New Zealand Printer December2020-January 2021 by The Intermedia Group

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December 2020/January 2021 People in Print Awards p14-43

14 Intro: Earlier this month, the People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards took place at Sorrento in the Park in Auckland 16 Computaleta: Supplying HP wide format solutions brings Computaleta full circle from its inception in the 1980s 20 Currie Group: A comprehensive range of consumables enables Currie Group customers to stay ahead of the crowd 24 Cyber: You can rediscover the joy of printing with RMGT LED-UV offset press technology 28 Kodak: The time has come for you to consider processless plates. Kodak has the technology and expertise 32 Konica Minolta: Its new direct operation in New Zealand will see more Konica Minolta solutions in the market 36 Nekkorb Solutions: We learn how MPS label presses make producing labels easier

PrintNZ p10-13

10-11 Helping Hand: Iain MacIntyre says print industry members can take pride in the way they kept the industry alive this year 12 Comment: Ruth Cobb reflects on a year to remember; a year that gave us a pandemic and new ways of working Features p25-57

25 Tales from the Printerverse: With uncertainty a consistent factor in the current business environment, try embracing the unknown, says Deb Corn 44 Business: Meqa Smith says everyone should look for the opportunities that exist out there and make the most of them 57 Auspack: A crowded show schedule for 2021 sees the regional packaging expo make the tough and sensible decision to postpone

CONTENTS Advertiser’s index

Aarque 9, 47 APM 9 Blue Print Imaging 49 Computaleta 17 Currie Group 9, 21 Cyber 60 Eamar 58 Fuji Xerox IFC GLC 5 Graphic Machinery 9 Kodak 29 Konica Minolta 33 McHargs 6 Nekkorb Solutions 37 NZSDA 53 Pride In Print 59 PrintNZ 13 Starleaton 41 VPR 58 Wholesale Print 42-43

40 Starleaton: From a modest start, Starleaton New Zealand has established a reputation for reliability and flexibility Wide Format Plus p45-56

46 Aarque: An HP Channel Partner Award sees the team at Aarque finishing the year on a high note 50 NZSDA Previews: The NZSDA is helping to shape the future of the industry 51 President/Secretary: Andy Lowe discusses the importance of the Signee Training Programmes and Melissa Coutts discovers signage in the deep south 52 Signee Spotlight: South Island signee Reece Mchlery shares some of his business insights 53 Fespa: No show this year means high expectations for 2021’s Expo

NEW ZEALAND PRINTER PO Box 32-395, Devonport, Auckland 0744 EDITORIAL: 021 631 559 Bruce Craig, Editor: bruce@newzealandprinter.co.nz CONTRIBUTORS: Ruth Cobb, Deb Corn, Melissa Coutts, Andy Lowe, Iain MacIntyre, Meqa Smith CIRCULATION: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

The PrintNZ team at the People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards, from left: Ruth Cobb, Tania McDougall, Pam Seymour, and Susan Johnston

ISSN 1171 7912

DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES & SERVICE: Brian Moore – brian@newzealandprinter.co.nz +61 410 578 876 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Brian Moore – brian@newzealandprinter.co.nz DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Carrie Tong – carrie@i-grafix.com

New Zealand Printer is mailed to members of the printing, packaging and graphic communications industry in New Zealand 11 times a year, February-December.

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Printer Media Group New Zealand: New Zealand Printer, ProPack.pro Asia Pacific: ProPack.pro Australia: Australian Printer, ProPrint MANAGING DIRECTOR: James Wells – james@intermedia.com.au GROUP PUBLISHER: Brian Moore – brian@newzealandprinter.co.nz © Copyright 2020: Contents of this magazine are subject to copyright and cannot be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

December 2020/January 2021

NEWS Soar Print acclaimed as climate action leader

IN BRIEF NZME says New Zealanders have turned to its flagship masthead the New Zealand Herald in record numbers at a time when accurate information became a necessity. Nielsen’s latest readership survey shows two million people access New Zealand Herald journalism each week. The number of New Zealanders choosing to read the daily New Zealand Herald newspaper has increased by 26 per cent over the past 12 months to 585,000; the highest since 2011. More than one million Kiwis read the New Zealand Herald newspapers across the week. XAAR has released a White Paper comparing its TF Technology ink recirculation more favourably than alternative ink recirculation techniques used by most other printhead manufacturers. Angus Condie, director of Technology at Xaar, says, “Our research proves that ink recirculation solutions vary due to their architectural design, yielding vastly different results. Xaar’s TF Technology still greatly outperforms its rivals and continues to set the benchmark for ink recirculation today, delivering the widest window of operation within inkjet printing.” KOENIG & BAUER DURST food safety water-based printing inks have successfully achieved UL Ecologo Certification, following the evaluation of multiple criteria including energy use, waste disposal, and toxic reductions, among other areas. Using proprietary water-based ink technology, the inks have core technologies to provide automated, productive, food safe printing systems. The inks are used in Koenig & Bauer Durst’s Delta SPC Flexline Automatic 130 press. The WT Food SP Ink was designed for fast print processes on corrugated materials.

A focus on sustainability has again proved a winner for Auckland-based Soar Print. The company has won the Climate Action Leader Award at the 2020 Sustainable Business Awards. Judges credited Soar Print’s long-term view of addressing environmental issues as a printing business. Describing the company’s win, they said, “This is an excellent example of what a privately-owned small business can achieve. “Soar Print’s emission reductions, energy costs and fuel savings are well documented and have been analysed in detail over several years. Soar has been a leader in the industry for several years, is continually looking for ways to improve further, and has been very proactive in teaching other small to medium business enterprises.” Fred Soar, managing director at Soar Print, says,

From left: Soar Print directors Jenny Carter and Fred Soar with Jo Bye, group manager of marketing and communications for Awards sponsor EECA “Our goal was to halve our greenhouse gas emissions over a decade and look, between 2009 and 2019, we reduced them by 55 per cent. Over that same period, we grew our business by 25 per cent. “We were able to communicate to our team at Soar Print, and to our customers, why we were doing that and what we were achieving. We are not going

to stop; this journey will continue.” The family-owned business has created clever initiatives to get staff buy-in to the sustainability focus. These have included competitions around recycling and fuel-efficient driving. It also introduced an environmental component into performance appraisals for staff.”

Shutterfly snaps HP Indigo record Global personalised products retailer Shutterfly has invested in 60 HP Indigo Digital Presses. The company says the HP Indigo Digital Presses will drive higher productivity for its range of photo-based and personalised products. These include photo gifts, photo books, school portraits, holiday cards, and home decor. The agreement with Shutterfly, the leading US supplier of HP Indigo digital

print, marks the largest single customer order for the HP graphics business. Now underway, the rollout includes next-generation B2 sized HP Indigo 100K digital presses; HP Indigo 12000 digital presses; as well as significant investment in web-fed photo presses to transform photo portrait printing to digital. Shutterfly was a beta site for the new HP Indigo 100K. Haim Levit, general manager, HP Indigo.,

says, “Today, tangible, personalised experiences are becoming more precious. Consumers are looking for a quick turnaround, alongside real-to-life photo quality. We at HP Indigo are proud to be Shutterfly’s provider of choice in making this a reality.” The annual global photo printing and merchandise market is forecast to reach a value of US$3.1bn ($4.4bn) by the end of 2026.

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December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

NEWS

Computaleta signs for HP wide format HP has signed a new channel partner agreement with stalwart sign and graphics distributor, Computaleta, to supply HP wide format hardware, ink, and consumables to the New Zealand market. Computaleta will stock ink and consumables specifically at its Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch branches from December, with hardware demonstration showrooms to be established at its new premises in Onehunga, and Christchurch, in early 2021. Arlette Farland, director at Computaleta, says that, with almost 40 years’ experience within the signage industry, providing equipment hardware has been a desire for some time and she feels delighted to be doing that with HP. She says, “I am always looking for new

Partnership: Arlette Farland (l), director at Computaleta with Wayne Shaw, business manager sign and display HP New Zealand opportunities to expand our range, so the inclusion of this range of equipment really brings us full circle Hardware has been the

missing link in our portfolio since the mid-1990s and this closes that loop.” She says the team at Computaleta will gear up to give HP the specialist attention it requires. This includes appointing two or three further staff to address aspects of this market and provide technical support in the near-term. The company has a reputation for reliability in the wide format market and this agreement will give it the opportunity to build on that. She concludes “We are looking forward to working with the HP team to offer HP Latex equipment through our national network of distribution centres, and I know that our customers and the marketplace in general, will be pleased to see us do it.”

Digital drupa numbers increase The second digital drupa, an online preview of the now cancelled giant show (see story page 8), saw an increase in attendance by almost 50 per cent from the first edition. Organiser Messe Düsseldorf says the second preview registered over 3,848 participants, up from the 1900 visitors that the first preview garnered. International participants featured among 81 per cent of the visitors, where 1383 exhibitors from 49 countries recorded about 15,500 page impressions. Sabine Geldermann, project director of print technologies at Messe Düsseldorf, says, “The response to the second drupa preview proved once again that this new digital format is an essential tool for staying in regular contact with the global community. We are also providing the industry with an expanded virtual business platform to reach the desired target groups via the existing worldwide drupa network in these challenging times.” newzealandprinter.co.nz

During the online event, international top speakers provided insights on current topics, technologies, and trends. Industry thought leaders addressed questions like: What potential does inkject print offer for production processes? What packaging trends are emerging in global stationery trade and the constantly growing e-commerce sector? And what solutions do technology providers offer for industrial printing applications? Speakers included Deborah Corn, intergalactic ambassador to The Printerverse at the Print Media Centr platform; Jack Stratton, futrologist; and Fons Put, senior consultant at VIGC. Participants had the opportunity to interact with them via chat functions during the live web sessions. Strategic advisor Kristin Kain and Marco Kersch, member of the Bertelsmann Group executive board, also answered questions on how print can survive in a digital world.

IN BRIEF HEIDELBERG says it has strengthened its financial position thanks to the systematic and swift implementation of its transformation strategy. The company has achieved a positive ebitda, excluding its restructuring result, in the second quarter of the current financial year. It saw a positive development in demand in a number of markets, above all in the key single market China. This trend gives it reason for optimism that it will reach its announced targets in the year as a whole. 3D PRINTING technology used to print concrete houses, could help relieve the country’s housing crisis. Hamilton City Council recruited local company Qorox to create a stylised park bench using 3D-printed concrete. The company made a waka-inspired bench using a robot imported from The Netherlands. The robot and its large mechanical arm can construct a range of concrete structures, including houses and commercial buildings. While a 3D printed house costs about the same as a traditional timberframed house, it can be built a lot quicker and still incorporate conventional building elements.

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December 2020/January 2021

NEWS

Mobile Print Shop gets wheels After a long hold up, owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Mobile Print Shop has had its first outing. Named the Inkiana Press, it made its first appearance at a poster workshop at the Nathan Homestead in Manurewa. It followed that with a stint at the Association of Handcraft Printers and Association of Book Crafts annual Wayzgoose in Sandringham, Auckland. Letterpress wizard and former Pride In Print supreme award winner Graham ‘Inkiana’ Judd intended to travel the country teaching letterpress but needed help to move the press, an 1833 Albion, which prints up to SRA3 sheet size Since downsizing his print company GTO Print, he has concentrated on teaching letterpress, taking the press to nearby Birkenhead Library and running workshops there. However, to make the press truly mobile, earlier this year, he appealed for crowd funding so he could get the funds for a purpose-built trailer to house the press. Obtaining a quote to build a trailer for the press, he then looked for funding. He says, “It was going to cost around $4,500 for the trailer, gazebo and trestle

Mobile at last: Graham Judd (r) and a helper manoeuvre the Inkiana Press into position table. I approached the Arts Foundation Te Tumoi Toi, and it enabled me to run a crowd funding page on boosted.org.nz. I also had some small bench top presses to go into the trailer.” He also approached PrintNZ general manager Ruth Cobb, who immediately recognised the opportunity to, “see more people learn about print

and for Graham to be able to take the trailer much further afield and reach as many as possible”. Thanks to PrintNZ, the appeal received a kick start of $1500 from the Trust4Skills fund, which is available to promote education in the industry. It worked and the trailer was duly finished. He says, “The press is top heavy, so the trailer needed a number

of features like a removable floor, so it can roll up to the press; lifting gear; and strong bracing with secure tie downs. We had the services of an engineer who understood what we needed. “We are so grateful to everyone who donated, especially PrintNZ.” He had intended to head to Masterton and Palmerston North in May for workshops and presentations but the Covid lockdown saw those events cancelled. Now, with the trailer built and lockdown levels loosened, he intends to travel as much as he can. He says, “The poster workshop in Manurewa saw the attendees using a selection of wood type to create their designs and hand ink and print their posters. They had fun. Printing with type and a flatbed press was a new experience for most of them. “Toni Mosley, well known teacher of art, drawing and printmaking, organised the workshop, and assisted me. Being the press’s first outing, it did not go without a hitch. I arrived to find the doorway was too narrow to get the press in. “Fortunately, the day was sunny, and we could complete the press work under a tree.”

Software updates boost productivity Esko has unveiled a host of innovations for its integrated Esko Software 20.1 platform. The company says the updates deliver more functionality as well as outstanding value to packaging and print packaging companies. Jan de Roeck, director of Marketing, Industry Relations and Strategy at Esko, says, “As a technology company, we are relentlessly developing solutions to serve our markets and customers better. “At Esko, we build longterm relationships with our customers and strive to 6

ensure our solutions remain relevant and innovative, enabling anyone using them in the packaging value chain to share the benefit from operational efficiency improvements.” Esko Software 20.1 Platform updates and new features include: • WebCenter 20.0: the web-based packaging management solution includes a social media style dashboard and new connectors for Adobe Creative Suite applications. • ArtiosCAD 20.0.1: the packaging structural design tool that simplifies designing of multi-part and

multi-material packages using resizable canvas design templates. • ArtPro+ 20.1 Plate Cut: a new automated feature that finds the optimal individual cutting path for each separation, reducing preparation time for flexo plate mounting by up to 30 minutes. • ArtPro+ 20.1: Trapping: an aesthetic trapping algorithm which closes misregister gaps and accommodates individual exceptions, making trapping jobs up to 70 per cent faster. • Print Control Wizard for Corrugated: software specifically designed for

the corrugated market, delivering quicker plate production, improved graphic performance and reduced costs. • AVT AutoSet: an integration between Esko Automation Engine and AVT’s press inspection system, reducing setup time of the inspection system to almost zero. • Productivity: change cartridges less often with high-capacity ink cartridges • Security and Protocol Support: secure PDF printing from PCs and scanning of secure PDFs to USB thumb drives and shared folders.

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

NEWS

A B Graphic releases new winder solutions Print finishing equipment manufacturer A B Graphic International (ABG) has launched two new winder solutions. Currie Group supplies ABG solutions in New Zealand. The two new winder solutions are a non-stop unwinder and a non-stop rewinder. Based on existing designs by strategic partner, Kocher & Beck, the new solutions mark ABG’s first entry into the splicing arena. Manufactured at ABG’s Spanish facility, both systems suit medium to long runs. ABG says they target increased productivity, improved product quality, and reduced material waste. Both winder solutions have a range of applications. ABG says they integrate with any existing set up, including presses, finishing equipment, and converters. It adds that the new winders provide customers with increased flexibility. ABG’s standard non-stop unwinder

New: ABG’s new winder solutions target increased productivity system ensures the non-stop feed of web-type materials. The non-stop unwinder system provides continuous rewinding of a self-adhesive matrix produced with a label cutting and printing process. Matt Burton, ABG’s global sales director, says, “Our winder systems complement our portfolio

of finishing solutions. They provide customers with complete flexibility, especially as they are so adaptable to your current set up. “As an added plus, we fully expect that both systems will help provide productivity improvements. This will help our customers generate return on

investment quickly.” ABG has a number of solutions available in New Zealand such as its digital embellishment module. The company has also formed a partnership with HP Indigo. ABG will supply finishing for the new HP Indigo to supply the high speed finishing required for the HP Indigo V12 press.

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newzealandprinter.co.nz

December 2020/January 2021

NEWS

Virtual drupa replaces physical show Announcing that the printing world will have no drupa next year, organisers have pointed to 2024 for the next show. The Covid-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation. Erhard Wienkamp, chief operating officer for event organiser Messe Düsseldorf, says, “The pandemic has caused a great deal of uncertainty among exhibitors and visitors in terms of their attendance at drupa 2021. Travel restrictions and budget constraints have further exacerbated the situation in the printing industry. “We have taken this decision in consultation with our partners, who are entirely supportive of it. It was preceded by a detailed process of considering the current conditions and the needs of the industry.” He adds that the next event will take place as scheduled from May 28 to June 7 in 2024. To maintain the momentum until then, the organiser will host a digital event titled ‘virtual. drupa’, taking place from April 20-23, 2021, during the time frame it had scheduled for the physical event. Sabine Geldermann, project director for Print Technologies at Messe Düsseldorf, says, “Our primary goal remains to support the industry in any way we can to keep in contact at a national and international level, further develop their network and generate leads. To this end, we will hold an interim event from April 20-23, 2021. This will provide our exhibitors and visitors with an additional sales channel, allowing them to make reliable plans.” Chairman at Köenig and Bauer and president of drupa, Bauer Claus Bolza Schünemann, welcomes this approach. He says, “A virtual event is exactly the right format in the current time. Attending drupa under the usual parameters was just too great a risk for many exhibitors. Also, declining export and turnover figures, as 8

Hold the bus: drupa visitors can visit the show online next year well as significant travel restrictions, would also affect visitors. The new digital forum is a virtual platform, which provides a reliable pillar. It offers an opportunity to maintain valuable communications within the industry until 2024.” Launched in October, the drupa preview platform offers an impression of what ‘virtual.drupa’ will look like. It will give companies the opportunity to showcase themselves and their innovations virtually. It will enable them to maintain existing contacts and establish new ones via the matchmaking feature. The conference schedule of the five drupa hot spots will provide key incentives and set the agenda for an online transfer of knowledge. International speakers will present success stories of Future Technologies in the Cube, outlining the future

for the industry. Markus Heering, managing director of the German VDMA Printing and Paper Technology Association, says, “Our members tell us that trade fairs that drive their business forward are still in great demand. The value and appeal of drupa remain intact. The decision to suspend it in 2021 is entirely down to the pandemic. “In the long run, it is important for all of us to maintain drupa as an international platform. It displays the diversity of our industry. However, we welcome the introduction of the new digital platform as an interim solution until 2024.” Messe Düsseldorf says the printing industry continues to fully back the global trade fair. The organiser describes drupa as a platform demanding open and competitive

market comparison. It also sees the show as a driving force for innovation, benefiting exhibitors and visitors in equal measure. It says, “Through direct contact, people can experience and compare technology trends and innovations and discover new synergies. Replicating its impetus, selling power and atmosphere, as well as the ability to exchange ideas with like-minded industry colleagues and nurture relationships, has certain limits when conducted in an online format. The organisers aim to satisfy this demand with ‘virtual. drupa’. Wienkamp concludes, “Messe Düsseldorf remains in close contact with the authorities and its partners of all other events, and we will evaluate the circumstances in a timely manner to take the responsible decision.”

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

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Print Service & Supply Businesses - Stay in Front Stay in front of your prospects, New Zealand Printer readers, with an ad in the New Zealand Printer Directory. Pay just $150 ex gst a month over 11 issues and get noticed by the people who need your goods or services. The Directory is published monthly near the Print Calendar at the end of the NZP news section. Email Brian Moore brian@newzealandprinter.co.nz for details

PRINT CALENDAR Interpack

Foodtech Packtech

Pride InPrint Awards

Feb 25 - Mar 3, 2021 Düsseldorf, Germany Considered the largest event in the packaging industry, Interpack specialises on the packaging process within the food, beverage, confectionery, bakery, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, non-food, and industrial goods sectors.

April 13-15, 2021 ASB Showgrounds, Auckland New Zealand’s largest food manufacturing, packaging and processing technology trade show will attract more than 250 local and international exhibitors and some 4,500 trade visitors.

June 25, 2021 Cordis Hotel, Auckland Entries have opened for our national print awards competition with early bird closing on February 12 and the final entry cut off on March 31. Make sure to get your best work together and enter sooner rather than later.

www.interpack.com

Fespa Global Expo March 9-12, 2021 Amsterdam, The Netherlands Organisers have moved the show again. They still have the backing of exhibitors wanting to provide an innovative wide format. It will run alongside the European Sign Expo and Sportswear Pro exhibitions.

www.fespa.com

Total Supply Spicers Charity Golf Day March 19, 2021 Pakuranga Golf Club, Auckland After having to call the day off earlier this year because of Covid-19, organisers promised to reschedule it and have now named the new date. They promise a fun day with golfers of all abilities welcome. All proceeds from the day will go to the The New Zealand Cancer Society.

email: zoe@totalsupply.co.nz newzealandprinter.co.nz

www.foodtechpacktech.co.nz

virtual.drupa April 20-23, 2021 Online The world’s leading trade fair has suffered its first cancellation in 69 years, with organiser Messe Düsseldorf now saying it will take place in its usual location of Düsseldorf, Germany in May and June, 2024. Meanwhile, Messe Düsseldorf has opted for a four day online event, citing the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic as the cause of the cancellaton.

www.prideinprintawards.co.nz

NZSDA Conference and Sign Expo July 8-10, 2021 Auckland The now postponed conference, awards, and Sign Expo will still feature everything that would have happened this year. The awards event acknowledges outstanding design and craftsmanship across a range of sign making methods.

www.drupa.com

www.nzsda.org.nz

Print4All

PacPrint 2021

May 3-6, 2021 Fiero Milano, Italy A new show that goes beyond the traditional segmentation of the commercial, editorial, and industrial printing market today to offer a broader showcase and a more vast and varied selection of solutions.

September 28 to October 1 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Since 1970, PacPrint has provided a platform for suppliers and visitors to get together and generate business opportunities through the latest technologies, solutions, and trends.

www.print4all.it

www.pacprint.com.au

December 2020/January 2021

helping hand

Reflections on a yea

espite facing a year of unprecedented challenge, the New Zealand print industry has ‘hung tough’ on the whole and continued to play a vital role in the economy during 2020, PrintNZ chief executive Ruth Cobb proudly reflects. With most print businesses now looking forward to 2021 with greater positivity, Cobb says the widespread uncertainty and even outright fear felt by firms in the sector as the pandemic unfolded cannot be understated. She says, “While our businesses would have been reading the winds as Covid-19 took hold overseas and were expecting some form of local impact, the speed and severity with which Alert Levels necessarily took force left many reeling. “There were so many issues that members needed to address instantaneously. Are we able to continue operating as an essential service? Do we qualify for/how do we apply for the wage subsidy? What revised financial arrangements should we request from our landlords/ banks? Should we propose wage cuts to staff? How do we transition certain functions to working from home? The list was endless. “Fortunately, the strength and unity of having a proactive industry association absolutely delivered in spades during these crisis times. With our channels to central government and its agencies, complementing our longestablished resource and experience, PrintNZ was able to promptly get answers to key questions and validate information on behalf of our members. “We have engaged in more communications with our industry through various channels than ever before in 2020. Be that by one to one communication or via our regular e-letters and website updates etc, we have very much served as the ongoing one-

Supreme award winners Dave and Jan Gick with Pater Thomas, managing director of Pride In Patron Fuji Xerox New Zealand

IAIN MACINTYRE

Print industry members can take pride in the way they kept the industry alive this year

stop-shop of vital information for often stressed-out business managers. “Our member companies have gone through unprecedented change and challenge this year and the PrintNZ team has worked harder than ever before to provide all possible support. It has been extremely heartening to see those endeavours make a demonstrable difference for our members – helping businesses keep many thousands of Kiwis employed around the country.” Notwithstanding, she is also quick to point out that PrintNZ’s services have relevance through both thick and thin. She says, “Covid-19 drew particular visibility on the association’s work across the whole sector, but we are not just here in times of crisis. It is very important, but often business as usual. Work is continuously undertaken for the large number of companies and individuals in our sector. “The next issue is always about to present and require a well-prepared resource to address. Naturally, such work often does not get publicity,

but we gain much satisfaction in seamlessly assisting those members navigate forwards.”

Flexibility Cobb is strongly appreciative of the PrintNZ board’s ready understanding of the difficulties presented on a management level to her team’s operations during the pandemic. She explains, “The board has been an active supporter of the fluid transitions PrintNZ had to make to provide our services and reimagine our events in the pandemic environment. Our day-to-day operations completely changed, and the board was quick to allow the team to proactively adapt from the established script. “In equal measure, we are very appreciative of our membership’s willingness to readily work in with the enforced new way of certain things. While some of our regular programme and services were rendered unattainable due to the pandemic, the feedback we have received is that inconvenience has been far outweighed by the revised offering.

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

helping hand

ar without precedent • Five finalists reached in Apprentice of the Year • Contrasting experiences navigating Covid-19 • Working for you through thick and thin – PrintNZ • Profile of Matt Mills, Fuzed managing director • Training primed for Covid-19 after-effects • Profile of Jill Cowling, Blue Star chief executive • Exciting new era for Pride In Print • Reflections on a year without precedence

New developments

Commitment to training: PrintNZ chief executive Ruth Cobb presents Allen Masterson, from Blue Star, with the Trainer of the Year Award “For one notable example, the Zoom presentation of the Pride In Print Awards Night saw the event gain a much broader audience than at any time in its over 25-year history. Similarly, the PrintNZ Apprentice of the Year and other award presentations were for the first time made by our team in the winners’ own workplaces, which again provided an unprecedentedly personalised sharing opportunity.”

Breadth of offering An illustration of the breadth of services, programme and other pertinent industryrelevant material provided by the association during 2020 is in part reflected by the topics covered in this year’s Helping Hand articles. The headlines of which, in chronological order, entailed: • Wide scope of industry advancement funded by Trust4Skills • Counting down to drupa 2020 • Tribute paid to top-12 PrintNZ apprentices newzealandprinter.co.nz

Turning focus to the contemporary changes introduced to Pride In Print for 2021, which includes a new sponsorship tier, three new awards categories and a new campaign manager, Cobb says she feels really pleased with the positive feedback received from members. She says, “Our intention is to absolutely ensure the Pride In Print Awards continues to remain not only relevant but also a focal point for our industry. In that vein, we will be further reviewing the programme during 2021 in close liaison with industry and will very much invite feedback from the industry.” In another new development, she welcomes the collaboration with New Zealand Printer to enhance and evolve the previous ‘Power 50’ initiative into ‘New Zealand Printer People in Print and Rising Stars’. “Launched this month, the aim of the new concept is to recognise those who have provided key innovation, inspiration and influence in the sector over the past 12 months, as well of course to acknowledge our up-andcoming talent. “We felt this was a more aligned and appropriate means of delivering on the intentions behind the original concept. It is another example of PrintNZ helping shape an external influence to best suit the needs of the New Zealand marketplace.”

Moving forward positively Looking ahead to 2021, for which a more-detailed overview will be provided in the first Helping Hand article of the year, Cobb says a key, ongoing focus of PrintNZ’s work will be to ensure “the industry has a voice”. She says, “In addition to the many mentioned developments we’ve been involved with this year – and hopefully made a difference in on behalf of our members. PrintNZ has continued to lobby hard for our collective corner. “For example, in order for print businesses to reopen at Alert Level Three, they had to work under a new set of safety protocols. PrintNZ rapidly developed these for the industry and then worked closely with the chief executive of WorkSafe to have those formally signed off. “Additionally, having worked hard to convince the government of the importance to industry development of the Diploma in Print Management being a funded pathway, we were able to have the qualification retrospectively included in its ‘fees free’ initiative. “Furthermore, our joint lobbying on behalf of community newspapers and magazines affected by the pandemic is about to see that sector of our membership receive $4m government funding relief. This invaluable financial impetus will be distributed to 331 mastheads throughout the country. “So next year, while we hope for a scenario of some return to business as usual mixed in with expectation of life in the new norm, we remain vigilant about Covid-19 and its ongoing impact.” PrintNZ will continue looking for ways to help. She adds, “Whatever the circumstances, we can assure our membership that PrintNZ will be delivering a wide range of expected offerings and continuing to adapt to ensure we meet the industry’s always evolving needs.”

December 2020/January 2021

2020: a year to remember Seasons greetings from the team at PrintNZ

s the year draws to a close, I look back with amazement at what 2020 sent our way and the speed at which it came at us. When we came back to work in January, little did we know how far off course our plans would veer and that words like pivot, resilience, unprecedented, and virtual would all take on new meanings and become part of our vernacular. We learned to meet without meeting, take holidays without going anywhere, and attend events from the comfort of our own homes. We wore masks when we weren’t going to a party, created bubbles without a bubble blower, and kept apart even when we were together. It is a year that will certainly be remembered by everyone. While it has been crazy and dished up its fair share of disruption and devastation, there has also been a wealth of opportunity for change and we have embraced this. Many of our businesses moved quickly to develop new products, both physical and digital, to help navigate the Covid-19 pathway both for themselves and others. Their work ranged from producing personal protection equipment to developing apps for contact tracing and staying in contact with staff. Throughout the country we see visual reminders of the important role that print has played in managing the pandemic. The easily recognisable black and yellow signage has become commonplace alongside the education materials for those that didn’t have online access. Both employers and employees have had to adapt to different ways of working to ensure that the job gets done. It has taken collaboration and compromise to ensure that as many jobs as possible have 12

RUTH COBB

been retained and that we don’t lose access to our talent pool as a result of the pandemic. PrintNZ is proud to have worked with the industry this year. We made a decision very early on that we would engage with the whole industry whether they were our members or not, to ensure that all businesses were informed and represented, and that they had access to everything that was available. But I do want to particularly acknowledge and thank our PrintNZ members, sponsors, and Board for their continued support during a time which has been challenging for many. You are the people and businesses that ensure there is an industry association when you need one. My final shoutout for 2020 goes to our five Apprentice of the Year winners. Covid may have deprived them of their big moment on stage at the Pride In Print Awards, but it cannot take away their achievements. Between lockdowns it has been an absolute pleasure to make those presentations to them in their businesses, surrounded by their colleagues, employers, and families, all of whom feel immensely proud of their accomplishments. Behind each of those Apprentice of the Year winners, a team of people and a business work to ensure their success; they couldn’t have done it without them. They are the future of our industry and, now more than ever, we need to ensure we have a pipeline of talent to support the industry. 2020 has taught us new ways to do the things we need to do. It has also given us time to appreciate the things we take for granted. We have been kind and we have shown that if we work together, we can get things done. We are fortunate to be living in a country that has managed these extraordinary times well and keep our fingers crossed that we stay protected. Have a safe and happy holiday season and fingers crossed that 2021 takes a more direct route to the finish line. Seasons greetings from the team at PrintNZ.

PrintNZ top five Apprentices of the Year, from top Parth Bhatt, Vanessa Hooton, Nurudin Pelenda, Ryan Scott-Fellows, and Bonny Seymour

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greetings from

Have a safe and happy holiday www.printnz.co.nz

People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards

n December 1, PrintNZ and New Zealand Printer Magazine delivered the first and only physical event for the New Zealand printing, signage, and packaging industries in 2020. The People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards took place at Sorrento in the Park, beside Maungakiekie, in Auckland. The awards recognise members of the industry who have contributed in an outstanding way over the past 12 months. Ruth Cobb, chief executive PrintNZ, said, “We are thrilled to welcome everyone to our first, and last, physical event for the industry this year. It has been a difficult year but it is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the people in this industry that we can host this event.” Cobb and New Zealand Printer editor Bruce Craig thanked the event’s sponsors who enabled the event to take place: Computaleta, Currie Group, Cyber, Kodak, Konica Minolta, Nekkorb Solutions, Starleaton, and Wholesale Print. The People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards celebrated those who achieved excellence over the past 12 months. That included a number of areas such as their work in a particular field of the industry like prepress, offset, digital, finishing, design etc. It also recognised people in the industry who had contributed through their service to and work in the community; their contribution to sustainability and the environment; and well being of colleagues in the industry. Nominations came from across industry sectors, which meant that the award winners represented a diverse cross section of people

December 2020/January 2021

working in the industry, from corporate managers to small business owners and experienced press operators to newcomers. Recognising the emerging talent in the industry, winners of the Rising Stars of Print Awards came from different industry sectors. Craig said, “The future for the industry looks bright when you consider the calibre of these award winners. They bring new ideas and energy to their companies and all industry sectors benefit from that.” Each sponsor had an opportunity to briefly address the guests at the event. The event also gave guests an opportunity to view some of the winning work from this year’s Pride In Print Awards. This year’s virtual presentation attracted a massive online audience, but seeing the winners at the event gave guests a thrill. Logick Print took out the supreme award this year and its winning luxury gift box containing a pot of New Zealand Manuka honey, complete with metal spoon and a passport hand stitched booklet looked even better up close than online. Ruth Cobb also introduced Pride In Print chair Lisa Hegh and new Pride In Print manager Tania McDougall to the audience, though most of the guests already knew Lisa and Tania from their previous work with BJ Ball. Pride In Print entries have opened with early bird entries closing on February 12 and a final cut off date of March 31. Next year's Pride In Print Awards will take place on June 25 at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to all the friends and colleagues who sent in the nominations.

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David Atkins Image Centre Group Transforming a print business into a successful multi-media production company, has enabled David to position Image Centre Group as a leading player in the media environment. With ink in his veins, he credits the company's success to

the crack team of professionals he has assembled at Image Centre Group, who share his passion for the work, and particularly his father and founder of the business, Syd, whom he describes as a true visionary and industry leader.

Bridget Batchelor Caxton Design & Print Excellence Starting at Caxton Press after “successfully applying as an office junior”, Bridget says, “I enjoyed the atmosphere of a family run business and put down roots and the rest is history. After working at Caxton for 26 years, the company is now part of my life

and print has become my passion. Caxton Press has changed with the times by remaining at the forefront of all aspects of the print industry. As a company we have diversified over the last few years which has proved successful."

Aidan Bennett Benefitz Aidan founded Benefitz in 1988 with a vision to create a truly diverse business. The company works across advertising, design, web development, printing, publishing, display, exhibition and signage and employs 85-90 people. Aidan received a Queens

Service Medal in the 2018 New Year Honours list for his contribution to the community and this year, he won election to the Takapuna Community Board. He recently oversaw the placing of solar panels on the plant roof.

Sunny Bhutoji NorthStar Design & Print A designer by trade, Sunny founded NorthStar, “as a logical move. I really enjoy it when clients come in with their ideas, or need ideas that I can help with designing professionally that can be translated to print without any problems. Colour quality and

print quality are important to me. It is important that our clients spend their money in the right place and in the right way. Communication matters and technology plays a significant role in this business.”

Jonny Broderick Broderick Printing & Design Since taking over the running of the company from his father, Jonny has continued to grow the company and its work in the community. He says, “We use technology to best match our customers’ campaigns; not using technology for the

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sake of technology and we run tours of the print shop to help educate marketing teams on the possibilities inherent in print. It is all about the customer and we find a good sense of humour is vital. After all, you need to enjoy yourself and to have a laugh.”

December 2020/January 2021

Computaleta: the original wide format disrupter

icture, in your mind, the early 1980s. Signwriter Noel Morrison, working in his studio one Sunday morning, writes small agricultural signs on the wall. The Christchurch Show takes place the following weekend, and he must have the signs out on time. Each sign has 600 letters on it, and he will work around the clock, chalking up hours behind the brush, to finish the job. Each perfectly formed letter requires the skill that a craftsman has honed since he was 13 years old. However, those 600 letters that take five hours to produce only carry a value of $20 to the customer. Noel misses out on time with his family that weekend, and he thinks, ‘Thanks for nothing. There has to be a better way’. But he did not just dream of a better way to create signage; he found it. The year was 1981, and within a short timeframe, he had bought the first computer and vinyl cut plotter in New Zealand. The speed at which he could produce those signs changed overnight. The agricultural sign with 600 letters now only took 20 minutes to create. Yet he still made $20. Profitability soared and deadlines could be met. He could achieve more work with less labour. This was his 'blue sky' moment. Arlette Farland, Noel’s daughter and director at Computaleta, continues the story, “To start, he cut vinyl letters for other sign companies. This is how we got our unusual name, Computa Leta. But it didn't take long before we had sold those same companies their own machines and built our distribution business." Almost 40 years on since Compuleta’s inception, she sees the industry going through a period of “profound change”. She says, “Markets are merging, margins are reducing, costs are increasing, competition is fierce, and everyday business is changing at a lightning pace.

Computaleta changed the way signage was made and built a Kiwi business

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suppliers within our markets are now offering a wide range of products across a diverse range of contrasting audiences. However, we do all have one thing in common, and that is, we are all experts in visual graphics.”

Business is personal

Legacy: Arlette Farland, director at Computaleta “Technology is reshaping our economic, social, cultural and individual lives, and it will reshape our industry as customers demand more customisation, connectivity, convenience, content, curation and choice. “We face several challenges: • How do we provide what people want today with an eye on what they are going to want tomorrow? • How do we make our current business more resilient while developing that future growth engine? • What might the next 'blue sky' moment look like? “We know that signs and graphics have been merging with complementary markets for several years now. It is a grey line between signage, graphics, commercial print, garment, offset, interiors and architectural, automotive restyling and window films. “Print and signage companies in the traditional sense are selecting some of these markets to be their secondary focus. The distance between one to the other is closing, and distributors and

Over four decades, Computaleta has served the New Zealand market with a range of solutions for the wide format market. As a family-owned company, it has developed and maintained a philosophy grounded in the importance of relationships with clients and suppliers. Farland says, “We have all heard the saying, ‘It’s not personal, it's business’. But we don’t see it that way at Computaleta. “Business is personal. You can't approach anything with passion and purpose without it being personal. We also believe that no one does it better when you have skin in the game. As business owners, when you are driven by the legacy that has gone before you, and the future you are creating for those you love.” With five branches nationwide, Computaleta goes from strength to strength, a 100 per cent New Zealandowned business. It supplies widely respected brands such as 3M, Arlon, Hexis and Image Perfect, Samsung in the digital solutions space, as well as its own brand, Perfect Match. To complement this mix Computaleta has just inked an agreement to supply HP wide format printers in New Zealand. Farland says, “In a sense, the opportunity to supply HP hardware brings us full circle to the creation of Computaleta when Dad had his ‘blue sky moment. HP manufactures a range of printers that cover the full spectrum of wide format production. “We look forward to talking to you about how we can help your business meet the challenges of today and the future.”

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Michelle Burrows Speedprint Michelle and her husband Glyn have owned Speedprint since 2015. She says, “Our dedicated team strives to always provide exceptional quality printing, design and large format services. My husband Glyn and I have owned Speedprint since 2015, we are

exceptionally proud of our team and the achievements we have all made over this time. We believe that keeping up with the changes in technology and staying up to date with the latest printing innovations has been vital to our continued success.”

Jenny Carter Soar Print Jenny has helped guide Soar Print to the status of being not only New Zealand’s most sustainable print company but also one of the country's most sustainable company's across all sectors (see the story on Page 4) Working with her siblings to keep the

family-owned business growing, Jenny has the role of chief financial officer but also finds time to encourage everyone in the company to consider the environment. This has paid dividends not just in awards won but also in business growth.

Raja Chakrabarti Allied Press Starting with The Times of India, the largest English language daily in the world, Raja worked his way up to looking after the Mumbai operation for 12 years before moving to New Zealand. He has had leading roles in newspaper production with the

main players and now has at Allied Press. He says, “I love that every day is so different and I doubt that other professions bring that variety. It all happens now; you can’t leave anything until your next shift. It gives you such satisfaction when you resolve an issue.”

Glenn Climo 5 Digital Glenn, one of the directors at 5 Digital, has spent his entire working life in the print game. A previous winner of the Apprentice of the Year back in the day, Glenn's workmates say his dedication to his role and his ability to bring the team together makes

him an obvious choice to go into the awards as one of the Rising Stars of Print. Described as a hands on printer and an instrumental part of the team at 5 Digital, Glenn has helped them to “rewrite the rules in digital print”.

Bryce Coulbeck Leading Labels Bryce has turned a small company into a successful and profitable business. He says, “I love helping to grow the business and I enjoy the process of manufacturing and printing labels. Managing staff and customers is challenging but fulfilling. You

put in new equipment and new systems and you merge another business into that business. What works is maintaining a harmonious and happy workplace; if everyone else is happy then that will work for me.”

December 2020/January 2021

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Sean Davidson Geraldine Signs and Branded Kiwi From his workshop in Geraldine, Rising Star Sean offers a global perspective on expanding his signage business. He says, “We outsource work to print companies. We have talked about doing our own printing but there are so many great companies that

we can work with that do trade rates. We believe in partnering with companies that do what they do best. We remain the central point of contact for the client and we maintain those relationships with care. It is a matter of one person, one contact.”

Darryl Deed Go Graphics Darryl describes his print career as a “long gap year”. He completed a digital print apprenticeship, mainly prepress, and made the finals of Apprentice of the Year. He has taken over the business from his father Bill. Darryl says, “Dad is still part of the business

and we are in the process of growing the business by moving into different areas of print and producing different ranges of products, such as signage. I am excited by the new technology and possibilities for print.”

Rodger Eaton Boxkraft When Rodger purchased Boxkraft in 2005, he saw huge potential for the company to expand its product offering and its customer base, simultaneously. With a strong sense of making his own luck in life, Rodger forecasts an exciting future for Boxkraft. He says,

“Clients need simple solutions to complex marketing challenges; fast, efficient samples and quotations at a realistic cost. These are where we’ve focused. We have the designs, knowledge and capacity to give our customers creative choices.”

Lawrence Evans Redshift/Wholesale Print With printing.com and associated companies, Lawrence has succeeded in bringing regular trade printing, and printing as a franchise operation. He has achieved his vision for printing that made the process of ordering and receiving the printed product

much simpler for customers and easier for printers. He says, “The digital changes happening will make it an increasingly vibrant sector, with a wider scope for innovation and creativity. We are constantly excited about the possibilities.”

James Fletcher Sharp Print Finishers Taking over the business from his father Warwick, James has worked in finishing and transitioned to packaging. He says, “I really enjoy the range of work we do. You never get the same day with finishing; there is always something different. I enjoy the

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challenge of helping our customers, not just by meeting their deadlines but also by delivering the highest quality work that we possibly can. Nothing beats the satisfaction seeing that end product, having placed extra value into it for the customer.”

December 2020/January 2021

Currie Group covers quality consumables

hroughout New Zealand, Currie Group supplies quality consumables to the commercial print sector. Craig Paul, country manager for Currie Group New Zealand, says, “Whether there is a high demand in the market for conventional consumables, or when we see less demand as happened during lockdown, the need for consumables that print companies can rely on remains constant.” He adds that providing high quality products at reasonable prices helps give Currie Group customers an edge in their markets. He says, "Currie Group carries a comprehensive range of conventional consumables for the lithographic printing market. Sourcing inks and consumables worldwide gives our customers the best possible advantage. Globally, the brands we supply enjoy strong reputations and they are used by smart print businesses everywhere.” The company supplies a variety of lithographic inks as well as varnishes, chemicals, coatings, printing and coating blankets, packings, Katsura rollers, chemicals, lamination film, Agfa plates, Toyobo plates, Toray plates, wash cloths, and other consumables. Paul continues, “Currie Group places a huge emphasis on quality products that work well. We admit that quality products can carry a higher cost, but using these products will deliver a greater yield benefit and your equipment will function at greater efficiency rates.” He points out that offering better quality finishes enables Currie Group customers to improve or enhance a printed material in a way that appeals to their own customers. He says, “As an example, coating is an area where enhancement of the printed material is easily achievable using Currie Group consumables. Coatings and

No matter the demand, Currie Group retains a focus on quality and service

December 2020/January 2021

the number of chemicals used and supplying products that are as environmentally friendly as possible is another way to improve sustainability.

More options

Quality: Currie Group sources high quality consumables for the New Zealand market varnishes can be used to create an improved result whether it be matt, gloss, or a combination of both.”

Sustainable solutions A trending factor, not just in consumables but right across the printing workflow, is sustainability. New Zealand companies face increasing pressure to lessen the effects that manufacturing has on the environment. This pressure certainly applies to using more sustainable inks and consumables. Currie Group continues to broaden its already substantial range with products sourced from sustainable raw material, where possible. Paul says, “One of our goals is to help printers cut waste, which also improves sustainability.” The environmental push will continue to gain momentum with the end user requesting more environmental solutions. Reducing printed waste in the print room by supplying quality products saves money and decreases the volume of products used. Among Currie Group's offering is a range of high quality, vegetable-based ink with high yield that reduces waste and the volume of products used in the print room. Paul says, “Vegetable based inks are requested more these days, as well as food grade, water based coating and ecofriendly chemicals. Reducing

Currie Group also sees other factors influencing pressroom decisions, for example the need reduce the use of isopropyl alcohol (IPA), which aligns with the aims of so many companies in the industry to make themselves more environmentally friendly. Paul says, “We are working with printers to eliminate IPA from the press room by offering IPA free Fountain Solutions. Our ink suppliers are also trying to reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in their formulations. “The more options you have in your range, the more opportunity it will present, so we stay in constant communication with suppliers, always looking at how to improve products. "We see print companies being increasingly more selective of the products they purchase as they become more aware of the different approaches and products that are available to them.” He believes companies can thrive with Currie Group's quality offerings and a flexible outlook. He says, “At Currie Group, we work in partnership with our valued customers. We help them grow with the selection of products that best fits their specific requirements. “Currie Group has the knowledge and expertise to respond to our customers’ needs. “We are always looking towards improve our range of products and sharing what we learn with our customers. Currie Group's ability to recognise and understand trends enables us to give our customers the best chance of success in this competitive business environment.”

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Graeme Foote Fusion Print Even after almost four decades years in the industry, Graeme still loves the technology and the people in it. He has stayed as the boss of Fusion since its takeover by Soar Print and has overseen the new high speed inkjet at Fusion. He shares his passion for

print with his staff and says, “I love it all, especially the teamwork that is involved and the sense of accomplishment. I even like the fact it is hard to do. There is a bright future for businesses that show a willingness to adapt and remain positive.”

Gary Furness Crucial Colour Gary established Crucial Colour in 2006 and has never wavered from his philosophy of producing high quality printed products for a discerning market. He has grown Crucial Colour from having one printing press to now having one of the most

advanced printing plants in the country. He believes that people are Crucial Colour’s greatest asset, and he encourages continuous investment in them so they can achieve the best results for themselves and for customers.”

Taryn Gannaway Beacon Print Rising Star Taryn has gone from strength to strength since starting the industry as a 14 year old at Beacon Print in Whakatane. A previous winner of the SWUG Apprentice of the Year, this year she won the Print Diploma Student of the Year. She has

learned to appreciate the various roles within the business and has enjoyed seeing the industry evolve as she has made her own progression within it. She says, “I really enjoy my job and I am grateful to the people who have helped me to get this far.”

Dave Gick Logick Print & Graphics What can you say about someone whose company has won three Pride In Print supreme awards? Dave possesses a specific dedication to perfection and doing the best possible work. Time and again, Dave has proved that a small business can take on the

big guns and succeed through his philosophy of constantly exploring and refining traditional and modern techniques to achieve outstanding finish and detail. He shows “how innovative thinking can make the difference”.

Vanessa Hooton Tainui Press This year's PrintNZ Apprentice of the Year says, “My favourite aspect is seeing the whole process come to life and having a happy customer. We had one the other day; she shook my hand and she was absolutely stoked with what we gave her.” Looking

forward to continuing to advance within the firm and further broadening her horizons, Rising Star Vanessa feels excited and keen about commencing work on the Diploma in Print Management. Her bosses describe her as “a wonderful kid, an absolute delight”.

December 2020/January 2021

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Mike Horler Horton Media Mike is a self-described lover of all things print who still believes the smell of a running press hall as having a special magic. A big supporter of the industry, he says, “It has many cogs that should be driving all of us forward. Remaining competitive in a very

tight market, maintaining a proactive maintenance programme and returning a profit has been a key achievement for our company. All I can say to anyone wanting to join the industry is to start learning and don’t stop.”

Graham Judd GTO Press and ‘The Inkiana Press’ Graham ‘Inkiana’ Judd is New Zealand’s Mr Letterpress. Graham has a Pride In Print supreme award win under his belt, which he achieved with letterpress. A true print evangelist, Graham spends so much of his spare time teaching and mentoring students

and members of the public about letterpress that now, in semi-retirement mode, he has opted to go on the road and teach some more with the country's first mobile letterpress called ‘The Inkiana Press’ with no apologies to Harrison Ford at all.

Christophe Kiou Monster Print Originally from Tahiti, Rising Star Christophe travelled to France to study design in the early 2000s before returning to Tahiti in 2004 and worked in graphics design and large format printing with his uncle. He eventually moved to New Zealand

and started his own company with a business partner. It has subsequently morphed into Monster Print. He says, “I took 100 per cent ownership of Monster Print in 2016. Fast forward to 2020, and we are now a team of nine including me.”

Brian Landry Soar Print Brian is one of New Zealand’s most experienced printers. he ran Soar Print's label business Rocket Print and last year, he accepted the role of general manager at Soar Print. Brian’s immense knowledge of machinery and processes help drive the

company in the right direction. As a mentor and manager, he has his finger on the pulse of print production and always wants to learn more about the process. His philosophy is to always look for and find ways to add value to print.

Mike Lainchbury Westgate Print Mike and Linda Lainchbury know about aiming for excellence. They both practice Archery and hold over a dozen world titles in the sport. At work they believe in the value of producing quality print. Mike says, “I was told 20 years ago to sell my screen printer

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but that thing still runs every day. Most people prefer to hold a bit of paper in their hand rather than trying to squint into a phone. Plus, when it comes to manuals: you can’t beat a printed manual. That is where the Tabs still reign supreme.”

December 2020/January 2021

RMGT LED-UV creates print profitability

ew Zealand’s commercial printers can rediscover the joy of printing with RMGT LED-UV presses, supplied through Cyber, which has confirmed its commitment, offering to give away the RMGT LED-UV system with every new 920 and 970 series press purchased for 2021. Bernard Cheong, managing director of Cyber Australia and New Zealand, says, “We are helping commercial printers change in order to face the challenge of the digital age. We want to revitalise the New Zealand printing market in the same way as we have done in the United States and Asia. “In the United States, RMGT LED-UV presses are enabling printing companies to shrink the tipping point between digital and offset. They can do short run printing, offset quality, that is ready for binding when it comes off the press. More and more commercial printing companies are receiving a great return on their investment of an RMGT LED-UV press. “We see the same proud and happy result from our customers throughout Asia. For example, a growing market for commercial printers globally is packaging. One of the numerous advantages of the RMGT LED-UV technology is that it enables printing on packaging board, plastics and

RMGT LED-UV technology has shrunk the tipping point for short runs between digital and offset

Cyber will give away the RMGT LED-UV system with every new 920 and 970 series press purchased for 2021

Sharing his passion for print: Bernard Cheong, managing director Cyber Australia and New Zealand

December 2020/January 2021

synthetics with ease. We have supplied the RMGT LED-UV system to a commercial printer in Malaysia who has happily added packaging printing to its capabilities and Malaysia’s largest packaging printer, who purchased a second LED-UV press within six months of installing their first LED-UV press, a testimony of the real benefits they had derived from the LED-UV dry-to-dry printing system. He says, “We are excited to help them change the way they work and to rekindle their passion for printing! Seeing the expressions on the face of the printers is an incredibly satisfying outcome. We feel both happy and proud of what RMGT LED-UV has done for their business.”

Local success In New Zealand, the Bay of Plenty’s largest print company, Kale Print, has taken advantage of LED-UV after it installed the country’s first RMGT 920ST4 LED-UV press. Production manager Brent Kale, says, “The LED-UV dry-to-dry printing system is a game changer for the industry. “Jobs come straight off the press and can be finished immediately. There is no downtime waiting for ink to dry or marking issues. We are now well equipped to meet the future demands of the creative industry and deliver high value add products. Because its footprint is so much more compact, coupled with increased automation, it

only requires one printer to run it. It also gives us much lower power consumption; low heat emissions; less paper set up; and there is no odour. “Now, we take work off our digital machines and print them with the RMGT LED-UV press because it is quicker and more cost efficient. We are also seeing savings on plates and blankets.” A commercial printing company that installs an RMGT LED-UV press can cut, fold and deliver jobs immediately. There is no wait for the job to dry. Cheong says, “The LEDUV dry-to-dry printing system delivers high value-added printing to your customers. “There are so many positives. The LED-UV system produces no ozone or heat; there is no need to duct the press and, with instant on/off operation and no warm-up of the system required, it gives you trouble-free operation.” “Also, you don’t require any anti-set off spray powder so you can make even more savings as the press and the environment stays free of the dreaded spray powder. This in turn means less press maintenance and downtime. Of course, wear on the press is significantly reduced.” Paul Hilleard, sales and service manager for Cyber New Zealand, oversaw delivery and carried out the installation last year. Cheong says, “In New Zealand, Cyber is one of the few suppliers to be able to complete an installation like this without requiring outside help.” With the recent relocation of Cyber's New Zealand operation to Hamilton, Cheong believes the company has positioned itself well to complete its mission to help Kiwi printers rediscover their joy in printing. Hilleard says, “We are excited to be here and ready to help. We look forward to sharing our passion for print and RMGT LED-UV.”

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TALES FROM THE PRINTERVERSE Plant the content and communication seeds now, cultivate your audience, and both could grow into business opportunities next year – or after

The long road to new business starts now

s we come upon the holiday season, it is a stark reminder that 2021 is right around the corner and knowing what that will bring for our business is not a gift Covid-19 will exchange this year. With uncertainty a consistent factor, embracing the unknown as an opportunity and turning it into a strategy could open up some interesting possibilities. If losing money wasn’t a factor and if losing customers wasn’t a factor, would you be doing anything differently? Could you be doing anything differently to attract and win new business? Throw out “this is the way we do things around here” and let’s reassess new business development and the customer relationship in Corona. Here are three things to get your started:

It is not about you You may have recently acquired a new press, and/ or new finishing equipment, and/or new add-on marketing technology to offer. You can spend time doing research and prospecting for new customers who can benefit from all of that, and you should! You made your purchases to differentiate yourself and help customers achieve success with their marketing. So, are you? ‘Data for Decisions’ is my mantra for 2021 – and it’s now yours. Qualifying and quantifying every dollar spent with you and formulating that information into repeatable business results for customers is the fastest way to a ‘yes’. Capabilities are super important and help you present more options for execution – newzealandprinter.co.nz

just keep in mind that speaking about that in the ‘pitch’ makes it about you. Focusing on how you help customers make money regardless which press it ran on, makes your conversation about them. DEBORAH CORN

With uncertainty a consistent factor, embracing the unknown as an opportunity and turning it into a strategy could open up some interesting possibilities

Selective services Professional print buyers are working remote and from the people I have been speaking with through my relationship with the Advertising Production Club of NYC, that isn’t changing anytime soon. This situation presents some challenges and opens up some doors for new conversations to happen. Here are some issues that have been shared with me previously: Can’t get in touch with their team, can’t get access to the files they need, information and files being emailed by numerous people out of sequence and more difficult to keep things organised, not sure if their vendors are at work, not sure who to get paper samples from, having proofing issues and incurring additional expenses for multiple proofs and overnight shipping, estimates taking a long time, general job communication is less frequent. Perhaps there is a way you can swoop in with solutions. What services can you create to help remote buyers with any of those issues?

Take me to your leader I recently presented Content for Conversions for #GirlsWhoPrint Fierce, Fabulous Fridays and I focused on developing a personal brand and building a quality community around your products and services to communicate with. Content supports your data for decision prospecting

strategy and can help you build an audience around topics that enforce your ability to produce, track and report business results. Content can come in many forms: website information, how you describe what you do and who you help, testimonials, tweets, social media re-sharing, company information on social platform, to name a few. Then there is content in the form of the actual marketing you do for your business and the content included in conversations you have about how you help customers make money and or achieve the business goals they set. So, be a resource; be a beacon of hope that help is a click or call away. Be a thought leader on every vertical you service and an idea generator to help businesses achieve their results.

This will take time Plant the content and communication seeds now, cultivate your audience, and you will see how both can grow into business opportunities next year or after. There is no longer a fast pass for success. If you need help, get in touch and we will figure it out. Deborah Corn has more than 25 years of experience working in advertising as a print producer. She is the Intergalactic Ambassador to The Printerverse at Print Media Centr, a Print Buyerologist, international speaker and blogger, host of Podcasts From The Printerverse, cultivator of Print Production Professionals, Head Girl in Charge at Girls Who Print, host of #PrintChat, the founder of International Print Day and the founder of #ProjectPeacock.

December 2020/January 2021

Colin Lean Logan Print Colin has previously been named both the 2018 Top Level 3 Completion Sheetfed Trainee and Sheetfed Apprentice of the Year. His colleagues say he, “leads by example”. Colin has continued his education with the Diploma of Print Management, at the same

time championing 12 apprentices through the business, including an Apprentice of the Year Finalist. He says, “I am only a small part in our company’s training team, I enjoy helping apprentices to set realistic goals and then support them to reach these goals.”

Pat Leitch Centurion Print After purchasing Centurion Print in 1992, Pat embarked on a strategy of constantly adapting to market conditions and investing in new technology; often well ahead of the pack. Through meshing expertise and craft skills in traditional print with the latest

offset and digital technologies, he has grown the business, making sensible decisions on acquisitions and technology. He believes in a healthy print culture. He says, “We still see it as building a resource for the future. Print is by no means dead; it is just changing.”

Scott Liddle Boxrite Working in a family-owned business, Rising Star Scott has found the challenges come almost every day. He says, “I really enjoy being challenged and finding the right solution to any problem that pops up during the day. This business is great because you

can never get bored and you have an opportunity to be creative and innovative every day. I really enjoy the personal contact we have with our customers and providing a level of service that they won't necessarily get from someone else.”

Peter Lloyd Kale Print The Bay of Plenty’s biggest printer snapped up Peter in 2018, recognising his years of print industry experience. He has shared his clear vision to grow the business. He says, “I’ve found a renewed passion for the industry and its people. We have had a busy

time with press installations; a new brand launch; environmental accreditations; and development of new products and services for our clients. Our team members have embraced the change. It is an exciting time to be in print.”

Craig Loveridge Blue Star Group Described as “an instigator for change and a key person at Blue Star. Craig has helped the company ensure stability and growth through aligning digital and print solutions to ensure consistency and mitigate against print volume erosion. Through leadership

and direction he put together key teams that did not fear digital change, and found routes to embrace the customer journey and gradually also reintroduce printed collateral through solutions in augmented reality and marketing solutions”.

December 2020/January 2021

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Nick Marsh 5 Digital He started as an apprentice at Nicholson Printing but became one of the innovators in the digital market, setting up 5 Digital with four associates to focus on more targeted clients and personalised communication. He says, "We wanted to bring an offset

discipline to a copy shop mentality. I am still passionate about printing and I love pushing the boundaries to the point where we make things look better. I am a bit of print geek. We are printing metallics and we want to put more value on the sheets.”

Don Matheson ABC Photosigns Taking the reins from his father bill, Don has guided their company through two major acquisitions so it now owns Original Print and Real Estate Signs. The leading real estate graphic signage company in Auckland, ABC now covers any number of

print and signage solutions. He says, “We focus on total service and cost-effective value for our clients. We take great pride in producing high quality work across the board for our customers. Every day is different. It is all different sizes.”

Steve Matthews W-rapt Labels From Excel Digital to now W-rapt Lables, Steve is a print digital wizard. His innovative and flexible approach to the label sector is helping campanies from all over the country to compete successfully where they have listened to Steve and his team and taken

advantage of W-rapt's experience, creativity, and tenological solutions. A keen supporter of the industry, Steve continues to enter jobs in the Pride In Print Awards and W-rapt has already amassed a cupboard full of gold medals.

Johnny McHarg McHargs In the New Zealand print industry, no one talkes their legacy more seriously than the McHarg family. A more than 125-year tradition of working in the industry sees the formidable Mainland finishing company continuing its success. As competitors have

fallen away, Johnny says McHargs has stayed successful by, “specialising in a few areas and focusing on client satisfaction. Our work has always been in print finishing and, while we see a lot of amalgamations, our workload is constant”.

Sean McMahon Southern Colour Print Sean has guided Southern Colour Print to numerous awards from Pride In Print’s supreme award to global awards for its stamp printing. Sean says,“It is fantastic working with the talented group of people we have here at Southern Colour. They are

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great problem solvers. We get asked to do some challenging jobs and the response from the staff is always, ‘We haven’t done that before but we will figure it out’. It is so good working with these kinds of people. We have a loyal group of customers as well.”

December 2020/January 2021

Time to plate up with KODAK SONORA Process Free Plates

rint companies can reduce their environmental impact and reap the benefits of cost savings when they move to KODAK SONORA Process Free Plates. Globally, over 4,000 print companies have already made the switch. The company says this impressive achievement is reflected in Australia and New Zealand where Kodak ANZ has grown SONORA Plates sales from 15 per cent of its total volume four years ago to now 60 per cent of its total plate volume. During this period, Kodak ANZ decommissioned approximately 75 plate processors from the field. SONORA Plate sales into the local market include applications such as newspaper printing, heatset web, commercial sheetfed, UV, packaging (folding cartons, metal decorating), business forms and a host of other applications. John O’Grady, senior vice president, Kodak, says, “SONORA Process Free Plates save printers money by reducing waste and time, both in prepress and in the pressroom. “Secondary benefits include the considerable space they can save in prepress and the reduced variability that results from doing away with traditional plate processing. Huge cost savings are possible on press because there is less waste and less press downtime for plate remakes.”

Switching to process free plates offers printers a range of benefits

Ongoing improvements Kodak introduced the first successful process free plate in 2005 and continues to lead this technology. The company says that no other plate manufacturer can make a plate with the performance features required to meet the broad needs of such a large percentage of the offset printing market. Printers increasingly look for solutions that require minimal maintenance, service support

December 2020/January 2021

Over 4,000 companies have changed to KODAK SONORA plates and on-site visits by service specialists. SONORA is the only process free plate that delivers without compromise, whilst improving stability and press utilisation.

Xtra: next generation The company recently announced KODAK SONORA Xtra, its next generation process free plate. This new plate ships with three key upgrades. The company says the contrast after imaging is significantly higher, meaning it is easier for printers to use and offers enhanced machine readability. Kodak also improved the handling robustness in a wide array of conditions, including automated plate handling equipment, which was a big ask from customers. Finally, Kodak says the SONORA Xtra provides even faster imaging, which is vital for higher-speed platemaking. platemaking. Today, Kodak is the only company in the world that develops, manufactures, sells, and services the complete solution: CTP platesetters and related automation solutions; plates; and workflow software. O’Grady says, “Our customers get an end to end solution from one source, and all the responsibility lies with Kodak. Our customers can be

certain that the various solution components, like the plates and the platesetter, are precisely matched, so that maximum reliability and performance are guaranteed in daily use.” Ongoing research and development enables Kodak to achieve further advances in the field of highly automated, digital platemaking. For example, the new SONORA Xtra Process Free Plate makes a perfect complement to the recently introduced T-Speed Kodak Magnus Q800 Platesetter. With a throughput of up to 80 plates per hour this CTP device is the fastest system in the world for imaging process free plates. According to a recent Kodak statement, SONORA Xtra will enable up to 90 percent of printers to make the shift to process free. For customers using conventional wet processed plates, the company will help them understand the benefits of process free so they can realise the cost and environmental savings for themselves. Kodak ANZ is currently running a SONORA 'Bounty for Your Processor' campaign in the Australia and New Zealand region to encourage printers to make the transition. For more information, please visit www.Kodak.com

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PRINT THAT PAYS

From plates and CTP to workflow software, Kodak optimizes productivity and profit across your entire operation. And we offer high-caliber support tailored to your specific needs, to keep your operations running at full capacity. With expertise, products and support from Kodak, you can grow your business and your bottom line with print that pays. Learn more at kodak.com/go/newzealandprinter

ÂŠ Kodak, 2020. Kodak and the Kodak logo are trademarks.

Matt Mills Fused Matt created Fuzed as as he took over the running of Kingsland Print, the company his father Jason had founded. Fuzed has built a reputation as a print company that will take on projects that land in other companies’ too hard baskets. Matt has taken

on the role of Dscoop New Zealand chair to share what he has learned with other printers, something he sees real value in. He welcomes visitors to Fuzed and is always willing to share his insights into the industry and to help others.

Tegan Mills Fused Tegan’s work at Fuzed has helped take the company to a new level, wearing a lot of different hats and now general manager. She says, “I love to bring to life the projects that clients want. They may only have a concept and don’t know what applications to use to

bring out the best possible end result. That’s where I come in, using my industry and production knowledge along with the experience and technology around me. I love to experiment with the stocks, applications and technologies around me.”

Pete Mills I Print on Demand As a small print shop, I Print On Demand, through Pete’s leadership and innovative approach, has expanded its capabilities to successfully move into niche and boutique digital packaging. According to Pete, he completed his apprenticeship in typography,

“a long time ago”. He began I Print On Demand, so he could, “stay hands on. That is what printing is to me; a physical tactile experience. I find it compelling and interesting. The physical day to day issues of print beat anything else.”

Tim Morris Laserfoil Design and Print From a tiny backyard business that he started 11 years ago, Tim has grown Laserfoil Print and Design into a nationally recognised company, prodiucing some electrfying work. Tim is always looking for the best possible finish for his customers,

one of the reasons Laserfoil leads in high quality print finishes and traditional processes. Laserfoil has won multiple gold awards at pride in print from 2015. Tim has served as a member of the Pride In Print Awards Committee for many years.

Rajesh Mudundi Five Star Print Rajesh Mudundi, managing director at Five Star Print, took over the company in 2012 and, since then, he has built it from a small neighbourhood copy shop into a busy digital print business, offering everything from business cards to booklets, and signage. He

says, “This is my dream: to have my own print business; to come here everyday and produce beautiful printed material that my customers can use to enhance their own businesses, whether they are small or big, everyone needs a trusted brand.”

December 2020/January 2021

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Margriet O'Reilly Pinc Margriet has grown the business from design shop to a busy digital print and finishing studio, bringing husband Conan in into the business and now supporting a team of five. She says, “We love producing highend print products like beautiful wedding

invitation sets to premium business cards, experimenting with finishes such as foiling, layering and edge painting. We love to collaborate within our industry, working with other designers and printers and can’t wait to see where this business takes us.”.

Jared Percival Onform Graphics Jared founded Onform eight years ago, working out of a garage in Pakuranga, doing mainly fleet graphics for local business owners. He says, “We would often be weeding graphics on the kitchen bench. We then started to focus on the retail sector,

doing a lot of new shops for many household brands in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. We have, bit by bit, added to our arsenal. We are building a new purpose built manufacturing facility that will allow us to offer new products in new markets.”

Tony Sayle Jenkins Freshpac Involved in the printing and labelling industry since 1994, Tony took the reins at Jenkins Group in 1999, which provides innovative end to end packaging solutions. Tony has a high regard for the people he has met in the sector and has immersed himself

in the business and the industry with roles as a director for the CMITO, now merged with Competenz, and is currently president of PrintNZ. He is also a director on the Jenkins Group boards in Australia and New Zealand.

Phil Schwass Lazy Ape Phil Schwass started Lazy Ape in October 2019. He says, “I had always leaned toward creative work and I was doing textile printing on the side. I had the intention of doing my own apparel line, but I have been so busy with producing workwear for other

companies that the apparel line has gone on the backburner for now. The idea was to move out of the rat race and head toward a lazier lifestyle, but things have not worked out that way exactly because the demand for printed textiles is continuing to increase.”

Steve Sheppard PrintLounge Steve has shown the industry that offset printing still offers opportunities. His company PrintLounge has achieved significant success producing a range of printed products in sheetfed offset. Steve says, “We invest in technology and we have

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staff members who know what they are doing. We are in a distinctive position as it is unusual to see a small company buying new offset presses. We also have the latest digital print technology but about 98 per cent of our work is still done offset.”

December 2020/January 2021

Konica Minolta goes direct

onica Minolta has recently announced a direct operation in New Zealand, with an initial focus on its core business in the graphic art market. With a long tradition of helping New Zealand print companies to achieve success, Konica Minolta will provide a way for printers to access leading technology and solutions that ignite print possibilities. Leading the graphic arts team, industry veteran Chris O’Hara will take on the role of national production print manager. A printer by trade, with over 30 years’ experience in the industry, O’Hara is eager to share his enthusiasm for the printing industry and its future. He says, “It is incredibly exciting to be able to offer Konica Minolta’s innovative graphic arts products. Konica Minolta is at the forefront of innovation and I am excited to be back working with the Konica Minolta brand. “I really look forward to working with customers on solutions that can help them build for the future.”

Team KMNZ Over the past few months, Konica Minolta has assembled a local, highly experienced team of service engineers to ensure premium support for its customers. O’Hara says, “One of the hallmarks of Konica Minolta has always been our commitment to service and support. “We understand how our service offering must equal the quality of the technology we offer. I am really pleased to say we have a team of engineers who share our passion for helping our customers succeed and a large part of this is offering service that guarantees maximum uptime.” I am also proud to have Rob Whiting on the team as production print specialist.

The Konica Minolta AccurioPress C14000 offers a raft of innovations

Chris O’Hara, national production print manager for Konica Minolta New Zealand

With solutions across the board, Konica Minolta kicks into gear in New Zealand

December 2020/January 2021

With over 15 years’ experience in the industry, Rob has the depth of experience and knowledge to provide maximum benefit our customers.”

Range of solutions Konica Minolta now offers its full range of graphic arts solutions to the local market. Among its offering, the recently released AccurioPress C14000 prints in CMYK at up to 140ppm A4, or 80ppm A3, with a resolution equivalent to 3600 x 2400dpi. It handles media up to 450 gsm and detects paper types automatically and offers simplex banner printing up to 129.5cm and duplex banner printing up to 90cm. Finishing options include inline trimming, slitting, and creasing for full-bleed output. O’Hara says, “The C14000 air suction feeding units incorporate automated air controls based on media set up and provide high quality capacity for media of up to

14,140 sheets allowing longer print runs without operator intervention.” Its IQ-501 image quality optimiser has been available on previous AccurioPress ranges and is standard on the AccurioPress C14000 series. The IQ-501 includes two scanners and a spectrophotometer that work together to ensure colours are accurate and calibrated correctly. The IQ-501 delivers the ability to print diagnostic sheets, which make it easier for the machine itself to pinpoint any issues within the toner and drum and run a clean automatically to clear up the problem. This reduces the need for a service technician to physically visit, but if a technician is required the IQ501 system automatically sends this diagnostic report to Konica Minolta. Released last year, the AccurioLabel 230 label printer, offers speeds of up 23.4mpm to suit a variety of markets and applications, delivering high image quality 1200 x 1200 dpi/8 bit. Key features include minimal warm-up time; improved registration; the ability to overprint on pre-printed media such as overprinting of flexo white pre-printed on clear PP labels; no specialised paper required, prints onto most uncoated media; reduced waste; and food grade safe toner labels for indirect packaging applications. O’Hara adds, “This thirdgeneration innovative web-fed digital label press is ideal for print companies wanting to diversify and capitalise on new market opportunities. A small footprint, ease of operation, and AccurioLabel Impose software application make it a standout solution. “Konica Minolta offers solutions across the board and we have a strong commitment to creating value for customers and the community. We look forward to providing solutions that help local print businesses succeed.”

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RETHINK EFFICIENCY WITH THE ALL NEW ACCURIOPRESS C14000 SERIES

The digital revolution continues with the highly evolved, all NEW AccurioPress C14000 series designed to ensure you never stop printing. These high speed digital colour presses offer next level automation for ultra-efficient, high volume colour printing. Packed with an array of impressive features, powerful inline finishing options for high productivity and with in-built technology, they offer unparalleled quality and consistency print after print.

To rethink efficiency, simply visit konicaminolta.com.au/AccurioPressC14000series

Fred Soar Soar Print Fred leads one of Auckland’s oldest familyowned companies, alongside his siblings Jenny Carter and Vicky Soar. Celebrating its 100 year anniversary, Soar Print reigns as the industry’s most sustainable printer. With ink in his veins, Fred still gets a thrill

watching paper moving through the press. A qualified chartered accountant, he has overseen Soar Print’s steady growth through investment in innovative technology and the acquisition of print businesses in the Auckland and Waikato region.”

Dylan Southan Southan Print Dylan has faced this year's challenges using his initiative to diversify Southan Print’s core business of screen printing. He says, “We have had to think outside the square and move quickly to meet our clients’ requirements. We now incorporate our wide

format digital printing more often. This has resulted in great achievements with new clients, It is great to see where the industry is going, from advanced machinery to ecofriendly inks and substrates; the future of printing excites me.”

Steve Spear Omnigraphics After finishing his apprenticeship in photo lithography, Steve worked in publishing but returned to printing via Omnigraphics, which he purchased Janette Partington. He says, “I love everything about this industry. So many things come together to make it

great. Things have changed so much; we get a job done in the time it used to take to give someone a quote. It is exciting, it always buzzing and we have brilliant and loyal clients. Omnigrpahics has clients we have dealt with for over 20 years.”

Jeff Sun Pumphouse Print Jeff bought Pumphouse Print last year. He says, “Before I bought the business, I had always thought of ways we could do things differently. I believe that in this industry, you need to understand the trends to prevent your business from fading.

Although many sectors of print have shrunk and continue to shrink, we see many opportunities to keep print alive. These are exciting times to be in this business. We try to provide a one stop shop: design, print, finishing, anything the customer needs.”

Logan Sutton Future Grafix During the lockdown, Logan initiated ‘shop local’ incentives to help other businesses adversely affected during Covid-19 lockdowns. He says, “The common theme was that everyone, me included, felt a sense of relief, but many were also feeling quite

anxious, not really knowing how they were going to bounce back. There was a lot of concern about how much longer they could go with reduced turnover before they were going to lay off staff or in some cases close their doors permanently.”

December 2020/January 2021

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Jacques Swanepoel Textiles Alive Alongside business partner John Heyworth, Jacques manages the “largest textile centric production house within New Zealand. With a vertically integrated platform we deliver a full service of speciality signage for a diverse range of industries and applications. We are

constantly challenged by our clients and driven to transform their bold ideas into amazing realities. Innovation is our passion; it is part of our DNA and we are constantly stiving to positively influence the industry by what we deliver.”

Liam Talbot Torque Digital After more than 12 years in the industry, Liam still loves “bringing our clients’ vision to life with our creative input combined with technology and hands on skills. It is a challenge controlling growth and implementing systems across the company

so it is sustainable. This year, we moved Torque into our new customised 1700 square metre HQ facility, which was a long time coming as we had started out in our garage. I am grateful I surrounded myself with people who are smarter than me”.

Aaron Waddington Supercolour Aaron believes in giving his team members at Supercolur the chance to indulge their creative impulses. The company runs the country’s widest and fastest dye sub printers and heat-presses, handling anything to a width of 3.3m. Turning Supercolour into a

trade-only large format print production company, Aaron sees no limit to the possibilities for his company and for its customers. He believes in, “making savings through optimisation and passing those on to our trade clients”.

Dan Wheeler Freedom Plus Dan started his company from his garage and has grown it by taking advantage of the digital evolution. He continues to expand the business with an entrepreneurial approach. He says, "I love seeing the amazing quality results that we produce,

especially when compared with back in the day. I enjoy the opportunities and the industry provides for growth and the excitement that goes with it. This inspires us to continue to produce better print, always improving.”

Russell Wieck NZME For training and quality, NZME has enjoyed significant success under Russell’s guidance. Under his leadership, the company has won the trainer of the year award and its Ellerslie press won repeat entry into the exclusive Wan-Ifra International Newspaper Colour

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Quality Club. Russell says, “It is important to develop a supportive culture for anyone who wants to develop professionally. The culture within our business is that no matter what the subject matter is, the training is there and supported.”

December 2020/January 2021

MPS makes label printing easier

abel printing machine manufacturer MPS had no installations in New Zealand when it appointed Nekkorb as its local agent in 2013. Six years later, MPS appointed Nekkorb as the agent for Australia as well and it now has 12 machines installed throughout Australia and New Zealand. Frank Brokken, says, “Whether you need a full on flexo press of or a hybrid digital flexo unit, MPS has a solution to suit your customers’ needs. These include the EFS, EFA, EF Symjet and, EXL Offset and EXL Packaging presses.” MPS manufactures highquality, highly automated, multi-substrate flexo presses, designed for label production and flexible packaging printing on a range of substrates. Brokken says, “With robust construction, reliability, and ease of operation, MPS provides the ultimate in flexibility, enabling you to make the most of your pressroom.” MPS presses have a digital press mirroring possibility. Online and in performance reports you will see a “digital twin” of your press. An overview of reports showing the operation of your press in great details. This enables you to improve your press operation continuously and saves many hours in time, leading to improved productivity and profitability for the business. Market applications include labels for household, personal care, food, beverage; security and pharmaceutical labels; automotive and retail; flexible packaging; Lamitube and shrink. The EFS, EFA, ands Symjet presses offer solutions for the production of multi-layer labels. Operators can implement converting units at any location along the press using the MPS Ultraflex rail system. The rail units (including foiling, web turner bar, screen printing, etc.) are easy to move so you can quickly change positioning at different print stations.

Innovative: the Hybrid MPS EF Symjet label press

Nekkorb supplies a range of MPS label printing presses offering a raft of innovations and options

December 2020/January 2021

The hybrid printing solution The EF Symjet press, a hybrid flexo inkjet solution built with the standard MPS EF platform and an integrated Domino digital N610i inkjet printer, can work as an integrated inline. With various width options and the addition of the latest Domino high resolution ink jet unit N730 This hybrid combination is the leader in its class.

EXL-Packaging and EXL-Offset The MPS EXL-Packaging press delivers wider and faster flexo printing without limits at a maximum press speed of 300m/min. With full automation it provides extremely fast changeover times, remarkably reduced setup waste and consistent production at high speed. The robust construction and extreme design characteristics place this machine at the forefront when converters want to dominate in the mid web market space. The MPS EXL-offset press offers variable sleeves for different repeat lengths, for both plates and blankets. Brokken says, “It is easy to operate. All inking and press settings of the EXLoffset machine are effectively automated. With variable sleeves, MPS has succeeded in significantly reducing the waste factor as well as the initial investment in offset printing.

Both EXL-Packaging and EXL offset combination press can be equipped with additional printing technologies like flexo, screen or gravure units and all necessary converting techniques. Flexo units are also available on the converting rail for flexible positioning. Hot and cold foil units can be placed in such a way that they do not tie up an offset print unit. In order to drive down the cost per 1,000 labels, MPS introduced Automated Print Control (APC) on EXLPackaging and EXL-Offset, which provides automated servo control of all relevant press settings. Thanks to APC, press settings and controls are extremely easy to operate and replicate through Job Memory, resulting in virtually no setup waste for repeat jobs.

Integration In cooperation with Kocher & Beck, MPS has developed a fully automated Quick Change die unit for faster job changeovers. With this feature, die-cutting jobs can be prepared during production, and with additional MPS automation packages the diesettings can be recalled out of job memory for even faster job changeovers. MPS has also developed an advanced workflow integration with solutions from Labeltraxx and AVT. The Labeltraxx MIS/ ERP module communicates with the AVT 100 per cent inspection system and this combines with the integrated job memory system of the press. It offers an optional two-way communication. The system captures the data from this combined workflow, providing the necessary corrections, which it can automatically implement in live running production, such as changes required in substrate, printing plates, inks and so on. For enquiries, phone 027 713 8987; email frank@ nekkorbsolutions.co.nz or visit www.nekkorbsolutions.co.nz.

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NEKKORB Solutions provides high quality products and expertise to the print industry

PRODUCTIVITY QUALITY SUSTAINABILITY

NEKKORB Solutions Limited T: +64 9 8263441 M: +64 27 7138987 (Frank) +64 21 2346124 (Roy) +64 21 423464 (Natasha) E:

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Industry mixes at the People in Prin

he first and last physical event of the year welcomed People in Print and Rising Stars of Print Awards winners, sponsors, families, and supporters to Sorrento in the Park at Maungakiekie in Auckland. Taking the opportunity to catch up with friends, colleagues, and competitors gave everyone a reason to smile. Thanks go to our photgrapher Carmen Bird.

mpbell from rd of Cyber; Grant Ca From lef t: Paul Hillea nssen from huber group Kodak; and Ar thur Le

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December 2020/January 2021

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Gary Gibbon (l) from We dderburn and Warren Ha from Techspan dler

newzealandprinter.co.nz

SPONSORED BY

nt and Rising Stars of Print Awards

From left: Crai g Paul of Curr Carter and Fred ie Soar from SoarGroup with Jenny Print

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Rachel Foye from BJ Ball with Pete r Lloyd from Kale Print

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newzealandprinter.co.nz

from Fuji Xerox; Arlette From lef t: Ryan Christie ; with Liam Talbot and leta uta mp Co Farland from Digital Kris Hassett from Torque

Tony Sayle (l) from Jordan from Wedd Jenkins Freshpac and Corrine erburn

derburn; Frank From left: Corrine Jordan from Wed Gary Gibbon and korb Nek from ken Brok Tash and from Wedderburn

From left: Dylan Southan from Sou Deena Hudson of Computaleta andthan Print; Fletcher from Sharp Print Finishers James

December 2020/January 2021

Starleaton: proud of Kiwi attitude to adversity

lmost five years ago, when he began his role as National Sales Manager for Starleaton New Zealand, Ashton LinesSherwood had a mission to help the family owned company establish itself as a trusted partner for professionals in the industry. From a modest setup with just a few customers, he has worked to grow the local operation to the stage that it recently moved to a new warehouse, with a showroom, in Auckland’s growing Westgate commercial sector. He says, “We really touch all bases now. I can’t think of a company out there that we don’t have an option for. Having the ability to transcend different sectors and product lines is quite specific to Starleaton. “We supply to print, signage, and packaging customers. Whatever the customer needs; that is what we endeavour to do. For us, it is so much more than signage. “From paper to rigids, film to substrates for the fine art market, cutting solutions, laminating solutions, colour management solutions hardware and textiles, solutions for the dye sub space, floor graphics, proofing, window films, wraps; you name it, we will source it for you. “We work closely with customers creating successful relationships and we never lose sight of the fact that it is all about people. “As we are not a big corporate entity, our family owned nature grants us the flexibility and autonomy to be nimble and put the needs of the customer first. This means we can help our customers even when they need to move in a different direction and we can offer different solutions or supplies. We have positioned ourselves in a place where we can achieve that. For instance, last year a customer asked for a board with a craft liner on both sides, that they had never seen before in New Zealand, but

“It has felt good to have customers reach out and simply ask, ‘How are you doing?’ Not placing an order, just people wanting to talk to us, knowing that we were going through a tough time as well. “It wasn't just customers that reached out; that attitude stretched across the industry with other suppliers and competitors. It was definitely about people looking after each other. “The industry has come together in a positive way.”

Strong relationships

Ashton Lines-Sherwood, national sales manager for Starleaton New Zealand

From a modest start, Starleaton New Zealand has established a reputation for reliability and flexibility

December 2020/January 2021

they had seen it at drupa. Our flexibility enabled us to source a container for them.”

Keeping business moving From the first lockdown, Starleaton has worked closely with its customers to keep their business moving forward. Lines-Sherwood describes how the Covid-19 pandemic has brought out the best in people. He says, “I am really proud to be a part of this industry this year. “We made our way through these uncertain times because we have walked through it hand in hand with our customers. For example, from a business perspective, when we looked at negotiations for supply by air freight, we had remarkably amicable conversations around that. We have found people in the industry to be really understanding. “When the government needed companies to have floor graphics, we had to find the materials and get them to our customers. We achieved that with everyone working well together.

He believes the future has never looked brighter for Starleaton and the industry. He says, “In a way, the industry has never been this strong. This is down to the relationships that have grown through this difficult year. Having to navigate through Covid-19 has made everyone aware of how valuable these relationships are. “It is not all about the product.” A new initiative to supply Epson solutions means more excitement at Starleaton. He says, “We have had approaches from customers wanting us to supply Epson here, and we have seen how the recent introduction of the Epson R Series has created a buzz. “The success of our parent company in Australia and its relationship with Epson makes it an obvious fit. We look forward to our first installation here in New Zealand.” The company's expansion has brought the need for more staff. He says, “We have great expertise in the company already and we are extending that by bringing in more personnel with extensive knowledge and experience in the sector.” He concludes, “Having come through this difficult period, we have learned that, through strong and healthy partnerships, we can help our customers to drive their business forward.”

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BUSINESS

Can you use this opportunity and win customers for life? Even though most businesses face tough times, everyone can still look for the opportunities that exist out there and make the most of them

ew of us alive today have lived through a more uncertain time than the one we’re living through right now. It feels like almost everything has changed and as though there’s nothing we can be sure of anymore. In our businesses, most of us are up against real day to day challenges in just keeping the business going and in our personal lives, many of us are grappling with a whole new way of life. With all this going on in the background, it’s easy to slip into survival mode, do what we’ve always done and focus on what’s right in front of us at any given moment and consider just getting through the day a success. But the issues we’re dealing with are things like an email from a customer, a phone call you need to make to a supplier, or an overdue bill that needs to be paid right now. These things do need to be attended to, but they will always be there and no amount of working hard will change that. You can’t get off the hamster wheel by running on it faster. What you want is to get more loyal customers, so you don’t have to constantly be chasing the next sale, looking for new leads, or twisting yourself into a pretzel to get business from a customer who is demanding terms that are so unrealistic, it will cost you money to help them. But, when you need the revenue, you say yes anyway. Nobody wins in this scenario. Right now, everyone is feeling the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic related uncertainty in some way, whether subtle or serious. This means that everyone you deal with now could be in 44

Now is the opportunity provide customers with a sense of certainty and being in control and help them feel are understood and valued

MEQA SMITH

a state of anxiety and possibly even fear. These are not great emotions to have to cope with in a business environment because people are on the edge when we call them; when we email them; or when or they come in looking for our help. Stress makes people come across as more closed, sceptical and demanding than they would ordinarily be. They might even seem like they are hard work or unreasonable. If you don’t understand why this is happening and how you can help them, you’ll be frustrated and treat them in a way that could cost you the opportunity to create a customer for life. As humans, we crave certainty. The unknown is the greatest psychological stressor. The is so much so that the navy seals use the unknown as their primary ‘test’ by keeping all details for every exercise secret. They don’t give their recruits any idea of what to expect. This creates maximum stress and allows them to weed out anyone who isn’t iron willed. The world as we know it is now something like a navy seal boot camp and everyone you come across is looking for some kind of certainty to cling on to, some sense of being in control. Psychologists would call this ‘psychological safety’. Most other businesses will be treating customers the way that they always have and will feel like people are just more demanding and difficult to please than ever.

In the process, this treatment will be making customers feel like they are getting really bad service and they’ll be looking for help elsewhere. This is your opportunity to do everything you can to give your customers a sense of certainty and being in control and help them feel like they are getting great service, that they are understood and valued. Here are some things you can do: 1. Mention the elephant in the room – don’t just pretend things are normal, acknowledge the strange situation we’re experiencing and that it is understandably creating some uncertainty for people. 2. Be a bit more patient with people – give them a bit more time in explaining things, or even just a bit more time on small talk. 3. Make sure the process of dealing with you from start to finish is very clear for your customers – create documents or videos helping them at every step of the way, from website to service delivery. 4. Give your customers choices whenever you can – for example in service levels, product choices, payment options, put these in writing or create images so they can see them. 5. Acknowledge your customers – thank them for their business with a card, text message, video message or email. These little things will make a huge difference to the experience a customer has with you and the way they feel about doing business with you. Even though times are tough at the moment for all businesses, the best we can do is to look for the opportunities and make the most of them. To unlock profitability through emotional engagement in marketing and communications, Meqa Smith launched The Unforgettable Agency, which she currently heads as its strategist.

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

WIDE FORMAT +Plus

Anticipation builds for Fespa Global Print Expo Aarque tops channel partners l Total Supply Golf back on l Esko cuts on an angle

WIDE FORMAT

Aarque wins HP Channel Partner Award 1000 wide format printer. Ross Duffus, director at Juggernaut, says, “The requirement to invest in dye sub came from the trend we could see happening, particularly overseas, for fabric printing. We have seen it evolve over the years though it has been slow to catch on in New Zealand. We also felt we needed to offer an alternative to PVC and adhesive vinyl graphics. It delivers a good look and offers advantages like ease of installation.”

Good news for wide format supplier at the end of a tough year for the industry

ecently, Aarque received the HP Channel Partner Award in the Large Format Graphics division. The company gathered team members at Aarque’s Henderson offices for a live screening of the Awards. David Woolford of Exceed, Aarque’s supply Partner, and Wayne Shaw of HP attended in person. Mitch Boocock, Aarque channel partner manager, says, “We are thrilled and more than a little proud to receive this award. We won it over some stiff competition. “We genuinely feel that Aarque is the true home of HP Large Format Graphics in New Zealand and the award represents the hard work put in by our entire organisation during what we all know to be a tough year. “Like other companies in the industry, we have not had too many chances to celebrate as a group this year so it was really pleasing to see so many staff members from all divisions of Aarque Group attend the event. “Despite the difficulties and unusual challenges that everyone in the industry faced this year, we are grateful for the support we have received from our suppliers and our valued customers. “We look forward to getting together with everyone next year and meanwhile, on behalf of Leo and Jason Bult and the fantastic team at Aarque team, we wish everyone a safe and happy festive season.”

Leo Bult (l) co-chief executive at Aarque receives the award from Wayne Shaw, business manager sign and display for HP New Zealand

Dining in or out: a chance for a physical celebration at Aarque last year, HP introduced the HP Stitch S1000 3.2m printer. Steve Wilton-Jones, national equipment sales consultant at Aarque, says, “HP has taken the lead with the trend to soft signage and fast fashion. HP did not invent dye sublimation printing but, with these new printers, you can see how HP is reinventing it. “Recently, Juggernaut Graphics installed an HP Stitch

HP R-Series Latex Since the release of the HP Latex R-Series, the team at Aarque has worked hard to keep up with the demand for the first HP Latex flatbed printer. It has supplied these printers to a number of Kiwi printing and signage business such as Soar Print. General manager at Soar, Brian Landry, says, “The HP R2000 has definitely been a hit. It produces the smoothest white I have ever seen. It cures after the printing, so it is completely trouble free.” Wilton-Jones adds, “HP’s water based Latex Inks preserve the look and feel of the media, whilst delivering odourless prints that are both safe for the environment and the printer operator. The R-Series brings HP’s first white Latex ink, which delivers glossy, high-quality true white prints that do not yellow over time like traditional UV-curable white ink often does. “For any enquiries, I look forward to discussing the wide format opportunities Aarque has to offer.”

HP Stitch Among its substantial range of wide format offerings, Aarque has the New Zealand agency for HP Stitch printers. These dye sublimation printers enable printing for a range of applications such as sportswear, fashion, interior décor, and soft signage. The range includes the HP Stitch S300 and the HP Stitch S500, both 1.6m printers and 46

Darrin Weir, national sales manager for Aarque, speaks at the event

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

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WIDE FORMAT NEWS

Interior decoration gets water-based inkjet Agfa has introduced InterioJet, a water-based inkjet printing system for interior decoration The InterioJet 3300, a multi-pass water-based inkjet system, prints on decor paper used for interior decoration, such as laminate floors and furniture. Applications include customised interior decorations, including brand logos, pictures, or seasonal themes. Built on the same inkjet printing platform as Agfa’s Jeti Tauro LED UV printer, it uses print heads, inks and a drying system tuned to water-based pigment inks. Tom Cloots, director for Industrial Inkjet at Agfa, says, “The InterioJet 3300 will accelerate the transformation from analogue (gravure) to digital printing in the laminated surface market. “It is the ideal solution for cost-efficient medium and short production runs. Its limited start up time and

The InterioJet 3300 prints on decor paper used for interior decoration high flexibility will enable suppliers of laminated surfaces to gain new business by responding to evolving market demands, including printing on demand and just in time delivery. The system allows interior decoration designers to let their creativity run free and create customized designs for every order.” The InterioJet can print on two rolls at a time, each with a width of up to 155cm and a weight of up

to 600kg at a speed of up to 340 square metres per hour and it offers low ink consumption. The InterioJet uses Agfa’s Asanti workflow software, which adds to the system’s performance by controlling, simplifying, and automating the entire printing process from prepress to finishing. Asanti’s comprehensive integration of file handling, colour management, and pre-flighting guarantees smooth, error free jobs. Agfa developed dedicated water-based pigment inks

for the InterioJet. The company says these ecofriendly inks are light and water fast. It has designed them to use specific pigments that deliver a high colour coverage. It adds that the inks have proved a perfect fit for standard lamination production processes. The company explains that, thanks to the thin dried layer, they can be used to print wood and natural stone designs, such as marble, without surface relief.

EFI unveils Nozomi C1800 Plus printer EFI says its new EFI Nozomi C18000 Plus printer builds on the performance features of the Nozomi C18000, targeting greater productivity, quality, and versatility for post print corrugated packaging and display operations. Key enhancements for the 180cm wide, direct to board LED UV inkjet printer include new advanced transport feed and patented vacuum table systems that eliminate warping. The Nozomi C18000 Plus also features an improved post print quality inspection system designed to help users monitor quality and quickly identify inkjet nozzle issues or other defects. The printer can detect and recover from jams within seconds, with automated continuation of jobs in sequence. Its improved rush proof feature can generate and output a proof within 90 48

The new EFI Nozomi C18000 Plus printer builds on the performance features of the EFI Nozomi C18000 seconds while another job runs on the printer. Operating at speeds up to 75 linear metres per minute, it can produce up to 10,000 890x890mm boards per hour, two up. New coater options include a quick-change anilox coater. In addition to its standard CMYK ink set, the printer offers optional orange, violet, or white inks for an imaging gamut of up to 97 per cent of Pantone colours. EFI says it has made job processing for the Nozomi C18000 Plus five per cent faster thanks to the latest

version of the EFI Fiery NZ-1000 digital front end, which also Smart Ink Estimator, an advanced solution that accurately analyses image data for more precise control of ink costs. Also included in the package, Fiery Edge, EFI’s next generation profiling technology for Fiery Driven printers, provides ink saving technology that combines GCR and black generation controls with proprietary technologies so users can further reduce ink costs with no visible loss to image quality, according to EFI.

Evandro Matteucci, vice president and general manager for Packaging and Building Materials at EFI, says, “Without exception, users worldwide consistently achieve double digit increases in production, year over year, thanks to the Nozomi C18000’s ability to meet or exceed brands’ strict throughput and quality requirements. “The Plus printer, its superior Fiery DFE enhancements, and our new, comprehensive service, support and training offering extend the remarkable market advantages our customers have today. “The corrugated packaging world has never been the same since the appearance of EFI Nozomi technology. So now, we are excited to help our customers achieve even greater successes with the new EFI Nozomi C18000 Plus.”

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Shaping the future of the sign industry

Expo and awards

ext year, the NZSDA will release topical initiatives, including new technologies, a new age approach to environmental thinking and planning, and re-connecting to the industry at all three key events planned for July 2021.

Sign App Embracing technology, a key initiative for the NZSDA and front of mind for many, became a way of life this year as Covid-19 forced us to reset. We found new ways to connect with staff and customers, and although this was virtual, it allowed businesses to keep running and bridge the gap allowing no boundaries for working at home, on the road or office. Over the years, the NZSDA has talked of releasing a Sign App and we now hope to have Stage One released in July 2021. This App will contain and replace all current publications the NZSDA offers, like the

Coming soon: the Sign App will offer a host of features

2021 promises a mix of education, action, and fun for sign makers

directories, diary, price guide and best practice guides. A measurement function for onsite measure ups, quoting and calendar for appointments, email, invoicing, and payment options will also be some of the features available. Being able to register for events or courses will be an advantage as will the library of resources, discounts etc. The Sign App will be at a cost for non-members to download, but free to members. Different levels at various costs will unlock function availabilities.

Circular economy The NZSDA has engaged with sustainability groups and industry suppliers on a common goal: a circular economy with zero waste. With many industry suppliers already involved in their own take back programmes, or providing sustainable products or services, it makes perfect sense to collaborate to strive for the same outcomes. Changes here will lead towards a cleaner and more environmentally friendly industry. Top of mind for suppliers is engagement to share with sign makers the benefits of offering sustainable products for their business. Ensuring all those involved in the making of signage have the same end goal in mind: to provide a fully circular economy. The chat has begun and the NZSDA looks forward to bringing and leading with solutions for the signage industry in 2021. 50

The NZSDA brand is an integral part of the plan to lead change within the industry and publicly. Creating public awareness of what the NZSDA logo stands for will create an even bigger divide between the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;backyardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sign makers and our members. The NZSDA has begun connecting collaborating with industries that cross paths with sign makers: the construction sector, design houses and architects. The conversations provide a grounding leading to the NZ Sign Expo 2021. Igniting that spark and creating the interest to engage with the sign industry, will benefit sign and print businesses and those that cross paths daily within their working environments. The NZ Sign Expo will launch on July 8, 2021 with its industry expert evening. Then it will open to industry and public on July 9-10. The Awards of Excellence takes place on July 10 at The Cordis Hotel, with 65 Awards to be given out for the two-year period. The 2021 Awards of Excellence event will be a sell out and an event not to miss. To achieve an award is a highlight in your sign making career. You can share a night to remember and be proud of your work. Please ensure you read the rules as many entries in 2019 were disqualified due to the entrantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s branding being present in the background of image. Under each category, you will find out how the judges judge entries, keeping it real and transparent for everyone. We will invite guest judges from outside of the sign industry to assist the president, Andy Lowe. The members conference will run alongside the Expo. Topics front of mind will include sustainability, social and web technology, and mental wellbeing, plus industry business tips and advice from John Hadfield. The scene is set, the plans are in place as the NZSDA looks forward to a positive change for 2021.

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

President Post: Signee Training

ith more and more print shops diversifying into signage products, sign making training has become a key element in the successful integration of these products into printer’s services. Over the past four years, The New Zealand Sign and Display Association has developed a pre-vocational training scheme for people entering the signage industry. Developed with the assistance of training professionals and NZSDA accredited master sign makers, Signee pre-vocational training programmes are being promoted in schools all over New Zealand from early next year. The Signee Gateway Programme, in conjunction with Competenz, is designed to create an awareness of the signage industry for school

ANDY LOWE, PRESIDENT NZSDA

How can the Signee Training Programme help your company?

leavers as well as giving them a clear direction into a signage career path. Consisting of work experience with professional full-service sign shops it also will supply credits towards NCEA for school age participants. The Signee Industry Programme focuses on the beginner’s guide to sign making industry standards in the core six pillars of sign making. The programme is directed at those already employed within the sign making industry at an entry level role; those looking to change direction with their career; or school leavers interested in finding out what a career in the sign industry would be like. Designed to provide a well informed insight into what a career in the New Zealand sign industry is all about, it provides fundamental knowledge and skills in the six pillars of sign

making, and health and safety. Completed through practical work experience in a full service sign business, a detailed training and assessment manual and online learning, this training gives a great grounding in the basics of signage production. If you are looking for training in sign making for you or your staff, Signee is the industry recognised first step. NZSDA will be furthering the Signee Training programme with specialised courses in all fields of sign making from vehicle wrapping to LED signage on a demand basis over the coming months and years. Working side by side with the sign making NZQA recognised Apprenticeship Scheme, we head toward a brighter future. If you are interested in the Signee programme, check out www.signee.nz or contact the NZSDA on 0800 0800 52.

Secretary Note

lthough this year has been turbulent to say the least, focusing on the good has made us all more resilient and open to change. This sets us in a good mindset for 2021 with expecting the unexpected and embracing new challenges that come our way. My trip down south to Otago, Southland and Central was certainly rewarding and challenging at times with two flights, eight towns, over 500km of driving, and 17 sign shop visits. But as I drove from street to street or town to town, the moments I enjoyed the most was the welcome I received from everyone I visited. They had so much positivity and I felt a real sense of both relief and excitement as many head into a busy period, but also newzealandprinter.co.nz

MELISSA COUTTS, SECRETARY NZSDA

For many it will be a year of not looking back

looking forward with plans and future goals for next year and beyond. The common theme in every sign shop I visited, large or small, was that they were flat out, and the technical signee term was that they were ‘being slammed’. Visiting the many members sign shops gave me a better understanding of their work environment and culture, what is important to them and their businesses and what industry knowledge or services they need more guidance or help with. Almost 95 per cent of the members and non-members that I saw advised that training and/or courses was top of their list, specifically application training. They advised that not many courses are available in the deep south and all are desperate to have them. They also said that there is a desperate lack of skilled and experienced sign makers. This

is an issue nationwide and so my message was that we need to start training our own, which can be done easily with our own NZSDA Industry recognized Signee Training Programme. The best bit is that it is ready now. It was also great to see and hear that there were several apprenticeships being carried out at various sign shops, and in some instances more than one. It was almost certain that my trip was well worth it for me and the NZSDA. I absolutely loved the scenery, the townships I drove through and visited, and mostly, the awesome people that welcomed me with big smiles. Let us all enjoy our Christmas and holiday break this year, so that we are ready to take on 2021. Whatever next year may bring, I know our industry is ready for it.

December 2020/January 2021

Sign making is more than just business

ince he purchased Sign It Signs in 2003, Reece Mchlery has demonstrated a knack for running a successful business, but he did not start out wanting to run a sign shop. He says, “I grew up in small country town but headed for Aussie to chase the money working in the gold mines. I managed to put half of my earnings into savings. I always had the dream of having my own successful business and when I returned to New Zealand, I bought Sign It Signs. “I knew it would be hard work, but the rewards of working hard would be worth it. I was not in the sign industry before that but that is the thing: you can make anything successful if you work harder than everyone else. “I feel lucky that I am doing what I am doing. Not that I am hands on anymore. I have to be more of an ideas man now, more of a business developer. I get joy out of advising others who are chasing their own business dreams, especially where I see the opportunities.” He is a living example of the saying: ‘If you enjoy your work then you will never work a day in your life’. He says, “One of the best things about this work is having such a great team of people. I love the signage industry, For me, it is the fulfilment. I like to push design and I understand that I have a drive to be even better.”

Miller Creative He has grown Sign It Signs, and several other businesses. Recently, he expanded the company’s capabilities with the purchase of Miller Creative in Dunedin. He says, “Dunedin has a big future, and I saw it as a massive opportunity to be involved with such an iconic business. It has been around for over 100 years. “I enjoy pushing the design aspect, so I plan on injecting some of that into Millers. It is not only a future proofing decision, but it was the 52

Love what you do: Reece Mchlery at Sign It Signs in Queenstown

Loving sign making makes for success in business

direction Sign It Signs was heading; an advancement of Sign It Signs. But it is pretty exciting to reopen the doors of an award-winning sign shop and restore some of the jobs that were about to be lost. Millers has a reputation for producing top quality work, so I’m excited to be involved with the talented team doing this and backing the future of Dunedin.” He has further plans in development. He says, “Soon, we are hitting our 20 year anniversary, so we will be doing a 20 year rebrand and refresh. It is going to be awesome.

Statements of intent Like all sign makers, Sign it Signs needs to understand the power of communication through advertising. He says, “I am attracted to statements. For example, at Sign it Signs Queenstown we have used ‘The Coolest Sign Shop’ as our tagline. When you think of a title like ‘Everybody loves Raymond’, that is saying what it is: it is a confident statement. Or when you hear

the Warehouse’s ‘Everybody gets a bargain’, you assume you are actually in fact getting a bargain. You believe it because they have made such a big statement. “But my favourite piece of advertising is the very first Speights advertisement, where the guy says to his mate, “She doesn’t drink Speights’. That is great; just a classic. “We can see that advertising will change in the future and sign makers will adapt. For example, how will driverless cars alter the advertising landscape? It will change but there will always be visual marketing, even with virtual advertising.” This year, all businesses have faced to Covid-19 challenge. Sign it Signs has dealt with it in a pragmatic fashion. He says, “Corona does not have to be a problem; we see it as a challenge. We need to take the opportunities that are presented from Corona and focus on what we can do and what is directly around us. It is similar to being in a war. Like all wars, it can destroy us, but we can advance from that.”

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

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WIDE FORMAT NEWS

New Esko tool offers angle cutting Esko has unveiled a new tool, VariAngle, for the Kongsberg C and XP range of digital finishing tables. Fuji Xerox New Zealand supplies and services Esko Kongsberg tables locally. VariAngle enables cutting at any angle from 0 degrees and 60 degrees at high speeds. Esko says this delivers total freedom in the design of 3D creative displays while also resulting in faster setup times and an uplift in cutting speed. Knut Johansen, digital finishing product manager at Esko, says, “VariAngle removes the need to stop production when changing tools, drastically reducing setup time and increasing cutting speed. “Other finishing tables cut with a fixed angle blade, which means it’s necessary to change tools

VariAngle’s high speed angle cutting boosts productivity to cut at different angles. For some designs, three or even four different cutting tools can be required in the production process. But with VariAngle, Esko has developed a single tool which cuts straight lines at any angle selection in half-

degree increments between 0 degrees and 60 degrees and at up to 100 metres per minute; a breakthrough innovation for the industry. “In conjunction with the new 3D design features of Esko structural packaging design software ArtiosCAD,

the intelligent, automatic VariAngle tool delivers a new level of creativity. “Also, the tool behaviour is defined from within the Esko ArtiosCAD structural design software. So, you do not need operator input at the cutting table itself, boosting productivity by a further 25 per cent. “The combination of the new tool and the supporting functionality in ArtiosCAD delivers true design freedom. Converters can make 60 degree V-notch cuts enabling the making of triangular pillars. This has been impossible until now. No previous machine on the market can cut at an angle greater than 45 degrees. “It can also cut angled curves, dependent on radius size. You can also retro-fit it to existing Kongsberg C and XP machines.”

Epson releases new SureColor T-Series printers Epson has launched two new SureColor T-Series wireless multi-function printers with integrated scanners: the SureColor T3160M and the SureColor T5160M. The new models include an integrated scanner for accurately scanning

blueprints and drawings, making large copies and sharing high-quality technical documents. They boast enhanced tracing and highlight detection for scanning annotated blueprints; integrated wireless and Wi-Fi connectivity; security

features and protocol support. Key features include ultra-fast print speeds; a high detail integrated scanner; durable and instant-dry prints, using archival quality; all pigment-based UltraChrome XD2 inks to deliver smudge

and water-resistant prints; versatile print media handling; easy of operation with an intuitive LCD screen; and the ability to make copies of large drawings or blueprints directly from the control panel without the need of a computer.

Weathering approach updated Ink manufacturer Nazdar has introduced Image, a new method for generating colour profiles that predicts how outdoor inkjet prints will age, and it has released a white paper explaining the process. In the white paper, Bruce Ridge, director of Technical Services at Nazdar Ink Technologies, says that established methods for predicting how prints will fade outdoors were originally developed for screen printing. He explains that the inkjet inks and technology used for four-colour process images are different, 54

Always take the weather with you: Image predicts weathering

meaning aging profiles are significantly less accurate. Using its decades of experience, Nazdar has developed a new approach. He says, “Weathering prediction processes have been developed over many years, but with inkjet printing gaining popularity in the production of outdoor-durable displays, we need to update our approach. “Image is that new approach; a new process for generating colour profiles that can help graphics businesses design, sell, and maintain graphics that will look better for longer.”

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

FESPA

Anticipation builds for Fespa Global Print Expo No show this year sees plenty of excitement building for the wide format expo in 2021

ext year’s Fespa Global Print Expo and European Sign Expo 2021 continue to attract a growing lineup of exhibitors for when the shows plan to take place from March 9-12, 2021 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Organisers say all the exhibitors have expressed considerable enthusiasm to engage with customers and prospects face to face after a year reliant on digital platforms to communicate and share product news. The floor plan for the colocated events has expanded steadily, with more than 200 exhibiting companies already committed to participating and many more in active discussions. The expanding exhibitor list includes many prominent names in screen, digital wide format, and textile print, representing the entire production workflow from output technologies and workflow tools to media and inks. Neil Felton, chief executive at Fespa, says, “Since we opened the dialogue with our exhibitors about the Spring 2021 events, we’ve heard a consistent message: they can’t wait to be at a live Fespa event again. They see themselves interacting in person with people that have an appetite to learn; to be inspired; and to make considered investments that drive their businesses forward out of the current crisis. They see the event as a vital springboard to the sector’s sustained recovery. “We are delighted to see the positive appetite from both exhibitors and visitors to be back at a Fespa event, affirming the role we play in connecting newzealandprinter.co.nz

Go wide: Fespa Global Print Expo will meet visitors’ expectations for a face to face experience

Fespa organisers say industry members feel eager to get back to a physical show this global speciality printing and signmaking community.”

Close up perspective With few physical events taking place this year, event managers and exhibition companies have filled the space with virtual shows. Felton points out that while the online events have proved successful, feedback he has received points to a need for something more substantial. He says, “From the visitor’s perspective, senior decision makers in speciality print and signage businesses are telling us that they want the opportunity to see the latest products and solutions close up. “They want to compare and contrast what is on offer from different vendors under one roof. This will have them inspired again, by getting away from a computer screen

and interacting with product experts and industry peers in the real world. The virtual alternatives just don’t meet their needs.” Visitors to the Fespa exhibition in March will see latest hardware innovations from companies including Agfa, Brother, Canon, Durst, Zund, Summa, and swissQprint. Substrate suppliers include 3A Composites, Ahlstrom Munksjö, Avery Dennison, and Hexis. Visitors can also talk to workflow and colour management software vendors such as Barbieri, Caldera, OneVision and Onyx Graphic. Confirmed consumables suppliers include the likes of CHT Group, Zhuhai Print-Rite and STS Inks. Felton adds that signage professionals can also see the latest innovations in nonprinted signage, with confirmed exhibitors including Cadlink Technology, and Efka Led Frames. Folker Stachetzki, marketing manager at Brother, the gold sponsor for Fespa Global Print Expo 2021, says the company feels confident in the event. He explains, “Fespa is the most important trade fair for us to present our new products live to a wide audience. The cancellation of the trade fair in 2020, as well as all other restrictions caused by the pandemic, were tough for us, as probably for almost everyone. “We are therefore looking forward to Fespa 2021, to meet interested visitors, to exchange experiences with other exhibitors, and to be able to show our new directto-garment printer and other innovations from Brother in front of the public again.” Felton adds, “In our capacity as the event organiser, we’re working hard to create a Covid-19 secure environment for both parties to do business in, drawing on the expertise and best practices of our team, the RAI Amsterdam venue, our specialist independent contractors and the wider event industry.”

December 2020/January 2021

WIDE FORMAT NEWS

Golf Day rescheduled for March Total Supply and Spicers New Zealand have rescheduled their third charity golf day to March 19, 2021. It will take place at the Pakuranga Golf Club. In March, this year’s Golf Day became a casualty of the Covid-19 pandemic, but the organisers said at the time they would reschedule. They also offered refunds but most of the golfers registered asked to remain in the rescheduled day. The company welcomes all in the print, signage, and packaging industries to the day, which raised almost $30,000 from its first two editions. Morgan John, general manager of Spicers New Zealand, says, “We

Tee off with Total Supply and Spicers in March want everyone to enjoy the day and to raise as much money for charity as we can.”

This year, the event supports The New Zealand Cancer Society; a cause nominated by Spicers New

Zealand and Total Supply staff. The organisers also welcome any support via hole sponsorship or prize donations to the charity auction following the golf. The day promises a mix of golf and fun. Golfers can arrive at Pakuranga Golf Club from 11am, ready for tee-off at midday. Prizegiving and a charity auction takes place at 4.30pm and organisers promise to have the formalities over with by 6.30pm. Contact Zoe McSkimming at Total Supply for more details. Total Supply has also moved premises to 1 Lady Fisher Place, East Tamaki, Auckland.

EFI adds to soft signage portfolio EFI has released two printers for the soft signage market: the EFI Colors 340 printer and the EFI Power 340. The EFI Colors 340 prints at up to 850 square metres per hour (running in a four-colour x four configuration) and the EFI Power 340 at up to 1564 square metres per hour. Applications for the EFI Colors 340 include table

throws, pop-up promotional tents, SEG backlits, flags, and retail fixtures. Available with up to 24 printheads, the EFI Colors 340 printer uses EFI waterbased CMYK dispersed dye inks. It prints in several configurations such as four-colour x two; four colour x four; or six-colour x four, and an eight-colour configuration featuring

standard CMYK and light CMYK colour inks, plus a penetrating agent. It delivers 2400dpi resolution with four level grayscale printing with drop sizes from four to 18 picolitres for penetration on both sides of the material. Other features include a precision sticky belt feeding mechanism for continuous tone image quality at high speeds and the EFI

continuous ink recirculation system for textile printing that reduces the need to purge while eliminating downtime associated with printhead maintenance. The new EFI Power 340 digital soft signage printer has most of the capabilities of the EFI Colors 340. It can also print direct to fabric or on transfer paper using EFI water-based CMYK dispersed dye inks.

New films protect paint surfaces Avery Dennison has introduced three new paint protection films that protect vehicle surfaces from stone chips, road debris, insect stains and weathering. The company says the films also enable designers to create dramatic customised looks. The new Supreme PPF series comprises the crystal clear gloss Supreme PPF X5, Supreme PPF Matte, and Supreme PPF neo Black. Supreme PPF X5, the top of the line product, a high gloss, 165-micron ultraclear polyurethane film has what Avery Dennison calls the most advanced 56

Wears well: Avery Dennison has developed new coating technology for paint protection film

top coating technology available: XProof Plus. The company says XProof Plus offers excellent self-healing properties, extreme stain resistance from pollution, droppings, and road grime. It adds that XProof Plus enables the Supreme PPF X5 to offer wear resistant performance. The company claims its hydrophobicity offers excellent water, stain, and dirt repelling properties; its thermal self healing properties mean scratches are removed from vehicle surfaces easily through heat from the sun, car engine or applied heat.

December 2020/January 2021 newzealandprinter.co.nz

LABELS & PACKAGING

Auspack relocates to Melbourne for 2022

he Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association (APPMA) Board has postponed Auspack 2021 in Sydney, rescheduling it to the next event for Melbourne 2022. Mark Dingley, chairman APPMA, says, “With an event of this scale and significance, the most important factors in our decision were if we held the event in 2021, the uncertainty around protecting the health and safety of our industry community when it comes together, and preserving the experience and value that exhibitors and visitors alike receive from attending an event the calibre of Auspack. “This exhibition is known for the depth of products and services on the show floor, and the networking opportunities available from the many events held around the show. With the continuing uncertainty around domestic state-border openings, and the very likely reality that international flights will not be allowed until the second half of 2021, we felt we could not deliver this experience to the same high standards as previously. “Moving the event to 2022 was, therefore, the right thing to do from the perspective of human health and the financial and marketing value that exhibiting businesses would receive.”

Returning: Auspack has rescheduled to 2022

Show moves to a later ‘quieter’ date to give the best outcome for industry

provides the best outcome for industry, including the best financial return on investment for exhibitors and visitors.” Jon Perry, event director with organiser Exhibitions & Trade Fairs, says, “The last edition of Auspack in 2019 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre was a record show. It surpassed all expectations. Melbourne 2022 is ideally placed to provide the scale and breadth of event that this industry needs as it gears up for the post-Covid recovery.” He says that organisers will manage exhibitor bookings for 2022 in a phased approach, focusing firstly on exhibitors currently booked into 2021 and those who regularly exhibit in Melbourne. He says, “Exhibitors will be contacted

Congestion avoided Dingley adds that the APPMA Board did not want to add to the congestion created by other commercially focused exhibitions moving dates from 2020 to the middle of 2021. He says, “It is not really ideal for the industry to have a slew of shows held so closely together, and we believe the value to exhibitors and visitors will be vastly reduced. As an industry-based association, the APPMA believes moving Auspack to a later ‘quieter’ date newzealandprinter.co.nz

Mark Dingley, chairman APPMA

directly during November about their options, while new bookings for the 2022 show will be open in late January 2021.”

Conference and awards Despite the show moving to 2022, events normally held around it can continue in 2021. Dingley says, “The APPMA introduced the Business and Industry Conference as part of Packaging and Processing Week 2019 and it was very well received. “The conference provided an excellent platform for the packaging industry to drive collaboration and conversation on key issues facing the sector. “At Auspack 2019, the APPMA reinstated its Awards of Excellence as a high-value way to seek out and recognise industry innovation and outstanding performers. “This is the only dedicated processing and packaging machinery awards programme of its type in Australasia and it recognises those who make a significant difference in the industry. “The APPMA Board is exploring Packaging and Processing Week events with the intention to run them in 2021, as we believe it is important to connect as a community and that visitors will be able to receive great value from these activities. We will be in a position to announce dates and further information later.”

December 2020/January 2021

NZP CLASSIFIEDS

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