By: Franklin International

COLUMBUS, OHIO, FEBRUARY 24, 2025 – Franklin International, a global leader in glues, adhesive, sealants, and polymer technology, proudly celebrates 90 years of operation in 2025. Founded in 1935 as “The Franklin Glue Company,” the fourth-generation family-owned and operated business has grown from a small, local enterprise into one of the largest privately held manufacturers of adhesives and polymers in the United States.

“Reflecting on nine decades of growth, creating value, and building trust brings not only a great sense of pride, but a deep feeling of gratitude and responsibility — gratitude for the many individuals who have either contributed to our success or placed their trust in us to deliver products and service to facilitate their success; and a responsibility to honorably steward the legacy that they’ve provided.” says Evan Williams, President & CEO of Franklin International. “This milestone is a celebration of ninety years of growing success and a reaffirmed commitment to a future in which we continually strive to earn the trust of customers, suppliers, employees and our community. With that future in mind, we are as poised as ever to invest in our people, our standards, and our capabilities to meet the evolving requirements and unique demands of our customers. Perhaps the proudest
statement I can offer as the third generation of family ownership is: the fourth generation is committed to and capable of carrying the legacy forward. Thank you for the support over the last 90 years — here’s to the next 90!”

The Columbus-based company has expanded its operations to four distinct manufacturing sites and distributes across 60+ countries around the world. Franklin International serves a wide range of industries, including retail construction and industrial manufacturing. The company’s flagship Titebond® brand is a trusted name among professionals and hobbyists alike for their superior performance in a variety of applications, from woodworking to construction, remodeling and home improvement projects, while Franklin Adhesives & Polymers provides advanced industry solutions for wood adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, and specialty polymers.

Visit franklinap.com for more information.

About Franklin International: Established in 1935, Franklin International is among the largest privately held manufacturers of adhesives and sealants in the U.S. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, the company maintains multiple manufacturing and distribution locations in the U.S. and a plant in Guangzhou, China to exclusively serve the Pacific Rim. The company maintains two divisions: the Construction Division manufactures Titebond® wood glues, construction adhesives, sealants and flooring products while the Industrial Division, Franklin Adhesives & Polymers, provides pressure-sensitive adhesives for labels, tapes and graphics applications, and adhesives for various wood assembly markets.

By: Domino

Gurnee, IL – In the competitive world of label and package printing, companies know that investing in the right technology is only part of the equation. What truly sets a provider apart is the support that stands behind the product. For businesses that rely on Domino, the difference isn’t just about equipment — it’s about trust, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to customer success. 

To help illustrate that point, a brand new VIDEO: Domino Service & Support was created that features 11 Domino customer personnel and eight Domino Service & Support team members, in which they describe what label & packaging converters can expect when they choose Domino. 

Andy Staib, Owner & CEO of DWS Printing & Packaging, describes what is key: “We demand and expect the same level of support and partnership from our supply chain as we give to our customers—Domino has consistently delivered.” That sentiment was echoed by Matt Berry, Vice President of Impact Label, who explained how Domino’s engagement extended well beyond the initial sale: “They weren’t just selling a press; they were asking, ‘What can we do? How can we do it better?’ Their support was what put them over the finish line.”

At the heart of Domino’s philosophy is an understanding that success is shared. Mark Meyer, Director of Service & Support, puts it simply: “Our success is based entirely on your success. We’re here to ensure that when you buy Domino equipment, it runs every day—because when you succeed, we succeed.”

That hands-on approach is something Nye Hornor, President of Amherst Label, saw firsthand: “From installation to training, Domino has gone above and beyond, showing us the best ways to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.”

Glen Hayden, Technical Help Desk Support Team Leader, describes how the company’s remote support capabilities, including TeamViewer, provide rapid, hands-on troubleshooting. “We’re the first line of defense, ensuring that customers get the assistance they need — when they need it.” For Chris Stoehr, President of Southwest Label & Printing, this proactive approach is invaluable: “Whenever something happens, we can call Domino. They can go in electronically and remotely and do some things to see where we’re at, which makes it very convenient. Their support is unsurpassed by anyone I’ve seen so far.” Ralph Sanchez, Domino Field Service Manager West Region, reinforces this: “Even though we’re a global company, we act local. We know our customers, and we work as a team to do what’s right for them.”

That level of partnership is crucial for companies with ambitious growth plans. Stuart Reeve, President & CEO of Mammoth Labels & Packaging, says: “We aim to quadruple in size over the next five years, and partnering with Domino is a major factor in making that happen.”

Domino Service & Support doesn’t just respond to challenges—it anticipates them. Sarah Ervin, Digital Solutions Specialist, explains: “The Digital Solutions group is a bridge between our sales department and our service department. We want to make sure that your workflow is the most efficient for not just the Domino press, but also for the rest of your facility.”

Gary Gestring, Owner & Vice President of Art Advertising, sees that attention to detail in action: “Over the years, we’ve purchased quite a bit of equipment. This is probably the single best piece of equipment that we’ve bought—not just the performance of the machine, but because of the support. They have made us excited about what this machine can do.” Mark Thomas, Field Service Engineer at Domino, adds: “Even though we have great equipment, it’s the people that make the big difference.”

Robert Parker, Owner of Label King, sums it up: “The Domino difference is the service level that we get when we need it, on a day-in and day-out basis. They take it personal, just like we take it personal.” That personal investment resonates across the team, as Jessie Van Apeldoorn, Lead Installation Engineer, shares: “For me, service is the best. This is my home. I make a difference on a daily basis.”

For companies relying on technical expertise, Domino’s support team is like family. Katie Putnam, Prepress & Digital Print & RFID Supervisor at Amherst Label, emphasizes this: “The Domino Support team is great. They’re very responsive in phone calls and emails, and we love when their techs are on-site because they’re like family to us.” Chris Gehring, Trainer at Domino, sees training as a long-term investment: “We take training very seriously here at Domino. My job is to take conscious competency to unconscious competency before they leave.”

Abdullah Alyousif, Director of Engineering at Impact Label, values the depth of training provided: “Domino gave us the training package that includes operator training, prepress training, estimating, and sales training. All of that helps us when we run production.” Tom Grencik, Domino Field Service Manager East Region, highlights how feedback drives improvement: “We take voice of the customer very seriously. We survey after each touchpoint to ensure we are meeting or exceeding expectations.”

That commitment to long-term success is why Steve Grace, President of Grace Label, continues to reinvest in Domino: “Do I believe in the Domino difference? Yes, I do. They do what they say they’re going to do. They help us out when we need help, and anytime we’ve had a problem, it’s been solved.” Stacy Gestring, Owner & President of Art Advertising, agrees: “Their team is fantastic, and we really felt a connection with them. They care about us like we care about our customers.”

The ‘Domino Difference’ isn’t just a phrase — it’s a way of doing business. It’s about more than technology; it’s about trust, expertise, and a partnership that drives long-term success.

About Domino

Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions.  Celebrating its 47^th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, and North America headquarters in Gurnee, IL.  Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 3,000 employees worldwide.  For more information on Domino digital printing, please visit dominodigitalprinting.com  

By: Roland DG Corporation

Irvine, Calif., Feb. 20, 2025 – Roland DG Corporation, a leading manufacturer of wide-format inkjet printers, vinyl cutters, 3D milling machines, dental mills, and other advanced digital technologies, has appointed Eric Zimmerman, a sign and graphics veteran with more than 25 years of related experience, as its new Director of Global Market Research.  In this newly created position, Zimmerman will collaborate with global marketing, product, and sales teams to provide customer and market insights that will help Roland DG achieve key objectives. 

Prior to assuming his new role with Roland DG, Zimmerman served for six years as Director of Wide-Format Print for the global research and analysis firm Keypoint Intelligence, where he helped print industry clients grow their businesses by better understanding market trends and opportunities. Prior to that, he held several positions at Roland DG, serving most recently as Business Strategy Manager for Digital Printing, and earlier as a Product Manager for the Americas business unit. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric back to the Roland DG team, said Ryugo Nimura, Roland DG President of Global Sales and Marketing. “Having worked for both Roland DG and Roland DGA before joining Keypoint Intelligence, Eric is extremely familiar with our line of high-quality digital imaging devices, as well as our company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and world-class service and support. We’re excited about Eric’s contributions, which will enable us to better serve our existing clients and expand into new markets.”

To learn more about Roland DGA or the complete Roland DGA product line, visit https://www.rolanddga.com.

About Roland DG Americas

Roland DGA serves North and South America as the marketing, sales, distribution, and service arm for Roland DG Corporation. Founded in 1981, Roland DG of Hamamatsu, Japan is a worldwide leader in wide-format inkjet printers for the sign, apparel, textile, interior design, personalization, and vehicle graphics markets; engravers for awards, giftware and ADA signage; photo impact printers for direct part marking; and 3D printers and CNC milling machines for the dental CAD/CAM, rapid prototyping, part manufacturing and medical industries.

By: All Printing Resources, Inc.

Glendale Heights, IL – February 18, 2025 – Packaging Personified has investment in the TWEN Anilox Laser Cleaning System as a major step forward in automating anilox roll maintenance, improving print consistency, and increasing productivity for the flexible packaging leader.

As a company committed to innovation, Packaging Personified recognized an opportunity to enhance the efficiency and consistency of its anilox roll cleaning process. Previously, the company relied on a liquid-based cleaning system that required manual oversight and post-inspection to maintain optimal results. This method often led to variability in roll cleanliness, increased color-matching time, and production delays.

“Maintaining consistent cleaning quality was time-consuming,” said Joe Imburgia, General Manager at Packaging Personified. “If we lost focus, the cleaning outcome wasn’t as precise, leading to added color-matching time and extended roller downtime.”

Looking for a more effective, automated solution, APR introduced Packaging Personified to the TWEN Anilox Laser Cleaning System, a cutting-edge technology designed to provide precise, repeatable results without manual intervention.

Unlike traditional cleaning methods, TWEN’s system uses advanced laser technology to remove ink, coatings, and debris from anilox rolls safely and efficiently. It also integrates real-time roll measurement and topography scanning, ensuring consistent and accurate cleaning every time.

“TWEN’s system simplifies our cleaning process and gives us reliable data without requiring extra personnel to perform repetitive tasks,” said Imburgia. “Implementing TWEN felt like a natural next step toward improving our operations.”

Once fully operational, the TWEN system is expected to deliver immediate benefits, including:

• Consistent anilox roll cleanliness, reducing color inconsistencies
• Elimination of manual inspections, freeing up employees for higher-value tasks
• Minimized downtime and production delays
• Extended anilox roll lifespan through safer, non-abrasive cleaning
• Projected ROI in under a year, driven by labor savings and optimized production

“With the level of efficiency and cleanliness TWEN provides, this will be a highly valuable investment for us,” added Imburgia.

As the exclusive North American distributor of TWEN’s anilox laser cleaning technology, APR continues to help printers and converters implement automated solutions that drive efficiency, sustainability, and cost savings. 

Read the full Packaging Personified case study here: https://www.teamflexo.com/articles/customer-case-study-packaging-personified-twen

About All Printing Resources, Inc.

All Printing Resources, Inc. (APR) is a proven resource for solutions, trusted service, and support to the flexographic printing industry. APR delivers measurable performance enhancements and total cost reductions, including the after sale attention needed to see optimal results. APR represents some of the most innovative product lines worldwide and takes a “team” approach to deliver process improvement and innovative solutions. To learn more, visit https://www.teamflexo.com

By: Maxcess

Oak Brook, IL – 18 February 2025 – Maxcess, a global leader in end-to-end innovative solutions for web handling applications, is proud to announce the launch of the RD Scorer High Performance (HP), from RotoMetrics, a Maxcess brand.  The RotoMetrics RD Scorer HP is the latest advancement in rotary scoring technology. Engineered to deliver superior precision and efficiency, this cutting-edge product sets a new benchmark for the industry.

The RD Scorer HP features a new ultra-fine threaded adjustment screw and precision blade for enhanced score-depth accuracy, ensuring precise results with every use. Combined with a robust solid anvil design that significantly reduces runout, the RotoMetrics RD Scorer HP guarantees consistent performance even under demanding conditions.

“We listened to our customers, and with the RD Scorer High Performance, we are addressing scoring challenges caused by shifting material trends.” said Devin McCart, Global Product Manager.

The RD Scorer HP is approved for both paper and film applications, offering unmatched versatility and compatibility. Designed with flexible mounting options, it serves as a drop-in replacement for existing RD Scorer parts, ensuring seamless integration into existing systems.

Key Features of the RD Scorer High Performance (HP):

• Ultra-Fine Threaded Adjustment Screw: Enables precise score-depth adjustments.
• Solid Anvil Design: Reduces runout for consistent, high-quality results.
• Drop-In Replacement: Single-hole mounting ensures easy installation and compatibility.
• High Precision Blade: Approved for both Paper and Film applications.  

Looking ahead, the RD Scorer HP paves the way for future enhancements, including higher-quality blade and bearing assemblies to deliver even greater accuracy and performance.

For operations requiring exceptional reliability and precision, the RotoMetrics RD Scorer HP is the versatile solution to meet today’s evolving demands while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

About Maxcess: Maxcess saves you time and money by optimizing your peak output performance. We do this by leveraging the world’s best web handling brands, offering customized, automated, end-to-end sustainable web handling solutions. Maxcess helps its customers maximize productivity through innovative products and services worldwide by combining global service and support across the storied product brands of RotoMetrics, Fife, Tidland, MAGPOWR, Webex, Valley Roller, Componex, International Cutting Die, and Maxcess Vision Systems, Maxcess offers an unrivaled network of application experts and automated end-to-end web handling solutions to help you work better, faster, and smarter. Visit them online at www.maxcess.com

By: Cartes and Vetaphone

Established in 1970 as a supplier of bespoke label manufacturing technology, Cartes is still owned and managed by the Lodi family and has its headquarters in Moglia, Italy.

According to Sales & Marketing Manager Enrica Lodi: “We have always specialized in the high value-added sector of the narrow web market and have a reputation for pioneering innovative solutions for the self-adhesive, linerless, roll to roll printing, finishing, and converting processes.”  Today, the company’s workforce has more than 60 specialist technicians engaged in design and manufacture in its 12,000 sqm facility in the Mantova Province, some 200km south-east of Milan.

From a small start in 1970 the business began to grow significantly in the 1980s with a global growth in demand for self-adhesive labels.  This began an export drive by Cartes that now sees more than 4,300 of its machines installed and in daily operation in over 100 countries around the world – some achievement for a family business!  Highlights down the years have included a new factory in 2012, the R&D and launch of the Jet D-Screen technology in 2019, and the opening of a branch facility in New Jersey, USA in 2020.

One factor that has remained unchanged throughout is the company’s approach to R&D.  Enrica Lodi explained: “Many of our customers say they choose Cartes because we have an flexible mind – we are always prepared to customise and personalise our equipment to suit their requirements even if it breaks our production model – customers’ needs always come first here!”  And it was this attention to detail that first brought Cartes into contact with Vetaphone back in 2012.

As the inventor and acknowledged global pioneer of corona surface treatment, Vetaphone is also a family-owned business with a reputation for customer-orientation that aligns well with that of Cartes.  Speaking for Vetaphone, Giuseppe Rossi, who is Area Sales Manager for Italy commented: “We understand that customer requirements can vary considerably and that a ‘one size fits all’ approach will not work, especially when dealing with a specialist manufacturer like Cartes.”

One of the linchpins of the close working partnership that has developed over the past 12 years is a mutual appreciation of each other’s attention to detail and adaptability.  This was most clearly shown with Cartes’ desire to work with co-suppliers whose technology could be fully integrated with their own.  In Vetaphone’s case, this not only related to the Corona Treater but also the Web Cleaner. 

The two units, that are mounted adjacent to each other can both be controlled from the same operator panel which itself can be fully integrated with the Cartes machine.  “This is especially useful on machines where we have more than one Corona Treater, sometimes as many as three, all of which are at different positions in the line – being able to integrate them on one control panel is both more ergonomic for the operator and maximises efficiency for the entire production line,” explained Enrica Lodi.

Giuseppe Rossi added: “From a supplier’s point of view, Cartes makes life straightforward because all its machines have the same 350mm working web width.  By limiting one parameter, both companies can focus on maximising efficiency and cost control.  Vetaphone Corona Treaters can be specified with a variety of options to meet exact production requirements, but if we are always manufacturing to the same web width, we can offer cost-saving production benefits too.”

The reality is that the numbers speak for themselves: Cartes now manufactures and ships around 120 machines a year, which is likely to accelerate as the demand from the digital sector continues apace.  “Our technology makes life easier for the operator, which in a global market that is experiencing a worrying level of skill shortage, highlights the need for more automation.  This means more control integration and that is the strength of the Cartes/Vetaphone working arrangement,” she added.

The company’s current product portfolio. Includes technology for hot stamping, silk screen printing, digital embellishment, flexo printing and varnishing, flatbed and semi rotary die cutting, and embossing.  In addition, Cartes offers its unique Laser technology for die cutting and converting.  The single or dual 350W laser is suitable for paper or film, which thanks to its RF power control and ‘cut on the fly’ software offers maximum performance across any shape or cut-through programme.  Known by Cartes as ILC (Invisible Laser Cutting) it allows dark printed labels to be die cut without a white edge.

Looking ahead, Enrica Lodi sees future investments targeted at increased automation on the production floor and a ramping up of output to meet growing demand from the markets of the USA, Brazil, Chile and Argentina across the Atlantic and in France and Spain in Europe, while Japan remains a strong market for laser die cutting. Summing up for Vetaphone, Giuseppe Rossi stated: “It’s always a pleasure to work with a company like Cartes where there is so much synergy with the Vetaphone business ethos.  We have developed a strong cooperative partnership based on mutual trust and a joint desire for innovation and we look forward to playing a key part in their growth and future development.”

By: IST America

Shorewood, Illinois, February 14, 2025 – IST America (ISTA), a global leader in UV and LED light curing technology, is proud to announce its participation as a sponsor of the 2025 Print UV Conference, taking place March 11-12 at the Wynn Encore in Las Vegas, NV. As a global leader in premium UV curing solutions, IST America continues its commitment to advancing UV and LED technology in the printing industry.

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with Tim Sterbak, Managing Director, IST Metz, Holger Kuehn, Sales Director, IST Metz, and Errol Moebius, President / CEO, IST America, who will be on-site to discuss the latest advancements in UV curing. Additionally, Tim Sterbak will be a featured panelist on Day 1, contributing to the session “UV and LED Curing Technology Advancements,” where he will share insights on the latest developments in curing efficiency, sustainability, and performance.

As one of the premier events in the UV printing industry, Print UV brings together printers, manufacturers, and industry experts for three days of networking, technical discussions, and innovation. Print UV is a must-attend event for commercial and packaging printers looking to enhance their UV printing operations. The event is designed to foster collaboration, providing attendees with direct access to technology leaders, expert-led panel discussions, and the latest trends in UV and LED curing.

“We are excited to support Print UV and engage with industry leaders to drive innovation forward,” said Errol Moebius, President / CEO, IST America. “With ongoing advancements in UV and LED curing, this event is an essential platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration.”

At this year’s event, IST America will highlight its latest innovations designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and performance for printers worldwide:

FREEcure Technology – Developed in collaboration with BASF, FREEcure eliminates the need for photoinitiators, inertization, and electron beams while achieving exceptional curing performance.
SMARTcure Technology – IST’s intelligent UV curing system automatically adjusts energy output to match production needs, optimizing performance while reducing energy consumption.
Hot Swap Technology – IST’s modular curing solution allows seamless switching between UV lamp and LED technology within the same system.

IST America invites attendees to stop by, connect with our team, and explore how our latest UV curing innovations can enhance their printing operations.

About IST America

IST America, an arm of IST Metz in Nürtingen Germany is the leader in premium UV curing solutions, offering the most extensive portfolio of high-performance UV lamp and UV LED systems, along with excimer, hybrid, FREEcure, and SMARTcure technologies. With over 30 years of experience, IST America provides innovative solutions to the U.S. market, including sales, service, parts, and application expertise for advanced curing systems.

Serving industries from sheetfed, wide web, and narrow web printing to digital and industrial applications, IST delivers reliable, tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of its customers. Committed to delivering More Than UV, IST works closely with clients to ensure precision, performance and success.

Based in Shorewood, IL, IST America is the U.S. division of IST Metz, a global leader in UV curing technology headquartered in Nürtingen, Germany.

For more information, visit www.ist-uv.com/en-us.

By: NextGen Label Group

Syracuse, NY – February 14, 2025 – NextGen Label Group is pleased to announce the promotion of Jessica McCarthy to Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective April 1, 2025, coinciding with Dan Rosenbaum’s transition to President & CEO.

Jessica is a proven leader in human resources and administration, bringing extensive experience in fostering a positive and productive workplace culture. Jessica has played a pivotal role in talent development, employee engagement, and shaping policies that support the company’s commitment to its employee-centric approach.

As CHRO, Jessica will continue to oversee key HR functions, including talent acquisition and retention, compensation and benefits, compliance, employee relations, and training and development. She will also take on an expanded role in collaboratively leading the marketing team, reinforcing NextGen’s brand custodianship and employee-ownership values both internally and externally.

“Jessica’s leadership has been key to fostering a strong workplace culture,” said Dan Rosenbaum. “Her dedication to employee growth and engagement, along with her ability to strengthen our brand and reinforce our values, makes her an invaluable asset to our leadership team.”

Under Jessica’s leadership, NextGen Label Group will continue to enhance its workplace initiatives, ensuring a supportive and growth environment for all employees. Her expanded role will further align HR and marketing efforts, promoting a unified and cohesive vision for the company’s future.