News - TLMI - Page 2

Esko – Mark Andy Innovation Day

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

Production process optimization, cost reduction, and increased efficiency are key challenges facing label printers in response to current market trends, and were the main topics discussed at the recent meeting organized by Esko and Mark Andy.

The special Esko – Mark Andy Innovation Day, devoted to European label printers and converters, took place at the Mark Andy Technology Center in Warsaw on March 5th. In addition to technology presentations from Esko attendees had the opportunity to take part in the live print demonstrations of Mark Andy presses. These included the flexo Evolution Series E5 and UV inkjet hybrid, the Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200. Labels printed on both presses utilized advanced software solutions created by Esko, including Equinox, a tool dedicated to label and packaging production.

“The event opened our series of meetings scheduled in the Warsaw-based Technology Center for this year. Some are organized in cooperation with our technology partners,” said Lena Chmielewska-Bontron, European Marketing Manager Mark Andy. “This time we partnered with Esko, which offers a wide range of advanced hardware and software solutions used by our mutual customers. The meeting attracted many attendees from Poland, Turkey, Croatia, Czech Republic and other countries. For us, it was a great opportunity to showcase the new presses in Mark Andy’s portfolio, including the fastest UV inkjet hybrid press on the market dedicated to label production, Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200.” The international guests were welcomed by Mariusz Geras, Sales Manager Esko, Lukasz Chruslinski and Antony Cotton, European Sales Managers Mark Andy.

Market trends and technological innovations
The first speaker was Jan De Roeck, Marketing Director Esko, who highlighted the dynamic global changes and uncertainty affecting both businesses and consumers. He cited research results that outlined major business risks, the degree of preparedness for external crises, as well as preventative strategies implemented by companies. He emphasized the importance of digital transformation in the label production market, addressing issues such as shorter print runs and faster delivery time pressures. He identified key trends and technologies including automation, AI/machine learning, and cloud computing, that will have significant impacts on the label and packaging industries. Mr De Roeck also illustrated the value chain specifically for packaging and label makers, pointing out the role of Esko. As he underlined, Esko solutions are used in the production process of 9 out of 10 consumer packaging jobs. Some of these were presented in subsequent presentations and in context of their application in label production as demonstrated on the Mark Andy presses.

‘Revolution in prepress with Esko: From concept to print’
This was the title of the presentation given by Sam Coussens, Application Sales Manager at Esko. He showed a complete workflow of a sample job file, from submission to final print, based on the Esko Automation Engine server. He covered successive stages of job processing: prepress, file approval, platemaking and printing. As he emphasized, over 3,000 licenses of the Esko Automation Engine are already being used worldwide, helping companies to reduce errors by up to 80%, increasing efficiency and workflow, and achieving time and financial savings. Mr Coussens talked about selected workflow modules: Equinox – designed for job preflight; ArtPro+ – dedicated to variable data printing (VDP); and quality control tools. He highlighted the importance of cloud-based job approval, remotely accessed by all process participants.

Innovations in Platemaking and Screening
The final Esko presentation was given by Nils Otto, Solution Architect for Color & Print. He presented Esko solutions for flexo platemaking and screening processes. He showcased optimized workflow for file preparation process, designed to bring measurable financial and environmental benefits. He also highlighted Esko’s flexo platemaking systems from numerous implementations worldwide. Finally, he spoke about standardization and calibration processes using the Esko Print Color Wizard tool. When combined with the Equinox module, it creates a complete solution from press calibration to verification of final print. This offers cost savings while reducing the negative environmental impact of the print production process.

Mark Andy Presses Demo
After the theory came the practical, with attendees taking part in a ‘live’ demonstration of two of the narrow-web printing presses installed at the Mark Andy Technology Center in Warsaw. The demonstrations were led by Lukasz Chrusliński and Antony Cotton, European Sales Managers at Mark Andy.

The hybrid Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 press attracted special interest from event’s guests, owing to its recent global debut. Described by Mark Andy as the world’s fastest UV inkjet narrow web press dedicated to label production, it operates at twice the speed of its predecessor, the Digital Series HD model, which has been a sales success story for Mark Andy in many countries. It addresses the current market trends and customer requirements, as indicated in Esko’s earlier presentation: reduction in print run lengths; increasing demand for versioning/VDP; and a growing need to update or reprint previous jobs after necessary modifications.

Mark Andy is currently the market leader in sales of narrow web hybrid presses for label and package printing. “Moreover, our flagship models in this segment, the Digital Series HD and recently introduced Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200, were developed entirely in-house. This means that our customers receive a complete end-to-end solution, including DFE software, from a single source. The package is assisted by a comprehensive Mark Andy 360 Support service care program, ” stated Antony Cotton.

The second demo featured the well-proven Evolution Series E5 flexo press, offering production speeds up to 230 m/min. As a scalable solution, it can be expanded and upgraded as user needs grow. Evolution Series E5 is available in 330mm and 430 mm web widths and its application range includes labels, shrink sleeves, and IML. “This highly versatile press aligns perfectly with current market trends and flexographic applications,” said Mr Cotton. “Its versatility is evidenced by the different types of work it produces, from specialized cosmetic tubes using unique technology to high-volume self-adhesive labels or shrink sleeves. Its range of applications can extend even further, depending on user specialization and target markets.”

Q&A Session
The event concluded with a Q&A session featuring representatives from Esko and Mark Andy. The questions covered technical aspects of the solutions presented as well as general topics including the current state of the market and the upcoming Labelexpo Europe trade fair, being held for the first time in Barcelona.

“We’d like to thank all customers who participated in the Esko – Mark Andy Innovation Day and hope they gained valuable theoretical and practical knowledge. Our Technology Center was designed as the place of learning, inspiration, experience exchange, competence building, and knowledge sharing. In a few weeks’ time, we will be hosting students and pupils from printing colleges and high schools, and in June we are planning an Open House for customers from all over Europe. We hope that all these events, scheduled for the first half of the year, will be a great prelude to the forthcoming Labelexpo Europe in September,” concluded Lena Chmielewska-Bontron.

About Mark Andy Inc.

Mark Andy is a pioneer of the graphic arts and printing industry. As the world’s leading manufacturer of narrow- and mid-web printing and finishing equipment, it supplies leading global brands, including Mark Andy and Presstek printing presses, Rotoflex finishing solutions, as well as a complete line of Mark Andy Print Products consumables and pressroom supplies. All products are backed by the largest customer support team in the industry, minimizing downtime and helping customers be profitable, efficient and at the forefront of innovation. Mark Andy does what it takes to understand each customer’s unique business, the challenges they face and the pressures they feel. It strives to provide products and services that help customers solve their problems and solutions that go a step further, allowing them to excel in their day-to-day operations, ultimately increasing productivity and reaching their full potential. For more information, visit www.markandy.com.

JS McCarthy Achieves Unprecedented Record-Breaking Folding Carton Output with HEIDELBERG Speedmaster XL 106

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: Heidelberg

Kennesaw, Ga. April 3, 2025 – Just over one year after installing its second Speedmaster XL 106, J.S. McCarthy Packaging + Print, one of the oldest and largest packaging and commercial printers in New England, set a new world record* for folding carton production – printing 429,246 net sellable sheets (431,451 gross sheets) in 24 hours. J.S. McCarthy’s team achieved this milestone running 23.6 pt CKB^TMby Stora Enso at 21,000 sheets per hour across two twelve-hour shifts on its Speedmaster XL 106-8+L from HEIDELBERG. In total, J.S. McCarthy’s team printed a remarkable 1,165,636 net sheets over the course of sixty-seven hours.

“We’re always setting new goals and striving to do things better, faster, and more efficiently,” said Jon Tardiff, President of J.S. McCarthy. “Equipped with one of the fastest and most automated presses in the world, we had everything in place to make this world record possible: the right technology, the right people, and the right mix of work.”

To achieve higher speeds and net output, HEIDELBERG optimized over 200 components throughout the XL 106, from feeder to delivery. The improved components and advanced Speedmaster technology, like intelligent User Experience (UX) featuring AI-powered press assistance systems, autonomous Push-to-Stop technology, and AutoPlate Pro help maximize efficiency and maintain maximum output levels throughout high-speed production.

J.S. McCarthy’s record-setting production involved four different press forms, requiring multiple plate changes, including an additional ten to ensure print quality and dot integrity over the long run, due to plate wear. Thanks to the press’s advanced Push-to-Stop system and Prinect Inpress Control 3 color control technology, changeover and makeready processes were fully automated – allowing the team to return to full production within minutes. Prinect Inpress Control also helped minimize makeready and waste sheets to 7,012 (0.60%) over the entire run of 1,172,648 sheets.

“When you’re running at these speeds, the press technology has to make it easy for operators to sustain that pace while still maintaining quality, and this press does exactly that. The XL 106 consistently exceeds our expectations day in and day out,” said Tardiff.

Additionally, the press’s logistics systems, which manage the automated loading of the feeder and removal of printed pallets at delivery, were key to ensuring uninterrupted, non-stop production. The full run, which surpassed a million sheets, required approximately 600 pallets – with skid changes occurring every 5.5 to 6 minutes. Due to the thickness of the board, each pallet could only hold 2,000 sheets. Tardiff explained that without these advanced logistics capabilities, the record would not have been attainable.

To assist with moving pallets to and from press, each production shift was equipped with a materials handler in addition to an operator and press apprentice. “This record is not just about having the best equipment – it’s about having the best people behind it,” said Tardiff. “We’re beyond proud of our team for pulling off this incredible achievement, and we can’t thank them enough for their relentless hard work and dedication.” Additionally, he credited his in-house sheeting team, who did “an excellent job delivering nice, flat loads to the press, which made a huge impact on our performance.”

Over the past twelve months, HEIDELBERG customers worldwide have set multiple new world records across all industry segments. Clarence Penge, EVP of Product Management for Heidelberg USA, commented, “These accomplishments are a testament to the sheer power of the Speedmaster XL 106. Congratulations to the team at J.S. McCarthy for achieving this exceptionally challenging feat with thick board stock in folding carton production.”

Tardiff concluded, “I consider HEIDELBERG and Stora Enso true partners in our success. Without their support, achievements like this wouldn’t be possible.”

*After measurement by HEIDELBERG

About J.S. McCarthy

Founded in 1947, J.S. McCarthy Packaging + Print evolved from its roots in high-end commercial printing to become a trusted partner in the folding carton packaging industry. Today, JSM focuses on delivering high-quality packaging solutions for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics sectors—industries that demand the highest standards of safety, compliance, and precision. J.S. McCarthy’s decades of experience, continued investment in cutting-edge print technology, and strong supplier relationships position them to meet the complex needs of modern packaging. Its investments in technology are matched by its investment in human resources. J.S. McCarthy is a 100% employee-owned company, where each and every member of its team has a vested interest in customer success because it directly relates to their success as employee owners.

About HEIDELBERG:

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) is a leading technology company that has been standing for innovation, quality and reliability in mechanical engineering worldwide for 175 years. With a clear focus on growth, HEIDELBERG as a total solution provider is driving further development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions and the lifecycle business with service and consumables so that customers can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency.

The company is also focusing on expanding into new business areas such as high-precision plant engineering with integrated control, automation technology and robotics as well as the growing green technologies. With a strong international presence in approximately 170 countries, the creative power and expertise of its around 9,500 employees, its own production facilities in Europe, China and the USA and one of the largest global sales and service networks, the company is well-positioned for future growth. www.heidelberg.com

UPM Raflatac and Mark Andy Renew Strategic Partnership to Deliver Innovative Label Printing Solutions

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: UPM Raflatac

(UPM, Mills River, NC, April 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET) – UPM Raflatac, a global supplier of sustainable self-adhesive paper and film products, and Mark Andy, a leading manufacturer of narrow- and mid-web printing and finishing equipment, announce the renewal of their strategic partnership in the Americas for the sixth consecutive year. This global collaboration leverages UPM Raflatac’s extensive portfolio of sustainable labeling materials and Mark Andy’s cutting-edge printing technologies to deliver high-quality, innovative label printing solutions to the Americas and European markets.

The two companies work closely on a wide range of label materials compatible with Mark Andy’s conventional, hybrid and digital printing presses, providing labeling solutions optimized for performance, sustainability and cost-efficiency. Both organizations remain committed to their ongoing partnership and recognize the value it brings to label and packaging converters.

“We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Mark Andy, a market leader in conventional printing with a strong presence in the digital printing segment. By combining our expertise, we provide label printing solutions that help our customers stay ahead in a competitive market. We look forward to strengthening this collaboration and creating even more value for the industry,” said Kirit Naik, Senior Manager, New Materials & Technologies, Graphics, UPM Raflatac.

“Sustainability is important to Mark Andy and that’s why our ongoing collaboration with UPM Raflatac is such a natural fit,” said Shannon Stamberger, Innovation Center Director at Mark Andy. “With customers more focused on sustainable manufacturing and materials than ever before, we believe this is a critical, value-added collaboration.”

UPM Raflatac’s label materials are featured at Mark Andy’s demo centers, where they highlight the capabilities and benefits of the printing equipment to potential customers.

UPM Raflatac
UPM Raflatac offers high-quality self-adhesive paper and film products including label materials, graphics solutions and removable self-adhesive products. We operate 14 factories and deliver our innovative and sustainable products through our global network of distribution terminals. We are one of UPM’s growth businesses and employ around 3,200 people. Our sales reached almost EUR 1,6 billion (USD 1,7 billion) in 2024. Read more: upmraflatac.com

Mark Andy Expands Presence in Mexico with New Service Organization

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: Mark Andy

Chesterfield, MO – March 31, 2025. Mark Andy, the leading global printing and labels solutions company, announces a strategic expansion of its service and aftermarket support in Mexico. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to providing customers with localized, high-quality parts, service, and supplies.

As part of this expansion, Mark Andy has established a dedicated service team in Mexico through an exclusive partnership with Canvitech, a well-respected service provider in the region. Effective immediately, the Canvitech team, led by industry expert and Mark Andy’s Service Director in Mexico, Alfredo Hernandez, will transition into a seamless extension of Mark Andy, operating as Mark Andy-trained service technicians. This new, enhanced service and support team will be bolstered by Mark Andy Print Products (MAPP) and ensure Mark Andy customers in Mexico receive top-tier service and streamlined access to essential parts and consumables.

“We recognize the importance of strengthening our service and support capabilities in Mexico,” said Duane Pekar, CEO of Mark Andy. “With this transition, our customers will benefit from an in-country [local] team of experienced, Mark Andy-trained professionals who are deeply familiar with our full range of flexographic, digital, and finishing solutions. By aligning with a trusted service provider, we are ensuring continuity while elevating the level of support available to our growing customer base.”

Through this partnership, Mark Andy is enhancing its ability to provide timely and efficient service, parts distribution, and technical support. The newly established facility in Guadalajara will serve as a key hub for warehousing and distributing parts and supplies, ensuring reduced lead times and improved customer response rates.

This move aligns with Mark Andy’s global service strategy and follows a model successfully implemented in other international markets. The newly integrated service team brings decades of experience working with Mark Andy presses and will provide expert technical assistance across Mexico and select Central American markets.

Mark Andy will formally introduce this new service organization at Labelexpo Mexico in April, where CEO Duane Pekar will discuss the strategic initiative at an exclusive VIP event. Visitors to the Mark Andy booth will have the opportunity to meet the newly integrated service team and learn more about the company’s commitment to advancing support services in the region.

About Mark Andy Inc.

As the world’s leading printing and labels solutions company for over 75 years, Mark Andy provides smart, cost-effective, high-quality products and 360-degree service and support to the printing industry and converters – large and small. From pre-press to finishing, Mark Andy is committed to helping its customers grow through solid technology, a complete line of parts and supplies, and a strong portfolio of brands, including Rotoflex, Arpeco, Comco, Kluge, Presstek, and A.B. Dick. Based in Chesterfield, Missouri, Mark Andy serves customers in over 90 countries with the same vision: Your Growth is Our Growth.For more information, visit www.markandy.com.

All Color Printers Drives Rapid Folding Carton Growth with HEIDELBERG Speedmaster XL 106s

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: Heidelberg

Kennesaw, Ga. March 31, 2025 – All Color Printers, a family-owned print shop based in Deer Park, NY, recently upgraded its capabilities with the installation of a Speedmaster XL 106-7+L from HEIDELBERG. The new press, which joins an XL 106 installed in 2020, marks the company’s first press dedicated entirely to folding carton production. With roots in commercial printing, All Color’s recent investment highlights its strategic focus on developing its growing packaging business.

The Next Chapter

Started in 1959, All Color has steadily expanded its footprint as a trade and commercial printer on Long Island under the leadership of the Bogue family. When Steven Bogue, the current President and CEO, joined his father Billy at the family business in 2010, they worked together to strategically position the company as one of the region’s leading print providers, known for high quality products at affordable prices. This approach led to key investments in several Speedmaster presses from HEIDELBERG, including the company’s first XL 106 with Push to Stop technology, installed in 2017.

As Steven later took over full control of the company with help from brother and Vice President, Will Bogue, All Color began transitioning its focus from commercial work to custom folding carton production. To support this shift, All Color needed to invest in efficiency boosting, cutting-edge, high-speed equipment. In 2020, it installed a second XL 106 – a five-color UV machine with coater.

“The XL 106 continues to stand out as the only press that offers us both the flexibility and quality we need to meet the dynamic demands of our clients,” said Steven Bogue.

Today, All Color is a nationally recognized packaging printer, focused on producing custom folding cartons for the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and cannabis industries. With its eyes set on further expansion, the company recently installed a Speedmaster XL 106-7+L earlier this year to replace its 2017 XL 106. Although the new press replaces a relatively recent model by industry standards, Steven said its newest XL 106 represents the “next chapter” in All Color’s business as it continues to shift its focus to industrial folding carton production.

Propelling the Business Forward

With speeds up to 18,000 sph, All Color’s seven-color XL 106 is equipped with UV curing and HEIDELBERG’s latest technology including Push to Stop, AutoPlate Pro, Prinect Inpress Control 3, and the HEIDELBERG UX, featuring AI-powered press assistance systems. Designed with a raised platform and enhanced logistics in both the feeder and delivery, this press is the company’s first “true” folding carton machine.

“Our new XL 106 will propel our packaging business forward,” said Will Bogue. “With its lightning-fast speeds, cutting-edge technology, and advanced color and quality control features, we can complete jobs with the efficiency, consistency, and timeliness that our packaging customers expect.”

All Color’s XL 106 features both Prinect Inpress Control 3 and Prinect Image Control 4 to streamline color and quality control processes, essential in the precision-focused folding carton industry. With Inpress Control, All Color’s operators let the press handle color management, a task that would be impossible to perform manually at high speeds. The industry-leading inline spectrophotometer automatically measures, adjusts, and registers color on the fly, at any speed. The Bogues, who first purchased an XL 106 with this technology in 2017, shared, “Inpress Control is a game-changer. We’ll never buy a press without it again. The consistency it provides enables us to produce high-quality work – day in and day out – which has been vital to our success.”

To further improve folding carton quality, All Color utilizes Prinect Image Control 4, which provides precise measurement technology for consistent color, proof matching, and error detection. With 50 million measuring points, it can detect even the smallest print deviations that might be missed by the human eye. Together, these technologies greatly reduce All Color’s makeready time and overall run waste – crucial when working with costly board stocks.

All Color uses HEIDELBERG’s Prinect Production Manager to drive production from job entry and preflighting to platemaking with its Suprasetter, providing essential information to the press for the autonomous Push to Stop process. Will explained, “We rely on Prinect because it helps our press operators maximize the performance of the equipment.”

In addition, Prinect allows All Color to generate real-time performance reports with key metrics such as average run speed, run length, makeready time, and waste sheets for each press. Currently, the company’s 2020 XL 106 boasts an impressive OEE of over 40%, with average waste of less than 1%.

As the Bogues look ahead to the next evolution of their business, Steven said, “An investment in HEIDELBERG has always meant an investment in ourselves and our company. As we continue to grow our company, we know that HEIDELBERG will be right there to have our back and support us.”

About All Color

All Color has been family owned and operated since 1959 – applying its 50+ years of experience to every job it prints. Its mission, throughout its lengthy history, has been to produce the highest quality product at affordable prices while meeting its customers’ deadlines.

About HEIDELBERG:

www.heidelberg.com

Expanding Horizons: HERMA Group and Wausau Coated Products Announce Strategic Partnership

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: Wausau Coated Products, Inc.

Wausau, WI, March 28, 2025 – The HERMA Group headquartered in Germany and Wausau Coated Products (WCP) are excited to announce a strategic partnership to enhance their offerings in the self-adhesive materials market. This collaboration brings together two family-owned companies with complementary product portfolios and market orientations, aiming to provide high added value to existing and future customers in Europe and America. Notably, there is no merger or mutual equity participation between the companies, ensuring that they remain independent in their operations and decision-making.

A Perfect Match

“Our two companies complement each other perfectly in terms of their product portfolios and market development to date,” said Ben Reif, President and CEO at WCP. “For example, the multi-layer technology perfected by HERMA allows the use of standard self-adhesive materials in an impressive way, even for demanding applications.”

HERMA Managing Director Dr. Guido Spachtholz added, “When it comes to self-adhesive materials for unusual specialty labels, especially for wine, spirits and beverages. WCP is a preferred development partner for label printers and users far beyond America.”

Developing New Markets Together

The partnership will initially focus on marketing defined products under the brand name of the respective manufacturer. WCP will distribute various HERMA self-adhesive materials in the Mexican market, where HERMA has not been active to date. WCP, which has been operating a slitting facility in Mexico for years, will present HERMA products for the first time at Label Expo Mexico in Guadalajara in April [Stand D97].

“With HERMA’s self-adhesive material, we can offer our numerous customers in Mexico even better solutions from a single source and emphasize our competence as a problem solver, even for high-volume applications,” explained Dave Rosen, Chief Growth Officer at WCP. In return, HERMA will distribute WCP specialty materials for spirits and wine labels in selected European markets, starting in the UK. “This is a very attractive and dynamically developing market. For capacity reasons, we have only been able to exploit its potential to a limited extent so far. Now we can perfectly serve it and offer interesting and innovative solutions,” explains Harald Wallner, HERMA Director Sales International. These are, for example, very high-quality structured papers, which are very popular with British whisky and gin producers. To ensure short delivery times, the British subsidiary HERMA UK, which operates its own slitting center in Newbury, will initially rely on WCP products.

Maintaining Independence

Both companies emphasize that they are not aiming for any kind of corporate relationship or mutual equity participation. “Both WCP and HERMA are family-owned. That is our shared DNA. We don’t want to change that,” emphasized Dave Rosen. Heiko Henninger, HERMA Director Corporate Development & Legal, further explains: ” With this collaboration we combine each partner’s individual and complementing strengths and open up the opportunity for synergetic growth across continents while staying independent. This offers our customers greater value and choice in consolidating markets.”

Dr. Guido Spachtholz adds: ” The owners, in both cases, are known for taking a very long-term and forward-looking approach. Stable and reliable partnerships have therefore always been an important basis for the development of our companies. The shared spirit, the hands-on mentality and the absolute customer focus of both companies make for a perfect match. We are very much looking forward to what lies ahead.”

About HERMA

HERMA GmbH, headquartered in Filderstadt, Germany, is a leading European specialist for packaging and product labeling. HERMA manufactures self-adhesive material and film laminates for you using the latest manufacturing processes. This adhesive material forms the ideal basis for the production of self-adhesive labels. In the 2023 financial year, the group of companies generated sales of around €429.4 million in three divisions with around 1,100 employees. For more information visit our website: http://www.herma.com

About Wausau Coated Products:

Wausau Coated Products, Inc. is an independent family owned and operated manufacturing company with distribution facilities located throughout the USA and Mexico as well as distribution channels throughout Central and South America, the Caribbean, New Zealand, and Australia. As a leading manufacturer of adhesive-based products, Wausau Coated is a one-stop resource worldwide for premium quality stocked products and custom engineered constructions to meet customer specific applications and end user needs. For more information on Wausau Coated Products, visit our website: http://www.wausaucoated.com.

Siegwerk announces change within its Group Executive Committee

Dani Neece on April 17, 2025

By: Siegwerk

Siegburg, Germany, March 28, 2025. – Siegwerk, one of the world’s leading global providers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels, announces a change within its management team. After more than 36 years at Siegwerk, Ralf Hildenbrand, President Americas and member of the Group Executive Committee, has decided to retire effective July 1, 2025. He will be succeeded by Christopher van Laack, currently Vice President Business Unit Paper & Board EMEA and Liquid Food Packaging at Siegwerk.

In addition to his responsibility for the Americas region, Ralf Hildenbrand has led the Global Business Unit Cluster Flexible Packaging and the functions Global Technology, including Product Safety & Responsibility (PSR) and Siegwerk’s Circular Economy Hub, as well as Global Brand Owner Collaboration. During his impactful career at Siegwerk, Hildenbrand has held key management positions and responsibility for many major strategic initiatives.

Ralf Hildenbrand: Lasting impact on Siegwerk’s strategic direction and growth

The trained Industrial Engineer joined Siegwerk in 1989 as a Managerial Assistant in Flexible Packaging Sales and quickly advanced in the company. Since 2002, Hildenbrand has been a member of the Board of Management of the Siegwerk Group and later of the Group Executive Committee. In the 2000s, he was integral in the development of the corporate development strategy for Siegwerk’s transformation into a global leader for packaging inks and coatings. From 2002 to 2009, he was involved in the company’s international expansion with key acquisitions such as Color Converting Inc. (CCI) and the packaging ink business from SICPA. Since 2005, Hildenbrand has been leading Siegwerk’s global Flexible Packaging business. In this role, he developed and implemented Siegwerk’s Flexible Packaging differentiation strategy enabling the company to sustainably stand out from the competition.

From 2009 to 2019, Hildenbrand was President Asia at Siegwerk. He successfully developed and implemented an ambitious growth strategy for the Asian region and its sub-regions. During this time, he also held a number of global responsibilities: He established Siegwerk’s Global Technology function, a cross-regional team of technology experts to roll out global standards and manage global Research and Development projects. In addition, he took over the responsibility for Product Safety & Responsibility at Siegwerk. By developing and implementing a global PSR strategy, he further defined Siegwerk’s reputation as a worldwide leader in safe ink solutions. In 2018, he led the development and the roll-out of Siegwerk’s Brand Owner Collaboration strategy, reinforcing Siegwerk’s role as a strategic partner with multinational brands. Hildenbrand also played a leading role in the development and evolution of Siegwerk’s Circular Economy strategy and was responsible for Siegwerk’s Circular Economy Hub, which was established in 2019. In the same year, he was appointed President Americas and has significantly developed and advanced Siegwerk’s business in the Americas in the recent years.

Dr. Nicolas Wiedmann, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Siegwerk, expressed his gratitude: “Ralf Hildenbrand has made a decisive contribution to Siegwerk’s success over more than three decades. With his leadership and strategic vision, he strengthened and advanced our company in all regions and globally across many functions and departments. He fulfilled his roles with real passion and dedication, always living our motto ‘Ink, Heart and Soul.’ We sincerely thank him for his exceptional performance, in-depth expertise and outstanding commitment.”

Christopher van Laack: Experienced Siegwerker to lead the Americas region

Succeeding Hildenbrand in Siegwerk’s Group Executive Committee is Christopher van Laack, currently Vice President Business Unit Paper & Board EMEA and Liquid Food Packaging at Siegwerk. Van Laack will assume responsibility for the Americas region, along with Global Technology, Product Safety & Responsibility (PSR), Siegwerk’s Circular Economy Hub, and Global Brand Owner Collaboration. The Global Business Unit Cluster Flexible Packaging will be managed by Dirk Weissenfeldt, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Siegwerk and former Vice President Flexible Packaging EMEA in the company.

Van Laack brings a broad range of professional expertise and experience from nearly 17 years at Siegwerk. He joined the company in 2008 as a trainee in Logistics Management and has made an impressive career, taking on several key leadership roles. During his nearly eight years in the field of Transport and Logistics, van Laack was promoted to the head of this department in 2013. Three years later, he took on the role of Site Manager and Post Merger Integration Manager of the Buedingen (Germany) site of the newly acquired Actega Colorchemie business and successfully lead the turnaround. In 2018, van Laack was appointed Regional Sales Director of Flexible Packaging EMEA, holding responsibility for many international key accounts of Siegwerk and coordinating sales activities – also in the Americas region. In his current role as Vice President Business Unit Paper & Board EMEA and Liquid Food Packaging, which he assumed in 2021, he developed and implemented the strategic direction for both business units. Furthermore, van Laack initiated Siegwerk’s activity in the field of functional coatings and thus laid the foundation for the company’s stand-alone business unit for Circular Economy Coatings, which was established in 2024.

“We are very pleased that Christopher van Laack will join our Group Executive Committee and will take over the role as President Americas,” said Dr. Nicolas Wiedmann, CEO at Siegwerk. “In his previous roles, van Laack demonstrated strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to Siegwerk’s values. His expertise in business development and operational excellence makes him the perfect successor to drive further growth and innovation in the Americas region and help shape Siegwerk’s future.”

The change in Siegwerk’s Group Executive Committee will officially take effect on July 1, 2025.

About Siegwerk
Siegwerk is one of the leading global manufacturers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels. Based on 200 years of expertise, we provide customized solutions for all types of packaging needs – from functional and eye-catching to safe and sustainable. As a seventh-generation family business, we have long been aware of our responsibility for future generations. Under the motto “rethINK packaging”, we are therefore actively driving the transformation to a circular economy by developing eco-friendly solutions that enable packaging circularity. Here, 30+ country organizations and ~5,000 employees worldwide ensure consistent high-quality products and customized support around the world. Learn more at www.siegwerk.com

From Barcodes to Prime Labels: OMNI Systems’ Digital Printing Journey with Domino

Dani Neece on April 14, 2025

By: Domino

Cleveland, OH – OMNI Systems, a leading provider of high-quality labels for the logistics, food, and consumer packaged goods industries, recently described its journey in digital printing applications through its ongoing partnership with Domino. With the acquisition of multiple Domino K600i digital UV inkjet printers over the past several years, OMNI Systems continues to drive efficiency, precision, and scalability in label production.

The company now operates three K600i units in its Cleveland, Ohio facility — two 22-inch dual-bar units and one 17-inch single-bar unit — enhancing its ability to produce high-quality variable data and sequential barcoded labels at greater speeds and volumes. In addition, the most recent installation at OMNI Systems’ St. Louis, Missouri location utilizes a 17-inch single-bar unit to support their growing prime label market.

From left to right: Angelo Nelson (Press Operator), Connie Little (Sales & Marketing Associate), John Ashby (Plant Manager) of OMNI Systems – St. Louis, MO

Dean Ketchum, Business Development Manager, emphasized OMNI Systems’ market positioning. “We pride ourselves on delivering the best price and highest quality in the market. Our ability to scale and provide cost-effective solutions set us apart from the competition, and Domino helps us with that.”

AJ Newkirk, whose 20+ year career with the company began as Press Operator and is now Plant Manager of the Cleveland facility, agrees. “OMNI Systems has always focused on delivering low-cost, high-quality labels with exceptional service. Our continued investment in digital printing, particularly with the Domino K600i technology, allows us to remain at the forefront of efficiency and innovation while meeting our customers’ evolving needs.

How the Journey Began

OMNI Systems’ journey into digital printing began over a decade ago with the installation of its first Domino K600i printer in 2013. Originally purchased to support a single customer, the technology quickly proved instrumental in broadening the company’s capabilities. One of OMNI Systems’ most notable contributions includes its collaboration with one of the world’s largest retailers, in developing a label critical to logistics and shipping operations worldwide.

The Technology

Domino K600i is a proven, highly productive monochrome digital UV inkjet for printing variable data onto a wide range of coated or uncoated web and sheet applications. K600i is typically integrated onto a flexo press, rewinder, or finishing system and is capable of printing up to 492 fpm at 600 dpi in a dual-bar configuration, or 246 fpm as a single-bar. Standard print bar widths are 4.25″, 8.69″, 13.1″, 17.5″, or 21.96″.

Maximizing Production

At the Cleveland facility, with a production schedule running 24/5 and printing 6.5 to 8 million labels every 24 hours on the 22” K600i units, the durability and reliability of Domino’s technology have played a crucial role in OMNI Systems’ operations. The advanced dual-bar system enables faster throughput while maintaining excellent print quality… a key factor in the company’s decision to continue investing in Domino solutions. “Speed and efficiency are more critical than ever,” added Newkirk. “Domino’s digital inkjet solutions provide the reliability and performance we need to maintain our leadership in label production.”

Well-Positioned for the Future

OMNI Systems President Mike Murton says, “The ability to print high-quality, variable data labels at scale is more important than ever. As customer needs continue to evolve, particularly with the rise of QR codes and GS1’s Sunrise 2027 initiative, we are well-positioned to provide innovative solutions that meet modern supply chain demands.”

Left to Right: Mike Murton, (President) & AJ Newkirk (Plant Manager) – OMNI Systems – Cleveland, OH

Rick Pantaleo, Director of Business Development, agrees, “The implementation of Domino’s K600i technology has streamlined our production, allowing us to meet increasing customer demands while maintaining superior quality. Our ability to adapt to the needs of the marketplace ensures we remain a trusted partner in the industry.”

As the company looks to the future, OMNI Systems’ investment in digital printing underscores its commitment to staying ahead in an increasingly data-driven market. Its strategic partnership with Domino ensures it can meet the high expectations of global brands and logistics providers.

Gary Peterson, Domino Sr. Account Manager – Variable Data Printing, who has been involved in the partnership for many years, shared his perspective: “OMNI Systems’ commitment in utilizing digital printing, specifically for variable data applications, has made this collaboration incredibly successful. Seeing how their use of the K600i has evolved over the years is a testament to their forward-thinking approach.”

About OMNI Systems

OMNI Systems is a premier supplier of labeling solutions, specializing in pressure-sensitive labels, thermal transfer labels, direct thermal labels, and prime labels. With a focus on cost-effective production and exceptional quality, OMNI Systems serves industries including logistics, retail, food processing, and consumer packaged goods. For more information, please visit www.omnisystem.com

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

Vanguard Digital and Durst Bring Innovative Vision to the 2025 ISA Expo

Dani Neece on March 27, 2025

By: Vanguard Digital, a Durst Group Company

Franklin, TN – April 2025: Vanguard Digital Printing Systems, a Durst Group Company, continues their year of growth and redefinition with a powerful lineup for this year’s ISA Expo. Partnering with Durst in booth 2624, showgoers will experience the latest innovative systems from both companies, and the software solutions that power them.

Leading the lineup for Vanguard is the Harpeth Print-To-Cut workflow solution, coming to the ISA Expo for the first time. The Harpeth is comprised of the VK3220T-HS UV-LED flatbed printer from Vanguard, and the in-line transport system partnered with the Vanguard edition of the Sharpcut digital cutter from Colex. The Harpeth automates the workflow between printing and cutting, reducing costs and increasing productivity.

In addition to the Harpeth, Vanguard will be unveiling a new printer, never before seen. The latest in their Productivity Redefined series, the Radnor will bring next level speed, versatility, and quality to the Vanguard fleet. Jim Peterson, COO and Founding Partner of Vanguard, commented “We are very excited to be at the expo this year. We have a new look, new technology, new talent, and new vision and are growing as a company, as a team, and as an innovator in the industry. We are proud of our line up and the opportunity it brings to print service providers, and look forward to sharing it with everyone at ISA.”

Alongside Vanguard, Durst will be showing the P5 X for the first time in America. The P5 X is a versatile and efficient printing solution, designed for both true flatbed and roll-to-roll applications. Equipped with 10 color channels, including white and varnish for special effects, it offers ergonomic handling, unmatched flexibility and exceptional print quality with consistent colors, smooth gradients, and sharp, detailed text.

Durst Software & Solutions will be featured in the booth as well, showcasing the impressive combination of printer power and sophisticated, easy to use software. Visitors will be able to request demos of the Durst software suite from our experts and view real-time functionality of Durst Workflow on both Durst and Vanguard printers in the booth.

“We never stop dreaming of what’s next,” concluded Peterson. “In the last seven months, we launched the Harpeth Print-to-Cut Workflow Solution, announced our West Coast Demo Center, opened our Experience center in Franklin, and are launching a new solution at the ISA Expo this year. Our tenth year is shaping up to be our best year yet, and we can’t wait to share it with you.” Stop by booth 2624 to see what the future of print looks like.