By: Asahi Photoproducts

With a goal of delivering fast, short-run, sustainable print, ACM partnered with Asahi to implement a Solvent FREE workflow, save water with an innovative water recycling unit, AWP^TM-LOOP, and create a more productive pressroom

Tokyo, Japan & Brussels, Belgium, May 29, 2024. Asahi Photoproducts, a pioneer in flexographic photopolymer plate development, today reported that Italian converter ACM Flexible Packaging, based in Cremosano near Milan, has partnered with Asahi Photoproducts to create a highly sustainable, Solvent FREE, prepress operation with flexographic plates that are capable of delivering high quality, cost-effective, short-run printing with faster turn times than the competition. This is enabled by using Asahi Photoproducts’ AWP CleanPrint water-wash plates that are certified Carbon Neutral. In addition, the company has acquired Asahi’s AWP^TM-LOOP water recycling unit that enables reuse of 80% of the water used in plate processing, ACM was the first company in Europe to install this innovative solution.  The company also employs an Esko Crystal CDI exposure unit and XPS imaging system. Plates are processed with an Asahi AWP^TM-4260 PLF plate processor This highly sustainable solution is unique in Europe, setting the company apart from its competition.

Founded in 2005 by Massimo Raffaele and Antonio La Franceschina, the company was an early adopter of UV-LED curing and proved the technology’s viability at a time when brands were sceptical due to ink migration concerns.

Specialising in the food and pharma sectors, ACM’s printing is now 100 percent solvent-free and takes place on a fleet of Omet Varyflex flexo machines, all equipped with UV-LED curing, as well as an 8-color Uteco water-based flexo press.

ACM’s pre-press operation not only produces plates for ACM but also for other wide-web printing sites owned by its parent company, SIT Group.

“Our strategy in working with suppliers such as Asahi Photoproducts is to build a partnership, rather than just a vendor relationship,” said Andrea Belloli, the company’s branch manager, Italy and Middle East. “We also build those types of relationships with our customers, listening to their needs and requirements and adjusting accordingly. As an example, later this year we will install the first 50 by 80 large platemaking machine in the world here at ACM. This differentiates our company, and also offers our customers new services.”

Antonio La Franceschina, co-owner and CEO, added, “We are probably one of the only groups in Europe that have all the technology for flexographic printing systems. We start with digital, enabling us to offer mockups and very short run production. And with flexo, we use UV LED cured water wash flexo plates from Asahi that are Carbon Neutral. And we use the AWP-LOOP^TM system to recycle 80% of the water. That ticks all the boxes – sustainability, quality, efficiency, and a more cost-effective solution for customers, especially those that need short run, fast turn work.”

View the full interview here and also on screens on Asahi’s drupa stand, Hall 8a, Stand A13.

For more information about products and services from Asahi Photoproducts that are in harmony with the environment, visit www.asahi-photoproducts.com

By: Epson

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – May 29, 2024 – To meet businesses’ needs for on-demand color labels at a low cost, Epson today introduced its newest ColorWorks^® on-demand color label printer. Purpose-built for mid- to high-volume batch runs in on-demand environments, the new ColorWorks CW-C8000 offers exceptional print quality, reliable performance and high-speed printing with advanced connectivity and cloud printing.

Offering a range of advanced features, the ColorWorks CW-C8000 builds on the success of its predecessor, the ColorWorks C7500, to meet the high-volume label production needs of businesses in several markets, including prime and boutique, product ID, and warehousing and logistics.

“The CW-C8000 is built for the rapidly growing industrial label market that relies on fast printing and high image quality to meet product label requirements,” said Stevi Sterns, product manager, Label Printers, Epson America, Inc. “Delivering accurate colors, smooth gradations, precise barcodes, and sharp text, this new model is built to inspire businesses to ‘Do Labels Differently^™’ by breaking free from the conventional and embrace the new era of label printing.”

Epson ColorWorks on-demand label printers are designed to help businesses ‘Do Labels Differently’ with full-color capabilities, single-step simplicity and powerful PrecisionCore^® technology to produce state-of-the-art, high-quality labels in real time, eliminating the need for excess inventory and potentially reducing pre-printed label waste.

With advanced PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology, the CW-C8000 combines exceptional image quality and sharp precision at incredible speeds. The PrecisionCore permanent printhead allows for minimal user interventions and low maintenance costs, making it ideal for busy, on-demand environments. Durable, high-performance UltraChrome^® DL pigment inks provide high-quality, long-lasting labels and customers can choose between Gloss and Matte Black ink to fit labeling needs. New high-yield ink packs, providing 1.9L total ink capacity,¹ are ideal for high-volume batch runs, allowing for fewer interventions, low cost per milliliter and low consumable waste.

Additional features include:

–        High-speed, on-demand color labels – Designed for mid- to high-volume batch runs, multiple labels can be printed with variable data at speeds up to 12-inches per second.²

–        Reliable performance with PrecisionCore – Built for demanding applications, a permanent printhead means fewer interventions and low maintenance costs.

–        Advanced connectivity and remote management tools – Integrate large fleets with Epson Cloud Solution PORT^®,³ cloud printing and optional Wi-Fi^®.

–        Powerful fleet productivity with Epson Cloud Solution PORT³ – Remotely manage and view printer status, ink consumption and operation history.

–        Seamless workflow integration – Compatible with ZPL II^®, major middleware, SAP^®, Windows^®, Mac^® and Linux^®; built-in ESC/Label^®language.

–        Durable, high-quality labels – UltraChrome DL ink technology produces high-quality labels that resist smudging, smearing and fading.

–        High efficiency and low power consumption – PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology enables efficient ink usage and low energy usage.

–        World-class service and support – Includes a 1-year limited warranty; extended service plans available for up to a total of 5 years of continuous coverage.

Availability

The ColorWorks CW-C8000 will be available in the U.S. and Canada in summer 2024 through Epson’s authorized partners. For additional information about Epson’s ColorWorks solutions, visit www.epson.com/colorworks.

By: Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC)

The “Power Packs Live” event at PCMC’s Packaging Innovation Center in Green Bay, WI was packed with education, equipment demos, and networking.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – GREEN BAY, Wisconsin – May 23, 2024 — Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), part of BW Converting Solutions, recently held two free information-packed open houses at its state-of-the-art Packaging Innovation Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin, April 23-25. More than 160 people attended the three-day event which focused on both digital printing for flexible packaging as well as digital and flexo printing for the folding carton industry.  “We were very pleased with the turnout and quality of information we were able to provide the industry,” said Rodney Pennings, PCMC’s Director of Sales-Print. “The spirit of the Packaging Innovation Center and our Power Packs educational video series is to serve as a resource for print and packaging industry information, demos, trials, and training along with research and development opportunities.”

The recent open houses were true to the vision. A wealth of market and trend data, industry analysis, and best practice information was provided by guest speakers from across the globe including Dr. Sean Smyth, industry consultant and analyst, Jason Thelander of Memjet, Alison Keane of the Flexible Packaging Association, Dennis Gignac of BW Papersystems, Sean Hampson and Keith Grimm of Hybrid, Eric Nelson of Xitron and Mary Schilling of Schilling Inkjet Consulting. In addition to guest speakers, PCMC provided up close and personal demonstrations of two exciting new presses.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, attendees were able to see the ION hybrid press live in action. The ION turns traditional analog presses into digital hybrid printing platforms, providing the ability to produce larger digital runs cost competitively. “ION meets market needs for wider, faster printing with highest quality,” says Windell McGill, PCMC ION Launch Manager. “It is designed to handle up to 400 feet per minute with web widths of 36, 42 and 52 inches for paper, film and folding carton.”

The ION is a fully modular system with digital CMYK and flexo print stations that can be custom configured to meet a variety of customer challenges. Jenifer Grace of LaCore Pressworx, the first customer to purchase an ION press, was also on hand to share her experience with the new press. “We’re in the nutraceutical space and our clients are typically start-ups or small influencer-brand product manufacturers. We need the flexibility of short runs and the ability to quickly change from one flavor or ingredient to the next without wasted time or materials,” says Grace. “The ION is going to allow us to meet these needs. In addition, we’re a Texas corporation and the incredible on-site service PCMC provides and the fact that they are here in the states were critical factors in our decision to partner with them.”

On Thursday, attendees were treated to a press-side demonstration of the high-production 59 inch wide, 10+2 color Fusion CI folding carton press. “The Fusion has great energy and time-saving features like automatic drum cleaning and automatic impression setting,“ said Mike Shaw, PCMC Regional Sales Manager. “The Fusion reduces energy usage through low-power-consumption components, design and operation. It offers fast changeovers and lower ink usage,” said Scott Derouin, PCMC Regional Sales Manager. “The Fusion lowers operating costs and provides a quick return on investment and those benefits increase significantly when moving from sheet-fed to web-fed production.”

“We thank everyone who attended our open house event,” said Pennings. “We’re thrilled to be able to share the latest industry information from true industry experts and show-off our amazing new presses in the process.”

By: SCREEN Americas

Kyoto, Japan—SCREEN Graphic Solutions Co., Ltd., also referred to as SCREEN GA, announces that it has added CGS ORIS GmbH of Hainburg, Germany, to its group of companies. CGS is primarily engaged in the development and sales of color technology products. Following the acquisition, SCREEN GA has appointed Kunio Muraji as CGS’s new COO. The company’s president is Bernd Ruckert.

Since its establishment in 1985, CGS has been involved in the development and sales of various software products related to color management and digital proofing. It has expanded its business globally and is now one of the world’s leading companies in the color technology field.

SCREEN GA, then Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd., began to build a business partnership with CGS in 1991 when the two companies cooperated on the development of color technologies for scanner and recorder systems. CGS’s contribution included the provision of OEM products.

Kunio Muraji has led the development of various flagship products created by SCREEN GA, including its Truepress JET 520HD printing system. In his new role, Muraji san will further enhance the business synergy already shared by SCREEN GA and CGS.

Going forward, the partners will work to integrate CGS’s color technologies with the core color management systems used in SCREEN GA’s Truepress series of digital inkjet presses and workflow products. This is expected to drive significant new innovations in intuitive, high-function printing technologies.

The companies will also focus on fine-tuning the integration of CGS’s products with SCREEN GA’s workflow solutions, including EQUIOS, with a view to delivering even more advanced color management solutions. These applications will target a variety of workflows including analog and digital environments as well as hybrid operations that combine both.

By: Asahi Photoproducts

Plastic-free biodegradable/compostable packaging printed with specialized Chespa plant-based inks for a high level of sustainability. Print samples available for visitors on Asahi’s drupa stand.

Tokyo, Japan & Brussels, Belgium, May 27, 2024. Asahi Photoproducts, a pioneer in flexographic photopolymer plate development, today reported that Chespa, headquartered in Poland with numerous sites around Eastern Europe, has partnered with Asahi Photoproducts and Esko to introduce to its customers and prospects unique high-barrier-film, biodegradable/compostable, packaging printed using specialized plant based Chespa inks, Esko’s latest Crystal V screening and XPS Crystal Exposure system along with Asahi Photoproducts AWP™ CleanPrint carbon neutral water-washable plates to ensure production of the highest quality print with optimized ink consumption, minimal waste, robust color and no VOCs. Printed samples will be available for visitors to Asahi Photoproducts’ drupa stand located in Hall 8b, Stand A13.

Chespa, founded in 1991 and with 18 companies in 7 countries, features an ink manufacturing company and repro studio, offering a wide range of water- and solvent-based inks, cutting dies, and press-ready photopolymer printing plates for use with a wide variety of substrates. The company employs 750 team members and has a turnover of €140 million. Chespa has a long heritage of sustainable operations and continuously invests in modern facilities, smart eco-solutions, energy efficient production lines, and R&D projects related to use of renewable materials. This helps Chespa to decrease its consumption of energy, water, amount of waste sent to landfill, along with increased employee safety through the use of automated lines and robots.

Chespa inks are manufactured using a renewable feedstock and generating 35% less eCO₂/kg. They contain up to 40% dry content versus 1% for standard inks. Inks are biodegradable, and compostable both in homes and industrial facilities. Based on this and other factors, the company just received an award from the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA), in the U.S., for its sustainability programs including its water-based inks manufactured from renewable feedstocks.

The project conducted in collaboration with Asahi and Esko using sustainable substrates and inks as well as carbon neutral printing plates from Asahi, was tested with a chocolate manufacturer using Chespa’s FlexiBio water-based inks, and a manufacturer of peanut-based products using Chespa’s FlexiEco water-based inks. Both manufacturers reported they were delighted with the exceptional quality produced using Chespa’s specialty inks, a sustainable substrate, high quality screening from Esko and Asahi’s carbon neutral CleanPrint plates.

“Our brand owner client chose a sustainable paper substrate with barrier coatings for packaging their products based on its barrier against oxygen, water, aromas, and fat, and its suitability for heat sealing,” said Anetta Malkusch PR, Marketing & Advertising Manager Chespa Sp.z o.o. “An additional requirement, of course, was the ability to print high-quality graphics on the surface using sustainable water-wash AWP^TM plates from Asahi, our water-based inks, and the latest Crystal-V screening technology from Esko. Both companies were thrilled with the outcome, and we are looking forward to working with Asahi Photoproducts to make printed samples using our inks on this unique and sustainable substrate available on their drupa stand. Chespa is also proud to have been recognized with an FTA sustainability award for the water-based inks used in this project which are based on renewable feedstocks.”

The barrier-coated paper, branded FlexiLack FX Barrier by Chespa, is a high-performance metallized compostable film that consists of four layers: a cellulose film coated top and bottom with a specialized coating with a top layer of a printable metallized surface. It combines excellent optical properties with enhanced barrier and deadfold capabilities. Target applications include twistwrap and flow-wrap of confectionery, bakery and non-food products. This packaging is ideal for premium-look labelling applications and is cold-seal compatible.The project is targeting brand owners whith maximum achievements in sustainability as well es keeping the functional packaging barrier properties required for this type of food application in focus.

By: RM Machinery Inc.

CARNEYS POINT, New Jersey—RM Machinery, the U.S. master distributor for the RMGT 10-Series, announces its highlight for drupa—the RMGT 1060 LX, a fully loaded press that is sure to stop traffic and draw packaging and commercial printers into Hall 16, Booth E11 from May 28 to June 7, 2024, in Düsseldorf, Germany. The press will be one of two presses running live in RMGT’s booth at the long-anticipated drupa 2024, an event the printing world has spent the past eight years waiting for.

Now considered RM Machinery’s flagship press, the RMGT 1060 is engineered to increase printing speed while enhancing flexibility, efficiency and quality in print production. Among its many capabilities and available features are the LED-UV system, delivery shutter, and automatic nonstop feeder (ANSF). The RMGT 1060 LX stands as a testament to the evolution of printing technology, building on the powerful legacy of Mitsubishi Lithographic Presses. With its capacity to accept a wide range of stocks up to 1060 millimeters wide and consistently run at speeds as fast as 17,100 sheets per hour, the RMGT 1060 LX promises to deliver unmatched output and productivity. 

Available with the RMGT 1060-Series is the automatic nonstop feeder (ANSF), which will also be shown at drupa. The ANSF is designed to eliminate the physical strain and routine labor involved when loading and unloading piles of paper. With the ANSF, operators simply load the stock onto the feeder pile plate and the machine takes care of the rest—including making automatic adjustments to accommodate the size of the pile. Without the need for manual intervention, an operator has more time to address other issues in the pressroom.

Another feature of the RMGT 1060-Series, which was first brought to market by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is the industry-leading SimulChanger, an automated plate changing system that can change all printing plates simultaneously in an astounding 75 seconds. With the SimulChanger, printers are able to reduce makeready time, increase the pace during job turnover, and attain greater press uptime. 

The RMGT 1060 LX incorporates AI and machine learning with the Printing Quality Control System (PQS-D). With functions that include automatic register adjustment, color control and defect detection, the PQS-D enhances efficiency in production and ensures continuous high-quality printing. 

Also available for the RMGT 1060 LX is the powerful LED-UV system, an environmentally friendly curing technology for instant drying. This system allows for immediate handling and processing of printed sheets while reducing energy consumption and eliminating powder spray. It also allows for the ability to print on a variety of substrates including non-absorbent materials. With the LED-UV system, printers can reach new markets.  

Lloyd Molloy, director of customer service for RM Machinery, expressed his enthusiasm for the company’s drupa plans. “We’re thrilled to have the RMGT 1060 LX at drupa 2024,” said Molloy. “The 1060 LX is leading a technological revolution, redefining standards in the printing industry and addressing today’s complex printing requirements. RM Machinery enhances this offering with service technicians located across North America and the RM Advantage+ service program. We provide printers with advanced training, readily available OEM parts and consumables, and expert preventive maintenance programs. This comprehensive support assures optimal uptime and leads the industry by offering the most economical lifetime cost of ownership for printers.” 

The RMGT 1060 LX paired with RM Machinery’s expertise is sure to unveil a must-have solution for commercial and packaging printers worldwide.

By: Resource Label Group

Franklin, TN – May 23, 2024 – Resource Label Group, LLC (RLG), a leading full-service provider of label and packaging solutions, recently announced it has acquired Beyer Graphics, located in Commack, New York. Beyer Graphics will become part of RLG Healthcare, a specialty pharmaceutical and healthcare packaging business of Resource Label Group.

Founded in 1982 by William Beyer, Sr. as a provider of custom folding carton solutions, Beyer Graphics has become one of the leading packaging companies specializing in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. Beyer Graphics’ state-of-the-art facility focuses on providing packaging solutions such as custom folding boxes and cartons to over-the-counter (OTC), pharmaceutical, vitamin, supplement, and cosmetics clients.

Daniel Beyer, President of Beyer Graphics, stated, “Our team is excited to join RLG, as the partnership will increase our ability to better meet the needs of our growing customer base. As part of the RLG Healthcare business, our customers will have access to a broader portfolio of products and capabilities that will expand our ability to provide the innovative packaging solutions our customers require.”

Mike Apperson, President and CEO of Resource Label Group, added, “We are thrilled to welcome the talented team at Beyer Graphics to the RLG family. This addition significantly strengthens our fast-growing RLG Healthcare business and reinforces our commitment to meeting the needs of our pharmaceutical and healthcare customers.”

“It is an exciting time for RLG Healthcare as we continue to rapidly grow and expand our commitment to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries,” stated Kevin Grogan, CEO of RLG Healthcare. “The addition of Beyer Graphics will immediately strengthen our service, quality, and product offering to our customers.”

Beyer Graphics represents the 32nd acquisition for RLG and the third addition to the RLG Healthcare business.

By: Mark Andy Inc.

St. Louis, MO, May 16, 2024 – Mark Andy Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of narrow- and mid-web printing and finishing equipment with a specialty in the narrow web label industry, is thrilled to announce that San Antonio-based Label Edge has chosen Mark Andy as its digital press partner as they enter the digital label-printing space. This installation marks Label Edge’s first venture into digital printing, complementing their existing fleet of Mark Andy 2200 flexographic presses.

“Label Edge’s decision to incorporate the Digital Pro PLUS into their production line is a testament to their commitment to embracing innovative technologies that drive business growth,” said Steve Schulte, Vice President of Sales at Mark Andy. “We are proud to support them as they adapt to the changing demands of the label printing industry.”

Sherri Proctor, co-owner of Label Edge, commented on the new addition, saying, “This press is not just a purchase; it’s an investment in our future. The hybrid capabilities and the potential for on-the-fly configuration changes with the Digital Pro PLUS make it ideal for our growth strategy, especially in high-mix, low-volume markets.”

Label Edge’s Digital Pro press is customized to meet specific production needs, featuring options for modular add-ons that enhance printing capabilities and output quality.

“We chose Mark Andy again because of our long history with their reliable technology and excellent support,” Sherri added. “This new digital solution fits perfectly with our vision of providing high-quality, flexible printing solutions to our customers.”

For more information about Mark Andy and the Digital Pro PLUS, please visit Mark Andy Digital Pro PLUS.

By: Mondi

• Mondi is investing €200 million into a high-quality recycled containerboard machine with an annual capacity of around 420,000 tonnes at its Duino mill near Trieste, acquired in January 2023. 
• Investment is part of the company’s €1.2 billion of approved investments in organic growth projects aimed at meeting the growing demand for sustainable packaging, enhancing its product offering, and reducing its environmental impact

23 May 2024 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, held a groundbreaking ceremony in Duino, Italy, today laying the cornerstone on its €200 million investment in the mill acquired in January 2023. The facility’s existing paper machine is being converted into a high-quality recycled containerboard machine which will create job opportunities for current and potential employees, build and evolve partnerships with local stakeholders as well as contribute to the region’s overall economic development.

The start-up of the new machine is expected in 2025. Once fully operational, it will be capable of producing 420,000 tonnes of recycled containerboard for sustainable packaging solutions and will be Mondi’s widest recycled paper machine at 8.5 metres. Where possible, the mill will source materials locally in order to contribute to the local economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions through shorter transport distances and strengthen supply chain resilience.

“We are excited about the progress of the Duino investment project and the opportunity this provides our growing packaging business,” says Andrew King, CEO of Mondi Group. “This containerboard machine will strengthen our backward integration and provide us with security of supply to better serve our customers.”

“Our investment in Duino allows us to meet the increasing demand for sustainable solutions across Central Europe, the Mediterranean area, and the local Italian market. The project team is currently preparing for the upcoming construction works, with a new recycled fibre plant, wastewater treatment plant and the associated infrastructure and warehousing,” says Markus Gärtner, CEO Mondi Corrugated Packaging.