Print & Packaging Innovation Asia January 24

Print+Packaging INNOVATION Asia

Serving Printing, Packaging and Publishing Industries across Asia Pacific since 1985 Issue 1 2024

A big year for the label industry and a big year for

Full interview from page 6

9th INTERNATIONAL

10th AND International PACKAGING PRINTING EXHIBITION ASIA Packaging AndFOR Printing Exhibition For Asia

O T S G T N I H G I E H SOAR NEW Uncovering Total Solutions for the Packaging and Printing Industries

17 – 20

SEP 2025

BITEC • Bangkok www.pack-print.de

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Jointly organized by :

Within Thailand Exposis Co., Ltd Tel (66) 2559 0856-8 info@exposis.co.th Overseas Messe Düsseldorf Asia Pte Ltd Tel (65) 6332 9620 ppi@mda.com.sg

The Thai Printing Association

23rd

ASIAN PACKAGING EXCELLENCE AWARDS: 2024

In this issue 8 12 16 20 26

A big year for the label indusrty and a big year for MPS Systems Corrugated packaging – threats and opportunities.

Heidelberg focused on consulting services to help customers improve productivity CPI builds sustainable growth with One complete solution from BOBST Ten HEIDELBERG innovationscut costs and alleviate

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skills shortage Capable of Printing on Ultra-thin Paper & Enhancing High-mix, Small-lot One-stop Production Beyond-Plastic – Innovation & sustainability become

36 38

indivisible in the food sector Everything’s Possible with a Book Simplify production and enjoy consistent results with

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PureFlexo™ Printing from Miraclon How Attacks in the Red Sea Could Increase Costs of Items from Printing to Coffee XSYS launches digital configuration tool for rotec®

44 46 48

adapters Rang Dong switches allegiance to Vetaphone Turning bland into brilliance Successful Personalized Print Marketing: Tools, Tips,

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48 56

and Programmatic Printing Sustainability New and information from around the region and the world USED MACHINERY AND CLASSIFIEDS

Issue 1 - 24

Print - Packaging INNOVATION

Asia Magazine

Published by Asian Print Awards Management Pte Ltd 65 Chulia Street #46-23 OCBC Centre 049513 Singapore Print Innovation Asia Labels and Packaging Innovation Asia Asian Print Awards Packageing Excellence Awards Label and Packaging Conferences Publisher Paul Callaghan paul@printinnovationasia.com Editorial

Elizabeth Liew elizabeth@printinnovationasia.com

Packaging Sales Elizabeth Liew elizabeth@printinnovationasia.com

Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam 7-8 November

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

A big year for the and a big year for MPS Systems has firmly established itself as a leader in the label industry and we recently had the chance to talk to Richard Miedema, Global Sales Director, MPS Printing and Tim Klappe, Managing Director MPS Asia Pacific about what the industry should be aware about as we are into 2024 and things are always changing and sometimes challenging.

Please introduce yourself to our Asian readers, what is your past relationship with the printing industry and also labels/packaging area Richard Miedema (RM), Global Sales Director, MPS Printing RM: I joined MPS in 2021, as Regional Sales Director DACH – responsible to grow the MPS brand in the German speaking region. MPS is a leading provider of printing solutions for label printers and converters. As of December 2023, I am responsible for managing MPS’ commercial teams and supporting our customers globally to foster partnerships and grow in a sustainable fashion by becoming a high-performance manufacturer of label & packaging products.

My professional career started in printing, and I have not left since. I have had multiple product management and sales roles in my career, working for DG press and Contiweb. a customer-centric approach is always at the very heart of

what I strive to bring to my work. Strong customer relationships and partnerships are pivotal to our success.

MPS Systems has had some positive rapid growth over the past few years, why do you think this is the case?

RM: MPS has always been on the forefront of innovation, but people tend to forget that it is still quite a young company that has entered and grown in a playing field with several traditional and established manufacturers. It is our task to remain on that forefront and stay ahead of the game, which is also how we strive to be perceived by our customers.

Therefore, we are focusing on excellence in performance, but performance does not just come when you purchase a good quality machine. It comes with a framework of conditions that a converter needs to pay close attention to. We are critically looking at our role as a supplier should and potentially could be to help our customers to success.

Richard Miedema, Global Sales Director | MPS Systems BV

Tim Klappe, Managing Director | MPS Systems Asia

label indusrty MPS has been focusing for several years on all aspects beyond the machine to optimize uptime, efficiency, and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

Critical next step is the development of our connectivity platform that not only enables our customers to identify bottlenecks, but immediately acts as an on-the-job training platform with our Virtual Coach. Artificial Intelligence will play a more and more important role in this development.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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MPSConnect and Performance programs enable printers to achieve higher OEE, lower Total Cost of Print and highest profit.

In Asia, what will the be key to keep MPS Systems moving forward, is it Product fit, service, connectivity, adaptability etc.

Tim Klappe Managing Director MPS Asia Pacific (TK) TK: Services are of key importance. Not just trouble shooting and application support. But as well programs to increase the overall performance of the print operation. We believe that the MPS press is a top performing press. To make full use of this press, the operation and workflow must be in sync with each other. That is not always the case. We as MPS can support these improvement programs.

This is a different way of thinking.

Not all printers adapt to this. So, in the coming year, we will provide more and more information, case studies to proof our concept to the market. In that way, we believe that more label printers in Asia will see the big improvements that can be made by using factual input about the machine performance together with studies of their workflows. This concept is the same as Formula 1 is using. It is not just one fast car and a good driver that makes a car win the race. The winners use a lot of data and analyze what is really going on in the race. They identify areas of improvements and make actions around that. That is what MPS uses as well.

On a continuous basis we are improving the press itself as well. With our EFseries and EXL-series, we will stay at the top-end of the performance scale. Our vision is to make the best performing and easiest to use machine. We will keep on doing this. Adapting the new technologies which come on the market to make the machine better and better. By doing this, we believe that an MPS press can generate the lowest cost per label and highest profit per year. Provided of course that you have label jobs to fill the press. MPS presses need to be used. It’s not a press to use for one or two hours a day.

to be able to produce a different kind of product or different substrate than they can currently run on their existing equipment. Our presses are ideally positioned to run any kind of material without any modification to the press providing optimum flexibility.

When printers look to purchase what are the key parameters you hear from them time and time again (not only price).

Our focus is on doing more with less manufacturing footprint, enabling our customers to become more efficient and streamline production rather than increase. In essence, we strongly believe that an MPS press will provide you with the lowest Total Cost of Print.

RM: It depends on the future orientation of each company that is looking to invest.

Sometimes it is to open new markets and

In other times, it is to increase capacity or replace aging equipment. We see our customers are struggling with finding enough skilled operators to staff their busy production schedule. Of course, the first consideration is to add an additional press, however, we strongly believe this is not how our industry is able to grow.

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Landing page of the Management Dashboard showing relevant and factual press productivity information. No operator input.

For a few years, we are investing heavily in connectivity solutions providing our customers with insights on performance levels of their operations. We see enormous differences in efficiency between converters, and we see enormous potential to improve organically without the need to investing in additional manufacturing footprint.

Digital and labels, what are your future movements here. Do you think digital will have the impact on our industry everyone is being told, or do you think it will still be a mix of technologies. Is flexo under threat?

RM: It already has had an enormous impact. I think digital is not an emerging technology anymore in the Label market.

It has been around for more than 20 years now and has nothing to prove. You currently see the technology maturing, but you also see its growth rate flattening.

Of course, we have been following digital technologies. It has some specific qualities that other print technologies simply cannot offer. On the other hand, I also believe digital printing is sometimes used for jobs that, from a Total Cost of Print perspective, should not be run digitally.

TK: “Conventional flexo” has developed significantly over the past years. The printing quality is now on par with offset presses. The set-up times have decreased tremendously as a result of machine automation plus as of workflow and

prepress developments. Therefore, the cross-over point of digital to conventional flexo is somewhere in between 750 to 1500 linear meters. Depending on the repeats per job. Digital and conventional flexo are truly complementary to each other.

We are seeing more “China” made machines appearing on the market. Will this impact your sales globally or do printers still feel that going with global established manufactures is the way forward. If yes, then why?

RM: Yes and no, we are seeing that “nonWestern” made machines are improving in quality. However, since a few years, we have made the strategic decision to move away from basic machines and focus on the high-end segment of the market with more automation with the best Total Cost of Print.

TK: Important to realize is that the cost of equipment depends mostly on the cost of the components.

Labour and land/building cost is a small part of the total cost. As MPS we have a very efficient manufacturing process. So, the reason that some machines are lower priced than other machines is mainly caused by the cost of the components. As MPS, we are using the best

components. We are using components to give the highest accuracy, best durability, and best performance.

That comes at a price. Machines that are lower in price are using components with a lower accuracy, lower durability, and lower performance. That does not have to be wrong of course. Not everyone needs a top performing press. Especially if you do not have enough jobs to fill the machine or when you just start your business and do not have enough budget.

But, when you need performance, MPS will be the best press to invest in.

Environment, sustainability, and other impacts on our industry. How is MPS Systems factoring these into the future of the label industry.

Is Asia any difference from other markets in this area?

RM: The trend on focus on sustainability is impacting our industry quite heavily. In our view, sustainability is not just limited

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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MPS Connect makes your flexo press transparent - Printers can access the machine’s factual data in detail. From real time to months, including global benchmarks

be able to experience our Vision of Best Manufacturing Practice in real life. to the environment, but it also means to grow our industry sustainably. In general, label consumption is growing year on year, and in essence, we are all challenged to “do more with less”. I guess being from the Netherlands, a country with small geographical footprint, but with a high density of population per m2, doing more with less is a motto we live by every day.

In terms of flexo printing, in order to grow our industry sustainably, we need to live by that same motto. Growing demand whilst there is increasing legislation on environment, sustainability, and safety, whilst human capital is scarce is a challenge for everyone. One element that we are monitoring closely is the energy consumption and waste. By optimizing the use of energy and measuring this together with reducing waste we are contributing further to sustainability.

TK: In Asia, environmental regulations are becoming more and more strict.

Even though the local governments are not always enforcing the regulations, brand-owners are putting pressure on the printers to comply with both the local regulations and their own regulations.

For those printers that have international brand owners as their customers, they must have the facilities in place to support sustainability.

Looking at Drupa. What advice would you give industry players who are attending -1. Look out for good applications/technology and in what areas are you seeing things happen and 2. What to be careful of and avoid at all costs.

RM: Of course, whilst attending DRUPA, I would recommend everyone a visit to the MPS headquarters, which is only little over 1 hour from Düsseldorf. You will

Any last words of wisdom and advice for our industry RM: When investing in additional new equipment, plan a few years ahead.

Other than adding capacity, where is your business going, how can you maintain growth sustainably over the next years and how does this investment contribute to this plan?

The personalized AI-driven trainer guides the operator during production via the MPSConnect VirtualCoach screen.

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Corrugated packaging – threats and opportunities.

By Daniel Brunton. Publisher, ‘International Paper Board Industry’ magazine.

To say that the packaging industry has been on a rollercoaster ride for the last few years would be an understatement!

For the corrugated packaging sector, the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 ended up being somewhat of a recordbreaker. Like all industries, the sector had to seriously take a look at itself in the mirror in the opening weeks of the pandemic in March 2020, but within a matter of months and clearly identified as a ‘critical supply’ sector, the industry helped retailers convert to online business models and the boom in e-commerce is a well-documented outcome.

Since then, the sector faced the seesaw effect of supply chain pressures, with OEMs finding it difficult to get all the components needed to be able to complete the build of their hi-tech equipment – lead times went from 8 months in many cases to 18 months almost overnight – this played havoc with balance sheets, with some OEMs simply rolling over and declaring bankruptcy.

For converters, the pressure of long lead times for paper or board meant delivery times went from 5 days to 5 weeks in some instances! Fast forward to 2022 and things started to get back to some sort of normality, but then started the conflict in Ukraine – and supply chains were then squeezed once more, with the outcome of rapidly escalating energy costs. Could the corrugated industry pivot once again?

Evolving Landscape Today, the biggest challenges for corrugated packaging converters are as follows.

• Sustainability: environmental concerns and increasing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions have posed a significant challenge for the corrugated sector. The industry has been striving to reduce waste, increase recyclability, and develop eco-friendly alternatives to other packaging materials.

• Raw material costs: fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, particularly paper, can impact the profitability of corrugated converter. These companies often face challenges in managing and mitigating the effects of price volatility. The recent downward movement on price has been dramatic, but seems to have bottomed out as of June 2023.

• Supply chain: disruptions in the global supply chain, such as natural disasters, trade disputes, and transportation issues, affect the timely delivery of raw materials and finished products. Converters must

“If you are interested in looking at digital printing equipment, digital cutting and short run box making equipment, drupa is definitely for you!”

develop robust supply chain strategies to minimise the impact of such disruptions.

• Technological advancements: keeping pace with technological advancements and adopting innovative manufacturing processes can be a challenge for corrugated converters. Investments in automation, digitalization, and advanced machinery may be required to remain competitive and meet evolving customer demands.

• Customization and personalization: increasingly, customers expect customized packaging solutions to meet their specific requirements. Corrugated converters must find ways to efficiently handle smaller production runs and accommodate customization requests while maintaining cost-effectiveness and production efficiency.

• E-commerce: the rise of e-commerce has created some interesting challenges for packaging converters. The industry must adapt to the demands of online retailers, such as providing packaging solutions

Connect to Grow Unleash your printing potential Connect to Grow. That is your key to stay ahead in a demanding market. By connecting with MPSConnect, you ensure the best in reliability and productivity from your printing press. You will increase competitive advantages and maximize profits.

With MPSConnect we see recurring annual cost savings

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

that offer product protection, costeffectiveness, easy handling, and efficient use of space during transportation.

“To say that the packaging industry has been on a rollercoaster ride for the last few years would be an understatement!”

• Regulatory Compliance: evolving regulations related to product safety, labelling, waste management, and environmental standards can pose challenges for the corrugated industry.

Staying updated with regulatory changes and ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards is essential.

Importance of drupa If you are interested in looking at digital printing equipment, digital cutting and short run box making equipment and anything that will give you an edge in the market, drupa is definitely for you!

Software, workflow and so much more to look at and discuss. Let’s face it, to make a difference you need to be agile – and to coin a phrase from a good industry friend of mine in Orlando, “We need to be technology businesses now – we are no longer simply box makers.”

Over the years, commentators dubbed drupa with a headline: ‘the printer’s show’, ‘the digital show’ and many other iterations. I wrote an article after drupa in 2016, and I christened it the ‘Digital Print for Corrugated’ drupa, as I was shocked at how many European corrugated converters I met in the aisles – so much so, I launched a quarterly magazine with the same name! Admittedly, they all said that digital print was their primary reason

for visiting, particularly as digital print for corrugated was still very much in its infancy.

Fast forward almost eight years, and some would say that digital print is now well established, although the numbers would not necessarily support this; interestingly, it is only in the last year or so that we have seen the 100th installation of a single-pass high speed digital press for corrugated packaging in Europe/North America – why is it taking so long to gain market acceptance?

“it is only in the last year or so that we have seen the 100th installation of a single-pass high speed digital press for corrugated packaging in Europe/ North America”

There are a multitude of reasons, such as ink costs, speed etc, but all these are being addressed and maybe the advent of hybrid flexo/digital could be the answer the industry is looking for? The first solution is now in commercial production, with machines running in Europe, Africa and North America. Could this be the future, the best of both worlds? Time will tell.

The other thing the sector faced during the pandemic was the lack of chances to meet and share ideas. Well, that is in the rear-view mirror now and the plethora of shows and conferences bears testament to the need for our industries to meet. drupa gives us the chance to meet once more and to share experiences. For the European corrugated industry it is worth the effort to keep up to speed with everything that is new and digital.

About the author Daniel Brunton is the publisher of two fibre-based packaging magazines, aimed at converters of corrugated and folding carton board. The titles include ‘International Paper Board Industry’ and ‘Folding Carton Industry’. Active in the sector since 1994, the drupa event takes place in Daniel’s 30th anniversary of starting at Brunton Business Publications Ltd, a fifth-generation family-owned media business. He is well known within the converting and OEM market place for fibre-based packaging, and speaks regularly at industry and trade association events around the world.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Heidelberg focused on consulting services to help customers improve productivity In recent years, Heidelberg has focused on consulting services to help customers improve their productivity. Hans-Jürgen Fink, Senior Consultant at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, explains what this consultancy service entails and how it is being developed in Japan.

It was around 2018 that we started qualifying the consultancy services we offer today.

Heidelberg's consulting services started in 2005, mainly in the area of equipment investment consulting. Later, in 2007, as the organization grew, the number of consultants increased, but from 2008 onwards, Germany was hit by the economic crisis and the company lost a lot of personnel, with the result that the consulting service had to be temporarily discontinued. Subsequently, in 2016, together with four other consultants, we started to develop an integrated consulting approach for printing companies. This led to a number of performance workshops, such as the “Speed Workshop”, “Make Ready Workshop” and the “Waste Workshop”, and many other individual consulting products were created.

For customers in Japan, we started supporting Hokuriku Sunrise, which introduced Subscription Plus in 2019

to improve productivity. We focused on standardizing our consulting products in 2019 and started training our consultants around the world so they can advise customers in their respective countries.

In our new 'Subscription' business model, it is important that we help our customers optimize their processes and align their leaders and employees.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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In this regard, I see three key points.

The first is the development and standardization of new consultancy products, such as the “Energy Workshop”. Second, the Qualification of international consultants. The third is the implementation of projects based on customer demand. Looking back over the last year, our customers were seriously affected by the energy price spike.

We therefore organized time-tested, standardized workshops on energy.

The important thing in consulting is to first listen to the customer and find out what problems they are facing. If we do consulting without knowing the customer, the support we provide to the customer may not be appropriate.

Therefore, we find out directly what the

We consultants ourselves are growing in experience with each workshop session.

Each consultant performs a variety of tasks.

Knowing where each individual's strengths lie and how to make the most of them is crucial for both the consultant and the customer. All consultants must also have the ability to listen to understand the customer's concerns, analyze their processes and work in a structured way to solve their problems.

I have conducted workshops at customer sites in Japan and I feel that Heidelberg uses a different approach to its competitors. This different approach is precisely the reason why customers choose Heidelberg.

our customers in improving their profits.

Even if a customer installs a new machine, Intellistart and Quality Assistants are meaningless if they don't have the right people to operate it correctly.

We don't just sell machines, we provide and synchronize these four things to our customers: machines, systems, processes and people. We believe this is our strength and the value we can offer our customers.

We are also offering consultancy in other Asian countries, and next year we plan to expand our in-house training even further, bringing consultants from different countries together in the Heidelberg Japan showroom for workshops. By bringing together not only consultants from Japan, but also from Indonesia and

Workshop at Heidelberg Japan, Hans-Jürgen Fink, Senior Consultant at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG

customer is having problems with. Is the job folder not being entered correctly? Is the machine performance not being used correctly? Is the data not being submitted correctly from the prepress to the press?

In many cases, these problems can be solved through proactive leadership.

And as consultants who lead our clients to success, we naturally need to be skilled as well. There are many different types of consultants. For example, some of my colleagues are really good at attracting people around them, others are good at setting up arrangements that improve work efficiency, and many other types of consultants. This diversity of consultants with different strengths is a good thing about our consultant team.

More importantly, we do not make our money from the consulting business.

Heidelberg's core business is selling machines, systems and consumables & parts, with consulting being an add-on.

We don't just sell machines, we support

South Korea, we expect the training to be even better, and it will provide networking between experts. We hope that you will continue to look forward to Heidelberg's consulting in the future.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

CPI builds sustainable growth with One complete solution from BOBST PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia (CPI) Flexible Packaging has grown 10% each year since its inception in 2019, thanks to a strategic partnership with BOBST. A key contributor to this success is oneECG (Extended Color Gamut) technology, which enables CPI to produce high-quality flexible packaging with great consistency and high speed while also lowering costs and offering better sustainability.

Located in Cikande, Serang, 50 km west of Jakarta, CPI Flexible Packaging was established primarily to serve the packaging needs of its parent company, the leading food manufacturer Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Group.

The printing company specializes in producing laminated flexible packaging structures for frozen food, a sector that

has witnessed significant growth in recent years.

Previously, CPI Group bought packaging from outside suppliers. However, a few years ago, it made the strategic decision to bring the entire production process in-house. In setting up the new printing business, the company chose to install a state-of-the-art BOBST CI flexo press with smartGPS (Graphic Positioning System) and oneECG technology, complemented by a 450m/min BOBST multi-technology laminator. This shift also involved the establishment of an in-house prepress team and platemaking facilities. Investing in this One complete

solution set by BOBST was essential in developing the new flexible packaging activities with success.

In a market where gravure still dominates, the strategy was, in some ways, a gamble.

“Our complete flexo solution from BOBST is a break with the gravure tradition in this region, but I’m proud to say that this new approach has paid off, without compromising on quality,” stated General Manager Ms. Junny Kumala.

“CPI is still a relatively new company, but we have proven that flexo is a costeffective and sustainable solution.”

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Efficient operations through automation CPI is leveraging its BOBST printing and laminating capabilities to deliver the flexibility, reliability, and fast turnaround its customers require. Ms. Kumala said, “Run lengths are getting shorter – some are ultra-short, just 3000 to 8000 meters per job – and customers want justin-time delivery, with no buffer stock stored at their warehouses. Fortunately, with our BOBST setup, we can meet those demands with high-quality printed packaging delivered in just three days.”

BOBST’s smartGPS precision platemounting system has been one of the game-changers for CPI. This wellproven innovation eliminates operator interaction on press by automatically generating registration and impression settings offline, during the plate mounting stage.

“The various automation features on the BOBST flexo press aid our operators, speed up production, and increase productivity. Importantly, they also

greatly reduce the resources needed for setup, so we save a lot of ink, materials, and energy,” Ms. Kumala stated.

She added, “We have also invested in BOBST’s Maintenance Plus program, which reduces unplanned downtime. It helps to create excellent habits of regular maintenance, making sure the machine is always in good condition, ready to produce the next job.”

Fixing the gamut with oneECG As global pressures for more sustainable solutions intensify, printing companies are compelled to adopt innovative technologies that can help them cut down on waste and energy usage. However, the demand for high quality persists.

In response, CPI embraced BOBST’s oneECG technology, which optimizes color matching, making it consistent and repeatable. By digitalizing color matching, operator involvement is also minimized, meaning printers experience fewer color variations. All colors are

printed with a fixed set of inks – CMYK alone or in combination with orange, green, and violet – eliminating the need for expensive spot colors and timeconsuming changeovers.

“As well as reducing waste, we are seeing much faster makereadies and higher productivity with BOBST oneECG because the inks stay on the press. The color consistency is also very high, both across the print run and for repeat jobs – a crucial factor for brand owners,” explained Ms. Kumala. “Additionally, our in-house prepress facility, coupled with oneECG, has streamlined our digital job proofing processes, saving more valuable time.”

Looking ahead Nearly five years into CPI’s partnership with BOBST, Ms. Kumala noted, “I can safely say that our experience proves BOBST to be a trusted partner in highquality flexible packaging through its timely service, consistent product quality, and continuous improvement. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the local team for their unwavering support.”

CPI envisions substantial growth in the dynamic flexible packaging market and is actively exploring future investments.

Ms. Kumala concluded, “Packaging, especially in frozen food, is a promising market due to the increasing demand for easy and cost-effective meal options.” As CPI continues to thrive, its commitment to sustainability and innovation remains at the forefront of its initiatives.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Ten HEIDELBERG innovations cut costs and alleviate skills shortage • Costs per printed sheet key for print shops • State-of-the-art sheetfed offset technology from HEIDELBERG ensures competitiveness The printing industry faces two main challenges – continuing cost pressure and, increasingly, a shortage of skilled workers. Heidelberg offers print shops solutions that can help with both these key issues. “Cutting-edge sheetfed offset technology from Heidelberg is becoming ever more productive compared to the previous models. In certain cases, it can even double a print shop’s output thanks to the combination of Push to Stop and Performance Services.

By automating the printing process, we are also helping to compensate for the difficulty in filling posts,” says Dr. David Schmedding, the company’s Global Head of Sales & Marketing. “At the same time, sheetfed offset remains many customers’ method of choice for cost-effective highvolume printing,” he adds.

Ten selected innovations and customer examples: (1) Exceptional efficiency: With a printing speed of 21,000 sheets per hour, the Speedmaster XL 106 from Heidelberg makes it possible to increase net output in folding carton production by up to ten percent compared to the standard configuration with an output of 18,000 sheets per hour.

With a printing speed of 21,000 sheets per hour, the Speedmaster XL 106 makes it possible to increase net output in folding carton production

For in-mold label production on the Speedmaster XL 106, Heidelberg offers a performance package designed for the specific requirements of in-mold materials that enables up to 15 percent higher production speeds to be achieved.

(2) Automation to combat the skills shortage: As it moves toward an autonomous pressroom, HEIDELBERG is equipping its Speedmaster presses with ever more fully automated processes that relieve the strain on operators. Prinect software integrates all processes – from incoming orders through to shipping – into an end-to-end workflow, while the established Push to Stop concept ensures highly automated operations that can also be linked to third-party workflows. As a result, print shops are seeing a significant easing of their staff’s workload.

Besides boosting productivity, Plate to Unit can also alleviate the skills shortage at print shops. By almost fully automating the process of supplying and removing printing plates on the press, this solution ensures reliably high productivity and reduces the risk of plates being damaged.

This system is a real game-changer when it comes to fully automatic plate changing.

Heidelberg also offers a highlight that is not based on offset technology for

high-volume folding carton printing. The company’s new Boardmaster flexographic web printing system is all about efficiency.

It achieves double the productivity of comparable systems in folding carton production. The Boardmaster boasts an availability of up to 90 percent and a maximum printing speed of 600 meters per minute, which is equivalent to around 38,000 sheets per hour in format 6 (sheet width: 148 cm).

(3) Intelligent algorithms: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) makes life easier for print shops by supporting the automatic configuration of complex production parameters. Initial functions implemented by Heidelberg include the process optimization solution Preset 2.0, the intelligent assistance systems Intellistart 3, Wash Assistant, Powder Assistant, and Color Assistant Pro, and the company’s Performance Advisor Technology (PAT).

PAT acts as a kind of digital colleague.

It visualizes and structures data, also offering practical suggestions and tips for improvements that boost productivity and save on resources.

(4) Sustainability cuts costs: The energy efficiency of printing presses is improving all the time. Heidelberg is working on as

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

many different parameters as possible on its systems to achieve this. Enhanced standby functions, ultra-efficient blowers such as those in AirStar Pro air supply cabinets, and a workflow that minimizes waste all lower costs, for instance. In this connection, special consulting teams from Heidelberg visit customers and hold energy workshops to analyze where they can save on resources and cut costs.

Lots of individual targeted measures all add up and have a big impact. The latest Speedmaster XL 106-6+L consumes some 40 percent less energy per thousand sheets than an equivalent Speedmaster CD 102-6+L from 1990. This is achieved thanks to numerous functions that either reduce waste (such as Analyze Point for waste reporting and Prinect Inpress Control) or save on material (such as Powder Assistant and FilterStar).

(5) Digital press setup via touch control: One Heidelberg solution can boost

print shop performance in just a few clicks. The Speedmaster Operating System with intuitive operator guidance based on touch control (Heidelberg UX) ensures user-friendly control of the press. The Speedmaster Operating System is controlled via a 24-inch multitouchscreen. Operators can call up settings with a click, while the scalable operation can be flexibly adapted based on the requirements profile (Smart Setup). What’s more, the system offers innovative gesture control and integrated help functions in 27 languages (6) The result makes all the difference: End customers see and feel the difference.

Accurate color reproduction plays a key role in the modern brand world of print shop customers. Colors must match perfectly, and it is especially important for premium products also to feel premium to the touch. The highly automated color and quality measurement systems from Heidelberg ensure absolute repeat

accuracy and color fidelity in commercial and packaging printing. This, too, can be achieved on a highly automated basis.

The unique Prinect Inpress Control 3 spectral measurement system finds the print control strips, paper white, and register marks fully automatically – color control starts without any operator intervention.

(7) Two printing technologies in one: Heidelberg seamlessly combines digital and sheetfed offset printing. The new

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digital printing systems Versafire LV and Versafire LP are equipped with an enhanced Prinect Digital Front End (DFE), thereby ensuring intuitive interaction of offset and digital printing technology. Offering comprehensive process and application expertise relating to both offset and digital printing makes Heidelberg unique in the industry.

(8) Precision down to the last detail: To provide its customers with presses that operate smoothly for long periods, Heidelberg has always focused on precision. This is already evident from its production of core components. The Heidelberg foundry at the Amstetten site manufactures high-precision components for the company’s presses and also for industrial customers in a variety of sectors. Perfectly coordinated production processes ensure that all components, including gears of all sizes, ultimately contribute to smooth print production.

Machine guards, cylinders, gears, and many other components are developed and manufactured by the research and development department and the production team, all working together closely.

(9) Service champion: Heidelberg boasts the industry’s most comprehensive service network worldwide. Its global sales and service network includes more than 2,000 employees at 250 sites in 170 different countries. The company’s services also extend to scalable contract models and remote maintenance operations that help reduce downtime and safeguard customers’ investments. In addition to this, the Heidelberg service portfolio helps print shops cushion the effects of the skills shortage by training staff and optimizing processes. Consulting and training for both management staff and

employees focus on equipment-related process optimization at print shops.

(10) “Pay-per-use” model: Heidelberg provides everything a print shop needs for stable and effective production, and does so from a single source. Besides service, consumables, software, training, and consulting, the Subscription Plus Model the company offers in collaboration with Munich Re/relayr also covers the press itself.

The amount customers pay for the all-in package depends on their output, that is to say the number of printed sheets they produce. Since Subscription Plus also includes the press, customers do not need to invest in this. Instead, they pay to use the press, also based on a price per sheet (CAPEX to OPEX).

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Capable of Printing on Ultra-thin Paper & Enhancing High-mix, Small-lot One-stop Production Japan, Daikyo Printing Co., Ltd. | System 38S, Lithrone G37 [GL-437] Founded in 1968, Daikyo Printing Co., Ltd. completed the Taki Plant in Mie Prefecture in 1992 as its production base. Currently with a comprehensive production system consisting of two web offset presses, one sheetfed press, and facilities for cutting and binding, the company handles a wide range of highmix, small-lot jobs in one stop from production to nationwide distribution. In December 2017, a System 38S 625mmcutoff sixteen-page web offset press was introduced, followed in October 2022 by a Lithrone G37 37-inch sheetfed offset printing press, strengthening the production system.

We asked President and CEO Yoshikazu Igarashi, Managing Director Takanobu Kawai, Plant Manager Yasumasa Watanabe, and Press Operator Katsutoshi Igarashi about the background of the introduction and the results.

Unrivaled ultra-thin paper printing that other companies cannot imitate Daikyo Printing, with its production base in Mie Prefecture, has a business area that

extends not only to the Kansai region but also to the Chubu and Kanto regions.

While operating in a wide range of fields from commercial printing of magazines and pamphlets to printing of envelopes and stipulations, its greatest strength is printing on ultra-thin paper with the web offset press, which President Igarashi is proud of since "no other company can print this.''

"Through our unique know-how, we have achieved one-pass printing and folding of various products on ultra-thin paper. By using such paper, we can not only reduce shipping costs but also manufacture environmentally friendly printed products. Customers are surprised that we can print on such thin paper. We attribute this strength to the introduction of the Komori press and the robust support we received."

Stipulations that are the most common type of thin paper printing at their company require stringent quality control. To meet these strict standards, the company established its own criteria

Yoshikazu Igarashi, President and CEO

and is thorough in quality control.

"About 20 years ago, we established our own manual to adhere to the principle of 'Zero Defects, Ship Only Good Products,' and have been conducting pre-shipping inspections. We require all employees to be aware of Daikyo Quality."

System 38S reduces changeover time and paper waste About 30 years ago, Daikyo Printing introduced an A2 size web offset press and began special folding and processing.

Anticipating the demand for diverse types of folding while considering a new machine, the company came across the Komori System 38S web offset press.

Ultra-thin paper printing sample (A1, 16.5kg): "The benefits of ultra-thin paper products are their light weight, contributing to reduced transport cost and CO2 reduction during transport.

We handle eco-friendly products such as files made from adhesive-free paper and business cards blended with rice husks." -- President Igarashi

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Pre-shipping inspection: "To meet strict quality standards, we adhere to our basic policy of 'shipping only good products.' Additionally, to prepare for emergencies, we have a dedicated paper warehouse stocked with a large quantity of paper." -President Igarashi

Managing Director Kawai says: "The conditions for introduction were to replicate about 18 folding variations we had been doing with existing machines and to be able to handle ultra-thin paper.

The System 38S in A1 size fulfilled these requirements. It produces folded sheets in A3 to A6 sizes and eliminates the need for additional postpress processing, which are major advantages.

For sales proposals, folding up to A4 is common, but when we mention that we can handle up to A5 and A6, we often receive orders due to the benefits of time and cost reduction." Kawai also adds, "With the previous machine, folding

setup was all done manually by adjusting the dial relying on the operator's sense.

Adjustment required experience and took time to master, but with the System 38S, setup can be done quickly and automatically with the press of a button.

Fine-tuning is necessary, but time is saved and the operator's workload is reduced."

Plant Manager Watanabe notes concerning the effect of the installation, "The task of switching the type of folding used to take at least 30 minutes with a manual process but it can now be completed in 5 minutes. Additionally, with the previous machine we wasted a lot of paper in the folding process, but

the System 38S has high accuracy in both color and folding, realizing a significant reduction in paper waste."

Improved profitability and efficiency with Lithrone G37 introduction The introduction of the Lithrone G37 marks Daikyo Printing's first use of a Komori sheetfed press.

"Due to the aging of our previous 40-inch press, we were considering either repairs or replacement; however, the expected cost of repairs was high. At that time, we received a proposal from Komori for the Lithrone G37, which can print from A1 size to 636 x 939mm sheets. Our success with the System 38S and the availability of subsidies were decisive factors in its introduction. For the subsidy application, we formed an in-house project team.

Our employees challenge themselves in examining every application, and we have also obtained Green Printing (GP) certification," says President Igarashi.

Regarding the effects of the introduction, Managing Director Kawai states, "Electricity costs were lower because the machine itself was more compact, going from 40-inch to 37-inch. Also, the plates were smaller, significantly reducing plate costs. With the expansion of small-lot demand, the number of plates increased, resulting in significant effectiveness and a very positive impact from the management perspective."

Press Operator Igarashi adds, "This machine is compact, making roller replacement much easier. Adjustments such as nip adjustments of rollers are also

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

easier compared to the previous machine, and this is very helpful."

Plant Manager Watanabe comments on the effect of ultra-thin paper compatibility: "We can now consistently print on A1 size 35kg coated paper, which was impossible with our previous machine." Regarding the PDC-SG (Spectral Print Density Control for color tone management) he states, "The startup time for color adjustment, which used to be long, has been shortened to about 10 minutes. Reproducibility of repeat jobs is high, and color tones are almost identical.

The clear numerical display of ink density contributes significantly to improved efficiency."

Visualization of production through KP-Connect Commenting on the visualization of production and improved operating rates enabled by the introduction of KP-Connect, Managing Director Kawai says, "With the trend toward smaller lots, I think visualizing job changeover time is a worthwhile initiative. For example, with web offset presses that are capable

of many folding processes, we can see the operating results for each folding version with KP-Connect. The effects of operation improvement can now be seen in numbers, and operators have reported increased motivation."

Plant Manager Watanabe says, "We can now quantify the target time, leading to an improvement in operating rates.

Previously we relied on handwritten daily reports to roughly understand the

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numbers, but with KP-Connect, we can accurately determine the time spent on each task."

Finally, President Igarashi discussed his aspirations: "We want to strengthen our quality response for special processes and ultra-thin paper manufacturing through the introduction of new equipment and become a unique manufacturing plant in Japan."

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Beyond-Plastic – Innovation & sustainability become indivisible in the food sector Those who want to harmonise innovation, sustainability and packaging must pay attention to three important factors: Use of renewable raw materials, recyclability and reduction of material use.business models in the packaging industry?

Sustainability has long been a part of the non-food packaging industry.

For a long time, it was very difficult to find a sustainable alternative for food packaging. In the food sector, the packaging materials influence the brand and possibly also the product. Those who act in an environmentally friendly way have so far been limited in terms of colour and design. It is equally important that the packaging protects the food.

Especially in the refrigerated segment, people continued to rely on plastic mixtures.

However, especially in the food sector, the packaging industry has experienced a boost in innovation and has produced just as many start-ups with an inventive spirit.

Both in the materials used and in the design, there are now many possibilities to package the product safely and durably and at the same time to be free in the communication and design of a brand.

Recycling dark colours We all know that packaging printed with dark colour does not enter the recycling loop in the recycling process. Darkcoloured packaging units are recognised as residual waste by the recycling plant and burned. This generates CO2.

Packaging manufacturer, Spies Packaging, has developed a digital watermark for packaging in cooperation with the companies Digimarc and Reichle Technologiezentrum. This invisible marking contains information about the material. The recycling plant reads this information and can sort the waste correctly. This gives brand managers more creative freedom in brand design.

Sustainable labels: polyethylene is replaced by sugar cane Labels made from a bio-based PE film can completely dispense with petroleum by using sugarcane ethanol. The properties of the labels are similar to those of the well-known polyethylene, so that a changeover to the film in the labelling process hardly causes any costs.

Sugar cane is also suitable for packaging beverages. For a while now, Tetra Pak has also been using sugarcane-based plastic in the production of packaging. The product Tetra Rex® cartons is produced from a mixture of this material and cardboard and is mainly used for chilled dairy products.

Alternative raw materials – silphi fibre, graspaper and plastic from algae Like paper production, there is also the alternative of outer packaging made from rapidly renewable raw materials. In gastronomy, take-away business and for shop sales, cardboard boxes made of grass paper and silphia fibre are particularly suitable. The two cartons have the same material properties as conventional products made of cellulose. They are printable and particularly durable.

There are also plastic alternatives made from algae or milk protein for the food sector. Milk protein also has the special property that it protects food from spoiling. Unfortunately, this product is

difficult to print on. However, it can be used as an inlay, coating or transparent outer packaging and is even suitable for consumption in many cases.

Sustainability scale for companies The sustainability of packaging materials is now controlled by a new EU law, the EU Packaging Regulation. This mainly affects start-ups. Existing companies are largely not yet affected by the new law. For start-ups, it is currently still very difficult to assess the sustainability of the many offers on the market. The new law does not only consider the material used, but also the energy efficiency in production and the recyclability.

– This information is still not presented transparently. Companies have a hard time identifying the sustainability of a product. Moreover, not every sustainable material is equally suitable for the protection and shelf life of food. What follows are lengthy and expensive tests for companies.

Therefore, various NGOs, such as the UnternehmensGrün association and Ecopreneur.eu, propose a scale for packaging materials. This should be communicated publicly and transparently by the manufacturer. The scale should – according to the wish of the associations – indicate how sustainable and foodfriendly the packaging material is, as in the case of an energy efficiency class A+++.

We look forward to innovations at drupa 2024

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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Learn more

New solution for direct-to-substrate proofing on uncoated packaging media - now available for FLEX PACK!

www.cgs-oris.com

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Everything’s Possible wi These days, some books are works of art in terms of their production values.

Bookbinders pull the print product into shape in many different ways.

Normally, books are a question of costeffectiveness for publishers, a cornucopia of imagination for graphic designers in ad agencies and a challenge in their own right for paper processors. In terms of the design and layout of books, the editors in industry and publishing houses often show a great deal of innovative spirit as well as creativity and skill.

And not without reason, as the packaging plays a major role, as it does everywhere in retail. The best way to sell editions at the point of sale is via the title cover.

But one thing is certain. In general terms, the external appearance, whether it is in hard or soft cover, the actual feel of the material, the colour scheme and finish of the cover, are all of great importance as is the case with other consumer goods.

We can identify the following trends with books at the present time:

1.

Design in the same colour scheme: Books and brochures are usually successful if their content, typography, finish, style and format form a unit. For example, front end sheet and back end sheet, typographical elements, headband and ribbon bookmark are published in the same colour.

2.

Various types of paper in one edition: Using individual sheet sections from various, even differently coloured papers, it is possible to emphasise certain contents within a book. Typical examples of this are standalone photo inserts in biographies. However, further processing is not that easy for the bookbinder.

3.

Several book cover variants: Hard covers are more expensive and of higher quality, while soft covers are cheaper and more functional. Printing companies often offer Flexcovers as an intermediate solution. Brochures with

flaps provide more space for information, so ribbon markers are no longer necessary.

4.

Book cover finishes: No edition without an original book cover will make any money, e.g. with discreet foil lamination, selective varnishing or specific applications. Books today have to be eye-catching at point of sale; without a finish that guides you toward the content, this will not work.

5.

Sticker on the front cover: Such a sticker on the bottom right often has a circular shape and catches your eye really quickly with a signal colour such as gold or red. The label quite often refers to an award given to the title, certification of the paper or the publisher’s sales activity.

6.

Books with a layflat effect: Layflat threadless binding originally came from the photo book sector. This means 180° opening behaviour is absolutely

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9.

Printed full linen: Specifically in the fiction genre, but now also beyond that, there are individual titles and entire series of books, hard cover and soft cover books with directly printed and embossed full linen, which make an additional dust jacket unnecessary.

10.

Rounded copies: These days, round spines are increasingly preferred to straight ones. This makes a book more comfortable to hold in your hand while reading. Book covers with rounded corners are also widely available, for example, in children’s books and in the stationery range such as in notebooks.

ith a Book certain when the book block is open and lying flat. On the other hand, the layflat effect is comparable to a book that is wire-comb or thread sewn.

7.

Presentable dust jacket: Dust jackets are not only intended to protect hard cover books from signs of wear and environmental influences – their cover flaps also provide enough room

for publisher’s advertising, a directory of contents, details of the author and similar information.

8.

Banderoles and blurb: Matched to the overall design of a book, a piece of blurb can also be eye-catching. Graphic design along with printing allow for promotional impact. Transparent or coloured banderoles as a short dust jacket provide space for extra information.

11.

Gold edging and colour edging: Colour edging in books is experiencing a renaissance again. Previously known from the gold edge on bibles, works of various genres contain book edge printing, now with half-tone images that sometimes overlaps from the book block into the book cover.

12.

Integrated ribbon page marker: Increasingly, most hard covers contain at least one practical ribbon marker integrated into the book block. Which means you don’t need extra bookmarks.

Ideally, the ribbon page marker will appear in the same colour scheme as the headband, front end sheet and back end sheet.

13.

Cassettes and slipcases: Exclusive and high-quality editions as well as works or series of books in multiple parts are presented, safely stored and well protected. A uniform design of the book spine and packaging can emphasise the intended design of the entire book project.

14.

Highlighting of sustainability: The book industry emphasises its efforts to conserve resources, especially in times of protecting the climate. The use of paper with FSC certification is mentioned more frequently. As is well known, the paper and printing industry has long been an example of a recycling economy.

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Simplify production and enjoy consistent results with PureFlexo™ Printing from Miraclon Köstlin Prepress Services in Ditzingen, Southwest Germany, has always been open to technological innovations that increase efficiency and deliver cost savings, while allowing them to produce plates that deliver improved on-press productivity and consistent quality. This was also the company’s strategy in 2022 when they invested in PureFlexo Printing™ from Miraclon.

productivity, save costs and simplify the flexo process overall.”

Accessed through FLEXCEL NX Print Suite for Flexible Packaging, PureFlexo Printing utilizes unique advanced plate surface patterns designed to resist the tendency of ink to spread or build up in unwanted areas during printing.

PureFlexo Printing.” The improvements were so convincing that Köstlin now regularly supplies almost 30 packaging printers with FLEXCEL NXH and FLEXCEL NX Ultra plates, all produced using PureFlexo Printing.

Pushing the boundaries of flexo production “The opportunities with PureFlexo Printing excited us. We saw that the technology would enable the printers we work with to achieve a more consistent production process and even higher quality print, especially when printing on film,” said Managing Director Marc Talmon Gros. Köstlin uses the technology on both FLEXCEL NXH Plates and FLEXCEL NX Ultra Plates.

Taking the lead with early PureFlexo Printing investment “FLEXCEL NX Plates from Miraclon set the market standard for productivity and efficiency gains on press,” adds Marc.

“However, many other prepress service providers agree and offer these plates too.

That's why we have tried to exploit our early investment in PureFlexo Printing as a unique selling proposition – at least for a certain period of time.”

“Our customers often comment on the significant improvement in consistency and the virtual elimination of trailing edge voids as proven benefits of using

He continues: “We believe that Miraclon is on the right track with developments like PureFlexo Printing to keep bringing solutions that allow both us and our customers to increase efficiency and

Marc adds that his sentiment also applies to FLEXCEL NX Central Software for automatic plate layout creation, which has been in use at Köstlin since early 2023. He concludes: “FLEXCEL NX Central has resulted in better utilization of the plate material and a reduction in plate layout time as well as errors. It also allows for much better production planning. In the past, we didn't have an exact overview of how many plates or square meters we had to produce. Since we know our capacity, we can now use FLEXCEL NX Central Software to carry out real production planning, prioritize orders and optimize system utilization.”

Köstlin has been using KODAK FLEXCEL NX Technology since 2013.

In addition, the family-run business, with around 50 employees, has been using the FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution for solvent-free, VOC-free, water-based flexo platemaking for several years now.

The business activities are primarily focused on food and cosmetics packaging for brand owners and retail private labels.

FLEXCEL NX and FLEXCEL NX Ultra Plates, which are produced on a FLEXCEL NX Wide 4260 System, today account for approximately 70% of the company's total flexo plate production.

we create the future

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

think digital — be sustainable How will megatrends such as sustainability and digitization impact on processes, products, business models, and the future of the industry? In Düsseldorf, you will find out how the printing and packaging community is shaping the future.

May 28 – June 7, 2024 Düsseldorf/Germany www.drupa.com #drupa2024 blog.drupa.com

Messe Düsseldorf Asia Pte Ltd 3 HarbourFront Place #09-02 HarbourFront Tower Two _ Singapore 099254 Tel. +65 6332 9643 / 6332 9620 Fax +65 6337 4633 / 6332 9655 mdrep@mda.com.sg

http://mda.messe-dusseldorf.com/

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

How Attacks in the Red Costs of Items from Prin Attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by the Houthi militia in Yemen are leading to increased freight costs and delivery times—and experts say the impact is soon going to hit consumers.

Several of the world’s largest shipping firms—including Maersk, HapagLloyd, and the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)— have suspended shipping through the Red Sea trade route amidst the continued attacks.

“Our expectation is that within the next couple of weeks, you will begin to see the impact of this disturbance in the supply chain, either through shortages, price increases, or shrinkflation,” says Marco Forgione, the Director General at The Institute of Export & International Trade.

What is happening in the Red Sea? Iran-backed Houthis began attacking commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea in mid-November in what they say is a response to Israel’s attacks in Gaza. As of Jan. 4, rebels had launched

25 attacks on merchant vessels passing through the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since Nov. 18, according to Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.

The attacks have been condemned internationally. The United States and eleven other countries released a joint statement on Jan. 3 calling for an end to the attacks. “Ongoing Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are illegal, unacceptable, and profoundly destabilizing,” the statement read. “The Houthis will bear the responsibility of the consequences should they continue to threaten lives, the global economy, and free flow of commerce in the region’s critical waterways.”

Why is the Red Sea route important?

Nearly 15% of global seaborne trade passes through the Red Sea—including

8% of global grain trade, 12% of seaborne-traded oil, and 8% of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade.

“30% of global consumer goods and container shipping goes through Suez,” says Forgione. “That's everything from clothes to washing machines and electronics as well as tanker shipping— oil, gas, palm oil, wheat, corn, tea, coffee.”

The furniture company IKEA has said that the situation might cause some product shortages, and the clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch has said that it plans to ship to air freight to avoid delays.

The route is mostly used to connect Asia and parts of Africa to Europe, but also carries oil shipments from the Gulf to North America. Since the Panama Canal suffered from a serious drought last year, many ships heading to the U.S. East Coast have been rerouted through the Suez Canal as well, bringing more traffic through the waterway.

“The Red Sea shipping line through the Suez Canal is the shortest, cheapest and most effective way to connect Asia and Africa to Europe via the Mediterranean,” says Hung Tran, nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center.

Its importance means the disruption has been impossible to avoid, says Forgione.

“There's not one [company] that uses the Suez Canal that hasn't been impacted, whether that's by delays or an increase in costs.”

A Houthi forces helicopter approaching a cargo

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Sea Could Increase nting to Coffee

Many companies have begun to reroute ships south to sail around the Cape of Good Hope, but the diversion comes with a two-week delay and added costs.

The price of container shipping from Asia to Europe has already increased by between 175-250%, Forgione says, noting that oil and gas prices have also been particularly volatile.

How will this impact the global economy?

Even small delays have the ability to cause a domino effect for production schedules.

The global supply chain tends to work on a “just in time” basis, meaning that every element that is required arrives just as it’s ready to join the production line.

Any delay will affect “every link” in the manufacturing chain, leading to delays, says Forgione.

“The impact on manufacturing systems is going to be significant. We may not have seen it yet, but we will begin to see it very soon,” he says. "If one supply chain route breaks, correcting that is incredibly difficult and causes problems for every other element in every other node in that

chain. So this is going to have an impact for Africa, for the U.S., for South America and for Europe, as well as in Asia.”

The new routes will have varying degrees of impact depending on the region, experts say. European businesses and consumers will likely be most vulnerable to increased prices, while Mediterranean and North African countries have to contend with the reality that their ports might be passed over entirely by the change.

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Though the issue might seem confined to shipping companies now, experts say that consumers around the world should be prepared for changes in the market in the next few weeks— whether it be price increases, “shrinkflation”—in which the size of a product decreases but its price remains the same—or a lack of availability of everyday goods.

“At the end of the day,” says Tran, “it is the end user who will have to bear the increased costs.”

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

XSYS launches digital configuration tool for rotec adapters

®

The rotec® Adapter Configuration Tool enables customers to build and request a quotation for customized adapters directly on the XSYS website at their convenience.

The new 24/7 online service has been designed to educate about the myriad of rotec adapter solutions, guiding customers to the perfect solution and ensuring swift and accurate quotations.

XSYS has introduced the rotec® Adapter Configuration Tool, a comprehensive online product guidance and order request portal that gives printers direct access to fully customized adapters. By visiting the XSYS website, printers can effortlessly configure the exact adapter they require for their press by specifying all the technical details in one simple process. This streamlined approach contributes to a more efficient ordering process, where printers can receive their bespoke adapter in a shorter time frame.

The rotec® brand has been delivering state-of-the-art sleeves and adapters to the flexographic packaging industry for over 30 years, working closely with printers, listening to their needs to provide optimal solutions. Offering the ultimate in convenience and user-friendliness, the new rotec® Adapter Configuration Tool is an extension of XSYS’s existing madeto-order service.

“Digital tools are becoming increasingly vital to the smooth daily operation of any manufacturing business. As a leading technical solutions provider, XSYS continues to add more access points to maintain our exceptional service level and boost customer satisfaction,” explains Thomas Strohe, Director of Commercial Excellence at XSYS. “We have already experienced great success with the XSYS Product Selector and the recently introduced Flexo Solution Finder, which are both popular

services. Now, with the rotec® Adapter Configuration Tool, customers can customize an adapter specific to their application and requirements, simply by visiting our website at their convenience.”

The new online tool expertly guides customers through the step-by-step configuration of their adapter. After entering the required dimensions, they can select their unique application details, addressing any issues such a press vibration, speed, print quality, operator health & safety, and costs. From here, the tool chooses the best rotec® adapter solution to meet these requirements. The adapter is further customized with the customer’s specific air source and the chosen air distribution technology, based on their distinct needs.

The new process also offers the opportunity to include various upgrades that improve efficiencies and extend the adapter’s lifespan, such as notches and rings, end plates, registration tools, and conductivity technology. Based on the customer’s data input, the final screen will display the recommended adapter

specification, which is then reviewed by XSYS’s customer service team, who will promptly respond with a personalized quotation. As soon as the customer approves the quote, the new adapter will be manufactured and shipped.

“The XSYS Adapter Configuration Tool for our rotec® range provides numerous benefits in addition to immediate access, such as helping to prevent ordering errors and streamlining the customization process. It has been developed as part of our strategy to support our customers with innovative solutions that work for them on their terms.

With each new digital tool, XSYS delivers even more ways to print solid and stay flexible, empowering our customers to be brilliant in everything they do,” concludes Gina Wienbracke, rotec® Product Manager.

The rotec® Adapter Configuration Tool is free to access and can be found by following this https://xsysglobal. com/xsys-digital-tools/rotec-adapterconfiguration-tool/.

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High-quality printing & robust under all prepress conditions nyloflex® FTV + Hard photopolymer flexo plate with inherent flat top dots + LED optimized plate formulation + Developed for the high end flexible packaging market + Smooth plate surface is able to hold all customized surface screening patterns (e.g. Pixel+ and Woodpecker Sharp or Nano)

nyloflex® FTF + Highest ink transfer and excellent highlights out of the box + Robust and consistent on press, simple to process, already includes flat top dots and a surface screening pattern + Optimal for short (quick to color) and long clean print runs (anti ink-filling)

nyloflex® ACE + Known in the market as THE digital plate for high quality Flexible Packaging Print + Excellent print results even under challenging printing conditions + Very good for long clean print jobs (anti-ink filling)

Find the best product for every print job with our Product Selector Tool www.xsysglobal.com

Ferag Australia Pty Ltd Phone: +61 (02) 8336 2700 info-australia@ferag.com

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Rang Dong switches allegiance to Vetaphone In a move that marks a distinct policy shift on investment, the Asian giant of flexible packaging Rang Dong has installed its first Vetaphone corona treater on a Shaanxi Beiren laminator at the production plant on the Tan Do Industrial Park in Long An Province, Vietnam pioneered its development over the past 70 years. “I could see the problem related to service and support, and as we are only 20km from the Rang Dong plant, knew we could solve this issue as well as offer corona technology that would actually improve productivity,” he said.

With more than 10 of an Italian manufactured corona stations installed on a variety of laminating and coating lines at Rang Dong, the decision to switch allegiance was not an easy one to make. But the accessibility offered to the operator by the ‘slide-out-slidein’ electrode cassette on the Vetaphone treater, which makes for simple maintenance, allied to the superior control offered by the iCorona generator was too convincing to ignore, and with local support only a short distance away, the decision to change was made.

The Vetaphone corona treater is fitted to a Chinese manufactured laminating line at the Long An site The company is part of the Rang Dong Plastics Group that was established in 1960, and its vast production site covers 8.3 hectares and employs many hundreds of people.

Explaining the new policy, Vice Director of the Investment Department, Mr Dang Tien Hoan said: “We believe and trust in Vetaphone’s technology and instant service support.”

He first encountered Vetaphone via Nguyen Anh Tu (aka Max) at Song Song, an agency based in nearby Ho Chi Minh City. Song Song represents several leading manufacturers in the print and converting sectors, including Vetaphone, the Danish company that invented corona and has

The Vetaphone treater is a VE1C-D (4C) model, with a 1320mm web width and an operational speed to match the 200m/ min laminating line. Used principally on 25-micron PET and CPP substrates that require a minimum dyne level of 38 for processing, the treater has a maximum power rating of 5kW. Speaking for Vetaphone, Sales Manager Asia Pacific, Holger Selenka stated: “We are delighted to have secured the order from such a well-known and respected company as Rang Dong. Their confidence in our product to perform consistently and give a boost to productivity is a reflection of the unmatched knowledge and R&D that goes into Vetaphone technology.”

Output at the Long An site includes rotogravure printing in up to 12-colours, laminating up to 7-layer films, and 4-way stretch film, for a diverse product catalogue that includes middle pressing, zipper, vertical, liquid cover, and vacuum

Vetaphone’s Holger Selenka with a Rang Dong’s operator at the iCorona generator bags as well as shrink sleeves. The plant produces more than 13.5m square metres of flexible packaging per year and over 10,000 tons of shrink film for markets such as food, confectionary, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and agriculture.

Renowned for its quality, and ISO 14001:2004, Rang Dong was the proud winner of two prizes at the 2022 Vietnam Packaging Awards – one for ‘Excellence’ and the other for ‘Creative Packaging’ with both products being produced for leading customer Nestlé. The annual Awards are organised by VINPAS under the heading ‘Green packaging for a green Earth’. With Rang Dong products meeting international standards, the company currently exports to the USA, Japan, Europe, Korea, Thailand, Myanmar, Nigeria, and the Middle East.

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

The multi-talented.

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Turning bland into brilliance In a rapidly evolving landscape, people are drawn to experiences that satisfy their desire for uniqueness.

While familiarity can be comforting it breeds complacency and diminishes excitement. In fact, consultancy Accenture reports a YouGov survey found that 45% of global respondents find shopping experiences dull. Accenture’s own Life Trends 2024 survey reported 35% of respondents consider app designs to be indistinguishable across brands, with the sentiment rising to nearly 40% among 18to 24-year-olds.

Customers yearn for the thrill of newness.

In response brands should respond with a mix of familiarity and innovation.

Whether in the form of cutting-edge products, immersive campaigns, or unexpected collaborations, novelty delivers sustained interest and emotional connection.

Generative AI is increasingly being deployed in creative processes to strive for new ways to be seen. But there is the danger that this novel approach quickly becomes commonplace. It could then become more difficult to stand out, as competition for attention increases due to the volume of content being created.

On the other hand, differentiation could become easier because, as organisations lean heavily on generative AI, human creativity could set others apart.

C

M

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Know thyself – a deep understanding of the brand’s identity and culture makes it possible to take creative risks and to focus on the right metrics.

Employing fresh ways to differentiate is a key challenge for businesses and one that print can help meet.

Where there’s a void of novelty, there’s opportunity – in a sea of familiarity, originality truly stands out. This is true for all forms of communication.

Creativity can be expensive, but the investment usually pays off in the richness of the quality of results. Accenture makes these recommendations: Make friends with risk – rather than sacrifice quality for speed, reintroduce craft, creativity, fun, and attention to detail.

Break the technology templates – to avoid bland, recycled, templated design content, skilled creatives should be involved in the use of generative AI to deliver something truly creative that breaks through.

Industry leaders such all agree. They applaud the effectiveness of print in capturing attention in advertising. Kevin Longhurst of IPG media company Magna adds that whether through direct mail, newspaper adverts, catalogues, magazines, or door drops, print media consistently proves its power to enhance other channels. There is a very good reason why digital giants like Amazon, Disney and Netflix include print advertising in their media mix.

And digital print supports the creation of targeted content that is delivered to a pre-determined select group. Action can be encouraged by QR codes that also aid accurate measurability with for example UTM tracking codes, which can be used to report KPIs, or power seamless collaboration of physical and online channels.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

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Brilliant products and services for brilliant print results and business success.

XSYS

remains one of the largest suppliers for the global flexographic printing industry, offering flexographic and prepress solutions and expert professional services while helping the industry move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and a reduced environmental footprint.

www.xsysglobal.com

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Successful Personalized Print Marketing: Tools, Tips, and Programmatic Printing The customisation of print products still has the reputation as a lengthy and time-consuming process.

Digital printing, new improved print technologies and the interconnection of systems make it possible to bring advertising close to the customer quickly and precisely.

Personalized print marketing has become a powerful tool for capturing audience attention and strengthening engagement.

With the advent of modern technologies, marketing professionals have access to numerous tools for creating, managing, and analysing personalized print campaigns. An innovative addition to these approaches is Programmatic Printing. In this post, we take an in-depth look at tools, tips, and how Programmatic Printing can elevate personalization to a new level.

1. EFI Fiery Servers: Advanced Print Management EFI Fiery Servers offer not only sophisticated print management solutions but also enable data collection on print jobs. Through detailed analysis of this data, companies can improve the efficiency of their print processes, reduce costs and enhance quality. EFI Fiery Servers provide a user-friendly interface, allowing marketing experts to monitor and control the print process accurately.

2. XMPie: Personalized Communication at its Best XMPie is a comprehensive personalised communications platform. It enables companies to create highly personalised printed materials that contain not only the customer's name, but also information about their buying behaviour or preferences. By incorporating data-driven elements into print campaigns, companies can achieve higher engagement rates and improved conversion. XMPie's analytics capabilities provide insight into campaign performance so companies can optimise their strategies.

3. Pitney Bowes Clarity Solutions: Analytics across the entire Print

Process Pitney Bowes Clarity Solutions goes beyond personalization, offering comprehensive analytics for the entire print process. From print quality to shipping and delivery, this tool allows for a thorough evaluation of every aspect of a print campaign. This is crucial for identifying and addressing bottlenecks or inefficient processes, ultimately increasing the overall effectiveness of campaigns.

4. Programmatic Printing: The Future of Personalization Programmatic Printing utilizes datadriven decisions to optimize print campaigns in real-time. It enables the automated adaptation of content based on customer behaviour, preferences and demographic data. By integrating Programmatic Printing into personalized print campaigns, companies can ensure that their content is always relevant and up to date. This approach helps strengthen customer engagement and maximize campaign effectiveness.

5. Implementation Tips: Set Clear Goals: Define clear and measurable goals for your personalized print campaigns, whether it's increasing revenue, acquiring customers, or enhancing branding.

Carefully Manage Customer Data: The quality of personalized content depends on the accuracy and relevance of customer data. Invest in efficient data management and keep information up to date.

Follow a Multichannel Approach: Link personalized print campaigns with digital channels to provide a consistent brand experience.

Ensure that the message is consistent across all channels.

Conduct A/B Testing: Utilize A/B testing to compare and optimize the effectiveness of different personalized approaches.

This helps identify the best strategies for continuous improvement.

Continuously Optimize: Analyse data from your print campaigns continuously and adjust strategies accordingly.

Continuous adaptation is crucial due to the everchanging market and customer needs.

The world of personalized print marketing offers a wealth of opportunities The right tools can make a significant difference. From advanced print management and analysis of the entire print process to the integration of Programmatic Printing, these tools provide comprehensive solutions.

Through consistent implementation and analysis, companies can not only create impressive personalized print materials but also sustainably increase the success of their campaigns.

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

Now, one of the most iconic brands is making a more sustainable switch.

In a historic moment for the snacking industry, which reflects the world’s collective mission of acting and consuming more sustainably, Kellanova Europe has given its Pringles tube a more sustainable redesign.

Together with Sonoco, Kellanova Europe has redesigned its Pringles packaging to make it widely recyclable by replacing the metal bottom with a paper fibre-based bottom.

Chinese customer's ROLAND 700 hits one billion impressions...their four other R700s well on the way to "Billionaire" status.

Zhejiang based Hangzhou Dingzheng Packaging Materials Co Ltd, has recently passed the extraordinary milestone of one billion impressions on one of its five manroland ROLAND 700 presses.

And to mark the occasion a G7 test showed that sheets printed today are as sharp as the very first impressions.

All five of Dingzheng's R700's have been consistently producing 6 million impressions per month since they were installed between 2014 and 2016.

Notching up over 70 million impressions per year, each sheet is as fresh and crisp as the first - attested by the demanding G7 international print quality test passed with flying colors.

Fine equipment maintenance, standardized equipment operation, and efficient personnel management have all played their part in maintaining Dingzheng’s strong reputation for ‘high quality with high stability’.Commenting, Manroland Sheetfed CEO Rafael Penuela said: “Six million sheets per month, month after month. We shouldn't be surprised, but this really is outstanding performance by our customer - and a true testament to the quality and reliability of the legendary ROLAND 700.”

Excellent Collaboration for Superior Packaging Quality among Flexo Print Industry Experts: Scientex, a leading flexible packaging printer in Asia, has collaborated with tesa tape, Miraclon, and Tye Cine throughout 2023 to execute a few print projects that include a recent test print qualification using Kodak NX Pure Flexo and tesa Softprint with effec-tive pre-press work to achieve the highest level of print quality possible, and the results have been impressive.

Earlier this year, Kellanova Europe’s Belgian engineering and R&D teams announced the official launch of the new ‘designed for recycling’ Pringles tube and introduced the new paper sealing technology on production lines in Mechelen Belgium. These specially designed machines once fully operational across all production lines will be able to produce more than 1 billion perfectly sealed recyclable Pringles tubes per year.

The original Pringles tube, which many households are familiar with, is iconic and “has been a defining feature of the product since it was launched in 1967 in the USA”, says Kellanova.

The Test Print Project: The test provides excellent print results that allow commercial print runs for ongoing jobs. The collaboration resulted in superior packaging quality that met and exceeded Scientex's expectations.

Scientex was thrilled with the results of the test print project. The company was im-pressed by the level of support and technical service provided by tesa, Tye Cine and Miraclon. They appreciated the dedication and commitment shown by the team to en-sure the project's success.

"We appreciate the strong collaboration from the different print equipment part-ners, as we believe the journey for success is the result of the efforts and sup-port rendered by the community."

Commented Walson Yew Plant Manager

The new tube retains the brand’s iconic cylindrical shape – enabling the crisps to remain stacked. The shape and stacked nature of the crisps is part of the Pringles image and adds an element of fun for the consumer. Furthermore, the new paper-based tube protects the chips and preserves the flavour of the Pringles to help keep them as fresh as the day they were made. Consumers can also reclose the tubes with the recyclable plastic lid to ensure the chips stay fresh after opening.

Most importantly, the new paper-based tube takes into account “Circularity by Design” guidelines from the European fibre-based packaging value chain, the 4Evergreen alliance, and obtains a good recyclability score for its suitability for recycling in standard paper mills under 4evergreen’s Recyclability Evaluation Protocol. The tubes are accepted in recycling streams across Europe, as the new paper end makes it easier to recycle for paper recyclers. The launch follows Kellanova’s trial of a steel can in Italy in 2019 and a paper tube in the UK in

Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

SPEED UP YOUR PROCESSES with optical systems for UV curing and drying

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Revolutionizing Sustainable Bakery Packaging In response to the increasing environmental concerns surrounding packaging waste in the fresh bread market, Treetop Biopak introduces a groundbreaking solution with its new home compostable bags.

Treetop Biopak’s innovation recognizes the environmental impact of millions of plastic bread bags used daily by consumers and food service providers.

It aims to address the challenges of sustainability within the bakery industry.

2020. The vast majority of the paper used for the old and new tube is made from recycled material, helping to boost the circular economy for recycled paper packaging.

The introduction of the recyclable Pringles tube is an important step towards Kellanova’s commitment of all its packaging being recyclable, reusable and compostable by 2030. Ultimately, the new paper-based Pringles tube sets an example for the food packaging industry while bolstering brand loyalty too.

Tracy Murphy – Senior Director Salty Snacks at Kellanova “As part of our Better Days Promise, we have been working hard to reduce our environmental footprint. The recyclable Pringles tube is another important step on our sustainable packaging journey.

From the trial of the paper tube that we did in 2020, we already know that consumers love the new-look tube, so we’re now very excited that they’ll be able to get their hands on it.”

Seàn Cairns, President – Global Rigid Paper and Closures (RPC) at Sonoco, worked with both companies’ technical teams, to develop the new ‘designed for recycling’ Pringles tube. He notes that consumers are more aware than ever of how their purchasing behaviours are impacting the environment, as well as the more sustainable packaging options available to them. “With this in mind,” he says, “it’s important for businesses to stay ahead of the curve by exploring new packaging technologies and materials.”

Highlighting the importance of partnership in packaging design, he

adds: “It was a pleasure working with Kellanova and we look forward to seeing how the new paper-based Pringles tube is received by the market. We hope the success of this project inspires other companies and brands to convert to more sustainable packaging.”

Sonoco has long been committed to increasing the paper content in its packaging to maximise its recyclability.

Sonoco has taken steps over the years to re-design its packaging and make it more sustainable. This process involved the company hugely investing in research and development to reduce or, where possible, completely remove the plastic and metal components of its packaging.

The result of this is Sonoco’s successful, rigid paper packaging lines as part of the EnviroSense® family including EnviroCan®, GREENCAN® and EnviroStick™.

Unlike conventional plastic bags, which often end up in landfill or are incinerated due to low recycling rates, Treetop Biopak’s compostable bags offer a sustainable end-of-life solution. The bags are designed to compost once discarded correctly, not leaving any microplastics or pollutants behind, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fresh bakery products packaging.

One of the longstanding challenges with compostable bags has been maintaining the freshness of the packaged bread.

Treetop Biopak has developed a singlelayer material with higher barrier properties specifically designed for bakery products. This innovative material not only meets the sustainability criteria but also addresses the freshness issue by maintaining the shelf life of fresh bread products.

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retailers, and brands alike.

Treetop Biopak founder Amir Gross states: “We are committed to enabling clients to balance their quality and performance with consumer requirements for compostable solutions to reduce waste plastic. This allows a whole range of goods to maintain their freshness, ensure the required shelf life, while minimizing any impact on the environment.”

Treetop Biopak is a specialist in compostable packaging materials such as bags, cling film, stretch film and shrink wrap. It aims to help customers implement new compostable solutions that are efficient, easily integrated to production processes, and are also competitive in cost.

Through rigorous testing, Treetop Biopak’s compostable bags demonstrated impressive shelf-life results, including 7-10 days with sliced bloomer and sourdough bread. The bags, supplied on wickets, also showed excellent machinability when integrated into automatic bread bagging lines, ensuring smooth and efficient operations for bakeries and manufacturers.

In addition to fresh bread, the high barrier compostable material has been successfully tested on flow wrapping machines with morning goods and bakery products such as pancakes and small cakes. These trials further confirm the versatility of the material, proving its effectiveness in various bakery applications while maintaining the necessary shelf life.

Recent consumer research by McKinsey’s highlights a significant change in preference, with consumers ranking compostable packaging as the most sustainable choice, surpassing both paper and recycled materials. Opting for compostable packaging not only reflects environmental awareness but also establishes brands as distinctive choices for discerning consumers.

Treetop Biopak’s introduction of compostable bread bags signifies a major step towards reducing the environmental impact of plastic in the industry. By offering a sustainable packaging solution that aligns with the principles of circular economy, these bags have the potential to make a substantial difference in the plastic footprint of manufacturers,

For more information about Treetop Biopak’s innovative home compostable bags and their potential impact on the bakery industry’s sustainability efforts, please contact contact@treetopbiopak. co.uk Cooperation to trial the use of MGA inks for packaging printing on a commercial web press In spring 2023, Koenig & Bauer was one of the parties involved in comprehensive tests of heatset MGA inks at B&K Offsetdruck in Ottersweier. The MGA ink series made by hubergroup was developed specifically for the printing of food packaging. The inks are mineral oil-free and promise especially low migration.

Entry into a booming market segment Low-migration, mineral oil-free inks are an important prerequisite for heatset printers that are considering ventures into packaging printing – the largest and fastest-growing segment within the print market with an immense product diversity. Generally speaking, most commercial web presses are highly suited for applications in packaging printing thanks to their broad format variability and can be optimised for this area of use with just a few modifications, for example the incorporation of an additional sheeter or rewinder at the delivery.

New options also for the existing product portfolio MGA inks are not only interesting in

terms of their future market potential.

They also offer added value for existing customers. The second-generation family-run print company B&K Offsetdruck in Ottersweier, for example, produces a wide variety of children’s and colouring books. This production can, in future, be made more sustainable with mineral oil-free MGA inks. “We can create print products that are tailored to the individual wishes of our customers,” says managing director Jörn Kalbhenn.

Positive side effects of MGA inks The testing of MGA inks at B&K also provided a glimpse of what the future holds. A ministerial decree relating to the use of mineral oil-free processes in production for the French print market came into effect on 1 January 2023. The new regulations govern the MOAH/ MOSH content (C16 to C35) in printing inks and specify a reduction of these ink components in two steps between 2023 and 2025.

MGA inks deliver impressive test results The print tests were conducted on a C217 commercial web press made by Koenig & Bauer and involved experts from ink manufacturer hubergroup and from Koenig & Bauer. The first round of testing assessed performance with a coated paper of the kind typically used for disposable food packaging, an application where the ink coverage is commonly high. Over the course of several runs, the press printed at a reduced web speed both with and without an additional MGA UV coating.

The tests yielded flawless print products with no discernible set-off or drying problems. A further test run using coated natural paper (90 gsm art paper, glossy) confirmed the results.

Unfolding the Future of Corrugated Packaging

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3rd International Corrugated Technology Exhibition For Asia

SEP 2025 BITEC • Bangkok

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For enquiries : Within Thailand Exposis Co., Ltd Tel (66) 2559 0856-8 info@exposis.co.th Overseas Messe Düsseldorf Asia Pte Ltd Tel (65) 6332 9620 corrutec@mda.com.sg

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For SALE: Packaging Plant In India

Fully integrated print packaging facility for sale in South of India • Capabilities include pre-press, offset printing customised for packaging, coating, flute corrugation and lamination machines, auto & manual die cutting, automatic folder/gluers.

• Capable of producing full color mono and litho laminate cartons.

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Sell your old machinery/equipment Buy used equipment Post jobs for staff wanted Post company announcements

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

For SALE

Polar Mohr 115X paper guillotine Year of Manufacture 2005 Price GBP 21,000

The machine is in very good condition, ready for production, after a review.

• Mileage of only 50,000 cuts • The set includes documentation & a set of tools a tapping block a spare knife and one in the machine If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us.

COUNTRY : Europe • CONTACT : Michael Fisher • EMAIL: cpisuffolk@cpi-print.eu

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CP2000, Auto Plate, Diagonal Register, Preset, Auto Impression Cylinder Wash, Auto Blanket Wash, Auto Ink roller wash, I/R Dryer + Hot air, Extended delivery, Powder Spray, Technotrans refrigeration, Ink Temperature Control, Dedicated Coater.

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Type: Offset Printing Year: 2004 Impressions: Colours: 5 Perfect: Sheet size H: 1020 Sheet size Y: 720

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COUNTRY: Singapore • CONTACT : Patrick Tan CELL: 65 9145 6110 • EMAIL: patrick@printinnovationasia.com

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Print Innovation Asia Issue 1 2024

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