengths of each method and provides its customers with the highest quality print solutions. The investment in a second B1 litho press also cements the company’s commitment to high-volume litho printing whilst the HP Indigo 120K provides the latest B2 digital print technology. Simon Cooper, managing director of Solopress, says: “We see a strong future for both lithographic and digital. The new Speedmaster allows us to continue delivering unparalleled litho print quality on large runs. Cooper explains that when planning this next round of investment, this year has proven to be “predicably unpredictable”, due to the general election. “We’d anticipated it landing at the end of the year so when it was sprung on us in June it put the cat amongst the pigeons,” he says, adding: “However, it’s a testament to the excellent team we’ve built up that we were able to meet record-breaking demand without dipping below a 99.3% despatch rate for the YTD. “We’re now getting ourselves set up for the next peak which will happen in Q4, where we expect to be firing on all cylinders.” Solopress makes £3.4m investment Solopress’ new HP Indigo 120K press provides the latest B2 digital print technology Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) has opened its new Client Engagement Centre (CEC) in Bedfordshire. The CEC provides a central location for product sales demonstrations, training, and events. Featuring a fully operational professional print shop, the centre houses a range of AccurioPress toner presses, the AccurioLabel press range, as well as B2+ inkjet and partner technologies for print, packaging, and embellishment. The facility also includes in-line trimming and finishing systems including the TU-510 trimmer unit, the SD-513, and Plockmatic SD-450 booklet makers. Label and packaging solutions include the AccurioLabel230 and 400 plus the PKG-1300 Digital Corrugated Press, as well as embellishment technology with the AccurioShine 3600 with iFoil One, the MGI JETvarnish Evo75, as well as off-line finishing options from Valiani, Morgana, and Colorcut. Konica Minolta opens new Client Engagement Centre Rob Ferris, chief executive officer of Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) at the new Centre By Carys Evans Nutshell Creative recently won gold for Buckinghamshire Business of the Year at the SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards. Helping to foster young people’s futures, Nutshell has supported work experience programmes and is also part of the new industry group Young People in Print (YPIP) which works to bridge the gap between education and printing. Another initiative that utilises the power of print is the company’s literacy charity, Topic Heroes, an online writing platform enabling children to write their own books and have them professionally printed, completely free. Utilising Nutshell’s creative and technical expertise and connections within the printing industry, the first pilot sessions are taking place in schools in Milton Keynes and Buckinghamshire. Nutshell Creative wins local Business of the Year Award Supplier of high-quality self-adhesive paper and film products, UPM Raflatac, has acquired Grafityp, a manufacturer of films and laminates. According to UPM Raflatac, merging its existing graphics business with Grafityp will strengthen its overall competitive positioning in this segment. The move will also expand UPM Raflatac’s portfolio and provide access to high-value new technologies. With over 50 years of history as a developer and manufacturer of self-adhesive graphics solutions, Grafityp’s portfolio comprises colour films, print films for large-format colour printing, laminates, and wrapping films. A new business unit within UPM Raflatac since 2022 is UPM Graphics which is dedicated to self-adhesives. UPM Raflatac strives to grow this division through “organic and possibly inorganic” measures. UPM Raflatac has acquired Grafityp to expand its graphics offering [Inside three L to R] Lucy Swanston, managing director; Jenni Parks, head of events; and Victoria Blackwell, senior marketing executive of Nutshell Creative UPM Raflatac merges its graphics business with Grafityp Flint Group, a producer of ink and coating solutions, has relocated its newspaper ink production facility and service centre to Frankfurt, Germany. The new hub, chosen for its transport links, features state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment to further increase Flint’s production capabilities. Flint’s technology team will oversee ongoing innovation for its coldset inks designed for newspaper printing. According to Flint Group, this relocation is part of a wider €1.5m (£1.29m) investment in its capacity that has seen it optimise its production processes and strengthen its technical service team. Heiner Klokkers, chief executive officer of Flint Group Publications, says the transfer demonstrates a “clear commitment to meeting the needs of this sector.” Flint Group transfers newspaper ink production to Frankfurt Flint Group has relocated its newspaper ink production and service team to Frankfurt, Germany as part of wider investment in capacity Image: Dean Rossiter Photography
Following its efforts to become a carbon-neutral printer, ARC-UK Technologies, a company that specialises in print, signage, and design, has announced it is actively looking to acquire other print businesses to strengthen its geographical reach. The company is part of ARC Document Solutions, a New York-listed company that provides digital printing and document-related services to over 90,000 customers worldwide. Recently ARC-UK has dedicated itself to become a carbon-neutral printer and wants to help the industry reach net zero. The company is part of One Tree Planted, a non-profit organisation that helps plant at least one tree for each 8,333 sheets of paper used. Following successful contractual projects with large businesses in pharmaceuticals (GSK), international law (White & Case LLP), energy (ICE Futures), and property (Landsec), the Dartford-headquartered company is currently reviewing information memorandums for mergers and acquisitions. In 2021 the company announced revenue of £5.9m which then grew to £9.2m in 2023. The business is looking to reach £15m over the next few years. To help in its environmental objectives ARC-UK invested £1.2m in a new 30,000sq ft facility in Dartford and has recently expanded its fleet of electric vehicles and solar infrastructure. Darren Moorhouse, head of sales UK & Europe at ARC-UK, says: “To continue on our upward trajectory, we are looking to expand through acquiring other businesses with shared visions and values, aligned with our aims for what we wish to provide to our customers.” BUSINESS / NEWS 12 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine By David Osgar UK printer seeking new acquisitions Darren Moorhouse, head of sales UK & Europe at ARC-UK CoCoCo, a print industry SaaS company established by former colleagues from Zaikio, has announced a strategic partnership with Impressed, a provider of solutions and services for media production and digital pre-press. The collaboration aims to integrate CoCoCo’s advanced integration technology with the Impressed Workflow Server (IWS) which is utilised across various input and output systems in print production. IWS is a tool that automates the PDF workflow in pre-press and post-press stages, acting as a middleware to integrate MIS applications, web shops, and print broker platforms with output systems like workflow solutions, RIPs, and printing and finishing machines. Bernd Remus, co-leader of Impressed, says: “The era of ‘jack-of-all-trades’ software is over. Companies now seek optimal solutions for each purpose, necessitating integration with other applications and machines. Our collaboration with CoCoCo ensures that printing companies can achieve this seamlessly.” CoCoCo announces partnership [L to R] Florian Käsbauer and Bernd Remus from Impressed; John Maxwell, Andreas Aplien, and Karl Ciz from CoCoCo Antalis has published its ESG 2023 report, confirming its dedication to the Environment, Social Responsibility, and Governance. Across 2023, the distributor of paper, visual communications, and packaging products, made big strides on a range of ESG initiatives. These included implementing strategic actions and making tangible improvements, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to making a positive contribution to ESG. Environmental efforts included improving warehouse energy efficiency, offering more sustainable alternatives, ensuring the sustainability of wood fibre products, tackling greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing solutions to reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Antalis’ commitment to social initiatives led it to strive to achieve a ‘Zero’ workplace accident rate, improve employee skills, share initiatives, and promote best practices with the Antalis Group. The company also made donations, undertook sponsorships, and took part in charitable activities. Governance initiatives included ensuring Group transparency and alignment, risk assessments to guarantee sustainable sourcing from suppliers, and compliance with the highest international standards (ethics, labour, human rights, and environment). Antalis publishes its ESG 2023 report Antalis Group has published its 2023 Environmental, Social Responsibility, and Governance (ESG) report Canon UK & Ireland has announced the expansion of Canon Business Centre SOS (CBC SOS) in collaboration with Platinum Partner SOS systems which is headquartered in Crawley, West Sussex. Following what has been dubbed by Canon as a successful first year, Canon Business SOS is broadening its reach following SOS Systems’ acquisition of former Canon partner Abbey Office Solutions and legal service provider, London Legal. As a Canon Platinum Partner, CBC SOS has to meet stringent criteria to provide support, knowledge, and maintenance contracts when helping customers with their digital transformations. SOS Systems’ recent acquisitions has meant the establishment of a second office and sales team in Southampton, which in turn means expanding the company’s reach into SO, BH, and DT postcodes. Chris Sills, managing director of SOS Systems, says: “We highly value our partnership with Canon, and we’re more excited than ever about this next chapter. We look forward to leveraging these new opportunities to better serve our clients and drive innovation across the region.” Canon Business Centre SOS expansion [L to R] Chris Sills, managing director of SOS Systems, and Stuart Miller, director of B2B Indirect Sales at Canon UK&I By David Osgar
14 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 KIT & MEDIA / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine IGS celebrates string of global installations International Graphic Supplies (IGS), a supplier of CtP equipment based in Monmouthshire, has delivered several orders around the UK and countries like China, Lebanon, and the US. A recent installation by IGS was of its Titanium 330-R Reel to Reel Label Cutter at Stickershop in Bristol. The web-to-print company produces self-adhesives labels and stickers for various applications. The company invested in the 330-R in order to increase production capabilities, which is needed after the business’ high demand for core labels. Shane Pritchard, director of Stickershop, says: “We had looked at a range of label cutting machines including laser cutting but after thorough testing, and visiting an existing Titanium 330-R user, the Titanium 330-R exceeded our requirements. We have been delighted with the performance and reliability of the Titanium 2516 [purchased in 2021 from IGS], so it was a very easy decision to partner with IGS for a reel-to-reel cutter.” Recently IGS shipped four 40ft containers of machines to various countries overseas as well as three additional UK installations. Shipments included a Kodak Magnus 800 Multi Cassette and Lotem 800 to its distributor in China as well as a Screen 8800 Multi Cassette to GM Habis in Lebanon and three Screen 4300 S machines to IGS’ distributor in Africa. As well as installations for Heidelberg and Agfa machines, IGS has supplied another Screen 4300 to Barkers, a digital and lithographic print provider in Rochester. Peter Flynn, managing director at IGS, says: “It was with great pride as the ex-sales director of HighWater Designs when I listened to Jon the owner at Barkers tell me his HighWater Platinum 2230 Violet CtP was 25 years old and is still producing great quality plates but felt he needed to move to thermal no process plates. “What we can offer customers is an upgrade path to an affordable refurbished Thermal CtP. Moving from violet to a thermal CtP will allow the users to benefit from daylight operation and the ability to use direct-to-press plates. The early adopters of thermal CtP using Creo Trendsetters or basysPrint UV CtP are now looking for faster and fully automatic CtP systems.” Managing director of IGS, Peter Flynn [L] with the team at Stickershop By David Osgar PG Paper has launched a new containerboard range in the UK market as the result of a new strategic partnership with Opal. The new range to be supplied by PG Paper includes a unique lighter shade of virgin Kraft Liner Board (KLB) with a bright, smooth surface ideal for high-quality, professional printing, as well as 100% recycled Fluting and Testliner grades. Part of Opal’s paper division, the KLB is manufactured at the Maryvale Mill in Australia, whilst the recycled Testliner and Fluting are produced at the Botany Mill. To lead the distribution partnership, PG Paper has appointed Martin Ferarri as its new regional sales director. Lyndsey James-Williams, PG Paper’s commercial director, says: “The UK containerboard market is being driven by e-commerce and the increasing demand for sustainable and new packaging solutions from both consumers and retailers. “At PG Paper, we are committed to offering our customers innovative deepsea alternatives that enhance supply chain resilience. Opal’s advancements in quality, particularly in producing a unique KLB shade, allow us to provide packaging options that meet market demands and help our customers mitigate supply chain risks.” Bringing over 20 years of experience in the UK containerboard industry, Ferrari comments on his new role: “This partnership introduces a unique KLB solution to the market, offering UK customers exceptional print quality with Opal’s distinctive shade, perfect for high-quality, professional printing need. “I am delighted to join the PG Paper team and start my role by playing a pivotal part in this collaboration.” PG Paper launches Opal Containerboard range PG Paper is now supplying Opal’s containerboard range in the UK as the result of a new strategic partnership Elliott Baxter & Company (EBB) has announced it is now stocking the new and improved WestRock KraftPak Evadale. The updates to the product are said to be in line with current trends and technologies. A single-ply uncoated, unbleached kraft paperboard, KraftPak Evadale is manufactured at WestRock’s Evadale Mill in Texas. The paperboard is said to offer a consistent and uniform surface with an attractive natural brown appearance. The new grade also has enhanced printing properties and can now be printed on both sides. As well as this, the new product is lighter in shade than its predecessor and the calliper grammages available have been updated. A4 samples and trial sheets are now available from local EBB sales offices. EBB is now stocking WestRock KraftPak Evadale EBB is now stocking the updated WestRock KraftPak Evadale paperboard. Pictured: Smurfit Westrock Macadamia KraftPak By Carys Evans
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SOFTWARE / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine 18 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 Five new companies invest in GelatoConnect PressUp in Italy, JVNZ in Australia and New Zealand, Oschatz Visuelle Medien in Germany, Exakta in Sweden, and ESP Colour in the UK have all invested in GelatoConnect workflow. The platform integrates materials ordering and tracking, pre-press, printing, post-press, and packaging tasks into a single system. This means that over time, all existing workflow solutions within these print providers’ facilities will be replaced with GelatoConnect. A machine-and-product agnostic workflow software for the print industry, GelatoConnect is ideal for printers with short print runs that are highly personalised and are often received directly from e-commerce – reflecting the evolution of print in recent years. According to a McKinsey study, GelatoConnect can increase profit margins by up to seven percentage points when combined with GelatoConnect Procurement and Logistics module. Vincenzo Cirimele, chief executive officer of PressUP, comments: “GelatoConnect is revolutionising the print industry by providing a seamless, integrated solution that enhances production efficiency and profitability. We are witnessing real-time tangible improvements in our production efficiencies and cost base. “By fully deploying GelatoConnect Workflow, we are setting a new standard for efficiency and profitability in the print industry.” Henrik Muller-Hansen, chief executive officer and founder of Gelato, adds: “We are honoured to work with these print trailblazers to continually improve our software. We are constantly innovating to stay ahead of the industry trends and meet the evolving needs of our customers. “GelatoConnect users can look forward to cutting-edge features that haven’t been accessible to the print industry in the past, enabling them to compete not just in print production, but in the global retail space.” [L to R] ESP Colour managing director Simon Smogur and Henrik MullerHansen, chief executive officer and founder of Gelato at drupa By Carys Evans Atomyx launches self-onboarding for Atomyx Prepare Atomyx has launched self-onboarding for its pre-press/PDF processing SaaS API, Atomyx Prepare. The launch of self-onboarding for Atomyx Prepare allows interested parties to start a trial license, while existing Atomyx customers can utilise and manage their Atomyx Prepare subscriptions. Built on callas pdfToolbox technology, Atomyx Prepare is a modern SaaS API that preflights, converts, checks, optimises, and prepares files for high-quality, automated print production. With self-onboarding, potential and existing customers are able to initiate and manage their Atomyx Prepare subscription and get their API key. Now, anybody can try out the product, with 500 processing credits available to allow users to integrate cloud-based artwork processing with Atomyx Prepare into their e-commerce or production environment. Atomyx Prepare has already been implemented by Atomyx partners such as cloud-based MIS platform Omikai and web-to-print provider DesignNBuy, with a number of further partnerships in progress. Printed.com, an Atomyx customer, is already streamlining its print production and reducing overheads with Atomyx Prepare. Lee McIntosh, chief technology officer at the company, comments: “Artwork processing technology is nothing new, but a fully cloud-based solution like Atomyx Prepare is certainly a gamechanger. “Atomyx Prepare eliminates so much of the hassle within the process, it has been so simple to integrate into our production, and significantly lowers our implementation costs.” Tom Peire, chief evangelist at Atomyx, adds: “When we launched Atomyx in February 2024, we were delighted with the reaction from customers, partners, and industry experts. “Since then, the Atomyx rocket has kept on soaring, with successful partnership announcements with the likes of Omikai and DesignNBuy, an incredibly busy drupa, and now of course this latest news – the benefits of Atomyx Prepare are now available to all!” Tom Peire, chief evangelist at Atomyx which launched in 2014 By Carys Evans
ENVIRONMENT / NEWS 20 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine September / October 2024 - Issue 350 Sappi Europe, a global supplier of pulp, biomaterials, and a range of paper products, has recently showcased the advancements and future plans of its Gratkorn Mill in Austria. The site produces a variety of label and multi-coated papers including the Magno Paper range. In the UK and Ireland Magno Paper is exclusively distributed by Elliott Baxter & Company (EBB) which operates via a number of locations throughout the UK and Ireland. Sappi says the mill’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and to decarbonising operations has been done by investing in new water turbines between 2018 and 2020 and shifting from a coal boiler to a multi-fuel boiler in 2022. The changes have meant Gratkorn Mill has increased its hyrdo-electric generation by almost 10% and has reduced its CO2 by over 30% along with reducing its dust and nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions. Up until now Gratkorn has succeeded in modifying the pulp bleaching technology used on-site, enabling more circularity of water and wastewater and the reduction of water consumption in a partially closed circuit. Sappi is now working on its Decarbonisation Plan for 2025-2030 as well as preparing for the European paper industry to advance towards climate neutrality and create a more transparent supply chain. By focusing on the efficiency and quality of its larger mills Sappi sees the best plan forward is to turn its locations into Product Hubs that can transport stock via more sustainable routes to better supply the industry quicker and more efficiently. By David Osgar Sappi commits to sustainability at Gratkorn Mill Gratkorn Mill includes areas for pulp and paper production, paper finishing, as well as its woodyard, warehouses, utilities, and water and wastewater treatment facilities Global provider of sustainable fibrebased packaging solutions, DS Smith, has enabled Carlsberg Poland to save up to 224 tonnes of CO2 annually with a new packaging design. DS Smith Round Wrap, a multi-pack packaging solution that rounds corners, reducing the use of shrink film on the pallet, has been introduced on selected Carlsberg Poland product lines. In addition to reducing the use of shrink film on the pallet, the rounded corners of the design have also had additional benefits to branding and design. This includes increased opportunities to place brand identity and illustration on the rounded corners and across the entire 360-degree side surface of the packs. 224 tonnes of CO2 saved annually with packaging design DS Smith's Round Wrap design offers sustainable and branding benefits and was created using DS Smith’s Circular Design Metrics tools Greater Manchester-based European importer of fabrics, yarns, and finished fabrics, Premier Textiles, has joined the Better Cotton Platform (BCP) as a supplier. BCP is an online system that works alongside the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), a global effort to make cotton production more sustainable by reducing environmental stress and improving the livelihoods of cotton farmers. Over 13,000 ginners, traders, spinners, fabric mills, garment and end-product manufacturers, sourcing agents, and retailers utilise the BCP. Non-profit organisation, BCI, trains cotton farmers worldwide on more sustainable farming practices. This includes efficient water use, care for natural habitats, reduced use of harmful chemicals, and respectful rights of workers. Ashok Kallumpram, group managing director of Premier Textiles, says: “We work with mills that share our passion for sustainability and adhering to rigorous standards, including in chemical management, material sustainability, water and waste management, and renewable energy efficiency. “We support the BCI and the move towards buying all BCI cotton. By joining the BCP, we can trade on the platform which further strengthens our firm commitment to sustainability.” An independent family-owned group founded in 1981, Premier Textiles stocks over five million linear metres of fabric at any given time. According to Premier Textiles, cotton sourced from Better Cotton farms gets mixed with conventional cotton throughout production via a chain of custody system called mass balance. This means that products sourced via the system of mass balance may not contain Better Cotton. Premier Textiles joins the Better Cotton Platform Premier Textiles has joined the Better Cotton Platform (BCP) as a supplier By Carys Evans Amazon should bear more responsibility for the environmental impact of its parcel deliveries, according to cardboard recycling experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk. The e-commerce giant which relies heavily on cardboard boxes, leaves the recycling of its materials to customers, who do not always dispose of Amazon boxes in the most environmentally friendly way. As such, BusinessWaste.co.uk is suggesting Amazon take back used packaging for proper recycling, helping alleviate the burden on customers and local waste management systems while ensuring materials are reused efficiently. In addition, BusinessWaste.co.uk raised concerns over the excessive use of cardboard for small parcels, with small items often packed in disproportionately large boxes, leading to unnecessary waste. Calls for Amazon takeback scheme on cardboard boxes According to BusinessWaste. co.uk, over one third of cardboard ends up in landfill
22 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2024 - Issue 350 PEOPLE / NEWS PrintMonthly printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine Eight Group, a print and marketing company which rebranded prior to the acquisition of Marketlayer earlier in the year, has announced appointments within the group. Karen Herbert and Rob Moules have been promoted to divisional managing directors for Eight Days A Week Print Solutions (Eight Days) and Eight Plus respectively whilst Gabe Cooney continues in his role as managing director of Marketlayer. The changes within the group has meant Lance Hill has changed role from group managing director to chief executive officer of Eight Group. Hill comments: “There has been a lot going on in the last three years – the MBO in 2021, the launch of Eight Plus in 2022, B Corp certification in 2023, and the acquisition or Marketlayer this year.” In March Tom Oldershaw joined the company to assist in the broadening of services as strategic solutions director. Hill says: “With Tom on board as well we now have the correct infrastructure and senior team to continue with our strategic offering, whilst also retaining our core principles of delivering award winning customer service.” By David Osgar New changes for Eight Group [L to R] Rob Moules, managing director, Eight Plus; Lance Hill, CEO, Eight Group; Karen Herbert, managing Director, Eight Days HP and members of the HP UK&I team have been taking part in ‘Portrait of HP’, an initiative created to pay tribute to team members’ time with the business. The project meant working with Hampshire-based print business JONDO UK to produce special portrait prints on the company’s HP Latex 3600. The idea for the project came from Rodrigo Moctezuma, HP UK&I Ink & Media category manager, who wanted to combine his passion for photography with HP’s mission to celebrate diversity and inclusion. Employees took part in several photoshoots which included conversations with Moctezuma about their time at HP, their lives outside work, and their heritage. Photographs were printed in wide-format and placed at HP’s ‘Kick-Off’ event before being moved to the main HP UK office in Reading. Speaking about the project, Moctezuma says: “Each picture, including those that were not printed for the Kick-Off event, tells a story. The Portrait of HP series as a whole talks about the history, diversity, and inclusion of HP and, most importantly, the people that work here.” HP celebrates with ‘Portrait of HP’ The 'Portrait of HP' project was showcased at HP’s annual ‘KickOff’ event where wide-format photographs were placed on show BOBST, based in Mex, Switzerland, has awarded its employee, Tim Lair, Additive Manufacturing Engineer with the company’s 2024 Inventor Award. The employee has been honoured for his work in optimising the workflow of platen systems like die-cutters and hot stamping units which use 3D printed parts. The winner was chosen from a pool of inventions created by BOBST employees which were awarded a patent for the first time in 2023. According to BOBST, Lair’s invention excelled in all four criteria: current and future commercial value, technical value, technical value for the customer, and product marketability. The annual Inventor Award scheme is sponsored by chief executive officer for BOBST, Jean-Pascal Bobst and was created to increase awareness of the company’s intellectual property. Lair’s invention, Sealing of Bernoulli module, introduces a basic system that make it easy to install a simple braking mechanism called a Bernoulli brake at the entrance of a platen. The system means module assembly becomes much easier and can also potentially reduce the cost of machine manufacturing. BOBST announces Inventor Award winner [L to R] Jean-Pascal Bobst, CEO Bobst Group; Tim Lair; and Sigrid Wagner, Bobst Group IP Director Flexographic Industry Association UK (FIAUK) has appointed Steve Mulcahy, chief executive of Contact Originators, as the new chair of its board. Mulcahy was named in the role at the recent FIAUK Annual Awards, with the organisation saying he will bring a “fresh vision and deep industry expertise” to the position. FIAUK advocates for the flexographic print sector, promoting technical development, and enhancing education and training. Mulcahy replaces Andy Wilson as chair. “I am honoured to be appointed as the new chair of FIAUK, building on the excellent groundwork created by my predecessor Andy Wilson,” Mulcahy says, adding: “Even with the challenges we all face, FIAUK partners and members continue to outperform on the world's stage. “It is organisations like FIAUK that ensure the entire supply chain is rowing in the same direction and lobbies for its interests. “I believe that the UK is home to some of the most innovative and creative printing and packaging companies found anywhere in the world, many of whom are found within the FIAUK organisation.” FIAUK names Mulcahy as new chair Steve Mulcahy replaces Andy Wilson as chair of the FIAUK board By David Osgar By David Osgar By Rob Fletcher
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