Interview

Gian Luca Zanoni:

“We have been focusing mainly on ink management for digital printing”

The company’s growth is founded on Piero Zanoni’s decades of experience in the ceramic industry combined with the pioneering spirit of his sons Gian Luca, a management engineer, and Paolo, a mechanical engineer. Inter Ser’s CEO Gian Luca Zanoni talked to us about the company’s latest innovations and the new products planned for the 2022 edition of Tecna, focus on ink management for digital printing, engobe application and energy saving.

What technological solutions have you been working on in recent years and are planning to showcase at the exhibition?

For the past two years we have been focusing mainly on ink management for digital printing, engobe application and energy saving. The market response has been extremely positive, almost overwhelming. We have a strong belief in these lean, green manufacturing technologies, which reduce the risk of human error in the field of process control. The large tile producing groups were the first to introduce these innovations in their factories, demonstrating the very real and practical benefits they bring and paving the way for the successful adoption of our products by smaller manufacturers and companies located in less industrialised countries.

At Tecna 2022 we will be presenting the latest version of I-NKFiller® , the original, innovative, and most widely used automatic filling system for digital inks, materials, and glues. I-NKFiller® was designed and built entirely by I-Tech® , while Inter Ser is responsible for marketing the system in several non-European countries.

We will also present a variety of machines for engobe application, particularly Roll1. This dedicated machine for printing the underside of tiles can be used in conjunction with the RollerFlex laser-engraved silicone roller to apply refractory engobe easily, precisely, and uniformly.

We will also be displaying the latest 4.0 version of EneaGreen, the press oil cooling system which uses variable ventilation technology designed and produced by FIMO and distributed by Inter Ser in many non-European countries.

How do you expect the market to evolve over the next few months?

Despite the difficulties caused by the war between Russia and Ukraine and the limited availability of raw materials, we see great opportunities for Inter Ser. At a time of raw material shortages and consequent delays in deliveries, the market has maintained its confidence in us thanks to our longstanding reputation for responsiveness. We keep our promises and stand by customers when they face difficulties, values that are more important than ever at times like the present.

What are your expectations for Tecna 2022?

We believe the entire industry is keen to meet up again after a four-year forced absence caused by the pandemic. Given the large numbers of international visitors taking part, the show will be an important opportunity for us not only to display our latest innovations to our existing clientele but also to meet potential new customers.

Which countries are you focusing your promotional efforts on ahead of the exhibition?

Inter Ser operates worldwide, and all 8 members of our sales team have been working hard to propose the very best solutions to their customers. For this reason, we don’t consider any one country to be more important than the others but will ensure they all receive our complete attention. ◆