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Showing posts from May, 2015

Labelexpo India moves to new home for 2016

The organizers of Labelexpo India have announced that 2016’s edition will take place at a new venue, the India Expo Centre in Greater Noida (Delhi NCR), from 17 to 20 November. The new venue offers numerous benefits to both exhibitors and visitors with improved infrastructure. The India Expo Centre is in a good location and boasts modern open plan exhibition space so Labelexpo India will be in one flexible event space, while its facilities and onsite parking are some of the other advantages brought by the venue change. Jade Grace, Labelexpo India event director comments: “We are excited about our new home for 2016’s show and future editions. Pragati Maidan had very limited availability for 2016 which meant the show would have been held too close to Diwali, so by moving to the India Expo Centre we have been able to secure much better dates for 2016’s edition. With the show set to be around 25% larger in the new event space, we are very confident that its more modern and central layo

FINAT European Label Forum 2015 - calling all label printers

  With less than a month to go, FINAT, the international association for the self-adhesive label industry, is making a strong statement with its leading 2015 industry event. Over 200 top leaders from the label and narrow web industry have already confirmed attendance to the completely rebranded annual congress: the European Label Forum (ELF). This industry must-attend event takes place in Amsterdam, June 11 to 13. The European Label Forum delivers a complete break with the past in terms of its programming and offers attendees a unique source of knowledge to redefine its business. All details about the Forum, thought leadership speakers, full programme, registration and practical details are available on the dedicated website www.europeanlabelforum.com . “In the label world, there are a lot of fast and dramatic changes taking place in decorating technologies, packaging types, branding strategies, and markets”, says FINAT Managing Director Jules Lejeune, “As such, we need to purs

Xeikon Cheetah wins first industry accolade

The innovation delivered by the Xeikon Cheetah, the most important advancement for the digital label market in 15 years, has received its first industry recognition – the EDP Award for Best Label Printing Solution . The award was presented today at FESPA in Germany, and the EDP Association is the first industry body to recognize the market-leading qualities of Xeikon’s most productive digital label press, only months after installation at pilot sites around the world. “We are convinced the Xeikon Cheetah will have a very tangible impact on customers’ businesses through a number of production gains, all at high quality. We are delighted that the EDP Association recognizes this as well,” states Wim Maes, CEO of Xeikon. “The speed and quality of the Xeikon Cheetah will help our customers to win business while opening up new markets through improved cost efficiencies and increased productivity,” adds Filip Weymans, Director of Segment Marketing, Labels and Packaging at Xeikon. “The n

NEW SIDEL PACKAGING SERVICES WILL HELP UNLOCK THE VALUE OF PET ACROSS SUPPLY CHAINS

Sidel, the leading global provider of PET solutions for liquid packaging, has announced the creation of new packaging development services to help beverage producers worldwide turn their supply chains into value chains. “Studies in purchasing behaviour suggest that it takes a consumer just three to seven seconds to choose one beverage over another. A well-designed, attractive and engaging package can help brands win this ‘moment of truth’,” explains Vincent Le Guen, Sidel Vice President for Packaging. “Although very important, however, attractiveness and consumer experience are not the only value that great packaging design can create. Long before the product reaches the point of sale, the design of the bottle can create value throughout the supply chain. Additional value areas, for example, include improved line efficiency, enhanced product safety, greater sustainability, lower fuel costs, faster industrialisation and speed to market, and reduced costs. Great package design can help

Colordyne Unveiling Small-Run Digital Printing Solutions at East Pack

Colordyne Technologies™ is showcasing their newest Colordyne 2600 Series Mini Press as well as the Industrial Class 1600-C at East Pack 2015, June 9-11, at Jacob K. Javits Center in New York. Colordyne is a leader in providing digital printing end-to-end solutions. Debuting the new Colordyne 2600 Series Mini Press, this Commercial Class roll-to-roll label printing system features an intuitive touch screen interface, allowing flexibility and on the fly adjustments to label attributes. The Mini Press is capable of printing easily customizable full-color, high quality labels. Built with ease of service in mind, this printer is user friendly in nearly every way. Featuring a maximum print speed of 60 ft/min (18 m/min), highly accurate resolution up to 1600 x 1600 dpi, and self-predictive printhead maintenance, the Colordyne 2600 Series Mini Press is an out-of-box solution ready for prime label production. The 2600 Series is perfect for label converters and brand owners alike who are loo

The Label Printers’ Lori Campbell A Featured Speaker at the FTA Forum

Lori Campbell, Chief of Operations for The Label Printers, was a featured speaker for the FTA [Flexographic Technical Association] Forum, May 3 rd , in Nashville.  Her topic of Brand Protection was one of three presentations included in the Upside Down or Inside Out: What’s Next in Packaging? Technical Session.  In addition to Campbell’s presentation, the session included Suzy Badaracco, President of Culinary Tides, Inc. who spoke about characteristics and preferences of consumer groups and the different generations today and Colleen Twomeyt, Assistant Professor of Graphic Communications at California Polytechnic State University who spoke about the future of packaging and the interactive engagement of brands with their consumers. Because The Label Printers is a packaging converter, Campbell’s experience and perspective allows her to address the topic of brand protection globally – without having to focus on a specific technology – and tailor her presentation to other converters.

Polyonics Introduces Laser Markable Label Materials for Harsh Automotive and Low Surface Energy Applications

Polyonics has introduced new black and TrueWhite™ laser markable label materials , tested to the GMW14573 and GM6121M performance requirements for automotive under-the-hood as well as plastics (low surface energy) label applications. These unique materials can be easily ablated by a wide variety of low power lasers, provide flexible, high temperature alternatives to polyester and acrylic laser markable lables and are more durable than traditional thermal transfer printed labels. The new Polyonics laser markable label (LML) materials are available in black ( XF-670 ) and TrueWhite ( XF-672 ) versions. They include high temperature polyimide films, durable cross linked polymer coatings, low surface energy pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA) and liners for ease of handling and die cutting. The materials can be easily ablated by most low power CO2, YAG, fiber, UV and Vanadate lasers. The aggressive PSAs adhere to a wide variety of surfaces including metals, plastics, glass, ceramics and r

Michelman Introduces Water-Based Michem® Flex HS268

Michem Flex HS268 is a water-based, VOC free coating based on high molecular weight polyolefin that produces strong bonds in heat seal applications. Its low heat seal initiation temperature makes it an excellent solution for flexible food packaging. Benefits of the lower temperature process are numerous for packers, including lower energy costs, faster line speeds, no distortion of the film substrate, and most importantly, prevention of damage to temperature sensitive food items. Michem Flex HS268 is also beneficial for converters and substrate producers that coat the packaging material. Its high solid content combined with low viscosity leads to reduced transportation costs, less drying time and reduced energy costs. The new coating also offers outstanding blocking resistance and can be further formulated with slip additives, such as Michem Lube 160 RPH, to achieve a low coefficient of friction without losing bond strength. The versatile and cost-effective coating is water r

Xeikon Cheetah hits the quality mark at its first North American installation at Accu-Label

Xeikon, an innovator in digital color printing technology, is pleased to announce the first North American installation of the Xeikon Cheetah at Accu-Label, Inc. making it the third pilot site worldwide to install this breakthrough digital label production solution. Accu-Label, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has added Xeikon’s new press to complement its existing production platform, which includes a Xeikon 3500 that was installed last year, as well as flexographic printing solutions. Xeikon Cheetah is the most productive five-color digital label press available on the market today. It was the exceptional speed of the press (98 ft/min or 30m/min), combined with its high quality output, that convinced Accu-Label to invest in the Xeikon Cheetah. The investment will enable the company to respond to evolving client demands, expand into new markets and optimize its production processes – all while meeting the high level of quality output the company has been renowned for throughout its his

More than cutting: Esko Kongsberg Tools unleash creativity

Esko announces a new range of Kongsberg tools is available for customers. On top of the more than hundred high-quality cutting blades, router bits and accessories, some of the newest tools include a psaligraphy (paper cutting) knife tool, perforation wheel and braille tool. All three tools are available for usage on the Kongsberg XN, Kongsberg V and Kongsberg XL Series of digital finishing systems. Innovation in digital finishing creates new business opportunities Celebrating its golden jubilee this year , Esko Kongsberg built a strong foundation with the right technology and skills to help customers take full advantage of the opportunities digital finishing offers in the signage, display and packaging markets. The broad portfolio of Kongsberg cutting tables caters to the different needs and speed in various segments of these markets. But the wide variety of tools is what truly enables customers to extend their offerings and expand their businesses with the most creative use of

FIRST-EVER SIDEL PET LINE FOR MILK IN BRAZIL

Brazilian company Jussara has become Latin America’s first-ever dairy producer to adopt an aseptic blow-fill-cap solution equipped with dry preform decontamination. With this solution from Sidel, Jussara expands its portfolio with a new PET bottle to differentiate its brands on the shelves in a market dominated by carton. The first milk to be bottled using this technology is a long shelf life milk (UHT) enriched with added calcium and vitamins. Branded as “Jussara Max”, the product has already received positive reactions from the Brazilian consumers. A strategic expansion in the milk sector In 2013, the Brazilian market consumed 6.3 billion litres of UHT milk, a figure which makes Brazil the largest consumer of UHT milk in the world. UHT milk is the main type of milk consumed in Brazil, with a 60% share of the drinking-milk market, against 13% for pasteurised milk and 27% for milk powder. UHT milk consumption grew 4% last year and is still gaining market share, with over 90%

New Flat Bottom Bag from Mondi North America Offers High Stability, Filling Benefits for Consumer Goods Packagers

A new highly stable, reclosable bag called the Flat Bottom Bag is now available from Mondi North America, Consumer Goods Packaging. The bag offers easy-filling advantages for packagers of pet food, food, garden items, cleaning products and other goods. “Mondi’s Flat Bottom Bag supports greater efficiency on filling lines,” says Markus Hoedebeck, vice president of product development, Mondi Jackson (Mo.). “The bag opens with ease, allows fast and highly efficient filling and is compatible with all conventional filling machines.” Mondi’s Flat Bottom Bag features a specially designed flat base with rounded edges for enhanced stability. It maintains its shape during transportation and storage and has an attractive appearance on store shelves. Multiple Closures The bag can be fitted with a variety of different closures to suit the application, including a top zipper, top slider or hook-and-loop closure. The closures allow consumers to seal the bag after use, protecting its contents

ESKO KONGSBERG CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION

Esko ( www.esko.com ) is proud to announce the 50 th anniversary of Esko Kongsberg, a milestone celebration for the company. Today, Esko Kongsberg is a world-leading manufacturer of digital finishing systems with many thousands of installations around the globe. Durability, reliability and precision have always been key values throughout its history. “Over the course of fifty years, we have accumulated strong skills, great know-how and excellent technology. This has enabled us to evolve from a manufacturer of drafting tables into a leading supplier of digital finishing systems,” says Emil Skarra, Managing Director Norway at Esko. “Digital finishing is a vital part of Esko’s strategy, and Esko Kongsberg is key to our future success and that of our customers,” adds Udo Panenka, President of Esko. “Fifty years of constant innovation have provided us with a strong reputation and foundation. We have excellent technology and skills to help our customers take full advantage of the opportun

World Label Award 2014 Goes to Pharma-Tac Plus Label from Schreiner MediPharm

The Pharma-Tac Plus label from Schreiner MediPharm has won the World Label Award 2014 in the category Innovation. The innovative and sophisticated design of the multifunctional label for infusion bottles has received several recognitions already. The renowned World Label Award is bestowed by the L9 – a global alliance of label associations – on an annual basis and is considered the Technical Oscar of the international label industry. The award-winning Pharma-Tac Plus label convinced the L9 panel of judges because of its sophisticated combination of booklet label, hanger and detachable label parts. The labeling solution for infusion bottles offers sufficient space for extensive information, ensures stable suspension, and allows reliable documentation of administered medications. The paper booklet that is securely connected to the plastic base label provides sufficient space for information on ingredients and instructions for use in several languages. Thanks to a starter tab, it is e

Monadnock Paper Mills Engages Top Brands, Designers and Printers with Single Image Journal

Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. (MPM), a family-owned manufacturer that delivers high-performance specialty papers for the technical, packaging and printing markets, today announced Single Image , a journal of best practices in print design.  The periodical features print campaigns from premium brands and offers case studies and best practices for brands, designers and marketers in every issue. The first issue of Single Image features brands from a wide range of industries, including Coca-Cola , 180fx® from Formica Group, the formidable GMC Sierra Truck, Harvard University, Jack Daniels Sinatra Select, Neiman Marcus, Nizuc Resort in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, University of Notre Dame and premium clothing brand PAUW Amsterdam.  This issue also contains insights from Leslie Smolan of Carbone Smolan, New York. “This promotion is one element of a broader campaign we’ve launched to engage marketers, designers and printers in the fine art of print communications,” said Lisa Berghaus, mana

MPS EF press proves impressive at open house

More than 150 printers and suppliers were present at the launching of the partnership between MPS and EMT International for assembling high-tier MPS flexo printing presses in the United States. They also attended the live demonstration “The Extremes of the EF,” showing the extreme stable print register of MPS’ flagship, while running different substrates and extreme low web tensions. Wim van den Bosch, CEO of MPS, said he believes the day exceeded the expectations of everyone who attended. “We showcased the strengths of two great companies coming together for the benefit of the customer,” he said. “We studied the market to understand what our customers want, and today we began delivering on that knowledge. They want two things. First, they want high-end presses that are easy to operate, with the highest possible productivity. Second, they want a strong local presence. With our innovative high-quality designs and the North American market experience and presence that EMT brings, we ar

Liberty Marking Systems Invests in Nilpeter FB-3300

After experiencing continuous and sustained growth for two years, Liberty Marking Systems recognized an opportunity to add another printing press to the existing arsenal, and decided to invest in their first Nilpeter printing press. The Cincinnati-based label converter has been in business since 1988. The privately-owned converter specialises in custom labels. “Even with our recent growth, we certainly wanted to be conscious of the financial impact this purchase would have on the rest of the business”, explains Brian Beam, Vice President of Liberty Marking Systems. “Although Nilpeter is second to none from a quality standpoint, their sales team was willing to work with us on the numbers to make sure it was affordable as well, making this decision a no brainer. We have always had a great experience with Nilpeter's equipment, as well as their personnel, and our close proximity to one another has been instrumental in the great relationship we have developed with them over the ye

Label Industry Global Awards 2015 open for entries

Entries are now being invited for the annual Label Industry Global Awards. Now in their 12th year, the awards acknowledge and celebrate the valuable achievements individuals and companies make to the wider label industry. Being held on 29th September as part of Labelexpo Europe in Brussels, there are four prestigious awards up for grabs over three categories. Much revered, the R. Stanton Avery Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Avery Dennison, will be made to an industry luminary who has worked in the label sector for a minimum of 25 years and made a significant contribution to the sector. Recognizing the pioneering vision and values of Stan Avery, the recipient will join an illustrious list of names including: Suzanne Zaccone of GSI Technologies, Tomas Rink of Ritrama, RotoMetric’s Steve Lee, Helmut Schreiner, Nilpeter’s Lars Eriksen and FLEXcon’s Neil McDonough. Two separate Awards for Innovation will be presented; one for companies with 300 or more employees and one for co

UPM Raflatac 40 years – Proud of the past, confident of the future

UPM Raflatac, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of self-adhesive label stock, is celebrating 40 years’ history as a company. For decades, Raflatac’s business has been driven by a genuine will to understand and serve its customers combined with leading-edge products, efficient production processes and the capacity to innovate. This success story in Finnish industrial history began 40 years ago in Tampere. Chemist Juhani Strömberg , working for paper converting company Raf. Haarla, set out to develop water-based alternatives to solvent-based adhesives. Water-based label technology, which was still a rarity for label printers in the 1970s, was a significant advancement because it enabled higher speeds on printing machinery and greater efficiency for label production. Strömberg’s innovations were also a major step towards the sustainable production methods and label materials to which UPM Raflatac remains strongly committed. Raflatac originated from one man’s vision, and tod

K-1 Packaging Group Invests in Nilpeter Flexo Press

California-based K-1 Packaging Group designs and manufactures retail packaging materials, including pressure sensitive labels, flexible packaging, and folding cartons - distributed worldwide. K-1’s newly purchased 22” Nilpeter FA-6 press will be used specifically to meet the company’s growing flexible packaging business. VP of Manufacturing, Eric Tsai explains the motivation behind the investment, ”What we look for in a new press is technologies that can simplify setup, maintain product quality and consistency, and reduce waste. Of all the presses we considered, Nilpeter’s FA-6 best fits the bill”. And he adds, ”Nilpeter provided complete guidance, helping us to evaluate and understand the myriad of automation features and options the press offers. This consultative approach lends much confidence to our configuration of the equipment”. At K-1, flexography, offset, and screen are applied to best serve industries such as cosmetics/beauty, nutritional supplement, medical, and food

AVERY DENNISON LAUNCHES NEW THERMAL TRANSFER ADHESIVE

Avery Dennison Label and Packaging Materials North America today launched S2550 , a high-performance general purpose permanent adhesive. The adhesive delivers excellent initial tack and adhesion, especially at lower temperatures, without sacrificing high-speed converting. “S2550 was engineered so converters and their customers never have to compromise on application performance in cold application temperatures,” said Don Berger, product line director, Avery Dennison. S2550 has improved performance in cold, dry temperatures and allows converting at the same or better speeds as S2501, an industry-leading adhesive from Avery Dennison. With other general purpose adhesives, low initial tack at the time of application in temperatures below 40° F could cause the label to lift. S2550 provides initial tack up to 5 times higher than the tested competition when applied at 32℉. At room temperature, ultimate adhesion is more than 80% stronger than the tested competition.* The launch of S2550

New KODAK PRINERGY Workflow 7 Protects Print Service Provider Margins

In response to its customers’ most pressing challenges, which include the need to reduce inefficiencies and enhance printing quality, Kodak is delivering PRINERGY Workflow 7, the latest advancement of the company’s workflow automation software. All of the enhancements to PRINERGY Workflow 7 protect the profit margins of today’s print service providers, including new features that limit human error, improve time to press, and enable faster and more informed decisions that are critical for keeping margins healthy. PRINERGY Workflow  increases the level of automation in every core function of the printing process – job creation, collaboration, file processing, trapping, proofing, imposition and color management, enabling printers to better compete in today’s changing print environment. Kodak’s workflow automation software also delivers the flexibility to integrate with current, future and third-party technology, allowing customers to grow their workflow system alongside their busine