Road to Drupa: Kyocera Belharra Photo Printing

Published April 25, 2024

Kyocera, very much like Fujifilm, Epson, and others, have been developing and supplying system components to print solution providers for years. Those developments have been at the cornerstone of many products in the market today. Kyocera (NIXKA) has been working on an inkjet photo printer for a while and this full color 1200 dpi grayscale system press is ready for its introduction during drupa 2024.

Koenig & Bauer Is Ready for drupa!

Published April 11, 2024

Koenig & Bauer is a familiar name to printers and converters, but their involvement in drupa extends beyond just manufacturing equipment. In this video, sponsored by Koenig & Bauer, David Zwang talks with Sr. VP Marketing Eric Frank.

Agfa: Reinventing and Reemerging

Published April 4, 2024

Since 1867, Agfa has been at the forefront of many technological developments in imaging. As one of the founding graphic imaging powerhouse companies, it struggled through the transition from an analog to a digital economy. However, they have redefined their core business products and structures to not just survive but to grow in this rapidly changing world.

Enhance a Colour: Masters of Complete Visual Solutions

Published April 2, 2024

Enhance a Colour is like a big toy store for anyone who produces or purchases sign and display. However, they are very particular about purchasing equipment, entering markets, and selling solutions, but they emphasize that it’s all about the consultive relationship. David Zwang talks to the owner of this unique business.

Landa Digital Print Returns to drupa to “Run More”

Published March 27, 2024

Here we are, 12 years after the initial introduction of the Landa Digital Print technology, and roughly four years after initial commencement of commercial sales. Today, there are over 50 machines installed, with many more orders and some new product introductions in the pipeline. Landa Digital Print’s tagline for drupa 2024 is “Run More,” and they are supporting that with new faster and smarter press introductions.

HP Indigo’s drupa Announcements Aim to “Break the Analog to Digital Boundaries”

Published March 25, 2024

HP Indigo has not slowed down in their mission to drive the digital transition of print and packaging production. For drupa 2024, they have lots of new product announcements, all of them targeted at “Breaking the Analog to Digital Boundaries.”

Road to drupa: HP Indigo Continues Breaking Boundaries Between Digital and Offset

Published March 25, 2024

In anticipation of drupa, HP Indigo has announced new and upgraded products that focus on productivity, uptime, reliability, and cost of operation. David Zwang talks to Keren Yakolev, Head of Product and Strategy for HP Indigo.

The Digitalization of Koenig & Bauer

Published March 19, 2024

Koenig & Bauer has been a leader in the development of print and packaging equipment and solutions since 1817. In this video, sponsored by Koenig & Bauer, David Zwang talks with Sandra Wagner, VP Digitalization, about how they have always focused on optimizing their products, and are developing solutions that can optimize their customer base as well.

Müller Martini Aligning with the Future

Published March 19, 2024

Müller Martini has been slowly building their portfolio through development and acquisition. In this video, sponsored by Müller Martini, David Zwang talks with President CEO Andy Fetherman about how they have created a comprehensive process infrastructure that brings all of that equipment together to support the industry's need for automation.

Ensuring Packaging Meets Accurate Color Expectations: Remotely

Published March 19, 2024

Controlled digital proofing systems that ensure proper setup and maintenance with each of the stakeholders have a corresponding system seems to be the answer. While there were a number of systems introduced that endeavored to achieve that goal, most never seemed to be able to maintain that needed level of control across the stakeholder teams—until now.

drupa 2024: Can You Really Afford to Miss It?

Published February 20, 2024

When many in print and converting production and technologies around the globe get together, one of the discussions usually goes something like this: “How many drupa events have you been to?” or, “what was your first drupa?” There must be a good reason for that! David Zwang talks with Sabine Geldermann, Director drupa, Portfolio Print Technologies, Messe Düsseldorf, to discuss the upcoming drupa 2024 itself and the various regional events leading up to it.

Kyocera Focusing on the In-Plant Market

Published February 20, 2024

Kyocera is focusing their inkjet solutions on the in-plant printing department market, one of their key toner customer bases. In this video, sponsored by Kyocera, David Zwang talks with Dustin Graupman, Senior Director, Ink Jet Division, and Greg Lindsey, Business Development Manager, Inkjet Division, about the progress they are making.

Are All Printers Online Printers?

Published February 14, 2024

David Zwang talks with Bernd Zipper, Founder of Zipcon, about bringing print service providers together to connect and brainstorm on how to develop new solutions, solve problems, and increase volumes and margins.

Funeral Link: An Opportunity for Print Service Providers

Published February 13, 2024

The topic of funerals doesn't usually bring thoughts of print production opportunities, but the new Funeral Link software can actually help funeral homes as well as print service providers!

Atomyx Could Change the Way We Do Print

Published February 13, 2024

Imagine a cloud-based platform that could both streamline the print business and production processes, while also reducing the skills needed to implement a plant-wide automation integration. While still in the early stages of development, that is the goal of the Atomyx platform.

Atomyx: New Cloud-Based Print Production Platform

Published February 13, 2024

Most print orders arrive from the cloud, or could even be created in the cloud. They could even go back to the cloud for a proof. Wouldn't it make sense to handle the production there and reduce the up and down data transferring? David Zwang talks with Four Pees CEO Tom Peire about Atomyx, a new cloud-based platform that could both streamline the print business and production processes.

Rules Based Workflows: Connecting and Automating Processes to Fit Your Business Needs

Published February 8, 2024

Many of the current “off the shelf” workflow software and professional service offerings are being developed to support newer and disparate technologies and markets. Ultimately, solutions need to fit the specific needs of a PSP and their customer and partner relationships, and that’s where rules based workflows shine.

State of the Cloud: Looks Like Clear Skies Ahead!

Published February 5, 2024

As the cloud rapidly emerges as a key influencing technology, the integration of business and production management solutions into cloud-based platforms has become inevitable, and things are changing fast!

AI Is What Really Drives Marketing: Now You Can Engage!

Published February 1, 2024

Marketing AI is the process of using AI capabilities like data collection, data-driven analysis, natural language processing (NLP), and machine learning (ML) to deliver customer insights and automate critical marketing decisions. In the past, this technology has been relegated to those who can afford to build it. Now Boostt.ai (formerly known as Geofactor.com), has developed a platform for bringing Marketing AI to the masses.

Miraclon Sees Encouraging 2024 for Flexo Packaging Production

Published January 23, 2024

David Zwang talks with Chris Payne, CEO of Miraclon, about the global packaging industry. While the post-pandemic effects were felt in 2022 and 2023, 2024 should bring growth, stability, and a look at the new normal.

Analyst Roundtable: Goodbye, 2023—Hello, 2024!

Published January 17, 2024

David Zwang leads a roundtable discussion with IT Strategies' Marco Boer and Smithers' Sean Smyth on the challenges the industry faced in 2023 and the opportunities 2024 will bring.

Analyst Roundtable: The Agfa Speedset 1060

Published January 16, 2024

Agfa had invested a lot in acquiring Inca and launching the new Speedset 1060. David Zwang leads a group discussion with IT Strategies' Marco Boer and Smithers' Sean Smyth about the launch and Agfa's strategy.

Agfa Focuses on Digital Print

Published January 11, 2024

As part of Agfa's rebuilding, they have put digital print as one of their top areas of focus and growth, and VP Arnaud Callega is leading the effort.

Hybrid’s Label & Packaging Solutions

Published January 11, 2024

David Zwang talks with Mike Rottenborn, CEO of The Hybrid Group, about Hybrid’s complete set of solutions for producers of label and packaging products.

Agfa Speedset 1060: A Significant Step in the Evolution of Digital Folding Carton Print

Published January 9, 2024

Agfa’s first foray into production inkjet was with the introduction of Dotrix in 2004, a product that was ahead of its time and ultimately abandoned. Their new production inkjet folding carton press seems to check all the boxes for today’s and tomorrow’s growing and evolving market.

Agfa’s Matt Brooks on the New Speedset 1060

Published January 9, 2024

David Zwang talks with Matt Brooks, head of packaging for Agfa Digital Printing Solutions, about the launch of the new Speedset 1060.

Kongsberg: A New Life, New Platform, and New Opportunities

Published December 7, 2023

Kongsberg has always been the company that set the bar on precision cutting systems. With a new platform and the acquisition of Multicam, they have an exciting future! David Zwang talks to CEO Stuart Fox.

Müller Martini and Hunkeler: Two Families Join Forces

Published December 7, 2023

Consolidations are done for many reasons including, cost reduction, wider distribution, etc. However, this merger really does take two strong companies that are leaders in their respective fields and brings them together to feed off their synergies and prepare and build for those market and production shifts

Fujifilm Expands Footprint to North America and Beyond

Published December 4, 2023

Fujifilm is a well-known brand around the globe, but their presence in NA has been limited as a result of their former relationship with Xerox. Things are changing, and to see how they are expanding their footprint to a welcoming market, David Zwang talks with Fujifilm's Scott Mackie.

Kongsberg Ultimate: Designed for Current and Future Needs

Published December 1, 2023

Kongsberg has released their latest precision digital cutting platform with a new drive and a newly designed custom carbon fiber beam. This new, innovative drive technology has an impressive acceleration rate of up to 2.74G and a remarkable and productive cutting speed of 168 meters per minute.

Highcon Has Found Its Place—and the Industry Is Thankful

Published November 27, 2023

Highcon formed before the industry fully understood the benefits of its technologies. Today, the industry is catching up and Highcon is ready and able. David Zwang catches up with Highcon CEO Shlomo Nimrodi and Regional Business Manager Simon Lewis.

Do You Really Know PRINTING United Alliance?

Published November 16, 2023

PRINTING United Alliance is a lot more than the successful expo. It is the voice of the industry, covering many areas you might not even be aware of. David Zwang talks with PRINTING United Alliance CEO Ford Bowers about their growing membership, industry activities, government lobbying efforts, and outreach.

Thought Leadership: Ricoh TotalFlow Producer

Published November 16, 2023

In this video sponsored by Ricoh, David Zwang talks with Begum Walji, Ricoh Software Product Manager, about Ricoh TotalFlow Producer, an intuitive, vendor-agnostic print-on-demand SaaS workflow technology.

Fujifilm Dimatix Is a Lot More than Production Inkjet for Print

Published November 15, 2023

Dimatix is one of the leaders in printhead manufacturing, and has been doing it for decades. Steve Billow, CEO of Fujifilm Dimatix, takes us through the scope of ink and fluid deposition.

Sharp Goes Upstream to Production Print

Published November 14, 2023

Sharp is a well-known brand in the enterprise and even some in-plant facilities. Now they are moving upstream into production print with a proven digital technology. David Zwang talks with Bob Madaio, Vice President of Marketing for Sharp, about their strategy.

Ricoh Introduces the VC80000 Continuous-Feed Printer

Published November 14, 2023

On the heels of the introduction of the Z75 B2 cut-sheet inkjet press, Ricoh has introduced the VC80000 continuous-feed press, which offers significantly new technological enhancements over the VC70000. David Zwang talks to Ricoh’s Sr. Director Global Product Management Mark Little and Program Manager Continuous Feed Inkjet Nick Fiore about this announcement.

Thought Leadership: Ricoh Total Flow Producer for Job Onboarding

Published November 9, 2023

In this video sponsored by Ricoh, David Zwang talks with Lisa Oakleaf, Ricoh’s Sr. Director of Global Software Product Management, about the company’s expansion of its SaaS-based products, including the new Ricoh Total Flow Producer for job onboarding.

New RFID System that Competes with Barcodes

Published November 7, 2023

David Zwang talks with Louis Gautier, President of Idyllic Technology, which has developed a new RFID system that can compete with barcodes with many distinct advantages. It is currently targeted at logistics, but has a place in retail and many other identification scenarios.

Product Strategy: Canon imagePRESS V Series

Published November 6, 2023

In this video sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Canon Senior Marketing Manager Matthew Poliniak talks about the Canon imagePRESS V series digital press and the focus on automation in models the series.

Thought Leadership: Vicks Printing and Distribution Moves Book Production to Completely Digital

Published November 1, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Dwight Vicks, President of Vicks Printing and Distribution Services. More than 100 years old, the company has evolved from letterpress to offset, to digital, to production inkjet. Now they are poised for further growth.

Thought Leadership: Beyond the Production Workflow with Canon PRISMA

Published November 1, 2023

In this video sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Karen Dimora, Sr. Specialist in Business Planning and Marketing for Canon, about Canon PRISMA workflow software, the new cloud-based platform, and the new workflow tools available.

Thought Leadership: Sun Print Solutions Shifts More Work from Offset to Production Inkjet

Published October 30, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, Jennifer Pettinger, CEO of Sun Print Solutions, talks with David Zwang. Sun Print Solutions is an 85-year-old company that produces a wide range of products, including commercial printing, direct mail, and folding cartons. The company recently upgraded to an HP PageWide T250 to expand what they can print using production inkjet.

FLEXcon's Film Portfolio

Published October 25, 2023

In this video sponsored by FLEXcon, David Zwang talks with Jodi Sawyer, Strategic Business Unit Manager at FLEXcon, about the company’s portfolio of coated and laminated films used in labels and graphics applications, as well as functional components in manufactured goods.

PRINTING United Does Not Disappoint!

Published October 24, 2023

PRINTING United Expo 2023 was a great event. Its convergence model provided an opportunity to see and consider new product expansion and convergence opportunities. There were lots of product introductions and reintroductions, even with drupa looming in the background.

Landa Digital Print Has Found the Secret to Growth

Published October 12, 2023

10+ years after the initial introduction of the Landa Digital Print technology with over 40 machines installed, six installations coming up in the next three months, and right after that another dozen and more in the pipeline. In this article, sponsored by Landa, the company has found that it is more than just delivering a great press.

Canon Opens the Curtain on Two New Production Inkjet Printers

Published October 12, 2023

Today, Canon announced a sneak peek at two new production inkjet presses: the varioPRINT iX1700 cutsheet, and the LabelStream LS2000 label press. Since Canon has held the number one global position in inkjet presses for over 10 years, this is an important development and can only help ensure that they will retain that position.

Landa: Hitting Its Stride

Published October 12, 2023

Here we are, 10+ years after the initial introduction of the Landa Digital Print technology, and roughly four years after initial sales commencement. Today there are over 40 machines installed, six installations coming up in the next three months, and right after that, another dozen and more in the pipeline. Sponsored by Landa, this article by David Zwang looks at the Landa Press technology, how their customer-centric support relationships are fairly unique, and why they are growing.

Alexander’s Print Advantage’s Charlie Alexander: “Growth Is Expensive”

Published October 11, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Charlie Alexander, Sales Executive at Alexander’s Print Advantage. Founded in 1979, Alexander’s is a 100% digital shop that produces photobooks, wedding invitations, yearbooks, and other products for e-commerce platforms. The company has been growing about 30% a year since 2018–2019, the pandemic notwithstanding.

Xeikon's Inkjet and Toner Product Strategy

Published October 10, 2023

Filip Weymans, Vice President at Xeikon talks with David Zwang about Xeikon's approach to using both toner and inkjet technology to build digital print devices that match the imaging technology requirements of specific print applications.

All in One vs. Hybrid: Living in Perfect Harmony

Published October 4, 2023

There aren’t a lot of all-in-one application-specific solutions that can address “all” application requirements. However, there is a lot of development among packaging press and converting machine manufacturers to address the new shifting market requirements. Ultimately application requirements can be fairly disparate, so a modular hybrid solution will undoubtedly provide the widest range of process adaptability.

At the Speed of Retail: Web-to-Pack Offers a Myriad of Opportunity and Complexity in the World of Online Consumerism

Published October 3, 2023

Orders are increasing for short-run, on-demand packaging to satisfy shifting consumer purchasing requirements. While converters and web-to-pack systems are being developed to operate at the “speed of retail,” there are many opportunities, complexities and value- added offerings not seen in commercial print.

Label Production Strategy at Xeikon

Published October 3, 2023

David Zwang talks with Robert Welford, President of Xeikon, about digital label production and Xeikon's product strategy.

Digital Labels’ HP Indigo-Driven Growth

Published October 2, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Chris Henderson, President of Digital Labels. Henderson and his partner founded the company in 2010 with an HP Indigo 6000 and has added capacity—predominantly more HP Indigos—in the years since. Digital Labels also does some flexible packaging.

Product Spotlight: PRISMAcolor Manager—On Cloud Nine

Published September 26, 2023

Canon’s PRISMA offerings include a wide range of applications and tools to help optimize print production workflows and digital printing production. These solutions have amassed over the life of PRISMA and have adapted to the changes in technology and production requirements, as their use requirements have changed significantly over the years. David Zwang takes a close look at how PRISMA has evolved, focusing especially on a recent addition to the software suite: PRISMAcolor Manager.

Today’s Graphics’ Evolution from Trade Typographer to Digital Printer

Published September 25, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Jack Glacken, CEO of Philadelphia-based Today’s Graphics. Founded 46 years ago as a trade typographer doing typesetting, the company moved into color separations, then offset printing, and is now heavily involved in digital printing, largely using HP Indigo presses.

ICYMI: LabelExpo Europe: Back Again and Going Strong!

Published September 19, 2023

LabelExpo Europe is the biggest of all the LabelExpo events, and truly a global event. There were lots of new digital, inkjet and hybrid press and converting solutions in the exhibit halls. Automation and Sustainability were the overriding and common themes.

Bennett Graphics Sees An Advantage in Production Inkjet

Published September 19, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with David Bennett, President of Bennett Graphics, about his recent installation of an HP PageWide Advantage 2200 press. The 2200 is Bennett Graphics’ first production inkjet press, and was acquired to increase capacity for the company’s growing direct mail work.

Cris Ray Printing’s Labels and Packaging Journey

Published September 18, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Joseph Marro, VP of Operations at Cris Ray Printing. Based in Farmingdale, N.Y. and founded more than 50 years ago by Farro’s grandfather, Cris Ray Printing is a longtime flexo-based label-printing shop. The company added its first HP Indigo press in 2006. In the past year and a half, the company has expanded into packaging.

Labelexpo Europe 2023 Opens in Brussels

Published September 14, 2023

David Zwang talks with Jade Grace, Managing Director of Labelexpo, about Labelexpo Europe 2023, running this week in Brussels, Belgium. Though called "Labelexpo Europe," the Brussels event is the global event for the labels and packaging market, drawing attendees from 140 countries.

Etiflex’s Ari Vonderwalde on the Flexo-to-Digital Transition

Published September 5, 2023

David Zwang talks with Ari Vonderwalde, Director General of Etiflex, a 42-year-old Mexican label printer that has expanded into many different verticals, including food, pharmaceutical, and automotive. The company has 21 flexo presses and has added three digital presses as the company transitions to digital.

The Production Inkjet Evolution: Xeikon

Published August 29, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers, customers and document some of their journeys. In this article I look at Xeikon.

Label Source's Journey from the Basement to Production Inkjet

Published August 29, 2023

Label Source started in a basement in 1991 and has since expanded organically and through acquisition with a host of different types of printing equipment, including production inkjet. David Zwang talks with COO Michael Wrigley about the company's journey.

The Panther at Xeikon Keeps On Growing!

Published August 29, 2023

Xeikon has been developing high-resolution digital (EP) presses since 1988, They decided to dive into production inkjet in 2017. David Zwang and it has been an interesting journey. David Zwang talks with Johan Van de Velde,Inkjet Product Manager, about Xeikon's journey.

Strawbridge Studios Takes School Pictures and Yearbooks into Digital

Published August 29, 2023

David Zwang talks with Brendan Collopy of Strawbridge Studios, a 100-year-old school picture and yearbook printer. The company had been operating offset presses and has replaced them with digital equipment including a Canon Prostream 1800.

Corrugated Packaging: Designing for the Future

Published August 22, 2023

E-commerce is growing fast and needs to better focused on customers’ packaging needs. The movement and transport of product is very different for e-commerce than it is for brick-and-mortar applications. As a result, there is probably a need to have its own channel-specific solutions.

Phoenix Innovate’s Inkjet Journey from the Perspective of the Customer

Published August 22, 2023

David Zwang speaks to Chris Dubach of Phoenix Innovate about how the company and its sales reps talk with customers about production inkjet printing vs. other technologies such as offset and electrophotography.

From Broker to Printer with HP Indigo Digital Printing

Published August 22, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Dan Thompson, founder and CEO of Italic Press. Italic Press started as a print broker, but realized that to take advantage of digital printing, they needed to own the equipment. They started down their digital printing journey with HP Indigo.

The Production Inkjet Evolution: Ricoh Production Inkjet

Published August 15, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers, customers and document some of their journeys. In this article I look at Ricoh Production Inkjet.

From Desktop Printers to Production Inkjet—What an Evolution!

Published August 15, 2023

David Zwang talks with Scott Fish, President of Tri-Win Direct. Launched in Fish's apartment 28 years ago with no print industry background, the company has evolved to becomea successful printing and mailing company. The company started with desktop inkjet printers and now runs Ricoh high-speed production inkjet—and keeps on going!

Ricoh’s Early Entry into Production Inkjet

Published August 15, 2023

David Zwang talks with Mike Herold, Director of Global Marketing for Ricoh about the the company’s production inkjet journey. It started with IBM and drop-on-demand inkjet, and Ricoh has been working on innovation and upgrades to enhance the performance and quality.

Allied Printing’s Ben Fournier at thINK

Published August 15, 2023

David Zwang talks with Ben Fournier of Allied Printing, a 74-year-old, third-generation family-owned commercial and direct mail printer. The company operates a variety of offset equipment and has a large digital department, which includes production inkjet equipment, for its direct mail work.

(Un)Packaging Reality Report 2023

Published August 14, 2023

RRD has completed their second annual report on the state of the packaging market. Lisa Pruett is the President of the RRD Packaging and Labels Solution group and shares some interesting insights with David Zwang of where we were and where we are going.

Reduce, Reuse, Rethink: Sustainability Isn’t a Linear Issue—It Requires a More Circular Approach

Published August 8, 2023

Printed products are varied, as are the processes used to create them. The focus on design, production, use and disposal of these products will continue to be scrutinized in the context of a circular economy as environmental pressures increase. Since print is a complex of interconnected processes, there are many areas that could be affected by sustainability efforts and the measurement of the carbon footprint. How do you measure what ‘could’ reach into every aspect of the printing business, from process, to people, to profitability?

Knight Abbey Bets on Digital Printing

Published August 8, 2023

David Zwang talks with Tonya Spiers of Knight Abbey, a 40-year-old Biloxi, Miss.-based commercial printer that produces direct mail marketing, invitations, scratch-off cards, and other materials for the gaming industry. Once primarily an offset shop with some digital equipment, it has recently expanded into rollfed inkjet with a Canon Prostream.

Impact’s Pete Studer on the Production Inkjet Transition

Published August 1, 2023

David Zwang talks with Pete Studer, CEO of Impact, a 39-year-old company that started in the direct mail business and has expanded into other types of printing. The company operates all-digital equipment, and started working with Canon in 2015 to add production inkjet.

Broadridge’s Naveed Choudry on the Transition to Inkjet

Published July 31, 2023

David Zwang talks with Broadridge’s Naveed Choudry about his 30 years with the company and Broadridge’s early adoption of production inkjet printing technology.

"Customer First": Canon Solutions America’s Ed Jansen at thINK

Published July 27, 2023

David Zwang talks to Canon Solutions America’s Ed Jansen at the recent thINK Ahead 23 conference about Canon’s “customer-first” philosophy and how it affects how they interact with customers, as well as where the company sees the growth in today’s market.

Textbook Printer/Publisher BJU Press Transitions to Inkjet

Published July 25, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with James Llewellyn, Director of Manufacturing and Distribution for BJU Press, a book printer and publisher of K-12 textbooks for home schoolers and Christian schools. The company started in 1974 with offset equipment and has recently installed an HP PageWide T485. The company has an inline printing and bookbinding workflow.

Kyocera’s Expanding Footprint

Published July 24, 2023

Kyocera’s intention is clear: they are moving into the production print industry, and while they may be new to selling inkjet presses in this market, they have 30 years of expertise in developing ink and material jetting solutions, and an impressive track record at that. In this article, sponsored by Kyocera, David Zwang looks at their recent initiatives.

The Production Inkjet Evolution: Canon Continuous Feed

Published July 18, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used, and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers, customers and document some of their journeys. In this article, I look at the journey of the Canon continuous-feed line.

Canon's Continuous-Feed Production Print Inkjet Journey

Published July 18, 2023

Canon's production Inkjet journey started in 2004. Like many others, they saw the benefits and found the challenges along the way. David Zwang talks with Thomas Hofmann, VP of Continuous Feed Business Line at Canon Production Print, about the Canon's continuous feed inkjet evolution.

DS Graphics/Universal Wilde's Long, High-Speed, and Successful Production Inkjet Journey

Published July 18, 2023

DS Graphics has roots going back more than 125 years, but with their mix of production inkjet, toner, and offset equipment have been able to embrace the shifts in market requirements. David Zwang talks with company EVP Chris Wells about that journey and Canon’s role in it.

All State Printing’s Charles Christopher on Investing in a Digital Press in Challenging Times

Published July 17, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with All State Printing’s Charles Christopher. All State Printing is a flexible packaging printer that has been expanding into digital production—specifically, two HP Indigo 25K digital presses—to handle short-run jobs. He also offers advice for others looking to make an investment in digital equipment.

What Does It Take to Support the Printing Needs of Restaurants?

Published June 29, 2023

David Zwang talks with Keri Smith, President of Dot It. Dot It supports the restaurant industry with flexo and Xeikon digital presses. There is a lot more to supplying restaurants with print products than one could imagine!

Gallus’ Expandable Ecosystem Designed for Future Growth

Published June 27, 2023

The previously announced Gallus One digital label press is more than just an “all in one” label press, jointly developed by Gallus and Heidelberg. It is at the core of an expandable ecosystem designed for the industry’s digital future and the new normal.

Fully Digital, Fully Automated Folding Carton Producer Digital Impack to Launch This Summer

Published June 21, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with David Gerhard, Chief Marketing Officer for Digital Impack, a fully digital, fully automated folding carton start-up that plans to launch by the end of summer. The company will be using the HP Indigo 15K as their primary press.

The Label Factory’s Storm Vaske on Digital Label Printing

Published June 20, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Storm Vaske, CEO of The Label Factory. Originally a flexo label printer, the company has converted entirely to digital and is in the process of adding an HP Indigo V12.

Trigon Digipack’s Anil Namugade on Innovative Packaging Solutions

Published June 19, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Anil Namugade, Founder and Director of Trigon Digipack, about how Trigon is leveraging successful and proven platforms to build new innovative solutions for its packaging customers.

B&R Moll’s Kevin Moll on Changes in the Finishing Equipment Market

Published June 15, 2023

David Zwang talks with Kevin Moll, VP of Sales of B&R Moll, a manufacturer of postpress equipment. B&R Moll has been seeing strong growth in such diverse applications as folding cartons and greeting cards.

Rootree Integrates Creative Services and Digital Flexible Packaging Production

Published June 14, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Phil St-Cyr, President of Rootree. Rootree is a flexible packaging company that offers creative services to help customers design messaging and branding as well as produce it on its fleet of HP Indigo 20000s.

Phoenix Innovate's Long and Interesting Journey with Production Inkjet

Published June 13, 2023

Phoenix Innovate and Chris Dubach have had a long and interesting journey with production inkjet. Today, it plays an important and growing role in their production platform, with lots of plans for the future! David Zwang talks with Chris Dubach about his inkjet journey.

Canon's Production Inkjet Cut-Sheet Journey

Published June 13, 2023

David Zwang talks with Saskia Willems, Product Manager for Cut Sheet at Canon Production Printing. Canon has been producing continuous-feed production inkjet products since 2008. While they had been producing cut-sheet EP presses for a while, their cut-sheet product development journey started in 2010.

The Production Inkjet Evolution: Canon Production Cut-Sheet Inkjet

Published June 13, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used, and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers and customers and document some of their journeys. In this article, I look at Canon cut-sheet production inkjet.

PressUP’s Vincenzo Cirimele on Digital Web-to-Print

Published June 12, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Vincenzo Cirimele, CEO of PressUP, a web-to-print company based in Rome. The company operates offset equipment, as well as five HP Indigo digital presses. The company is looking to expand its portfolio into packaging.

Agfa Offset Solutions Reinvents Itself as ECO3

Published June 12, 2023

David Zwang talks with Jonathan Ashton, North America President, of ECO3. ECO3 is not a new player in the market, but it now has a laser focus on offset plates, service, and software.

DSCOOP Distributed Print Exchange—Coming Soon!

Published June 12, 2023

David Zwang talks with Peter van Teeseling, Executive Director of DSCOOP, and Rick Bellamy, Executive Chairman of DSCOOP, about the forthcoming DSCOOP Distributed Print Exchange. Bringing PSPs together to share and facilitate work across regions and countries is increasingly becoming important. DSCOOP building this kind of program offers lots of opportunities for their participating members.

What’s Old Is New Again: Will Paper Really Replace Film in Flexible Packaging? The Future Borrows from the Past for Some Exciting New Ideas

Published June 8, 2023

With the increased scrutiny of plastic use in flexible packaging, there is an increased interest in moving from plastic to paper. It was once hard to make the switch, but it has been getting much easier.

Sirane’s “Ingenious” Transition from Plastic- to Paper-Based Flexible Packaging

Published June 8, 2023

It was once hard to make the switch from plastic- to paper-based flexible packaging, but it’s been getting much easier. With some ingenuity, this company not only did it but did it masterfully! David Zwang talks with Simon Balderson of Sirane Group.

DALIM Software’s New DALIM Drive at Dscoop

Published June 6, 2023

David Zwang talks with Colin Price, Managing Director, UK, for DALIM Software, about the new DALIM Drive that the co pan y was showing for the first time in the US at Dscoop.

MRM Global’s Craig Letton on Web-to-Print

Published June 6, 2023

David Zwang talks to Craig Letton, CEO of MRM Global. MRM is a marketing technology company that offers a web-to-print portal designed for sales reps in the alcohol industry to order marketing materials on demand. The reps upload content to predesigned templates which are then sent to MRM’s print partners for output.

The Whole Package: How to Turn a Product into a Purchase by Appealing to a Consumer’s Senses

Published June 6, 2023

David Zwang provides a primer on embellishment technologies for packaging applications—including why they are becoming more important than ever for brands.

Gershon Alon on HP PrintOS

Published June 6, 2023

David Zwang talks to Gershon Alon, Head of Software Solutions for HP Indigo, about the latest features in HP PrintOS and how HP is refocusing its commitment to software.

Transforming the Flexible Packaging Market with HP Indigo 200K

Published May 30, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Sirane’s Simon Balderson. Sirane is a 20-year-old “development-led” flexible packaging manufacturer. The company is about to start beta-testing an HP Indigo 200K as part of its first foray into digital printing.

The HP Corrugated Preprint Journey

Published May 23, 2023

David Zwang talks to Trevor Schroeder, Product Director, PageWide Industrial Web Fed Packaging at HP, about HP's journey as the pioneer in production inkjet for corrugated preprint production.

Michael Weber Talks About THIMM's Production Inkjet Journey

Published May 23, 2023

David Zwang talks to Michael Weber, Director of Corporate Strategy for THIMM. The largest corrugated preprint provider in Europe has found the fit for production inkjet and sees a great future.

Production Inkjet Evolution: HP Preprint Corrugated

Published May 23, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used, and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers, customers and document some of their journeys. In this article I look at HP preprint corrugated.

Trends in Book Manufacturing

Published May 18, 2023

People are continuing to read and actually reading more, but there are still challenges. David Zwang talks with Matt Baehr, Executive Director of the Book Manufacturing Institute, about what the future holds for the book manufacturing industry.

Gil Studios Goes Beyond the Bumper Sticker

Published May 17, 2023

David Zwang talks to Paula Bair, Head of R&D for Gil Studios, a printer that services the promotional products industry, producing decals, stickers, posters, and magnets, as well as political signage. Founded in 1934 by Forest Gil—who invented the bumper sticker!—the company today utilizes virtually every printing technology.

Kodak's Journey in the Evolution of Production Inkjet

Published May 16, 2023

Kodak was the pioneer in production inkjet, and Randy Vandagriff has been there from the beginning. He talks to David Zwang about the evolution of production inkjet and shares his perspective of both Kodak's and the industry's journey.

Production Inkjet Evolution: Kodak

Published May 16, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings, and over the years continued to look at how they were being, or could be, used. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at how production inkjet has evolved, how it is used, and where we can expect it to go and grow. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers and suppliers, customers and document some of their journeys. In this article I look at Kodak.

Introduction to Rob Welford President of Xeikon

Published May 15, 2023

David Zwang talks with Rob Welford, the newly appointed President of Xeikon. Welford comes from a long background in technology and R&D and has an interesting vision for Xeikon.

HP’s Nimrod Cohen on the Offset-to-Digital Transition

Published May 15, 2023

In this video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks with Nimrod Cohen, Head of Product Marketing for HP’s Commercial Division, about the offset-to-digital transition—not just in terms of volumes, but in terms of value.

Heidelberg: Game-Changing “Push to Stop” Flexo Carton Press

Published May 9, 2023

The new Heidelberg Boardmaster is the fastest and most productive flexo folding carton press in the market. It is the only industrial flexo press that is designed for zero changeover downtime. This is attributable to the Boardmaster Non-Stop Print Deck technology in conjunction with the Intellimatch precision scanning system, creating the first Push to Stop flexo folding carton press.

Heidelberg Develops Game-Changing Flexo Web Folding Carton Press

Published May 9, 2023

Matthias Boog, managing director of Heidelberg Web Carton Converting, discusses how Heidelberg developed the game-changing Boardmaster “Push to Stop” flexo folding carton press.

Heidelberg Flexo Folding Carton Press Breaks New Boundaries

Published May 9, 2023

Michael Pfaff, VP of Heidelberg US Web Carton Converting, discusses the opportunities and challenges of bringing a unique new press to the market: the game-changing Boardmaster “Push to Stop” flexo folding carton press.

HP Introduces New PrintOS Software Suite

Published May 4, 2023

In this interview, sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Peter Obradovic, Director, HP Industrial Software Solutions about the new HP PrintOS suite. HP PrintOS software is used by thousands of HP Industrial Print users. This new cloud-based suite now consists of four Power Packs, each concentrating on specific application requirements.

Production Inkjet Evolution: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

Published April 18, 2023

In 2011, I began a series that looked at the then-current production inkjet vendor product offerings and how they were being, or could be, used. Since then, I have been following them through their drupa 2008, 2012, and 2017 journey. In this new series, 15 years later and with drupa 2024 on the horizon—after a seven-year forced hiatus—it’s time to take another look at how production inkjet has evolved, where it is used, and where we can expect it to go. I will look at each of the production inkjet manufacturers, customers, and their journeys.

HP PageWide Industrial’s Annette Friskopp on Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published April 10, 2023

David Zwang talks to Annette Friskopp of HP PageWide Industrial about her impressions of her first Hunkeler Innovationdays.

HP PageWide’s Nachum Korman on Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 30, 2023

David Zwang talks to Nachum Korman, General Manager of HP PageWide Industrial, about his impressions of this year’s Hunkeler Innovationdays.

Xeikon’s Monika Olbricht on the Xeikon SX30000

Published March 29, 2023

David Zwang talks to Monika Olbricht, Global Vice President of Sales for Xeikon, about Xeikon’s SX30000, the company’s flagship digital press. Although it was introduced two years ago, Hunkeler Innovationdays 2023 was the first international show at which the press was exhibited.

Stefan Steinle on Fujifilm’s Integrated Inkjet Solutions

Published March 28, 2023

David Zwang talks with Stefan Steinle of Fujifilm Integrated Inkjet Solutions Group about how Fujifilm integrates its inkjet heads and other inkjet technologies into a variety of production environments.

Miyakoshi’s Masahiko Kamei on the Japanese Printing Market

Published March 27, 2023

David Zwang talks to Masahiko Kamei of Miyakoshi about the current state of the printing industry and the market for print in Japan.

Canon’s Francis McMahon on “Leaving the Industry a Better Place”

Published March 27, 2023

David Zwang talks to Francis McMahon of Canon Solutions America about the need for printing industry veterans to “leave the industry a better place” and help prepare the next-generation of industry leaders to take over.

Kyocera Takes the Fast Track to Industrial Print with the Acquisition of NIXKA

Published March 23, 2023

Kyocera’s intention is clear: they are moving into the production print industry, and while they may be new to this market, NIXKA isn’t. They actually have 30 years of expertise in developing ink and material jetting solutions, with an impressive track record. This acquisition should help fast track them to their intention.

Andrew Bailes-Collins on Ultimate TechnoGraphics’ Extensive Software Portfolio

Published March 23, 2023

David Zwang talks to Andrew Bailes-Collins, Head of Product Management for Ultimate TechnoGraphics, at Hunkeler Innovationdays about the company’s extensive software solutions for prepress processes such as imposition, tiling, ganging, and nesting, as well as binding automation.

Davy Verstaen and Tomas Van Rossom on Enfocus Software

Published March 22, 2023

David Zwang talks to Davy Verstaen and Tomas Van Rossom of Enfocus about the company’s flagship products PitStop and Switch and how they fit into the overall print production ecosystem.

Smithers’ Sean Smyth on Inkjet Production Workflow

Published March 22, 2023

David Zwang talks to Smithers’ Sean Smyth at the recent Hunkeler Innovationdays about the evolution of inkjet printing and the focus away from print engines and more toward workflow and software.

HP Indigo Doubles Down on Digital Flexible Packaging with the 200K

Published March 21, 2023

Now that the market for digital production of flexible packaging is starting to take hold, HP has developed the next generation of product that builds on the expertise gained with the 25K as well as their other products and technologies.

Ricoh’s Mark Little on Automation

Published March 21, 2023

David Zwang talks to Ricoh’s Mark Little about automation, integration, and the entire print production ecosystem.

Canon Solutions America’s Francis McMahon on Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 21, 2023

David Zwang talks to Canon Solutions America’s Francis McMahon about his impressions of what was on display at the recent Hunkeler Innovationdays.

Ulbe Jelluma on Print Power

Published March 20, 2023

David Zwang talks to Ulbe Jelluma, managing director of Print Power. Print Power is an initiative started by European paper manufacturers in response to the surge of digital advertising that emphasizes to advertisers and marketers the value of print media.

Marco Boer on Inkjet Printing at Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 16, 2023

David Zwang talks to Marco Boer of IT Strategies at Hunkeler Innovationdays about the current state of production inkjet printing.

Martijn Eier on the Growth of Cloudprinter

Published March 16, 2023

David Zwang talks to Cloudprinter founder Martijn Eier about Cloudprinter’s offerings and the company’s growth over the past few years.

Jennifer Kolloczek on Canon at Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 15, 2023

David Zwang talks to Canon’s Jennifer Kolloczek about the vast array of equipment that Canon was showing at the recent Hunkeler Innovationdays.

SPC’s Adam LeFebvre at Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 14, 2023

David Zwang talks to Adam LeFebvre, president of Specialty Print Communications, about his first time attending Hunkeler Innovationdays and his impressions of the event.

Meet New thINK President Lori Messina

Published March 14, 2023

David Zwang talks with thINK’s Eric Hawkinson and Access Direct’s Lori Messina, the new president of thINK, about the organization and her involvement with it.

Ricoh at Hunkeler Innovationdays

Published March 9, 2023

David Zwang talks to Ricoh’s Mike Herold about the equipment that Ricoh was showing at Hunkeler Innovationdays last week in Luzerne, Switzerland.

Hunkeler Innovationdays: Innovation and Excitement

Published March 7, 2023

Hunkeler Innovationdays 2023 was a resounding success for the partners, the attendees, and the industry at large. The theme of the event was Next Level Automation and it was displayed in every solution on display at the event. Importantly, it is also a sign that the industry as a whole is on the right track.

Hunkeler’s Hans Gut on Smart Logistics Solutions

Published March 2, 2023

David Zwang talks to Hans Gut, Chief Marketing Officer for Hunkeler, about the company’s new Smart Logistics Solutions, which helps to quickly move on-demand printed materials, such as book blocks, from press to finishing equipment, tracking and monitoring where each job is and where it’s going.

Hunkeler’s Hans Gut on Digital Web Finishing

Published March 1, 2023

David Zwang talks to Hans Gut, Chief Marketing Officer for Hunkeler, about digital web finishing. Hunkeler’s digital web finishing products initially served the transactional print market and has expanded into book production, launching next-generation solutions for automated book block production.

Hunkeler’s Patrick Treyer on the Cut-Sheet Finishing Market

Published February 28, 2023

David Zwang talks with Patrick Treyer, Area Sales Director for Hunkeler, about Hunkeler’s recent introductions for the cut-sheet finishing market including DocuTrim, a new line supporting the transactional and transformational markets that features dynamic perforating.

Hunkeler’s Matthias Anaheim on Next Level Automation

Published February 28, 2023

David Zwang talks with Matthias Annaheim, Head of Marketing for Hunkeler, about the theme of this year’s Hunkeler Innovationdays: Next Level Automation, and how Hunkeler equipment needs to connect to a variety of different systems often within a single printing plant.

The New Fiery Is Not Really New, but It Is More Nimble

Published February 14, 2023

David Zwang talks with Toby Weiss, CEO of Fiery. Fiery is now a standalone company, with lots of opportunity and an established management and team. Toby Weiss speaks about the change and looks at the future.

New Challenges and Approaches to Packaging Workflows—Part Three

Published February 14, 2023

The integration of analog and digital equipment can provide lots of opportunities but also challenges in plant optimization. Workflows, especially front office and plant for packaging operations, have to address many complexities not found in commercial printing workflows.

Workflow Integration Is In Demand

Published February 13, 2023

David Zwang talks to Tom Peire, CEO of Four Pees, about how, as print and packaging continue on the journey toward a more automated and connected value chain, integration and support are key.

Off-the-Shelf Software Is No Solution: How to Customize a Software Solution That Solves Your Workflow Needs

Published February 6, 2023

With the shifting market directions of procurement and print production there is a lot to be learned about the new requirements, processes, and pain points of the customer base. Building a “one size fits all” solution will usually fall short of those goals. Ultimately the solution needs to fit the specific needs of a PSP and their customer and partner relationships.

New Challenges and Approaches to Packaging Workflows—Part Two

Published January 31, 2023

More printing companies are finding opportunities in packaging production as more targeted and shorter packaging production runs increase and new digital tools help reduce the skill sets required. However, many are finding that different production tools and workflows as well as new processes are required to optimize and succeed.

EFI and Fiery Transform for Opportunities and Growth

Published January 31, 2023

EFI and Fiery have been one company under Siris Capital for a while now, and the time has come to let each of them grow to their individual potential. David Zwang talks to Jeff Jacobson, former CEO of EFI and now the Executive Chairman of both companies, about how he will help support the new growth.

New Challenges and Approaches to Packaging Workflows—Part One

Published January 24, 2023

Since there is an increasing shift of consumers from large global brands to smaller local/regional brands, so is the amount of disparate packaging required. However, while the diversity of needs commercial print are feeling the pressures, packaging adds many other level of complexities.

Lithec’s Clyde Tillman on Color Control Systems

Published January 17, 2023

David Zwang talks with Clyde Tillman of Lithec about the company’s 25-year-history in developing color control systems primarily for packaging systems. Six years ago, Lithec introduced LithoFlash, an in-press color control system for offset presses.

Hunkeler Innovationdays: A Unique and Important Event

Published January 17, 2023

Hunkeler Innovationdays is not really an expo as you might expect, but is instead a unique gathering and presentation of complete digital print and finishing workflows. There are no expos or other events like this that provide the latest in digital printing and finishing equipment, in live and running complete multi-vendor end to end workflows.

Corrugated Goes Hybrid

Published January 10, 2023

The demand for shorter runs is increasing, driven by consumer market shifts across the packaging landscape. However, justifying the cost of digital corrugated production per package/box, when the ink cost is almost 10X the cost of flexo ink, and close to equal with the media in some cases, is difficult unless there is some added value or a more efficient solution.

For Gallus, New Leader Brings New Approach to the Future

Published January 3, 2023

Today, Gallus and Heidelberg, after some difficulties in the past, are affirming their roles as “natural relatives” to create the innovation and solution which benefit their customers and the industry as a whole.

Giving: What Goes Around Comes Around

Published December 16, 2022

As things start to wind down for a little while, many of us step back, think about new year’s resolutions, and take a look at what we do, how we got here, and where can we go in the future. Those reflections, in some cases, also remind us that perhaps life is really about the rewards of giving.

Time to Thrive: Digital Labels and Packaging Will Continue to Grow

Published December 14, 2022

David Zwang recaps the year in labels and packaging, with a look at notable product releases, and the continued growth of digital labels and packaging. 

Bobst oneLabel Inkjet/Hybrid Press Finds Wide Acceptance in N.A. Market

Published December 13, 2022

David Zwang talks to Matt Bennett, Bobst's General Mgr. Label and Mid Web Business NA, about how Bobst has found the sweet spot between digital and flexo for label production, and how the market acceptance has been encouraging.

Bobst Is Bringing Inkjet Into Their Analog Mix

Published December 13, 2022

Bobst has taken a measured approach to entering the digital print fray. Mr. Bobst often states that he prefers to wait for market entry until he has products that are deserving of the Bobst name and will deliver against the high expectations customers have about the company. While initially they offered a few all digital devices, Bobst has now started to integrate their inkjet print technology into their analog product line.

Celebrating 10 Years: David Zwang Chats with BookBaby’s James Foley

Published December 12, 2022

BookBaby is a publishing services provider for independent, small and self-publishers. The company is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2022. David Zwang spoke with President James Foley.

BookBaby Is the Democratization of Publishing

Published December 12, 2022

With the rise of the digital generation and social media, BookBaby has created the perfect role in the publishing and promoting of independent content creators. David Zwang talks with President James Foley as the company celebrates its 10th anniversary.

WCD’s Karen Brookman Talks About Personalized On-Demand Printing

Published December 5, 2022

David Zwang talks with WCD’s Karen Brookman. WCD is a 70-year-old family owned digital printing and information management company based in Calgary, Alberta. The company offers a broad range of services, from document management and scanning to digital printing and signage. The company is focused on commerce and personalized on-demand print.

The 144-Year-Old Anstadt Company Expands Its Digital Fleet with HP Indigo

Published December 1, 2022

David Zwang talks talks with Matt Doran of The Anstadt Company. Founded in 1878, the company is a fifth-generation family-owned commercial print business that has expanded and diversified. It has been shedding its offset equipment in favor of HP Indigo Digital Presses.

DIY Integration: The Secret to Operational Success

Published November 29, 2022

The print service provider, their suppliers, and their customers are all a part of a value chain ecosystem, and as such their individual processes need to be aligned and bridged with each other for maximum operational benefit. As a result many of the more successful PSPs have tailored their workflow systems to their specific needs, usually using a modular Lego-like logic.

Shutterfly’s Dwayne Black on the HP Indigo 100K

Published November 28, 2022

David Zwang talks with Dwayne Black, COO of Shutterfly. Founded in 1999, Shutterfly started out producing 4x6-inch prints, then expanded into cards, photo books, and gifts, and now can produce whatever the customer wants to personalize. The company has installed more than 30 HP Indigo 100K Digital Presses.

One Touch Point Addresses Industry Challenges with HP Indigo

Published November 16, 2022

David Zwang talks with Chris Greene, COO of One Touch Point, a print marketing company offering direct mail printing, marketing materials, and grand-format, as well as digital marketing services. Their printing equipment runs the gamut from offset duplicators to the latest digital printing technologies. One Touch Point has worked extensively with HP Indigo, which has helped them address their business challenges.

Corefact Grows Its Direct Mail Business with HP Indigo Presses

Published November 14, 2022

David Zwang talks to Corefact’s Christopher Burnley. Corefact was founded in 2005 as a company selling analytics software to the real estate industry. They added direct mail printing capabilities to help build the software business and then began growing the print business, specializing in variable-data printing and some transactional. The company now has locations in California and Kentucky.

Three-Year-Old Start-Up Print-Hub Expands into Commercial Printing

Published November 9, 2022

David Zwang talks to Sammy Shehadeh, President of Print-Hub, a printing company founded three-and-a-half-years ago out of hospitality and real estate businesses that needed printing, had difficulty finding a printer, so decided to start a print business to serve their own needs. They soon started printing for other customers and has since acquired another print business to expand their capabilities.

Ricoh Releases the Dragon: The Ricoh Pro Z75 Goes Into Beta

Published November 8, 2022

Even with Ricoh’s background in inkjet and cutsheet digital toner press manufacturing, developing a reliable larger format cutsheet industrial press takes a lot of research, testing, and time. With the Ricoh Pro Z75, this new B2+ press may really be a game changer.

Julie Watson on Ultimate TechnoGraphics’ Workflow Automation Solutions

Published November 3, 2022

David Zwang talks to Julie Watson, CEO of Ultimate TechnoGraphics, about the post-pandemic uptick in interest in workflow automation, the factors driving that interest, and Ultimate’s portfolio of automation solutions.

Mark Little on Ricoh’s Customer-Centric Approach

Published November 2, 2022

David Zwang talks to Mark Little, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications, for Ricoh about Mark’s new role at Ricoh as a liaison between the company and its customers, helping customers identify specific desired outcomes and what solutions would bring about those outcomes.

Robert Stabler on Koenig & Bauer and Durst’s Joint Venture into Corrugated Printing

Published October 31, 2022

At PRINTING United, David Zwang talks to Robert Stabler, managing director of Koenig & Bauer Durst about the joint venture between Koenig & Bauer and Durst to build single-pass inkjet presses for the corrugated printing market.

Hybrid Software Group at PRINTING United

Published October 26, 2022

David Zwang talks to Hybrid Software Group CEO Mike Rottenborn about the evolution and growth of the company. Hybrid Software Group is one company with six operating businesses—Hybrid Software, Global Graphics, ColorLogic GmbH, iC3D, Xitron, and Meteor Inkjet—which serve predominantly, but not exclusively, packaging end users and OEMs.

Folding Carton Production: Only for Converters?

Published October 13, 2022

David Zwang talks to HP Indigo Folding Carton Category Manager Glen Adams about how folding carton is the next big opportunity for digital print providers. This is a great interview to learn some of the basics!

Hybrid, Crossover, and Bespoke: Have It Your Way!

Published October 11, 2022

Print technology and production methods have been changing along with the changing market requirements. All of this coupled with the “can do nature” of print and packaging service providers, continues to push technology and equipment manufacturers in new ways. David Zwang looks at how new modular component production solutions can be integrated and combined with almost all printing technologies including digital, offset, flexo, screen, and inkjet.

Product Spotlight: Canon imagePRESS V1000 Checks All the Boxes!

Published October 10, 2022

Designing a digital press for today’s market requirements can be a challenge. Canon’s latest production digital press is the result of years of customer feedback and engineering ingenuity. It focuses on productivity, cost control, automation, quality, and ease of use, individually and collectively.

Koenig & Bauer Update…And Have They Been Busy!

Published October 6, 2022

David Zwang talks to Koenig & Bauer President and CEO Killian Renschler and Sr. VP Marketing and Product Management Eric Frank. Koenig & Bauer has been a powerhouse equipment manufacturer in the commercial print and packaging market for over a century. Through all of the changes, they have managed to keep very relevant and even thrive. Renschler and Frank talk about what the company has been working on.

TLMI’s Linnea Keen on the Resilience of the Label and Packaging Industry

Published October 6, 2022

David Zwang talks with Linnea Keen, President of Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI), a North American association of about 300 label and packaging converters, printers, and suppliers. Like the label and packaging industry in general, TLMI is growing and seeking to add new members in the flexible packaging area.

Gallus One: Gallus and Heidelberg Go Full-On Digital

Published October 4, 2022

The integration of Gallus into Heidelberg is beginning to show impressive returns, starting with the Labelfire 340 hybrid press and now the Gallus One digital all-in-one label press, a jointly developed press and ecosystem. This new press is designed for the industry’s digital future and the new normal.

Calyx Containers Specializes in Childproof Containers

Published October 4, 2022

Rob Bullen, Label Production Manager for Calyx Containers, talks to David Zwang at the recent Labelexpo Americas show. Calyx Containers specializes in producing square childproof containers for the cannabis industry—they make the container via injection molding, print labels, and ship them to customers. The company has HP Indigo digital printing equipment, as well as digital embellishment and laser cutting capabilities. Calyx is looking to expand into other markets.

Karstedt Partners Acquired by Keypoint Intelligence

Published September 28, 2022

Kevin Karstedt talks to David Zwang about the history of packaging consultancy Karstedt Partners, which helps companies bring new and disruptive technologies to the market. They work with OEMs as well as brands and businesses throughout the label and packaging supply chain. It was recently announced that Karstedt Partners was acquired by Keypoint Intelligence.

Labelexpo Americas 2022 Part 2: The Rise of Digital

Published September 27, 2022

Labelexpo cemented the reality that digital is very much on the rise and at lightning speeds. The digital equipment is getting more sophisticated and, more importantly, productive. Digitalization is what will provide the platform for the new normal.

Brook+Whittle Looks to Expand Digital Printing, Embellishments

Published September 27, 2022

David Zwang talks to Jeremy Letterman, COO of Brook+Whittle, a Guilford, Conn.-based prime label printer with 15 locations across the US. They specialize in pressure sensitive and shrink labels as well as flexible packaging, operating a mix of digital (mostly HP), flexo, and rotogravure equipment. Letterman attended Labelexpo Americas to investigate the latest digital label printing technologies, and especially embellishments.

Cambridge Label’s Digital Transformation

Published September 22, 2022

Deanne Sinclair of Cambridge Label talks to David Zwang at last week’s Labelexpo. A family business founded in 1998 and based in Cambridge, Ont., Cambridge Label is a trade label business specializing in pressure sensitive labels and shrink sleeves. The company started with flexo equipment and in 2013 ventured into digital to take advantage of the short- to mid-size label market.

Cor Label Hits the Ground Running

Published September 21, 2022

David Zwang talks to Cor Label’s Bryan Dolbow at last week’s Labelexpo. Cor Label was founded in August 2020 “from scratch,” the founders having no background in the label business. Armed with an HP Indigo 6K and a finisher, the company produces labels, flexible packaging, and shrink sleeves for customers in the nutraceutical and craft brewing markets in North, Central, and South America.

Labelexpo Americas 2022 Part 1: The Times Are Changing

Published September 20, 2022

The level of excitement mirrored the general mood of the industry, and “we’re back but different” was the underlying theme of this event. The takeaway was there is no turning back and rapid change is the new normal, with digitalization as the lifeblood of the infrastructure.

Wholesale Printer Sinalite Supercharges Printers

Published September 20, 2022

Sinalite’s Mike Meshkati talks with David Zwang at last week’s Labelexpo Americas. Sinalite is a family-run wholesale printer founded in 1999. In their 100,000-sq.ft. facility, they offer commercial printing, signage, labels, apparel—“the whole Amazon of printing.”

Fiery Preflight Pro: Troubleshooting Jobs “Within” the Workflow

Published September 19, 2022

EFI Fiery DFEs have been driving digital printers for over 30 years. As the digital printers and the market requirements they serve change, there is a need to bring more automated preflight to the production floor to ensure process consistency, EFI has ensured that their DFE meets those challenges with their customers in mind. This includes the newly released Fiery Preflight Pro, available for Fiery FS500 Pro and newer servers.

HP Pagewide T700i Packaging Press: A Lot More than Corrugated Preprint

Published September 19, 2022

HP has announced a new PageWide packaging press that has a print width that fits nicely between their existing T400 and T1100 series presses corrugated preprint presses. However, the new T700i is designed for more than just corrugated preprint.

Customers Drive Design Requirements for New HP PageWide Advantage Platform

Published September 14, 2022

Yale Goldis, Director Commercial Strategy & Products, HP PageWide Industrial, discusses customer requirements and how this can translate into new developments and requirements for the new HP PageWide Advantage platform.

Development Drivers for the New HP PageWide Advantage Platform

Published September 13, 2022

Barbara McManus, R&D Director for HP PageWide Industrial, offers some background to the development of the new HP PageWide Advantage Platform, and discusses the drivers that led to the creation of the new platform.

HP Introduces the Advantage Inkjet Platform and It’s Brilliant!

Published September 8, 2022

In 2006, HP commercialized its “Scalable Printing Technology,” and in 2008 they introduced the PageWide T300 production inkjet press. Now, 14 years later, with the benefit of a lot of company and customer experience, they are introducing a newly designed high performance press platform.

HP Introduces New PageWide Advantage Platform

Published September 8, 2022

HP PageWide Global Head and GM Annette Friskopp talks with David Zwang about the introduction of HP's new PageWide Advantage 2200 platform.

Smart Retail: AI in the Produce Section

Published August 16, 2022

David Zwang looks at the rise of retail locations featuring checkout-free virtual cashiers. Convenience or “Big Brother”?

IPG Expands from Publishing and Distribution into Printing

Published August 9, 2022

Joe Matthews, CEO of Independent Publishers Group, talks to David Zwang. IPG is a 50-year-old, family-owned book distribution business, the first to bring an alliance of small publishers together to act like one big publisher. IPG also operates two publishing companies: Chicago Review Press, which publishes adult nonfiction, and Triumph Books, which publishes sports titles. They recently added a print manufacturing facility which has become their biggest profit center.

Freedom Graphic Systems’ Migration to Digital

Published August 8, 2022

Eric Blohm, President of Freedom Graphic Systems, talks to David Zwang at the recent thINK Forum. Founded in 1986, Freedom is a data-driven direct marketing company serving the financial services, insurance, telecom, and health care industries. The company has been primarily litho printing with inline inkjet imprinting, but has been migrating to digital.

Impact’s Scott Williams on Improving Efficiency

Published August 4, 2022

David Zwang talks to Scott Williams, Director of Workflow Automation and Systems at Impact Mailing, a 40-year-old, 200-employee, family-owned business that specializes in direct mail, as well as transactional printing and pick-and-pack. The company is 100% digital, built around a Canon platform. As Director of Workflow Automation and Systems, Williams looks for ways to improve efficiency—whether that be new equipment, improved processes, new software, etc.

InfoIMAGE Looks to Expand into Direct Mail

Published August 3, 2022

Christine Esparza, VP of Operations of InfoIMAGE talks with David Zwang at the recent thINK Forum. InfoIMAGE offers printed and electronic transactional materials for banks, credit unions, and insurance companies. The 38-year-old company has two facilities, in California and Texas, and 120–150 employees. She is attending the thINK Forum to help the company branch into color direct mail printing.

Bobst Going Private to Focus on the Future

Published August 2, 2022

Going private again, and being in a position to select and negotiate any financing needs beyond what JBF Finance SA can provide on its own, should minimize and streamline the undue reporting burdens of a public company, and allow Bobst to innovate and focus on the company’s present and future.

JPS Graphics’ Hunter Johnson on the Transition to Inkjet

Published July 28, 2022

Hunter Johnson, CEO, JPS Graphics talks with David Zwang at last week’s thINK Forum. JPS Graphics is a third-generation printer that specializes in book printing and kitting for learning organizations. Originally an offset shop, the company only recently added digital printing and last year added their first production inkjet machine.

Jeff Alexander of Alexander's Print Advantage at the Canon thINK Forum

Published July 27, 2022

Jeff Alexander, President of Alexander's Print Advantage, talks with Dave Zwang. Founded in 1979 as a retail copy center, the company gradually evolved into a trade printer producing one-off books, invitations, etc. Alexander’s Print Advantage has developed an automated system for onboarding customer orders.

Product Spotlight: Canon Press Automation Modules—Optimizing and Simplifying Printing

Published July 19, 2022

With the aging out of skilled labor in the print and packaging industry, engaging and training new hires in the intricacies of print is becoming a problem. David Zwang looks at Canon’s Press automation modules, which can simplify the process while optimizing quality and productivity for new and even older digital presses.

Web 2 Pack: Opportunities Exist…But Is It for Everything?

Published July 19, 2022

There is a growing increase in orders for short-run on-demand packaging to satisfy shifting consumer purchasing requirements and operate at the “speed of retail.” However, while there are opportunities, there are many complexities not seen in commercial print that require a level of expertise not necessarily found in the producers’ kitchen, basement, or garage.

Industry 4.0: Bringing Intelligence to Workflow One Step at a Time

Published June 28, 2022

Industrial revolutions have been driving global change for centuries, and one thing is certain: they will continue to happen at an increasingly rapid rate. As an industry, we have a way to go, but to succeed you need to look at the transformation process as a journey and not expect to do it all at once.

Heidelberg Gallus Begins to Offer its Screeny Silkscreen Program, for Non-Gallus Flexo Presses

Published June 27, 2022

Heidelberg Gallus has a long running program that offers silkscreen creation services as well as equipment and consumables for silkscreen creation on their flexo presses. Heidelberg has now opened up that program to the owners of competitors' presses as well.

ePAC introduces "Connected Packaging"

Published June 16, 2022

David Zwang talks to Carl Joachim, Partner at ePAC, which is continuing their substantial growth globally to support the increased need for flexible packaging—and have also introduced "Connected Packaging."

Inkjet Integration: Flexible and Sustainable

Published June 14, 2022

Production inkjet is not new, but increasingly we are seeing it used in bespoke solutions that address many disparate manufacturing requirements. Importantly, this technology can also provide sustainable solutions.

Technology Outlook 2022—The Labels & Packaging Market: Even Stronger

Published June 9, 2022

In this year’s third annual Technology Outlook, David Zwang looks at new trends, technologies, and products in labels and packaging.

Your Package Has Been Delivered—And More Are Coming

Published June 7, 2022

Just as in web-to-print software solutions for commercial printers, online package creation is facilitating the rapid growth of shorter-run packaging to address the shifting market demands. These new online transaction design and procurement web-to-pack solutions, in combination with digital presses and laser die cutters, are also enabling many commercial printers to find a lift into becoming a packaging converter. David Zwang takes a look at the current web-to-pack landscape.

Mittera Grows to 17 Plants Over 12 Years Across the US

Published June 2, 2022

David Zwang talks to Perry Klein, VP Business Development of Mittera about the company's growth to 17 plants organically and through acquisitions, all the while keeping up with changing market requirements and challenges. All of this with an equipment list that covers most of the industry manufacturers!

Heidelberg Creates Print Media Performance & Training Center Classes

Published June 2, 2022

David Zwang talks to Clarence Penge, Executive VP Product Management, Heidelberg USA about the company's new program to instruct customers' employees in a variety of press, postpress, and general printing-related topics at the Print Media Center in Kennesaw, Ga.

Jubilee Brands: Time to Make the Doughnuts

Published June 1, 2022

David Zwang talks to Allen McNeill, owner of Jubilee Brands, who shares his fascinating story of using a digital press and some converting equipment to build a printing business around a specific product.

Converging People, Process, and Technologies, the Goal Is i4.0

Published May 31, 2022

Does your business have a common informational structure? The US Navy and the rest of the Armed Forces do, and you can as well by converging people, process, and technologies. David Zwang talks to Marty Groover, Partner at C5MI, about how the benefits are significant, and if you haven't started, you may have to catch up later.

Canon: Preparing for a Packaging Push

Published May 24, 2022

The challenges faced as a press manufacturer or even a print service provider when moving from commercial print to industrial and packaging market are very real and can be elusive and daunting. Most of all, though, it’s not just about technology.

On-Demand Offset Is Real and Works for Cober Solutions

Published May 23, 2022

David Zwang talks to Todd Cober, President of Cober Solutions, about "on-demand offset" and how it and workflow technologies have provided him and his customers with a great production platform.

Is Landa Finally Hitting Its Stride?

Published May 17, 2022

There has been a running joke amongst some analysts and media that it takes at least two drupas—or about 8–10 years—before an initially shown product is ready for production. Granted, some of what is “envisioned” as new product technologies may never make it, but many products do successfully make it to market, ready for reliable production.

Hudson Printing Becomes the First Company in the World to Add a Second Landa S10P, Expanding Their Digital Print Toolbox

Published May 10, 2022

Paul Hudson explains his transition through a variety of digital and analog technologies to strenghthen and grow his business offerings. His recent purchase of a secnd Landa S10P digital B1 press rounds it out.

Hybrid Software Develops High-Performance Print Inspection Framework for Print Inspection Systems

Published May 10, 2022

David Zwang talks to David Stevenson, Product Manager, Global Graphics, about how, by using its vast experience in RIPs and rendering, Hybrid Software has been able to create a high-performance framework for print inspection systems.

Global Graphics Smart QI: New Platform for On-the-Fly Inspection

Published May 10, 2022

Press speeds, resolutions, and the use of variable data is growing, and with it the need to inspect the print for defects before it comes off the press and goes into finishing and converting is essential. Global Graphics Smart QI is a solution targeted at that increasing and demanding requirement.

Welcome to the HP Indigo V12 Label Press

Published May 5, 2022

David Zwang talks to Golan Landsberg, R&D Director and Head of Product Development for the HP Indigo V12 Label Press. This groundbreaking label press is a combination of an evolution and revolution in design and application. Take a behind-the-scenes look at its development.

Xeikon Café: Lots of Education and New Products

Published May 3, 2022

Xeikon Café, held at the company’s headquarters, was full of great information, partners, and products, including some new ones. The takeaway was that Xeikon is positioned for good future growth with the confidence of their customers and a lot of new products.

How Do You Change a Market and Market Behavior?

Published April 28, 2022

David Zwang talks to Keren Yakolev, Head of Product & Business Development at HP Indigo, about how HP Indigo has been a leader in changing markets and market behavior in print and packaging. It’s not magic, its a process.

Agfa Acquires Inca: Lots of Synergies, Opportunities, and Focus

Published April 26, 2022

Agfa is in the process of acquiring two very synergistic operating units from SCREEN. These acquisitions could provide Agfa with the necessary technologies and strength to reinvigorate this distinguished company and provide the platform for future growth in packaging and industrial print.

The State of HP Indigo Presses Post-COVID

Published April 25, 2022

David Zwang talks to Eli Mahal, Head of Marketing, Labels & Packaging, for HP Indigo. HP Indigo and its customers have not been idle during the pandemic—growth has been significant for Indigo and for their customers in all segments.

HP Indigo: A Homecoming

Published April 19, 2022

HP Indigo held a VIP event at their facilities in Israel, the first one since February 2019. While a lot has changed for everyone since that last event, both the company and their customers have been knowingly or unknowingly preparing themselves and the market for these changes since 1993.

A Sustainable and Creative Flexible Packaging Application

Published April 18, 2022

David Zwang talks to Andrew Mansfield, New Business Development for Harkwell Labels. The UK-based Harkwell has developed a great application that promotes a circular economy—and it can put a smile on your face.

GMG’s Marc Levine on Accurate Color Proofing and Print Manufacturing

Published April 4, 2022

Hard-copy color proofing has come a long way over the years. David Zwang talks to Marc Levine of GMG Color about how GMG has been on the front lines of this battle.

Workflow Automation Product Spotlight: EFI Fiery JobFlow—Job Prep and Prepress Automation Made Easy

Published March 31, 2022

Automated workflows are discussed a lot, yet the vast majority of print service providers still don’t have a comprehensive job preparation and prepress automation workflow in their operation. Fiery JobFlow is an easy to install and easy to use solution.

New Technology and Drivers for Printing and Packaging

Published March 31, 2022

There are lots of moving parts in print manufacturing, and lots of new technologies and applications. David Zwang talks to Dr. John Anderson, Director of Advanced Print Applications for Miraclon, about some of the issues and advancements that will provide the new growth.

The Business of Using Technology to Prepare All Kinds of Print—Repeatedly

Published March 30, 2022

Increasingly, printing technology is changing to accommodate many new applications, from legacy printing and packaging to industrial print. David Zwang talks to Kevin Bourquin, VP Operations, CyberGraphics, to see how CyberGraphics has figured out the way to keep up.

Hybrid Presses: Bobst and the Next Wave

Published March 29, 2022

At Labelexpo in 2019, there was a smattering of hybrid presses, but since then the market for hybrid presses has grown with a proliferation of hybrid presses from many manufacturers. At that event, Bobst showed the Master DM5, their first take at a digital/flexo hybrid, which they identified as an “All in One” press. Over the years, they have enhanced the design and interface based on early customer feedback. The result is the just-released updated Digital Master 340 and Digital Master 510.

Meeting Print Quality Expectations—Qualitative or Quantitative?

Published March 29, 2022

David Zwang talks to Dianne Kennedy of PQX Initiative about PQX and PRX, which now provide a "standardized" way to communicate print quality between the brand or consumer and producer for all forms of print and packaging using all types of equipment and ink.

Getting Color to Match Across Design, Media, and Processes. Magic? No—CxF!

Published March 28, 2022

What is CxF and how does it ensure the transfer of color information and customer expectation throughout print and...? Dave Zwang talks with Steve Smiley of SmileyColor to find out.

Branding for the Future: How to Engage and Educate Tomorrow’s Print and Packaging Workforce

Published March 23, 2022

David Zwang takes a look at the personnel shortage in the printing industry, and some ways of overcoming it. Market outreach and education is an important requirement, and it is the shared responsibility of the manufacturers, print service providers, suppliers, and industry associations.

Pack Expo East: This Is Where the Printing Goes!

Published March 22, 2022

Shifts in consumer purchasing, will continue to have an impact on packaging growth due to disruptions in the supply chain, shifts in consumer purchasing, and labor availability forcing consumer packaging groups (CPGs) to think about how they can be more efficient at what they do. Automation and even robots are a big part of the answer.

FTA Hosts a Successful Event

Published March 17, 2022

After three years, the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) was able to host a very successful forum and exhibition. Joe Tuccitto, FTA's Director of Education, takes us behind the scenes on creating this event.

Heidelberg US Expands Their Postpress Offerings

Published March 15, 2022

David Zwang talks to Chris Raney, VP Postpress Product Management, Heidelberg US, about Heidelberg's updated and expanded postpress offerings. These include introducing push-to-stop folding, more automated cutting for commercial print, and die-cutting and folder gluers for folding carton production.

Excitement and Information at InfoFLEX 2022 and the FTA Forum

Published March 15, 2022

After three years, “there is a lot of catching up to do.” That was the mood at the FTA event in Ft. Worth. About 1,000 very energized people were there to meet colleagues, see new developments, and hear about how they can optimize their production systems.

Transformations: The Keys to Success

Published March 2, 2022

David Zwang talks to Alon Bar-Shany Chairman of Highcon, Executive Chairman of Redefine Meat Ltd., Chairman and CEO of Twine Solutions, and former General Manager of HP Indigo about the digital transformation of graphic arts, printing, and packaging.

I’m Sorry, Dave: The Rise of AI in Print and Packaging

Published March 1, 2022

There is a wave of innovation in print and packaging equipment and workflow systems that are beginning to implement artificial intelligence, not just within an individual system but across complete supply chains between different systems, processes, and even extending to semi-autonomous labor. David Zwang rounds up the current state of the art.

Behind the Scenes at the Heidelberg Print Media Center

Published February 28, 2022

As Heidelberg continues to broaden their press and postpress offerings, keeping up with the constantly changing Print Media Center is challenging and fun. David Zwang catches up with Jeff Powalisz, Director of Demo Room Operations, Heidelberg US, from the Demo Room.

Hundsdörfer Steers Heidelberg Back on Track—A Farewell Interview, Part 2

Published February 22, 2022

As Rainer Hundsdörfer prepares to close out his successful tenure as Chairman of Heidelberg, he discusses the inherent company strengths and expertise along with a plan that will ensure Heidelberg will continue to grow in addition to and beyond print.

Hundsdörfer Steers Heidelberg Back on Track—A Farewell Interview, Part 1

Published February 15, 2022

Rainer Hundsdörfer took the helm of Heidelberg in 2016 when things were not looking great. In his five-year tenure, they have been able to turn the company around financially and develop a roadmap for the future. Printing plays a big role in that future, but their strengths and opportunities extend beyond.

Digital Print from Heidelberg Is Growing

Published February 15, 2022

David Zwang talks to Dan Maurer, VP Product Management, Digital Print at Heidelberg US. Heidelberg has been selling digital presses for more than 11 years, and they are expanding their efforts and offerings.

Alon Bar-Shany on How Transformations Are the Key to Success

Published February 14, 2022

David Zwang speaks with Alon Bar-Shany who has been on the front line of digital print and packaging transformation for more than 25 years. At HP, ultimately rising to the GM of HP Indigo, he was one of the leaders in the transformation of the printing industry to digital printing, and now is taking what he has learned and transforming other industries.

An Imaging Company at Heart: Part 2—SCREEN Is Building an Impressive Digital Packaging Portfolio

Published February 8, 2022

There is no doubt that digital packaging is a huge growth area for production inkjet, and SCREEN seems to be targeting the high growth areas. They have been developing a range of digital packaging presses including their currently available prime label presses, and the new flexible packaging press and a folding carton press.

An Imaging Company at Heart, SCREEN Is Building Quite a Production Inkjet Portfolio

Published February 1, 2022

The roots of SCREEN are in imaging, dating back to its founding in 1868. The company has leveraged that expertise to create a significant imaging powerhouse which includes industry leading equipment for the production of displays, printed circuit boards, and semiconductors. They also continue to maintain a significant role in the production of printing equipment including high performance inkjet presses for commercial and packaging.

Heidelberg Prinect Update

Published January 18, 2022

David Zwang talks with Dawn Lindsey, Director of Product Management and Implementation for Heidelberg US Prinect, about how the Heidelberg Prinect solution suite has evolved beyond prepress workflow to include connectivity to all of the equipment Heidelberg offers as well as business intelligence.

The Industry Has Been Humming Along: The Label and Packaging Year in Review

Published January 11, 2022

There may not have been many live events this year to showcase the latest trends in label and packaging, but hardware manufacturers and software developers have been busy, and the industry has been humming along. All of this under the backdrop of shifting consumer preferences and supply chain challenges. David Zwang takes a look.

Heidelberg: Solidly Positioned for Growth

Published January 4, 2022

As the print market has evolved, Heidelberg, like all other analog and digital press manufacturers, has had to pivot to address the new market demands. For a while, their transition had been a bit rocky, but they seem to have stabilized and are now growing with an impressive line of products with more to come.

The Breadth of the Heidelberg Product Line Is Increasing

Published January 4, 2022

Heidelberg is known for their offset presses, but David Zwang talks to Clarence Penge, EVP Product Management at Heidelberg US, about how the company’s press, postpress, and software solution offerings have expanded to cover commercial print, labels, and folding carton.

SCREEN USA’s Ken Ingram on Commercial Printers Moving to High-Speed Inkjet

Published December 16, 2021

David Zwang talks to Ken Ingram, President of SCREEN USA, about the latest market trends as well as new products the the company has introduced—and plans to introduce. SCREEN has been focused on high-speed inkjet across all markets, specializing in direct mail and transaction, but post-pandemic, the company has seen more activity in the commercial space.

A Folding Carton Converter Brewing Beer?

Published December 16, 2021

Printing and packaging companies are always looking for unique ways to expand and grow their businesses. While printers may have historically had a reputation for “tipping a few beers,” not every printer can be a brewer. However, this one is!

Waste Circularity in Labels and Packaging: Fixing a Broken Recycling System

Published December 14, 2021

Recycling is broken, and we need processes that can handle waste instead of shifting responsibility for handling waste back onto consumers and producers, which will not solve the problem.

Production Inkjet: The Year in Review

Published December 2, 2021

In 2021, for commercial print applications, production inkjet volumes held their own, and some applications saw modest growth. While production inkjet can displace toner printed pages, and has been for well over a decade, the lion’s share of the growth opportunity is offset pages, and that will continue for the foreseeable future. David Zwang looks back at recent press introductions, many of which are targeted at that volume.

J.P Bobst Knows History and Is Setting the Future Stage for Packaging

Published November 30, 2021

A company the size and breadth of the Bobst Group plays a big role in setting the direction of the packaging industry in the future. Their core values of People, Technology, and Financial, with a strong desire to create a more sustainable future, bode well for the many changes ahead.

Compu-Mail: Relevant Information to the Right Person at the Right Time

Published November 29, 2021

Compu-Mail is a direct marketing services and solutions company located in Grand Island, N.Y., that provides database marketing for pharmaceutical companies, statements for medical insurance and even membership cards for automobile clubs. They have built their business around the variable data printing model: “Relevant information to the right person at the right time.”

Printing On Glass: The View of the Future Is Bright with Inkjet Technologies

Published November 8, 2021

Over the years, many different methods have been used to decorate glass including painting, silk screen, sandblasting, etching, and decals and cling films—and of late inkjet technology has been increasingly used. David Zwang surveys the current state of direct-to-glass printing.

Labels and Packaging: Luxe Pack Sets the Tone

Published November 2, 2021

Label and packaging procurement reached new heights during the pandemic, and as a result, while there may not have been many live events this year to showcase the latest trends in label and packaging, hardware manufacturers and software developers have been busy—and the industry has been humming along.

Stefan Hunkeler on Postponing Hunkeler Innovationdays Until 2023

Published November 2, 2021

With most of the flagship equipment shows of 2020 and 2021 being postponed or cancelled, many in the industry were looking forward to Hunkeler Innovationdays in February of 2022. Unfortunately, this too has been postponed to February 2023. David Zwang talks to Stefan Hunkeler, President of Hunkeler AG, about this decision.

PCI Group’s Chris Kropac on Transactional Print Security

Published October 28, 2021

At last week’s thINK Forum, David Zwang spoke to Chris Kropac, owner and president of PCI Group, a family-owned business specializing in mission-critical transactional communications, with an emphasis on security compliance in health care, collections, financial, and insurance markets.

Canon’s Francis McMahon on Company Culture and Human Connections

Published October 21, 2021

David Zwang talks to Canon Solutions America EVP Francis McMahon, recapping last week’s thINK Forum, and talking about company culture, how it plays into a company’s brand, how it gives a company a competitive advantage, and how businesses can retain their employees by making them feel like they are part of something and feel empowered.

The Importance of Networking and Education in the Inkjet Printing Community

Published October 18, 2021

At last week’s thINK Forum, David Zwang talked to Shelley Hyde, Partner at PrintMailPro and the newest member of the thINK Board, about the value of networking events like the thINK Forum, as well as the other resources thINK makes available for producers of inkjet printing.

Selling Inkjet to Clients

Published October 14, 2021

At this week’s thINK Forum, David Zwang talks to Jennifer McSweeney, VP of Sales for the Goodway Group, about the company’s adoption of production inkjet and the opportunities it has opened with clients.

thINK Ahead 2021: Uniting as Leaders of the Inkjet Community

Published October 13, 2021

David Zwang talks to Ed Jansen, VP of Canon Solutions America’s Print Production Solutions Group, about the challenges involved in planning this year’s thINK event.

Digital Packaging: Kodak Ups the Ante Again…

Published October 12, 2021

Kodak has been successfully operating a transformation strategy that has shored up the company while investing in innovation in their core strengths of print (with an emphasis on digital), advanced materials, and chemicals. With the introduction of an EP press designed for folding carton, packaging, and retail POP, Kodak expands their existing packaging portfolio options to a wider audience.

HP Indigo’s Gershon Alon Discusses Post-Pandemic Workflow Changes

Published October 12, 2021

David Zwang talks with Gershon Alon, Head of Solutions at HP Indigo, about the post-pandemic workflow changes in packaging and commercial print that will be needed to keep up with dynamic market shifts.

Fujifilm's Matt Bennett on Digital Packaging

Published October 6, 2021

Matt Bennett, Global VP Packaging for Fujifilm, sits down with David Zwang at Label Congress to discuss the company's positioning in digital packaging and their latest product introductions.

Label Congress 2021: Surprisingly Well Attended and Informative

Published October 5, 2021

While Label Congress was a relatively small event, it appeared to be a very successful one. With a comprehensive educational conference schedule and a small but active expo hall, it delivered what was promised to the exhibitors and, more importantly, to the attendees.

Global Graphics' Mike Rottenborn on the Company's Acquisitions and Growth

Published October 4, 2021

Mike Rottenborn, CEO of Global Graphics, sits down with David Zwang at Label Congress to discuss the synergies in Global Graphics' acquisitions and growth, as well as their new corporate name and identity.

The Rise Of Hybrid And Bespoke: Production Design by Application

Published September 28, 2021

Digital technologies in print and finishing are in a continuing race against market shifts—and vice versa. David Zwang explains how both hybrid and bespoke print solutions will play an increasing role, and why we are in for some interesting times.

EFI's Nick Benkovich on Changing Market Dynamics

Published September 28, 2021

Nick Benkovich, EFI VP Product Management, discusses how market dynamics are changing for PSPs across all segments, and looks at the challenges, opportunities, tools, and cultural shifts that are going to be required.

Weathering The Storm: Carsten Bruhn, President and CEO of Ricoh North America Shares How the Pandemic Affected Ricoh and its Customers

Published September 20, 2021

David Zwang talks with Carsten Bruhn, the newly appointed president and CEO of Ricoh North America, about how the pandemic has affected Ricoh and its customers, as well as where the printing industry is going as we emerge from the year of COVID.

Todd Roth Previews the Upcoming thINK Forum

Published September 20, 2021

Todd Roth, VP of Core Publishing Solutions for Thomson Reuters and President of the thINK Board of Directors, provides a preview of the upcoming thINK Forum, to be held October 11-15 at the Boca Beach Club in Boca Raton, Fla. To keep attendees safe and comfortable, the event is being held in two “waves,” the first from Oct. 11-13, and the second from Oct. 13-15. Each wave is limited to ~150 attendees, and the content is identical.

Canon’s Francis McMahon and Eric Hawkinson Preview the Upcoming thINK Forum

Published September 9, 2021

Francis McMahon, Executive Vice President at Canon Solutions America, and Eric Hawkinson, Chairman of thINK, discuss the upcoming thINK Forum, to be held October 11-15 at the Boca Beach Club in Boca Raton, Fla. To keep attendees safe and comfortable, the event is being held in two “waves,” the first from Oct. 11-13 13, and the second from Oct. 13-15. Each wave is limited to ~150 attendees, and the content is identical.

Tag! You’re It: Embedding NFC and RFID in Packaging

Published August 31, 2021

David Zwang looks at the current state of packaging applications for Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) and Near-Field Communication (NFC), and how and why they are being used.

Printlink Finds the FireJet 4C Color Inkjet Press Ideal for Envelopes

Published August 10, 2021

Feeding envelopes through a printer is not necessarily an easy task, especially since there are so many sizes, configurations, and variations in thickness—even batch to batch. Yet Printlink has found an exceptional bespoke press solution that highlights what can be accomplished with production inkjet.

Labelexpo’s Tasha Ventimiglia on the Upcoming Label Congress

Published August 5, 2021

David Zwang talks to Tasha Ventimiglia, Americas Event Director for Labelexpo Americas, about the challenges of the pandemic for an event company and the much-anticipated return to in-person events with the upcoming Label Congress in Chicago at the end of September.

Canon Expands their Production Inkjet Portfolio with ColorStream 8000

Published June 22, 2021

Canon has the leading market share in production inkjet and has the widest range of production inkjet presses available. With the introduction of the ColorStream 8000, they are expanding their commercial production inkjet product line to further capture both toner and existing offset produced pages.

EFI’s Fiery Business CTO Josef Coetsee on DFEs

Published June 8, 2021

David Zwang talks to Josef Coetsee, CTO of EFI’s Fiery Division, about EFI’s unique approach to digital front ends (DFEs). Much more than a RIP, a DFE is a set of services—hardware and software—that enable print shops to execute their workflows, manage their operations, and drive their presses.

Labels and Packaging: The Pandemic Provides New Opportunities Supporting Telemedicine

Published June 1, 2021

Telemedicine grew more than 6,000% during the pandemic. With that rate of growth, and no preparation, how were healthcare providers expected to provide the care needed remotely for seniors and others who were on extreme lockdown?

How to Participate in Industry 4.0 Part 5: Getting Data…and Now What?

Published May 25, 2021

In this fifth article of this series, we continue to look at Industry 4.0, not as a marketing term, but in an actionable way so that you can begin or continue to prepare your company and participate in the many benefits today and tomorrow. In this article, we look at a solution that provides some process connection points, data collection and analysis.

How to Participate in Industry 4.0 Part 4: The Smart Factory

Published May 18, 2021

In this fourth article in this series, we continue to look at Industry 4.0, not as a marketing term, but in an actionable way so that you can begin or continue to prepare your company and participate in the many benefits today and tomorrow. In this article, we pause the background education and take a look at some currently available solutions and a peek into futures.

Global Graphics’ Eric Worrall on SmartDFEs

Published May 18, 2021

David Zwang talks to Eric Worrall, VP of Products and Services for Global Graphics Software, about digital front ends (DFEs), the elements that comprise a DFE, and Global Graphics’ recent introduction of its SmartDFE.

Labels and Packaging Has a Transformative Year

Published May 13, 2021

As part of our preview of next week’s Technology Outlook Week, David Zwang looks at how label and packaging production is transforming.

Kodak’s Jim Continenza Wins a Maverick Award

Published May 11, 2021

David Zwang talks to Jim Continenza, Chairman and CEO of Eastman Kodak, about he and his team winning a Maverick Award for Business Achievement, and how Kodak remains on schedule with its five-year plan that had been developed several years ago.

Ricoh’s New President and CEO Carsten Bruhn on Doing Business Post-COVID

Published May 6, 2021

David Zwang talks with Carsten Bruhn, newly appointed President and CEO of Ricoh North America. Bruhn has been with Ricoh for more than 30 years, and he talks about his journey in the industry and in Ricoh, as well as how he sees Ricoh doing business as we emerge from the pandemic.

How to Participate in Industry 4.0—Part 3: Content Production Software

Published May 4, 2021

In this third article of this series, we continue to look at Industry 4.0, not as a marketing term, but in an actionable way that you can begin or continue to prepare your company and participate in the many benefits. In this article, we take a look at content production software.

Sticking Around: Exploring the Emerging Trends in Labeling

Published May 3, 2021

The print label market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2021 to 2026, and last year had a significant impact on consumer purchasing habits—as a result, it also had an impact on labels and packaging in general. David Zwang runs through some of the trends that have started shifting at an increased rate, facilitated by new technologies.

Association Insights—Getting to Know the Ghent Workgroup

Published April 29, 2021

The Ghent Workgroup (GWG) is an international organization made up of graphic arts experts, users, hardware and software vendors as well as educational members building best practices for print and packaging workflows. David Zwang highlights the accomplishments the organization has achieved over the past 20 years, expanding beyond its initial goals.

How to Participate in Industry 4.0—Part 2: Internal Hardware Systems

Published April 27, 2021

In this new series we look at Industry 4.0—not as a marketing term, but in an actionable way so that you can begin or continue to prepare your company and participate in the many benefits. In this second article in the series, we take a look at internal hardware systems.

How to Participate in Industry 4.0—Part 1: State of Readiness

Published April 20, 2021

In this new series, we look at Industry 4.0. Not as a marketing term, but in an actionable way so that you can begin or continue to prepare your company and participate in the many benefits. In this first article of the series, we start at the beginning and look at the state of readiness.

Executive Label’s Jason Raye on the Transition to Digital

Published April 15, 2021

In this Thought Leadership Series video sponsored by HP, David Zwang talks to Jason Raye, VP of Executive Label Inc. The company began with flexo presses and moved into digital printing in 2012 with an HP Indigo 6800. The company is on its third digital press, having recently installed an HP Indigo 8000. The transition into digital completely changed Empire’s business.

Show Me the Money: Making Print Secure

Published April 13, 2021

Printing is a valuable and versatile platform that provides methods of communication, identification, even interaction. However, what happens when you need your printing secure or validated? David Zwang looks at today’s options.

Security Is the Best Medicine: The Importance of Information and Data Security in Pharmaceutical Packaging

Published March 24, 2021

Pharmaceutical packaging compliance, including safety and supply chain visibility, is an area that demands secure packaging and label identification. Many new compliance regulations are designed to verify the authenticity and origin of raw materials and ingredients, and to effectively, quickly, and accurately track and trace the products as they move across a global supply chain. David Zwang looks at these regulations, some of the new technologies in place to comply with them, and how print service providers can ensure they are in compliance.

Transformational Workflow Infrastructures v2021

Published March 23, 2021

Business processes and production workflows cannot be stagnant and need to evolve as the markets and technologies evolve. Understanding the need and creating an infrastructure that supports that is key. The good news is that the options are improving.

Beyond the Bottle: Opportunities and Challenges in Pharmaceutical Packaging

Published March 17, 2021

Like many other industries, pharmaceuticals is going through a transition, and as we have seen before, industries in transition offer opportunities for those who are willing to learn and engage. David Zwang provides an overview of the latest trends in pharma packaging, and how to identify and take advantage of the opportunities.

As the Market Changes, It’s Good to Have Partners in Growth

Published March 16, 2021

Over the years, Kodak has developed many groundbreaking products and, along the way, very strong bonds with their customers. Considering their long history supporting print service providers with consumables and digital process solutions, they have been able to enhance their clients’ business growth and create a great platform for Kodak’s business growth as well, it makes perfect sense.

Canon Production Printing’s Crit Driessen and Walter Vogelsberger on the Latest Digital Packaging News

Published March 9, 2021

David Zwang talks to Crit Driessen, Senior Advisor Commercial and Industrial Printing at Canon Production Printing, and Walter Vogelsberger, VP Digital Packaging Printing at Canon Production Printing. Crit shares some of the latest Canon Labelstream installations and other news and, as Walter transitions into this new position, what he envisions for digital packaging at Canon.

The Print Taxonomy Initiative—Or, What Is Print and Where Is It?

Published March 8, 2021

The print industry has been going through a major evolution since the introduction of digital technologies. Trying to identify and quantify this shift has been almost impossible since many of the definitions of print and printing technologies haven’t been properly updated in decades. An important new initiative is tasked with drafting an “open” standard taxonomy for the global printing industry to address the issues.

The Expertise to Innovate with New Inkjet Applications: NIXKA

Published February 23, 2021

NIXKA may be the new kid on the block, or are they? They actually have 30 years of expertise in developing ink and material jetting solutions, with an impressive track record. More importantly, they have the right philosophy.

CompanyBox’s Louis DeJesus Talks about On-Demand Packaging

Published February 23, 2021

David Zwang talks to Louis DeJesus, CEO and Founder of CompanyBox, which specializes in digital, on-demand packaging. The company leverages digital platforms, automation, and order aggregation so that the cost of one package is "the same as the cost of a truckload.”

Ernie Crawford on 25 Years of Crawford Technologies

Published February 17, 2021

David Zwang talks to Ernie Crawford, President and CEO of Crawford Technologies, about the evolution of the company. Founded 25 years ago, the company at that time was focused on helping organizations with the transition to then-new architectures like PostScript and PDF. Today, Crawford helps companies optimize workflows for transactional, direct mail, and commercial print.

Packaging Prepress Services Adapt and Expand

Published February 16, 2021

As packaging requirements change and the transition to digital printing increases, who will pick up the mantle?

Inkjet for Corrugated Is Not Just for Short Runs

Published February 9, 2021

Here are two corrugating companies that have found that production inkjet in place of the litho laminate process makes great operating and financial sense.

Georgia-Pacific Expands Its Digital Corrugated Capabilities

Published February 3, 2021

David Zwang talks to Bob Seay, VP Digital Print Solutions, for Georgia-Pacific Corrugated, which recently acquired an HP T1100 digital press. The Hummingbird business within Georgia-Pacific’s Digital Printing Solutions provides fast-turn digital preprint corrugated. The T1100 press offers Georgia-Pacific new capabilities.

Taking Color Management to the Next Dimension

Published February 2, 2021

Color Management is the critical part of any reproduction process, especially as it relates to brand identity. We have good tools today, but as print applications expand beyond conventional media—for example, to packaging and industrial applications—we are starting to outgrow them.

Linemark Printing’s Expansion into Packaging

Published February 1, 2021

David Zwang talks to David Ashton, EVP/Partner at the DC-area's Linemark Printing. Linemark does general commercial printing and transactional work, direct mail, and has a growing e-commerce business. Customers have pulled Linemark into some unique area—in particular, packaging printing.

Fast Moving Consumer Shifts—Drilling Down to Find the Opportunities

Published January 19, 2021

Consumer trends have been shifting for a while. However, the rate of shift is increasing, opening up opportunities for new product innovation and a shift in packaging demands.

Fast Moving Consumer Shifts, or Where’s the Toilet Paper?—Part 1

Published January 12, 2021

Consumer behavior has changed at an alarming rate and will continue to change, opening up new opportunities for new product innovation—and packaging.

Kasper Tomshoj on PrintVis’s Partnership with Kodak

Published December 18, 2020

David Zwang talks to Kasper Tomshoj, CEO of PrintVis, about the company’s almost 25-year history as an MIS provider for the printing and packaging industry. PrintVis recently teamed up with Kodak as an implementation partner as part of PRINERGY On Demand Business Solutions.

Todd Bigger on PRINERGY On Demand Business Solutions: “Not Your Father’s PRINERGY”

Published December 17, 2020

Todd Bigger, VP of Software and Services for Kodak, talks to David Zwang about the new iteration of PRINERGY On Demand. Back in May, Kodak moved moved PRINERGY into the cloud with PRINERGY On Demand and this Fall, Kodak is launching PRINERGY On Demand Business Solutions, a fully integrated and managed end-to-end software platform for all printers of any size and any segment that aims to eliminate the need for multiple standalone software products from different suppliers.

Ricoh Enters the Cutsheet Production Inkjet Press Market with a Game Changer

Published December 10, 2020

Ricoh is not a newcomer to production inkjet. But as a late-comer to cut-sheet production inkjet, how do you compete with both the existing B2+ and A3 presses in the market at the same time? Apparently, they figured it out!

Labels and Packaging 2020: The Year in Review

Published December 9, 2020

2020 was a transformative year, not so much for new and significant developments in label and packaging printing technologies—although there were some—but for triggering increased awareness of the value of digital packaging production. David Zwang looks back at the year’s label and packaging products and technologies.

The Transformation of a Classic: Duggal Visual Solutions

Published December 8, 2020

Duggal Visual Solutions is a company that has been growing and transforming itself since its inception in 1963, and through it all has maintained their core values of high quality and service to their customers. They have proved that they can, and will, continue to innovate and transform to meet the changing needs of visual communications.

For Label Specialties, Versatility Is Key

Published December 8, 2020

David Zwang talks to Jenny Johnson Wolf and Mike Wolf of Label Specialties. Based in Louisville, Ky., Label Specialities is a trade printer that uses every technology available, especially flexo and, most recently, digital labels using HP presses. They also offer a variety of finishing and die-cutting services so as to be able to handle whatever requirements a customer may have.

Duggal Visual Solutions: "We Try to Be Involved in Every Way Our Customers Communicate Visually”

Published December 8, 2020

David Zwang talks to Michael Duggal, CEO of Duggal Visual Solutions. The company started in 1963 as a boutique photo lab for artists and museums and has transformed with new technologies to offer a full gamut of visual communications—from high-quality photoprinting, wide-format printing and vehicle and building wraps,to fabrication services, to CGI and interactive digital multi-media. Duggal also just recently acquired a Landa S10 to broaden their print offerings even further.

Xeikon Moves into Corrugated

Published December 3, 2020

Daniel Valema, Strategic Director, Digital Solutions, Xeikon, talks to David Zwang about Xeikon’s move into forms of packaging beyond labels, namely corrugated.

Canon’s Crit Driessen on the Labelstream 4000 Installation at Germany’s Oschatz Visuelle Medien

Published December 2, 2020

Crit Driessen, VP Digital Packaging Print, Canon, talks with David Zwang about the installation of the first LabelStream 4000 series digital label press at Oschatz Visuelle Medien, a full-service visual communications agency based in Niedernhausen, near Frankfurt/Main, Germany.

Xeikon’s Stefan Clopterop on fleXflow

Published December 1, 2020

David Zwang talks with Stefan Clopterop, Segment Manager, Labels and Packaging, Xeikon, about the Xeikon fleXflow digital pouch production solution.

Ed Zumbiel and Packaging’s Digital Transformation

Published November 19, 2020

David Zwang and Ed Zumbiel, President of Zumbiel Digital, discuss the opportunities and challenges to be found in the digital transformation of packaging.

Digital Packaging Migration: Sustainability Is the Key, but What Does that Really Mean?

Published November 17, 2020

In biology, “adaptation is the physical or behavioral characteristic of an organism that helps an organism to survive better in the surrounding environment.” When we look at one of the newer requirements of packaging—sustainability—we tend to limit it to the ecological focus, when the more consequential focus relates to adaptation.

Matt Reddington Introduces Veritiv Vine (Part 2)

Published November 12, 2020

In part 2 of a two-part video interview, David Zwang talks to Matt Reddington, Director of Global Design Services for Veritiv, about Veritiv Vine, the company’s new packaging and brand design offering. Vine is intended to bridge the gap between design and packaging production, combining design creativity with supply chain expertise.

Digital Packaging Migration: What’s Taking So Long?

Published November 10, 2020

The cost of printing has always been important. For packaging, which has volume counted in the tens of thousands to millions of pieces of each, it is a primary focus. Since the product manufacturing and time to market are dependent on it, not only is the cost of packaging important, but also the level of productivity.

Matt Reddington Introduces Veritiv Vine

Published November 5, 2020

In part 1 of a two-part video interview, David Zwang talks to Matt Reddington, Director of Global Design Services for Veritiv, about Veritiv Vine, the company’s new packaging and brand design offering. Vine is intended to bridge the gap between design and packaging production, combining design creativity with supply chain expertise.

Cracking the Code: Is Your Packaging Secure?

Published November 4, 2020

While product counterfeiting has been an issue for many years, brands are now determined to address the issue head on. Security is becoming a crucial part of the packaging process, especially in the age of COVID.

Smithers’ Sean Smyth Talks About Digital Print for Packaging

Published October 29, 2020

Smithers print consultant Sean Smyth talks to David Zwang and recaps some of the highlights of Smithers' recent “Digital Print for Packaging” virtual event. Key takeaways included the relative resilience of the digital label and packaging communities, the emergence of cannabis packaging, and how ecommerce is changing the demand for and nature of packaging.

Digital Packaging Migration: “Déjà Vu All Over Again”?

Published October 27, 2020

Can the digital packaging transition learn from commercial print transition experiences, and increase the rate of migration, or are they destined to relive the same growth pains?

Corrugated Growth and Challenges Part 2: Design Opportunities and Cost Challenges

Published October 20, 2020

Growth projections from the pre-COVID forecast for digital print for packaging are just slightly below the initial 2019 forecast in the short term, while a longer-term forecast looks much more encouraging. However, moving from analog to digital production brings some challenges.

Packaging Is Changing: Is It to Our Benefit or Our Fault?

Published October 19, 2020

Packaging trends have been shifting since before the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue after it becomes a footnote in history, although perhaps at an accelerated pace. The real drivers for change are the rise of urban living and mega-cities and increased environmental awareness. This all means that packaging-based supply chains will continue to adapt to the growing population centers and drive packaging growth and shifts.

Corrugated Growth and Challenges Part 1: If It Was Easy, Everyone Would Be Doing It

Published October 13, 2020

The potential opportunities in corrugated packaging are significant, but like any other process, if it was easy, everyone would be doing it. In this article, we will look at some of the technical challenges.

Hybrid and Bespoke Packaging Solutions: Using Component Technology Expands Print Options

Published September 29, 2020

Bespoke or “custom-built” solutions are moving print from a stand-alone process to become a part of the product manufacturing process. David Zwang takes a look at the current bespoke and hybrid packaging solutions, and the advantages they can have over pure digital or analog solutions.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Provide Real Benefits

Published September 8, 2020

Designing and creating policies and procedures that ensure that essential business functions/processes are available during and after a disaster is an important process for all businesses. If done properly, it can actually prove to be beneficial beyond business continuity and disaster recovery as a way to handle production overflow during peak times

thINK Board Members on This Year’s Event

Published September 2, 2020

David Zwang talks to thINK Board members Todd Roth and Pete Studer about how the Board made the decision to hold thINK as a virtual event, how they went about putting the event together, and how they approached the selection of specific programs and new topics to cover.

Watch Out Inkjet: Toner Appears to Be Poised to Make a Comeback

Published September 1, 2020

Now that production inkjet has finally reached the offset quality barrier, some believe that it is the death knell for toner. Although as Mark Twain said, “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated” and based on recent developments in toner technology I believe that is the case here as well.

Automating Imposition: Agnostic, Smart, and Easy?

Published August 31, 2020

Considering most printing companies have an assortment of presses, finishing equipment, and product types, having disparate imposition workflows is a very inefficient way to manage it. Ultimate has raised the bar again with the just-released Impostrip 2020.

Sustainability: The Great Reset—What Can We Do?

Published August 11, 2020

The planet earth and its natural resources have not grown in over 4 billion years, yet the population has increased from 800 million in 1700 to almost 8 billion in 2020, all competing for their share and putting great stress on the environment and the population. It is obvious that this rate of growth can’t be sustained without some proactive behavioral changes.

Heidelberg Realignment: A Perspective in Context

Published July 28, 2020

Over the last 170 years, Heidelberg has developed many new products, some have rewarded them with great success and others not. As an engineering company, it is in their nature to keep innovating, and as Albert Einstein said, “The only sure way to avoid making mistakes is to have no new ideas.”

Canon Solidifies Their Production Inkjet Leadership Position with ProStream 1800

Published July 15, 2020

Canon has the leading market share in production inkjet and has the widest range of production inkjet presses available. With the introduction of the ProStream 1800, they are expanding their commercial production inkjet product line to continue to capture both toner and existing offset produced pages.

Paper Treatment to Protect Against Spread of Coronavirus

Published July 14, 2020

Is there a way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 through printed materials using an antimicrobial paper treatment? Under the current circumstances, no commercial lab has a suitable test environment or authority to test against COVID-19. However, there may be a suitable solution tested against a similar virus.

Devastated by the Downturn, APPi Bounces Back with Antimicrobial Paper Coating

Published June 25, 2020

David Zwang talks with John Beadel, President of Associated Printing Production Inc. (APPi), founded in 1991 by Beadel and his brother. From day one, the company’s primary client bases were the cruise line, hospitality, and leisure industries—the ones that were the hardest hit by the COVID-19 crisis. Facing a “devastated business,” APPi worked with Biomaster on an antimicrobial coating for paper that provides life-time, 24/7 protection for printed materials. As the leisure industry starts to reopen, demand has skyrocketed.

Hybrid Software Brings Packaging Workflows to a New Level of Automation

Published June 23, 2020

Packaging has been going through a digital renaissance of late, and as the printing and converting hardware has been evolving, the workflow software to maximize the utilization of that hardware has been evolving as well. Based on these latest updates and solutions, it is apparent that Hybrid is looking at the requirements of Industry 4.0 and the interconnected business and manufacturing landscape.

Kodak Rebuilds and Innovates with New Digital and Offset Products to Support Future Growth

Published June 16, 2020

Kodak has been rebuilding, innovating, and is ready reclaim their leadership position. Refocused direction and new products that will support their customers’ needs will get them there.

Racami on Solving Variable Data PDF Problems

Published June 15, 2020

David Zwang talks to Matt Mahoney, Executive VP of Sales & Marketing for Racami, a developer of software and IT services for transactional printers and direct marketers. Mahoney talks about some of the issues Racami customers have with variable-data printing, especially problems stemming from VDP PDF file creation, and some of the solutions Racami offers. 

HP’s Gershon Alon Talks About Increasing Print Job Complexity

Published June 8, 2020

Gershon Alon, Head of HP PrintOS, HP Indigo, talks to David Zwang about how increased print jobs and the greater complexity of those jobs—largely due to variable data—have put great strains on digital front ends. Users thus need to create variable-data PDFs that won’t tie up RIPs and digital presses. HP’s partner Global Graphics recently released the “Full Speed Ahead” guide to variable-data print PDF creation. 

Postprint Corrugated: Xeikon IDERA Coming Out Strong

Published June 3, 2020

There are currently many postprint corrugated solutions out there, yet most have not gained significant traction in the market. Xeikon, their credibility, and the market understanding of Flint, puts them in a great position to enter and even grow the market.

Global Graphics Goes Full Speed Ahead with New Guide to Making Variable-Data PDFs

Published June 1, 2020

Martin Bailey, CTO of Global Graphics Software, talks with David Zwang about “Full Speed Ahead,” a new guide that helps people make PDF files for variable-data printing more efficiently, especially as VDP is taking off in new markets and applications, such as labels and packaging.

Sustainably Putting the Wrap on Shrink Sleeves and Labels?

Published May 26, 2020

Can a new, more sustainable technology compete in the third largest output value application in packaging? ACTEGA has developed an interesting solution and is poised to find out.

Breaking the Electrophotographic Barriers—HP Indigo LEPx and V12

Published May 19, 2020

HP has spent the last four years developing ways to overcome the existing production barriers of their EP products and processes. They recently announced LEPx, a unique new imaging technology as an integral component of the V12, their future platform label press.

Kodak Adapts to the New Environment

Published May 18, 2020

David Zwang talks with Jim Continenza about where Kodak is today, where it's going in the future, and how some of the changes Kodak made in the past year have helped the company weather the current crisis. The company is also using the shutdown to devote its energy to R&D.

Remote Director Facilitates Remote Proofing

Published May 4, 2020

In these difficult times where print and packaging ordering and production are occurring remotely, Remote Director has a solution and special arrangement for those in need of remote proofing. David Zwang talks to Remote Director President Dan Caldwell about the advantages of the company’s solution.

If You Don’t Like This Reality, Try One of These

Published April 30, 2020

Our current “reality” may not be ideal, but as we come out of this pandemic and begin to redefine our “new normal,” we will find that print will play a big part in engaging that new reality. I am guessing it will also include AR, MR, and VR as well.

Global Graphics Changes the Game—Now Going Direct to the Printhead!

Published April 29, 2020

Global Graphics has developed the first direct-to-printhead processing pipeline using desktop class CPUs creating a future-proof solution to keep up with the latest production inkjet presses. This is a very significant development and is truly a game changer.

Miraclon Celebrates Its One-Year Anniversary

Published April 27, 2020

David Zwang talks to Chris Payne, CEO of Miraclon, the former Kodak flexo unit, about Miraclon’s one-year anniversary as an independent company, how the company has fared over the past year, as well as the state of business during the current crisis.

Canon VarioPRINT iX Targets Commercial Print

Published April 1, 2020

Canon has announced the next generation in its VarioPrint line of sheetfed inkjet presses. The varioPRINT iX series is built on a new platform, based on the experiences from the current i-series platform, and is designed for commercial print applications.

Memjet and the Expansion of Single-Pass Inkjet Printing

Published March 30, 2020

Kevin Shimamoto, CMO for Memjet, talks to David Zwang about how Memjet’s inkjet technology platforms and OEM partners are expanding single-pass inkjet into the mainstream printing market and beyond, into new and different applications.

drupa Preview Briefing—Xeikon Raises the Bar

Published March 30, 2020

Xeikon isn’t waiting until drupa 2021 to introduce new products they have been working on. The SX30000, Cheetah 2.0, and an upgraded X-800 are designed to reduce operating costs and increase competitiveness compared with other EP press manufacturers and entry level inkjet solutions like the Canon VarioPrint i300, and Xerox’s Rialto and Baltoro.

The Canna-Business: Diving into the Business of Cannabis and its Packaging

Published March 24, 2020

As the articles in our series on the cannabis packaging market have shown, this is a high-growth area—but various pitfalls abound. David Zwang talks to several companies producing packaging for the cannabis market and highlights the opportunities they've found and the challenges they faced.

drupa 2020: HP Indigo Steps Up Their Game All Around

Published March 12, 2020

On the heels of the HP PageWide announcement last week, HP Indigo has now announced some significant technology and product advancements which seem to reaffirm industry shifts, but more importantly highlight the company’s direction going forward.

HP PageWide Inkjet Has Become Brilliant

Published March 10, 2020

HP likes to combine technology innovation with the release of a new press. In this case, the new innovation is HP Brilliant InkTMand the press is the new HP PageWide Web Press T250 HD. Targeted at commercial and publishing markets, initially Brilliant InkTMadds compatibility with offset coated and uncoated media through the selective use of a new HP Optimizer. This brings HP PageWide to the level of media handling capabilities of the competing Canon ProStream and Ricoh VC70000.

HP Announces New PageWide Web Press with Brilliant Ink

Published March 10, 2020

Carles Farre of HP talks to David Zwang about the just-announced HP PageWide Web Press T250 HD with Brilliant Ink. Brilliant Ink expands the range of applications users can produce, as it makes the HP PageWide T250 HD press compatible with offset coated stock.

Executive Q&A: Kevin Shimamoto, Chief Marketing Officer, Memjet

Published March 9, 2020

Kevin Shimamoto is the CMO of Memjet, a company that is positioned to provide the tools for the next generation of printing applications. His background, and the Memjet mission, is a great story that brings energy and innovation to print.

drupa Preview: Re-Automating Automation—The Next Wave

Published March 3, 2020

On the 20th anniversary of Enfocus PitStop Server, one of the earliest of the automated workflow tools, there is a broader movement to bring automation tools to the next level in order to support the new business and production requirements of today and tomorrow.

Industry 4.0 to Play a Big Role at drupa 2020

Published March 2, 2020

Gavin Jordan-Smith, Senior VP, Commercial and Industrial Print, for Ricoh, looks ahead to drupa 2020, and anticipates the extent to which elements of “Industry 4.0” will play more significant and tangible roles in emerging new products. Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, will be increasingly integrated—not just for predictive maintenance, but also to intelligently control workflows.

The Signs Are Good for Signs of Success

Published February 13, 2020

Curtis Metz talks to David Zwang about Signs of Success, a company that contracts with sign shops to do installations of major sign projects—analog and dynamic digital—and how the company is growing its digital business. The company also has a side business in embroidery and custom heat-transfer T-shirts.

The Added Value of Web-to-Print

Published February 11, 2020

Greg Salzman, President of Aleyant Systems, talks to David Zwang about the value that a web-to-print/online ordering portal beings to a print business. Not only does it make it convenient for customers to place orders at any time, it also frees up resources within the print business, as it doesn’t require the involvement of sales or customer service reps, or even estimators.

Corrugated Re-Envisioned—Part 3: Preprint (Print and Laminate) Even More Choices!

Published February 4, 2020

High color corrugated packaging is growing and will continue to grow. The run sizes are getting smaller to adapt to the new market requirements, and the opportunities for print service providers to jump on this moving train abound. In Part 3 of this series, I focus on the available preprint solutions with some limited product mentions. Selecting which method is better is really based on a lot of factors, including your market opportunities, capital investment, production costs, and internal skills. Although making that determination also involves board and run size as well. Both analog and digital presses are and will continue to be in the mix and grow. It’s a pretty exciting time with some great opportunities.

Corrugated Re-Envisioned Part 2—Direct Print (Post-Print) Lots of Choices!

Published January 28, 2020

In Part 2 of this series, I focus on the available digital post-print solutions with some limited product mentions. Leading up to drupa, I will cover some of the offerings in greater depth. All of the solutions discussed here are “single pass” printers, where the printheads are stationary and only the media moves. They include complete corrugating equipment with built in printing, to a tabletop printer with lots of other options in between. Equipment pricing ranges from in excess of $4MM to as low as $19K. In summary: Lots of Choices!

Packaging Preview: Corrugated Post-Print Re-Envisioned—Part 1

Published January 21, 2020

There are “two primary” corrugated print manufacturing processes for high graphics: a multi-process method of printing on a top sheet (liner) which is then laminated to the corrugated material, or, alternatively, a single process method of printing directly on the corrugated material, sometimes called “post-print.” In this article, we will look at the award-winning Bobst THQ (Très Haute Qualité) FlexoCloud technology focused on corrugated post-print production, and perhaps some alternative methods.

The Future of Corrugated—Lots of Opportunity and Lots of Choices!

Published January 14, 2020

One of the more active growth areas for print service providers and of digital printing equipment development is corrugated, and for good reason. Estimates of corrugated shipments in North America are in excess of 420 billion square feet and growing. Estimates for three or more color “high graphics” corrugated production is growing as well with actual output for 2019 anticipated to have 20%–30% share of the overall corrugated volume. Overall, this is an exciting market with a lot of growth potential.

drupa Preview: Front-End Trends

Published January 9, 2020

Wim Fransen, General Manager of Enfocus, talks to David Zwang about some of the major trends he has been seeing as we head toward drupa, including the emergence of faster technologies, the need to handle shorter job runs with faster turnaround times, and new front-end solutions that bridge the gap between job entry, MIS, and prepress.

Actega EcoLeaf (aka Nano Metallography) Digital Metallization Ready for Prime Time

Published January 7, 2020

At drupa 2016, Landa Labs introduced Nano Metallography, a new metallization technology to replace foils for embellishments. This process is designed to produce zero waste at less than half the cost of foil. In February of 2017, Actega Metal Print, a division of Altana AG, acquired the technology and rebranded it EcoLeaf. The solution is now going into beta and will be fully commercialized in time for drupa 2020.

People Love Embellishments—But Often Fear Them

Published December 19, 2019

Trish Witkowski, Chief Fold Fanatic for Fold Factory, talks to David Zwang about “embellishments”—people love them, but are often scared of them. There is a perception that “special effects” are only for special projects, and embellishment examples are often highly elaborate and aspirational. As a result, printers don’t often see how embellishments can be scaled down and used for more day-to-day print applications.

Flexible Packaging with Inkjet Gets Fast and Wide

Published December 10, 2019

Uteco and Kodak have just announced that they sold the first UTECO Sapphire EVO W product production inkjet press designed for flexible packaging. The “W” refers to “Wide” since this press has a 1250 mm (49 in.) width. The EVO W is the first press to be powered by the Kodak ULTRASTREAM technology. The press supports a higher resolution of 600 x 1800 dpi at up to 150 mpm (492 fpm). Overall productivity can be 4X over existing digital solutions.

Alwan’s Elie Khoury on Extended Color Gamuts

Published December 4, 2019

Elie Khoury, President of Alwan Color Expertise, talks to David Zwang about extended color gamuts. The idea of expanding the color gamut of a press goes back decades, but the tools for its effective implementation were often lacking. Alwan Color Expertise is working to develop standards to help make extended gamut printing consistent and reliable.

Enfocus Addresses the Needs of Niche Printing Markets

Published December 3, 2019

Wim Fransen, Managing Director of Enfocus, talks to David Zwang about the proliferation of niche printing markets—commercial, labels, textiles, wide format, vehicle graphics, etc.—and how they all share many of the same underlying challenges. Enfocus has been seeking to develop specific configurations of its flagship PitStop software to address the individual needs of these vertical markets.

Kodak’s drupa 2020 Vision

Published December 3, 2019

Patti Smith, Kodak’s VP, WW Business Development & Marketing, Digital Inkjet Printing, talks to David Zwang about the major trends that Kodak has been seeing in the lead-up to drupa 2020. The biggest among them is packaging, especially digital packaging, the demand for which is being driven by the brands.

Crawford Technologies’ SmartSetup Streamlines Application Onboarding

Published November 26, 2019

David Zwang talks to Ernie Crawford, CEO of Crawford Technologies, a software company that focuses on the transactional printing market, helping organizations improve the ways that they deliver documents to customers, in print or omnichannel. The company just launched its new SmartSetup, designed for rapidly onboarding applications into workflow automation and ADF systems.

Bobst’s D’Annunzio on Digital Label Printing

Published November 25, 2019

David Zwang talks to Federico D’Annunzio, Senior Innovation Advisor for the Bobst Group, about some of the new innovations surrounding digital label printing, and how the same automation process can be applied to digital inkjet, flexo, offset, or hybrid label printing equipment.

Transformation Is Not Always What You Plan…

Published November 19, 2019

David Zwang details the recent merger/acquisition dance going on between Xerox and HP, and the forces that are impelling both companies to transform—one way or another.

Transformation Affects Everyone—Time Is Not on Your Side!

Published November 12, 2019

The most important thing to realize is that as technologies and markets change, the speed at which a company addresses business transformation can position them as a leader or laggard going forward. Examples of this can be seen in these two formerly leading companies, both with roots in Rochester N.Y., grappling with their own transformations while their customers are hav ing to do the same.

Marco Boer on Industry Convergence

Published November 11, 2019

Marco Boer of I.T. Strategies talks to David Zwang at PRINTING United about the theme of the show: convergence, or that, in order to grow their businesses, printers need to incrementally add new kinds of print applications.

4Over's Simon Beltran Talks About Transformation

Published November 7, 2019

Simon Beltran, President of 4Over, talks about how the company has grown over the past 18 years to become the premier trade provider to the print industry in North America, with nine locations and 1,400 team members in the US and Canada. The company is continuing its transformation by adding and looking at new print applications, such as packaging.

printIQ Tailors Workflow Software for Specific Types of Businesses

Published November 6, 2019

Matt Miloszewski, Sales Director for the Eastern Region for printIQ talks about the company’s workflow software systems which are agnostic with regard to print process print process—digital, commercial, sheetfed, webfed, wide format, packaging, screen—and can be configured with unique features for specific types of print businesses.

Canon Offically Enters the Digital Packaging Market at Labelexpo in Brussels

Published November 5, 2019

Crit Driessen, VP of Labels & Packaging for Canon, talks to David Zwang about the Océ LabelStream 4000 Series, Canon’s initial entry into the digital packaging marketplace.

Ricoh at PRINTING United

Published November 4, 2019

Ricoh USA’s Gavin Jordan-Smith talks to David Zwang about the diverse equipment the company had on the show floor at PRINTING United, the variety of customers—including commercial as well as sign and display printers—who visited Ricoh’s booth, the surprising amount of business Ricoh was closing, and the overall air of excitement at the show.

Anderson & Vreeland Signs on as Xeikon's North American Distributor

Published October 28, 2019

David Miller, Director of Digital Business for Anderson & Vreeland, talks to David Zwang about the company’s portfolio of solutions for the corrugated packaging market, and the company’s just-announced agreement to distribute Xeikon’s label and packaging presses in North America.

Executive Q&A: Gavin Jordan-Smith

Published October 22, 2019

Gavin Jordan-Smith has had a very interesting journey on his way to his current position as Senior Vice President of Commercial and Industrial Printing Business, Ricoh Americas.

Memjet’s DuraLink Commercial Press Technology

Published October 22, 2019

Eric Owens General Manager of Memjet’s Commercial Print Division, talks about DuraLink, the company’s pigment-based technology designed for mid- to high-volume commercial inkjet print systems.

Xeikon on the Latest Label Printing Trends

Published October 16, 2019

David Zwang talks to Filip Weymans, VP of Marketing for Xeikon, at Labelexpo about the trends that Xeikon is seeing in the label industry and how they are addressing them.

Label and Packaging Trends for 2019 and Beyond

Published October 15, 2019

The trends in labels and packaging have become pretty well-defined in 2019 and will remain a significant focus going forward. The four primary trends are; increased quality, short and on-demand production runs, an increase in personalization, and a focus on sustainability. These trends along with the corresponding messaging will continue to evolve and resonate throughout 2020 and beyond.

Goodbye, Chicago…Hello, New Normal

Published October 8, 2019

Last week we saw the last of the big Chicago printing events. Over the years we have seen many printing and technology events disappear only to be replaced by others that, at least for a time, provide more relevance and timeliness. However, even with the excitement of new events on the horizon, in speaking with many of the exhibitors and attendees last week, there was still a shared sadness. Our new normalcy is taking away a certain comfort and, sadly, Chicago.

AVT's Complete Inspection Workflow

Published October 8, 2019

Jaron Lotan, President of AVT, talks to David Zwang about how the company began 25 years ago as an inspection company and has evolved more powerful solutions around inspection technologies—high-quality cameras and sophisticated algorithms, as well as the entire workflow to support them.

Labelexpo 2019: Hybrid or...?

Published October 1, 2019

Labelexpo 2019 was an interesting event. There were a lot of hybrid presses being shown: flexo presses with inkjet or toner digital integrated imaging; digital presses with flexo imaging in order to get the great opaque white needed for many labels and flexible packaging or precoating for plastics, etc.; a variety of presses with inline enhancement capabilities, etc. But, perhaps the whole hybrid evolution is really just a part of the industry digital transformation and transition to the real end game: purpose-built or bespoke solutions.

Reduce Manual Tasks with AVT's Automation Solutions

Published October 1, 2019

Ornit Gluzman, Product Manager for Workflow Automation Color Products at AVT, talks to David Zwang at Labelexpo about AVT’s automation software—specifically, the ability to automatically set up jobs for inspection prior to printing.

Bobst's Transformation and the Digitization of Flexo

Published October 1, 2019

Jean-Pascal Bobst, CEO of Bobst, talks to David Zwang at Labelexpo about the company's vision for how it needs to evolve as the industry and customer demands change.

Goodway Group Adopts Production Inkjet

Published September 30, 2019

David Zwang talks to Mike Jenoski, President and CEO of Goodway Group of Massachusetts, a print service provider that serves educational, retail, medical, and pharmaceutical businesses in the Burlington, Mass., area. The company offers a broad array of printing equipment, from offset, to toner-based to digital, to its recent acquisition of a Canon Océ VarioPrint i300 Inkjet Color Digital Press.

Production Inkjet Helps McNaughton & Gunn Pump Out the Pages

Published September 26, 2019

David Zwang talks with Jim Clark, Director of Operations for book manufacturer McNaughton & Gunn, about the company’s foray into production inkjet printing. Using its Canon Océ VarioPrint i300, they produced 29 million pages in August alone.

Labelexpo 2019 Kicks Off In Brussels

Published September 25, 2019

Labelexpo 2019, celebrating its 40th anniversary, launched in Brussels to a huge group of more than 600 exhibitors and a very large global audience of attendees. In this first article, David Zwang looks at general trends at the event.

Production Inkjet: Welcome to the Revolution—Landa Helps Change the Tides

Published September 24, 2019

Considering only about 3% of the total global print production in the market is digital, including all digital technologies, capturing a larger share will depend on production speeds and cost. Landa and their global customer base are now ramping up for a global presence, high demand, and are ready to participate in the Inkjet Revolution. The tides are changing…

thINK Ahead 2019 Kicks Off in Boca Raton

Published September 18, 2019

David Zwang talks to Todd Roth, VP of Core Publishing Solutions and chair of this year’s thINK Ahead Conference, which opened yesterday in Boca Raton, Fla. He discusses how Canon's inkjet forum—now in its fifth year—has grown and evolved, as well as the value it provides for inkjet users of all experience levels.

MIS/ERP Systems: How Are You Managing Your Business?

Published September 17, 2019

The best way to look at MIS/ERP systems is holistically, in the context of the bigger picture of managing your business as a whole. Just as you should have a production workflow system, ultimately an MIS system is a workflow system for your business operations.

Kirk-Rudy Targets Bespoke Production Inkjet Solutions with Memjet DuraFlex

Published September 10, 2019

The demand for bespoke production inkjet solutions is growing, and Kirk-Rudy has been building unique and purpose-built solutions for about 50 years. With more than 2,500 unique solutions and now the addition of Memjet DuraFlex, they are ready to build thousands more. David Zwang talks to Bob Mills, General Manager of Kirk-Rudy.

Production Inkjet: Welcome to the Revolution—Memjet Targets Light Production

Published September 3, 2019

The adoption of production inkjet so far has narrowly targeted mid to high-end production requirements. However, light production including higher-end departmental MFP devices currently addressed by EP (toner) devices is a significant portion of the market. Memjet just introduced a low-cost single pass OEM printhead solution to target that market. The tide may be turning…

Memjet Announces New DuraFlex Platform

Published September 3, 2019

David Zwang talks to Kim Beswick, General Manager of Memjet, about the new DuraFlex platform for entry-level and light-production inkjet presses.

Labelexpo Europe 2019: Getting Ready for the Big Event!

Published August 29, 2019

drupa 2020 is only about eight months away and the rumors and anticipation are starting to heat up. Very much like drupa, Labelexpo is truly a global event. And don’t let the name fool you: it isn’t just about labels. There is also flexible packaging and of course lots of innovative finishing and media being showcased. Even if you are not in label or flexible packaging production, this event offers you a preview of things to come—although you may need to connect the dots.

Esko Sees Closer Collaboration Between Brand Owners and Packaging Suppliers

Published August 28, 2019

Bernard Zwaenepoel, Chief Technology Officer Software for Esko, talks to David Zwang at Eskoworld about the increasingly close collaboration between brand owners and packaging suppliers, especially when it comes to using and sharing data.

Esko Brands Focuses on Brand Development and Management

Published August 22, 2019

David Zwang speaks with Ali Moosani, Esko President, about Esko Brands, the growing division that focuses on brand development and management.

The Ricoh Pro VC70000—Breakthrough Inkjet Technology

Published August 21, 2019

David Zwang talks to Mike Herold, Director of Global Marketing for Ricoh, about the company’s new award-winning Ricoh Pro VC70000 continuous-feed inkjet printer. The new Extended Gamut ink and unique compact drying system are designed for a wide media range including commodity offset coated papers.

Production Inkjet: Welcome to the Revolution—Let’s Talk Corrugated

Published August 20, 2019

One of the hottest topics in packaging print today is corrugated, and for many reasons. One of those is that it is a market area showing a solid growth trajectory. So, what are the areas of growth, and what are some of the challenges that will affect the growth of digital print, more specifically production inkjet, in corrugated?

Quik Print’s Extended Family Business

Published August 7, 2019

At Ricoh Interact, David Zwang talks to Mark Little, VP of Operations for Quik Print of Oklahoma City. Quik Print was founded in 1963, and is today an interesting family organization with about 40 locations across six states, run by a "team of bothers." Through cooperation, they have found a way to use assorted print production technologies to create a strong and growing presence.

Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) Acquiring NAPCO Media

Published August 7, 2019

The state of printing industry associations is still very much in a state of flux with a few still trying to survive. This latest move may tip the scales.

Production Inkjet: Welcome to the Revolution—Front Line Report from Rochester’s Mercury Printing

Published August 6, 2019

This article is a part of a series looking at production inkjet solutions leading up to and through drupa 2020. We will look at what’s new, how it’s being used, and how it’s  transforming print service providers. In this article, we go to the front lines and we take a look at Mercury Printing of Rochester, N.Y., a perfect example of a digital technology and business transformation. And for all the right reasons…

Mercury Printing: On the Front Lines of the Production Inkjet Revolution

Published August 6, 2019

David Zwang talks to Christian Schamberger, President of Mercury Printing, about the history of the company and its current focus on the educational publishing market. Mercury has a wide variety of offset and digital equipment (toner and inkjet) to serve its clients, but is now almost completely digital, and has transitioned much of its work from toner and offset to inkjet.

Production Inkjet: Welcome to the Revolution—Time to Take Stock

Published July 23, 2019

Production inkjet solutions are proliferating at an ever-increasing rate. The quality of many of the solutions has finally reached that of offset, and the productivity has surpassed that of toner. There are also a lot more options and opportunities. Perhaps it is time to step back and take stock of where we are and where things could be going?

Landa: And They’re Off…

Published July 9, 2019

Benny Landa first introduced the concept of “Nanography” at drupa 2012. There was a reaffirmation of the introduction at drupa 2016, and since then, lots of quiet. It turns out the quiet was self-imposed, and in the interim Landa has been very busy building an organization and shipping presses.

Sepire: The New Company on the Block

Published June 27, 2019

How would you like to start up a new company with a full complement of hardware, software, and workflows tailored specifically to your requirements with no legacy technology debt? Sepire, which launched only last May, found a way.... At Ricoh's INTERACT, David Zwang talks to Josh Bonham of Sepire, which is an omnichannel solutions provider for the health care and financial services industries.

EskoWorld: Packaging Connected

Published June 25, 2019

Esko held its 28th EskoWorld in Nashville with an audience of over 550 attendees. Since its inception, this has been a go-to event for those in packaging production and signage, although the audience is now growing with about 25% of which were brand owners. This plays nicely into the theme “Packaging Connected.”

Creating a Connected Packaging Value Chain

Published June 25, 2019

Newly appointed Esko President Mattias Byström shares his observations on the opportunities that he sees in creating a connected packaging value chain, as well as early impressions of, and excitement about, his first EskoWorld.

Ricoh Interact 2019—A Very Engaging Experience

Published June 11, 2019

David Zwang reports from Interact 2019, Ricoh’s annual customer event comprising nearly 60 sessions which covered a wide range of topics, both high-level and highly detailed. It also provided an opportunity to meet some of the new Ricoh leadership team.

Ricoh Users and Execs Interact in Denver

Published June 11, 2019

David Zwang talks to Heather Poulin, Director of Marketing for Ricoh USA, at Interact 2019, Ricoh’s annual user conference. The goal of the event is to get customers and Ricoh executives to “interact” with each other to find best practices that Ricoh users can take back to their shops.

BOBST and the Rebirth of Flexo—Part 2

Published May 29, 2019

Frederico d’Annunzio, Hybrid Program Manager for BOBST, continues his discussion with David Zwang about the BOBST REVO initiative that has helped bring about the “rebirth of flexo."

Rebirth of Flexo: Part 2...Can This Type of Effort Translate to Other Analog Printing Technologies?

Published May 28, 2019

In Part 2 of “Rebirth of Flexo,” David Zwang looks at an example of a flexo solution and its components that provides a significant deterrent to the onslaught of production inkjet in packaging production.

BOBST and the Rebirth of Flexo

Published May 28, 2019

Frederico d’Annunzio, Hybrid Program Manager for BOBST, talks to David Zwang about BOBST initiatives that have helped bring about the “rebirth of flexo.”

Rebirth of Flexo: Technology Shifts…Are We Asking the Right Questions?

Published May 21, 2019

During new printing technology introductions there has usually been displacement and realignment of the existing print technology roles. During those transformational times, there are many old and new options. Packaging production is now going through one of these periods, raising the question: what type of print technology is best? In packaging production, this decision is getting harder, as a result of the rebirth of flexo printing.

The Role of Digital Printing in Packaging—and the Rebirth of Flexo

Published May 21, 2019

David Zwang talks to Francois Martin, Senior Communication Advisor, Bobst Group, about the role of digital printing in packaging. Although digital has the ability to optimize production, speed time to market, and offer other benefits, flexo is improving dramatically. When it comes to packaging printing, no one technology is better than another; the best-suited printing technology will be application-specific.

A RIP Designed with Label and Packaging Production in Mind: Harlequin RIP v12.1

Published May 14, 2019

We are seeing significant advancements in label and packaging production in both digital and analog production. However, one thing in common is rapid growth. Global Graphics released the Harlequin RIP v12 about a year ago with some of the new PDF 2.0 features. This new Harlequin RIP/Renderer v12.1 has added many additional features designed for print and further targeted at label and packaging production. David Zwang takes an in-depth look at this new release.

Kodak Flexographic Packaging Reborn—Introducing Miraclon

Published May 7, 2019

In this age of digital print transformation, what is so exciting about the rebirth of a plate manufacturer? Well, first of all, it is a flexographic plate manufacturer, and second, it was formerly owned by Kodak. With this new life, how will Miraclon leverage their expertise to grow into a market leader?

DALIM Software: Bridging Print Business Silos

Published May 2, 2019

David Zwang talks with Dr. Carol Werlé, CEO of DALIM Software, at DUO2019, the DALIM Users Group Conference. DALIM, which develops productivity workflow and communication software, was founded in 1989 and has changed as the industry has changed, serving now as a “bridge between the solos” in a print business.

Muller Martini Offers a Full Workflow System

Published April 30, 2019

Andy Fetherman, VP of Sales and Technology for Muller Martini, talks about the company's complete Finishing 4.0 ideology that helps customers beyond finishing, taking advantage of automation and connecting it to drive variability in finishing.

Kodak Rolls Out Inkjet Innovations in Packaging

Published April 29, 2019

Will Mansfield, Director of WWMarketing EISD for Kodak, talks about the company's recent announcements surrounding new developments packaging, specifically as they pertain to Kodak's Stream and UltraStream inkjet technologies.

Embellishments: What’s Old Is New Again and Still Adds Value!—Part 2

Published April 23, 2019

Embellishment has been a function of print production for as long as there has been printing. In fact, it almost goes back to the beginning of the writing of documents. There is no doubt that embellishment does add value to the printed product. Especially with the more recent introduction of digital embellishment technologies designed to complement digital printing. Now that embellishments have finally begun to capture market awareness, new developments are happening all the time. In part 2 of this series, David Zwang will look at new mainstream technologies that add embellishments and value to print and packaging production.

Embellishments: What’s Old Is New Again and Still Adds Value!—Part 1

Published April 9, 2019

Embellishment has been a function of print production for as long as there has been printing. In fact, it almost goes back to the beginning of the writing of documents. There is no doubt that embellishment does add value to the printed product. Especially with the more recent introduction of digital embellishment technologies, designed to complement digital printing technologies. New developments in digital embellishment are happening all the time now that it has finally begun to capture market awareness. In part one of this two-part feature, David Zwang will look at the added value and long history of embellishments.

There Are Opportunities in Labels and Packaging—But Where Do You Start?

Published March 26, 2019

Whether you are already a converter or are a print service provider looking at expanding your product and services portfolio, it is important to develop a long-term strategy in order to capture your share of the changing and developing market. In this new series, David Zwang takes a deep dive into the opportunities, changes, and challenges that you need to focus on in Labels and Packaging.

Is Personalization Important to Labels and Packaging?

Published March 19, 2019

We have all seen the studies and even experienced first-hand the value of personalization in direct mail and other forms of communication. But what about the value of personalization in products and packaging? There are a lot of projections into what the market value “could” be, but how do you take advantage of that?

Hunkeler Innovationdays Does It Again!

Published February 26, 2019

Hunkeler Innovationdays is a biennial event that brings together some of the latest digital press workflows and equipment with the latest finishing equipment to showcase complete solutions. Surprisingly, this is done in an atmosphere that presents exhibitors as equals, without much of the hype or fanfare that you might expect at a print show. The theme of this year’s event “Success with Automation” is a very timely topic considering the growth and impact of production inkjet technology. As they have done in the past, they have accomplished their goal.

Kodak Doubles Down on Packaging

Published February 12, 2019

Kodak Enterprise Inkjet Systems Division (EISD) has officially put a stake in the ground—and that stake is positioned in the heart of volume label and packaging production. While they have been flirting around the edges of packaging production since drupa 2012, outwardly their focus has seemed to be in their legacy wheelhouse; transactional, direct mail, and commercial print. That is about to change, and in fact it already has….

Enfocus' Vendor-Neutral Automation Platform

Published February 11, 2019

Toon Van Rossum, product manager for Switch at Enfocus, talks to David Zwang about the development of the vendor-neutral automation platform and how it has grown in popularity in recent years.

Production Printing Presses: How Do You Compare Them?

Published February 5, 2019

Today we have many different print technologies available, including a variety of offset, electrophotographic, and inkjet presses from many different manufacturers using a variety of unique manufacturing and design techniques. Additionally, all of these at a minimum have a DFE which controls the file processing prior to print. They all have the potential to be used to produce commercial print, labels, packaging, and industrial printing. So how do you determine that the press you are using or about to purchase is up to the challenge? And how do you compare it to other similar and even different presses?

Cloudprinter.com's Global Print Hub

Published January 31, 2019

David Zwang talks with Martijn Eier, CEO of Cloudprinter.com, about the cloud-based, global print fulfillment business. The Cloudprinter.com platform serves as a hub that integrates print providers from around the world.

MGI AlphaJET: An Industrial Print Factory?

Published January 22, 2019

MGI’s AlphaJET is unique and it goes to the core of their company’s DNA: building “application-based” printing presses. However, it is designed to support a much wider range of solutions than just commercial printing applications, with a primary focus on packaging and industrial. It sure looks like a print factory…

Royal Printers Succeeds with Sustainability

Published January 8, 2019

Royal Printers believes sustainability is good for them and their customers—and it's working.

Welcome to 2019: The Beginning of the Next Chapter in Print and Packaging?

Published January 8, 2019

2019 has all the potential to become a pivotal year in print and packaging. It is a Hunkeler Innovation Days year and the leadup year to drupa 2020…and available technology is maturing. Strap yourselves in for an exciting year!

Esko—Firing on All Cylinders

Published December 4, 2018

Esko has been the premier provider of software and hardware solutions for label and packaging prepress. Now that the market is changing, what are they doing to address these new requirements? A lot!

Warneke Paper Box Company Installs the First Heidelberg Primefire 106 in the U.S.

Published November 20, 2018

Steve Huppert, Vice President and COO of Warneke Paper Box Company in Denver, Colo., talks to David Zwang about the company's installation of a Heidelberg Primefire 106. Heidelberg is positioning the Primefire for industrial printing applications in the packaging market.

Heidelberg 2.0—Reinventing a Classic

Published November 20, 2018

How do you reinvent a 160-year-old business to address the new market requirements? This is a challenge that we have been seeing over and over again, and many companies have not been able to make that change. Heidelberg seems to have found the formula that looks at their internal organization, but more importantly, at their customers’ changing requirements as well.

Flexo’s Transformation—It’s All About Controlling Variables

Published November 6, 2018

Flexography is going through a renaissance. While it has been around since the late 19th century, it has never really had a role in “quality” printing, although that seems to be changing. This change is proving that it can fight off the increased use of digital printing for packaging production with better productivity and lower cost. In this article, David Zwang looks at one of the more significant changes facilitating that transformation.

Kodak Celebrates 10 Years of FLEXCEL Plates

Published November 6, 2018

Chris Payne, President of the Flexographic Packaging Division at Kodak, talks to Dave Zwang about the 10th anniversary of the FLEXCEL NX flexographic plate line and how it has transformed the flexographic packaging industry.

Labelexpo 2018 Part 2—Digital Embellishment Going Mainstream

Published October 23, 2018

Labelexpo 2018 in Rosemont, Ill., and PRINT 18 in Chicago are over, and it they were pretty exciting shows. The crowds were enthusiastic and buying from early indications. In this second of two parts I will look at how embellishment is moving from a standalone mechanical process to digital mainstream production.

HYBRID Software and Global Graphics Firming Up Relationship

Published October 16, 2018

Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of the Board for HYBRID Software, talks about the company and plans of a Global Graphics acquisition.

Tilia Labs: Imposing Software

Published October 10, 2018

Sagen de Jong, CEO and Co-Founder of Tilia Labs, talks to Dave Zwang about the company's imposition, planning, and workflow software, and how imposition for labels and packaging differs from general commercial printing.

Labelexpo 2018—Looking at Hardware

Published October 9, 2018

Labelexpo 2018 in Rosemont (Chicago area) is over, and it was an exciting show. The crowds were enthusiastic and, from early indications, buying. In this first of two parts, I will look at interesting press hardware trends.

Labelexpo 2018: First Look

Published September 26, 2018

Labelexpo 2018 in Rosemont (Chicago area) was very busy for the first day. This is David Zwang’s initial report from that event and that day. More to come.

HYBRID Software’s Next-Generation Workflow Solution Deployed by SGK

Published September 5, 2018

HYBRID Software has been growing at a fairly good clip and this new $20 million software deployment by the SGK Brand Solutions subsidiary of Matthews International is going to give it an additional boost. More importantly, the new software, Shockwave, their development project name, is a great example of a next-generation workflow solution that was developed for the new market requirements.

Labelexpo Americas 2018 Is Not Just for Labels and Packaging

Published August 28, 2018

Labelexpo is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 15 minutes from Chicago’s O’Hare airport, on September 25–27. This is the biggest Label and Print packaging event in the Americas. However, what will be seen there will also prove to be a harbinger for many of the new developments coming to other print production applications.

Labels and Packaging: Predicting and Achieving Consistent Color Across Disparate Press Platforms and Media

Published August 14, 2018

Color management standards and process controls have helped raise the bar on defining and meeting client expectations in color reproduction. However, as we see more cross-platform and cross-media packaging and marketing campaigns, how can we accurately predict, prepare, and communicate expected results?

Adobe PDF Print Engine 5: PDF 2.0 Coming Soon to a DFE Near You

Published July 24, 2018

Adobe announced Adobe PDF Print Engine 5, their core technology used by many Digital Front Ends driving print production equipment. This release makes PDF 2.0 print-related features available for OEM implementation.

Don’t Box Me In—Boxes On Demand Are Coming Just in Time!

Published July 17, 2018

Ecommerce has created a new demand for custom corrugated boxes. To satisfy that demand, the purchase of Plymouth Packaging by WestRock has created a new momentum for producing custom sized boxes on demand at a time when the demand for variable-sized boxes in exploding.

The Customer is Central to Ricoh

Published June 26, 2018

Mike Herold, Director of Global Marketing and Production, Inkjet Technologies, at Ricoh, discusses what we can expect from Ricoh going forward, including the new VC70000.

Production Inkjet—The Waves Continue: Ricoh Pro VC70000

Published June 26, 2018

In 2011, David Zwang began a series that looked at the current production inkjet product offerings from a wide range of vendors, discussing how they are being, or could be, used. Since then he has continued to evaluate and report on new developments. The latest product is the new Ricoh Pro VC70000, which rounds out the Ricoh VC Pro production print offerings with an impressive press targeted at higher-quality offset-to-digital migration with the ability to print on many commodity coated offset papers with higher ink densities and without the need for precoat.

Safety In Numbers: From Gen X to Gen Y

Published June 25, 2018

Kenneth W. Gronbach, a demographer with KGC Direct, LLC, talks to David Zwang at Ricoh's Interact Conference about how the number of members in a given generation can impact the overall economy. The fewer number of Gen Xers than Baby Boomers had a negative effect—but Gen Y is bigger and will have a highly positive impact.

What's Next from Ricoh

Published June 21, 2018

At Ricoh INTERACT 2018, Brian Dollard, Director of Strategic Planning and Business Development at Ricoh USA, Inc., talks with David Zwang about the past year, and what customers can expect to see from Ricoh going forward.

From Antibacterial Substrates to Smart Labels, Nanotechnology Comes to Print

Published June 14, 2018

Nir Waiskopf, Ph.D., team leader for a nanotechnology project at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, explains the uses of nanotechnology in biomedical, industrial printing, and display and packaging applications.

Aldo Peretti Discusses the Advantages of Conventional Printing Technology

Published June 13, 2018

Aldo Peretti, CEO of UTECO and President of the Italian Machine Manufacturers Association, shares his thoughts on the future of digital technologies in packaging and why he feels digital will share a place with conventional printing technology for while.

Océ LabelStream 4000 UV Inkjet and Flexo Hybrid Press Development and Strategy

Published June 5, 2018

Crit Driessen, VP Strategy and Alliances at Canon Océ talks about the launch of the Océ LabelStream 4000. The Océ LabelStream 4000 is a 5-color UV inkjet hybrid press. Océ selected two strong partners in the development of this new press: Edale Ltd. for the transport and FFEI for the imaging engine.

Update on Canon Océ Product Strategy

Published June 5, 2018

Christian Unterberger, CMO & EVP of Production Printing Products at Canon Océ talks about the organizations “Inkjet DNA” and its approach to bringing production inkjet products to market.

Canon Launches Océ LabelStream 4000 5-Color UV Inkjet and Flexo Hybrid Press

Published June 5, 2018

Canon is not just entering the label and packaging press market, but challenging the current label press market with the new Océ LabelStream 4000, a 5-color inkjet hybrid UV press that continues to show their strengths in production inkjet.

Lumii: A Unique New Solution for Label and Packaging Security

Published May 23, 2018

At RADTECH, David Zwang saw an interesting solution from a young startup company, LUMII, for label and packaging security. Imagine a high-tech moiré that can provide visually 3D security printing inline without the need for external embellishments or to apply post print.

Xeikon Cafe Opens in Chicago

Published May 22, 2018

Benoit Chatelard, CEO of Xeikon, talks to David Zwang at this year’s Xeikon Café in Chicago about the evolution of the Café and its move into the U.S. market. He also talks about recent changes at Xeikon and its decision to focus—to a greater extent than before—on industry segments in which the company offers a unique value. 

Xerox: Innovation and/or Investment

Published May 9, 2018

Xerox has just introduced the very interesting Xerox® IridesseTM Production Press into the global market, the latest electrophotographic machine in its product lineup. With all of the media hype surrounding the Xerox Fujifilm merger, this new press shows how well Xerox and Fuji Xerox can work together to create technology that brings innovation and value to the market and the company, something you may not be hearing in the distracting news streams. Read on for more.

New Ideas Abound at RadTech 2018

Published May 8, 2018

Gary Cohen, Executive Director of RadTech, talks about what attendees to RadTech 2018 can expect at this week's conference and expo. From new ideas in start-up companies to the latest UV+EB technology, excitement is brewing.

A Significant Speed Boost and Cost Reduction with Hybrid Production Inkjet for Flexible Packaging

Published April 23, 2018

UTECO Group, in conjunction with Kodak, has released and will be installing the first Sapphire EVO aqueous-based production hybrid inkjet press for flexible packaging. This newly designed press significantly raises the bar on production speed while lowering operational costs compared with existing digital solutions.

Mr. Aldo Peretti, CEO of UTECO Group, Discusses the State of the Packaging Market

Published April 23, 2018

Packaging requirements are changing and the technology to meet those new requirements need to change as well. Aldo Peretti, CEO of UTECO Group, shares how UTECO, one of the largest flexo press manufacturers in the world, is adapting their press offerings to meet those challenges head on.

Harlequin 12: PDF 2.0 and Then Some, Almost Ready for Prime Time

Published April 11, 2018

Global Graphics today announced what appears to be the first PDF 2.0-compatible RIP/Renderer available to OEM partners. Technology Editor David Zwang delves into the details and explains what this means for the market. Read more.

Bespoke and Hybrid Processes and Manufacturing: Facilitating Technologies Part 2—The Successful Marriage of Ink and Media

Published April 10, 2018

In this series, David Zwang will look at the new requirements for print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0 are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. In this article in the series, he looks at ink and why it is the key technology.

HYBRID PACKZalyzer Brings Packaging Tools to HP PrintOS

Published March 28, 2018

At DScoop 2018 this week, HYBRID Software announced PACKZalyzer, HP PrintOS-compatible software that “will allow order entry or customer service personnel to receive files from clients and get them ready for production before they enter the prepress department.” David Zwang comments on this announcement.

Bespoke Processes and Manufacturing: It Can Be Done, but Where to Begin?

Published March 27, 2018

In this series, David Zwang will look at how the new requirements of print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0, are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. He will look at the requirements, technologies, methods, and educational processes necessary to bring it all together. In this article, he looks at some of the issues that can and should drive a decision.

Bespoke Processes and Manufacturing: Unique Screening Software Solution that Drives Quality in Labels and Packaging

Published March 13, 2018

In this new series David Zwang will look at how the new requirements of print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0, are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. He will look at the requirements, technologies, methods and the educational processes necessary to bring it all together. In this installment of the series, he takes an initial look at an interesting new software development that significantly improves the quality of inkjet imaging.

Bespoke Processes and Manufacturing: What Technologies Facilitate the Development of These Systems?—Part 1

Published February 27, 2018

In this series, David Zwang will look at the new requirements for print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0 are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. He will look at the requirements, technologies, methods, and the educational processes necessary to bring it all together. In this article in the series, he takes an initial look at facilitating technologies that are driving the growth of these solutions.

Arna Marketing: “A Technology Company That Happens to Print”

Published February 21, 2018

New Jersey’s Arna Marketing, “a technology company that happens to print,” builds custom programs for its customers, heavily leveraging variable data and digital printing via Canon Solutions America’s Océ Varioprint and Colostream systems. David Zwang talks to Steven Hegna, President and “Concierge” of Arna Marketing, about the work he currently does for his customers, as well as where he sees his business going.

Wim Fransen on Handling Disparate Data in Automated Workflow

Published February 20, 2018

David Zwang talks to Wim Fransen, Managing Director, at Enfocus about building lights out automated workflow through job on-boarding, preflight, and its automation mix of software platforms.

Canon Solution’s America’s Francis McMahon on the Company’s Stellar 2017

Published February 14, 2018

2017 was a good year for Canon Solutions America, in terms of both production inkjet and wide-format. From the One Canon 2018 event in Hollywood, Fla., David Zwang talks with CSA’s EVP Francis McMahon about the hot spots in the company’s portfolio.

Bespoke Processes and Manufacturing: What Are They and What Are They For?

Published February 13, 2018

In this new series David Zwang will look at how the new requirements of print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0 are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. He will look at the requirements, technologies, methods and the educational processes necessary to bring it all together. In this article in the series, he takes an initial look at drivers and solutions.

Xerox PARC CEO on Industry 4.0 and the Packaging Internet of Things

Published February 6, 2018

David Zwang speaks with Tolga Kurtoglu the CEO of Xerox PARC, the global technology research organization about what we can expect in the near and midterm future, and how it may affect Industry 4.0 and packaging IoT.

Bespoke Processes and Manufacturing: The New Reality?

Published January 30, 2018

In this new series, David Zwang will look at how the new requirements of print and packaging manufacturing, and how the demands and opportunities of Industry 4.0, are being facilitated by new bespoke production and workflow methods. These new methods are becoming available as a result of the evolution of current and emerging digital technologies. He will look at the requirements, technologies, methods and the educational processes necessary to bring it all together. In this first article in the series, he takes a look at the changing landscape to lay the groundwork for future discussion.

PDF For Packaging: Facilitating Process Automation

Published January 16, 2018

The PDF format is gaining acceptance in packaging production. As a result, prepress and converting companies are finding new ways to automate and optimize their processes.

Trends and Futures at Labelexpo Europe: Flexo Goes 21st Century, Embellishments, Emerging Inkjet

Published October 31, 2017

It seems like we just finished with drupa 2016, yet Labelexpo Europe 2017 appeared to be a subset extension of that event. Everyone in Label production on any level from around the globe was there, showing and looking at the latest products and trends. It is a very exciting time, with a very promising future for label production. In part one of this two-part series, we looked at some of the major trends and product announcements at the show. In part two of the series, David continues to look a bit deeper at some trends and some interesting futures.

Canon Solutions America Expands Inkjet Portfolio with Océ ProStream 1000

Published October 9, 2017

Canon Solutions America is celebrating the US launch of the Océ ProStream 1000 production inkjet system with customer tours at its Customer Experience Center in Baco Raton. Eric Hawkinson talks about the ProStream market and provides an update on the companies expanding production inkjet portfolio.

Labelexpo Europe 2017 - Views and Trends

Published October 2, 2017

It seems like we just finished with drupa 2016, yet Labelexpo Europe 2017 appeared to be a subset extension of that event. Everyone in Label production on any level from around the globe was there, showing and looking at the latest products and trends. It is a very exciting time, with a very promising future for label production. In part one of this two-part series, we look at some of the major trends and product announcements at the show.

Digital Print for Packaging Market to 2022

Published September 27, 2017

Sean Smyth discusses some of the highlights of the newly released Digital print for packaging market to 2022. Evolution or Revolution?

DataLase Brings New Tech to Label Printing

Published September 27, 2017

Chuck Pemble of DataLase discusses amazing new technology that will allow clean printing on labels or packaging up to the point of sale!

HP PageWide C500 – Corrugated Inkjet Production Goes Mainstream

Published September 26, 2017

HP and others introduced a new range of inkjet corrugated printing presses at drupa 2016. Many of them were improvements and advancements on existing multi-pass machines, but a few, including the EFI Nozomi and the HP PageWide C500, offered unique single-pass inkjet mainstream production solutions. These new machines open up a wide range of new opportunities for using corrugated in mainstream packaging. However, the HP PageWide C500 may be the only solution at this point that can bring this to primary ‘food safe’ packaging.

Zwang on Advancements Across Toner and Inkjet Digital Printing

Published September 19, 2017

David Zwang provides his perspective on digital printing technologies from toner-based machines to production inkjet. The show marked the mainstreaming of expanded color capabilities in toner such as white inks and fluorescent inks. On the production inkjet side there are number of emerging next generation platforms to consider.

Landa Nanographic Printing – It’s Finally Showtime!

Published September 18, 2017

At drupa 2012, Benny Landa introduced a new inkjet printing technology to excited crowds with great fanfare. Now five years later, the first Landa Press is installed and there are two more right behind it, as well as a waiting list. David Zwang was one of about 100 people, mostly potential customers, from around the globe to visit with Landa at his facilities in Rehovot, Israel, to get a closer look at the man, his vision, and the machines.

Opportunities for Intelligent Packaging

Published September 6, 2017

James Lee, the Technical Director of Jones Packaging discusses the many opportunities now available to provide safety and even marketing information using intelligent packaging techniques.

Inside Mossberg & Company's Evolving Commercial Printing Operation

Published August 7, 2017

James Hilman, CEO of Mossberg & Company discusses their evolution from sheetfed commercial printing on paper to digital and flexo printing for packaging, even on cans!

PDF For Packaging: The Missing Link in Digital Packaging Production

Published June 20, 2017

In this article, David looks beyond the hardware at prepress, and how new developments will play a significant role in driving the growth of digital packaging production. This is not surprising, since we have been here before in other areas of the industry.

Technical Programs at Idealliance Expanding and Going Global

Published May 23, 2017

Tim Baechle, Vice President, Global Print Technologies & Workflows discusses current direction and new technical programs that Idealliance is developing for the industry.

Dave Fenske on Value Proposition of Direct Marketing

Published May 18, 2017

As one of the early adopters of production inkjet technology, Dave Fenske of Fenske Media discusses the whole value proposition of direct marketing and how it has enhanced his business and the business of his customers.

Landa Digital Printing Shares North America Rollout Plans

Published May 17, 2017

Nachum Korman, VP and GM, North America for Landa Digital Printing lays out the strategy for building a US sales and support organization, and discusses the three recently announced beta sites including the first installation in the US at Imagine! in Minneapolis, MN later this year.

Postal Update: Postal Reform and Rate Making Process Updates

Published May 16, 2017

Ken Garner, VP of Ideallliance explains the current state of the US Postal Service, what it will take to strengthen its position, and what it will ultimately mean for the mailing rates.

Industry Association Update: What's happening at Idealliance

Published May 15, 2017

David Steinhardt, President and CEO of Idealliance brings us up to date on its recent merger with Epicomm, and discusses plans and the challenges of keeping Idealliance in line with the industry's evolution

Labels: Hybrid Printing Production Solutions can bridge QPC

Published April 11, 2017

In this article, David looks at the role of Hybrid Press Solutions to bridge the gap between conventional and digital label production, and even a takes a glance at what these types of solutions mean for other types of packaging.

Xerox introduces a new line of Versant Digital Presses and More...

Published April 4, 2017

The new Xerox® has been very busy lately. In addition to its largest ever product launch of 29 workplace printing devices last week, today the company introduced a new line of Versant® presses to replace the existing models, with many new features that exceed the competition’s current offerings and complement the growing line of Xerox production print engines.

Xeikon introduces their first UV Inkjet Label Production Printer

Published March 28, 2017

Xeikon was one of the earliest entrants into digital label printing with their electrophotographic dry toner based production systems. Since that time, others have entered the market with a variety of electrophotographic and inkjet technologies and products. Xeikon is now ready to take their expertise in label production systems to the next level with their first UV inkjet production printer offering.

Ghent Workgroup PDF Study aims to Identify Gaps in the Standard

Published March 21, 2017

David Zwang, WhatTheyThink's Technology Editor and Chairman of the Ghent Workgroup, explains why the organization is conducting a landmark PDF study. The last study was conducted in 2008 and is not representative of todays workflow demands. They want to understand how people are using PDF and identify gaps in the standard that the Ghent Workgroup can help address for better process integration in commercial print and packaging production. Visit http://www.gwg.org/gwg-2017-pdf-survey/

Digital Label Production Still Has A Long Way To Grow

Published March 7, 2017

The shift from analog to digital production in this area has already started, with the real growth ahead of us. This offers some perspective on the transition from conventional production to digital production in the label business. While there is significant forward movement in digital, and for the right reasons, it still represents only a small fraction of the total production mix.

PDF for Packaging Now Ready for Prime Time

Published March 6, 2017

David Zwang, Technology Editor at WhatTheyThink and Chairman of the Ghent Workgroup (GWG), explains an important seminar GWG is conducting to inform packaging converters about the latest updates to the PDF standard that makes PDF more valuable to the entire packaging supply chain. Scheduled for mid-May in Ohio, everyone is invited to this training session seminar but space is limited.

Packaging and Labels: Is Technology the Primary Driver for Change?

Published February 21, 2017

In his new role as Senior Editor of Packaging and Labels, David will be looking at the demands, technologies and the inflection points that are driving the use and growth of digital packaging and labels. The shift from analog to digital production in this area has already started, with the real growth ahead of us. In this article, David takes a look at the some of the drivers and constraints for migration from conventional to digital processes in packaging and label production. There are more moving parts than you might expect.

First Look at Canon’s Océ ProStream Platform

Published February 20, 2017

In this article, David Zwang looks at Canon’s new Océ ProStream series production inkjet offering introduced in advance of Hunkeler Innovationdays 2017. The ProStream is a continuous feed production inkjet system targeting the mid-to-high volume commercial printing market. The device leverages Océ technology from its previous continuous feed systems as well as the its sheetfed Océ VarioPrint i300 and introduces new polymer ink set.

Packaging and Labels: Is The Next Big Thing Already Here?

Published February 7, 2017

In his new role as Senior Editor of Labels and Packaging, David will be looking at the demands, technologies and inflection points that are driving the use and growth of digital packaging and labels. The shift from analog to digital production in this area has already started, with the real growth still ahead of us.

Inside EFI's Purchase of Xerox's Digital Front End Portfolio

Published February 2, 2017

Xerox and EFI have further extended their strategic partnership, with Xerox selling its Xerox FreeFlow® Print Server DFE business to EFI. This sale does not include or impact the Xerox workflow solutions that carry a FreeFlow sub-brand name.

Konica Minolta: Moving into Production and Industrial Print

Published September 8, 2016

In this article, David takes a look at Konica Minolta and the company’s new strategy relative to Production Inkjet, Industrial Print, and building a Software eco-system, with a different approach than its competitors.

Canon Brings Holistic Vision to Workflow Solutions

Published August 17, 2016

Dennis Amorosano, Vice President of BISG Marketing at Canon USA, speaks with WhatTheyThink Technology Editor about Canon's strategic and holistic approach to workflow, bringing together hardware, software and professional services to satisfy customer requirements. This includes bringing the full power of solutions available across the Canon organization to addressing customer needs as part of the company's One Canon approach.

Canon VP of Marketing Hiro Imamura explains One Canon

Published August 11, 2016

Hiro Imamura, VP of Marketing for Office Solutions at Canon, explains how Canon is unifying the customer experience with "a single neck to choke" regardless of where the pieces and parts come from -- Canon, partners and/or channels. He also talks about new products from Canon.

drupa 2016: A Watershed Event

Published July 6, 2016

In this article, David Zwang gives a recap of some of the interesting exhibits, products, and some important trends that came out of drupa 2016.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – Xerox

Published May 25, 2016

In this article, David looks at the current state of Xerox. The integration of Impika has produced some exciting collaboration, resulting in some new product introductions at drupa 2016, and perhaps a glimpse of the company’s future direction

KBA and Xerox Target Folding Carton Market with a 40 Inch B1 Sheetfed Production Inkjet Press

Published May 23, 2016

KBA and Xerox have created a partnership to create a unique B1 sheetfed Production Inkjet Folding Carton Press. This new relationship allows KBA to continue to build the production inkjet product line to support the transition of its clients to the opportunities that production inkjet affords them. For Xerox, it expands the reach of its inkjet offerings beyond its smaller format production presses.

Global Graphics Fundamentals Offering Set to Help Production Inkjet Press Manufacturers Increase Functionality and Speed Time to Market

Published May 19, 2016

As production inkjet continues to expand its horizons, it can be a challenge for inkjet press manufacturers to have all of the skills internally to take their products to the next level. Global Graphics’ announcement of their Fundamentals service for manufacturers of inkjet presses can help manufacturers overcome some of those hurdles.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – Fujifilm

Published May 12, 2016

In this article, David looks at the state of Fujifilm imaging, its successful reintroduction of the J Press 720S, the J Press 540W, and a new technology demonstration at drupa, as well as some of its other current technologies.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – Kodak Enterprise Inkjet Systems

Published April 26, 2016

In this article, David looks at current and future state of Kodak Enterprise Inkjet Systems Division (EISD), the Stream and ULTRASTREAM Technologies as well as PROSPER products and future technologies.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – HP Indigo

Published April 14, 2016

In this article, David looks at HP Indigo, the technology, and what we can expect from them at drupa 2016. Even though Indigo is not inkjet, there will be a number of new products at drupa and it is worth covering in these series.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – HP PageWide, Corrugated, and PageWide HD

Published April 12, 2016

In this article, David looks at HP, and its drupa 2016 introductions of the PageWide Corrugated and HD production inkjet presses.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story – Part 2: More on Nanography, Metallization

Published March 31, 2016

In Part Two of this two-part article, David continues his review of Landa, the Nanographic Printing technology, and additional new development and offerings in preparation for drupa 2016.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story - Landa

Published March 29, 2016

In this two-part article, David looks at Landa, the Nanographic Printing® technology, including additional new developments and offerings in preparation for drupa 2016.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story - Xeikon

Published March 22, 2016

In this article, David looks at Xeikon, its new Trillium Liquid Toner technology and press, as well as its latest offerings in preparation for drupa 2016.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story - Canon

Published March 2, 2016

In this article, David Zwang looks at Canon’s new and updated production inkjet offerings in preparation for drupa 2016, with an eye on educating the marketplace on what is out there and what we may expect to see.

Inkjet drupa 2016 – Continuing the Story

Published February 15, 2016

In this article, David begins the process of looking at the changes in production inkjet since drupa 2012, with an eye on educating the marketplace on what is out there and what we may expect to see.

CxF3 and Color Management – exciting things to come

Published June 23, 2015

In this article, David Zwang looks at the evolution of Color Management in light of the recent approval of CxF3 as a standard by the ISO, what exciting new things it can bring to the process of Color Management in design and production, and what the future holds.

Workflow— Reinventing PRINERGY 7 and Kodak

Published April 29, 2015

This article is a part of a series of articles by David L. Zwang that focuses on the processes and products that can lead to the transformation of your current workflows and business to prepare you for the new challenges ahead. In this article, Zwang looks at the release of PRINERGY 7, in the context of Kodak’s reinvention.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: It’s not a wave; it’s an explosion!

Published March 23, 2015

In this article, David reviews how four companies are using the technologies he has been reviewing to their advantage. Wilen Direct, K&H Integrated Print Solutions, Hansaprint and Documation have implemented current generation inkjet presses from Kodak, Canon Océ, HP and Ricoh, respectively

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Canon Océ VarioPrint i300 Sheetfed Inkjet Press and More

Published March 2, 2015

This articles looks at the new Océ VarioPrint i300 sheetfed Production Inkjet press. Additionally, we will take a quick look at the newly announced Océ ImageStream 2400 and the ColorStream 3000Z rollfed presses.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Xerox Rialto 900 Inkjet Press

Published February 24, 2015

The last time we took a good look at Impika inkjet offerings was prior to drupa 2012 and the Xerox acquisition. Since that last article, Xerox has integrated the Impika organization into the Xerox organization, its former offerings into the Xerox portfolio and now into the Xerox master brand. With the announcement of the Xerox Rialto 900 Inkjet Press, Xerox is releasing the first true collaborative effort following the acquisition.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: HP High Definition Nozzle Architecture

Published February 9, 2015

As expected, but still exciting to see, another Next Wave production inkjet print technology has been introduced. This one is from HP, and it continues to show that they haven’t been sitting idle in the time since we last took a good look at their production inkjet offerings.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Super Web Digital with Memjet Aspen

Published January 22, 2015

In a continuation of the Next Wave of new production inkjet presses and technology series, we cover Super Web Digital, a ‘Made in America’ press manufacturer, which has introduced two new web press platforms based on new Memjet inkjet imaging technology. What makes this interesting is that both Super Web and Memjet have introduced new technology in these products, bringing both of their offerings to a new level.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Packaging Workflow Standards and Futures Part 2

Published November 24, 2014

David Zwang looks at process transformation and automation, and the background and steps you need to understand to be successful. He also looks at some of the current product offerings and how they are being used by service providers, to give you ideas about how you can transform your business and strengthen your customer relationships.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Packaging Workflow Standards and Futures Part 1

Published October 27, 2014

There have been many new digital label and packaging presses released recently, and there are more to coming in the near future. However, these new digital presses will never reach optimal production levels or support and drive the new market requirements, without new standards and workflows.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Ricoh Pro VC60000

Published September 30, 2014

Many of the production inkjet vendors are beginning to introduce new offerings, David Zwang continues to look at many of these new products as they are introduced in the context of what was learned in the original series. In this article David looks at the Ricoh Pro VC60000.

Zwang: What Does "The New MBO" Mean?

Published September 11, 2014

David Zwang and Cary Sherburne discuss what "The New MBO" means and what he took from their attendance at a customer event in New Jersey.

Who will capture the Iron Throne: Are you paying attention? Part 2

Published July 28, 2014

In this continuation of the last article, while the kinder gentler Zwang continues his summer vacation, his alter ego… a shadowy figure dressed in a trilby and trench coat and telling stories, digs deeper into the drivers and tools that are influencing your clients’ business decisions and how this can and will affect your business decisions.

Who will capture the Iron Throne: Are you paying attention?

Published July 7, 2014

In this article, at the request of JW (aka the printing industry’s own Deep Throat), Zwang displays his alter ego… a shadowy figure dressed in a trilby and trench coat, and takes a departure from focusing on your businesses to look instead at the rapidly changing requirements and the resulting workflows of your clients and potential clients, and how that may undermine your very existence.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Kodak PROSPER 6000

Published June 10, 2014

Now that time has passed, and many of the production inkjet vendors are beginning to introduce new offerings, David will look at many of these new products in the context of what was learned in the original series as they are introduced.

Production Inkjet—The Next Wave: Océ ImageStream 3500 from Canon

Published June 9, 2014

Now that time has passed, and many of the production inkjet vendors are beginning to introduce new offerings, David will look at many of these new products in the context of what was learned in the original series as they are introduced.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Thinking out of the box Part 2

Published June 2, 2014

There is an assumption that as service provider there are very specific, almost predetermined ways that a workflow to support your business operations should be developed and deployed. However, sometimes, to use a somewhat overused term, you need to think out of the box. In Part 2 of this article we continue to look at some other ways to approach offerings, and workflows.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Thinking out of the box

Published May 5, 2014

There is an assumption that as service provider there are very specific, almost predetermined ways that a workflow to support your business operations should be developed and deployed. However, sometimes, to use a somewhat overused term, you need to think out of the box.

New Xerox Versant 2100 Raises the Bar for Mid-Entry Digital Presses

Published April 25, 2014

David Zwang takes a look at today's announcement by Xerox of their new Versant 2100 press and provides some insight into how the press was developed and what impact it will have on the mid-entry-level production market.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Do I need to do it all at once?

Published April 7, 2014

In preparation for this article, David spoke with a wide format print service provider with a portfolio of disparate equipment that implemented the first phase of a production workflow system to automate and optimize some of his processes. The results were quite impressive.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Can I really have it all?

Published February 26, 2014

David speaks with a print service provider with a variety of disparate equipment that implemented a business and production workflow system to handle it all, and his only complaint is that he wishes he had done it sooner.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Getting work into the plant Part Two - Have We Arrived or is it Just a Rest Stop?

Published January 27, 2014

In Part two of this two part article, David looks at some of the current solution offerings that are designed to bring your client’s jobs into your plant to see if and how they are meeting the challenges of today’s service provider.

David Zwang on Adobe PDF Print Engine 3

Published January 7, 2014

Cary Sherburne and David Zwang discuss Adobe PDF Print Engine 3 and the impact on prepress in the industry. They reference an article they co-authored recently on WhatTheyThink.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Getting work into the plant Part One: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Published December 9, 2013

In Part one of this two part article, David looks at Some history of, and some of the solution types for getting work into your plant.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Web to Print or getting work into the plant

Published November 15, 2013

David looks at how you get the work from your customer into your plant. What does web to print mean to you; and is it the answer to getting work into your plant, or are there multiple answers?

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Marketing Campaign Automation

Published October 18, 2013

David looks at Marketing Campaign process automation. This is a new and interesting area that can help support a Print Service Provider transformation into a Marketing Services Provider business model, and potentially integrate into an automated print production workflow.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Workflow Dominates Print13 Part Two

Published September 23, 2013

In part two of this article, David looks at new and updated MIS/ERP business management systems that were introduced at Print13 in Chicago.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Workflow Dominates Print13 (Part One)

Published September 20, 2013

In this article, David looks at many new production workflows solutions that were introduced at Print13 in Chicago. Due to the sheer volume of new announcements, this is Part One of two articles covering this new product review.

David Zwang on Workflow Announcements and Solutions at Print 13

Published September 10, 2013

David Zwang talks with Cary Sherburne about the many exciting announcements related to workflow at Print13 and some of the things that surprised him at the show.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Cloud Based Workflow Management Systems

Published August 16, 2013

In this article, David looks at cloud-based production management systems, a relatively new concept and product category, what they look like and how they compare to the more conventional workflow management offerings.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Solutions for disparate systems?

Published July 8, 2013

In this article, David looks at how the existing solution offerings can be used in disparate workflow systems both inside the plant and bridging client workflow systems

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Packaged Workflow Solutions

Published June 17, 2013

David looks at some of the packaged workflow systems that are now being offered, either with hardware products or as standalone solutions. He will look at them as primary support for a device as well as how they work in the context of a broader plant workflow.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Workflow Systems, déjà vu all over again

Published May 20, 2013

This series of articles by David L. Zwang focuses on the processes and products that can lead to the transformation of your current workflows and business, to prepare you for the new challenges ahead. In this article, David moves the discussion forward, now focusing on ‘workflow systems,’ what that encompasses, and some of the things you need to pay attention to as you review them. All of this done with an eye toward building a flexible platform upon which to grow.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Production Infrastructures –DFEs: The State of the Market

Published April 22, 2013

In this article, David continues the infrastructure discussion, now focusing on the current state of the DFE (Digital Front End, aka RIPs) in the market, covering Digital Print DFEs as well as CTP DFEs, and the beginning of the plant production workflow. All of this done with an eye toward building a flexible platform upon which to grow.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Production Infrastructures – The evolution of the DFE

Published April 2, 2013

David continues the discussion, now focusing on the production infrastructure by looking at the role of the DFE (Digital Front End, aka RIP), and how that has changed as a result of digital press technology and the changing demands of the marketplace. In keeping with the series theme, he looks at it with an eye toward building a flexible platform upon which to grow.

Dave Zwang on Viewing Digital Workflow Automation as Holistic Process

Published March 11, 2013

Dave Zwang talks about the industry moving towards digital and inkjet technologies and automating both the input side (prepress) and output side (finishing) of the printing process. The key moving forward, he says, is to view it as one holistic process.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: It starts with a good business infrastructure Part 2

Published March 5, 2013

In this article, David continues the discussion of the business infrastructure by looking at some of the packaged MIS and ERP systems, and how they are structured, with an eye toward building a flexible platform with which to grow.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: It starts with a good infrastructure Part 1

Published February 5, 2013

This new series by David L. Zwang focuses on the processes and products that can lead to the transformation of your current workflows and business, to prepare you for the new challenges ahead. This series runs once a month over the course of the year, with the first article appearing in January 2013. Zwang looks at process transformation and automation, and the steps you need to take to be successful. He will also look at some of the current product offerings and how they are being, or could be, used to help you transform your business and strengthen your customer relationships.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: Preparation is Paramount

Published January 8, 2013

In this article, David lays out the key steps necessary to prepare for a successful transformation. While it is important to look toward the final destination goal, without a map delineating the best path to achieve that goal, there are many more pitfalls along the way and unseen problems in the future.

Transforming and Automating Workflows: A Critical Success Factor

Published December 7, 2012

This new series by David L. Zwang focuses on the processes and products that can lead to the transformation of your current workflows and business to prepare you for the new challenges ahead. With this introductory article, David lays out the business drivers and some of the series topics. As the print industry and the marketplace as a whole continue their digital evolution, business process transformation becomes an increasingly critical success factor.

drupa 2012, the Inkjet drupa…again? The new face of print?

Published November 12, 2012

With this eighteenth and final article of the series, David looks backward and forward at Digital Print, its evolution and the many changes that will continue to come. These changes will continue to have a significant impact on the print industry and marketplace as it continues its digital evolution.

drupa 2012, the Inkjet drupa...again? A closer look at KBA

Published October 29, 2012

With this seventeenth article of the series, David begins to look at companies and their 'future' production inkjet offerings and applications. In this article, he looks at KBA, its products and new role in the sheetfed inkjet space.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? Cut Sheet: Breaking the rules or being creative?

Published October 1, 2012

With this sixteenth article of the series, David begins to look at companies and their 'future' production inkjet offerings and applications. In this article he looks at companies that were offset or electrophotography (EP), but are integrating inkjet into their product lines.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Komori

Published August 17, 2012

With this fifteenth article of the series, David begins to look at companies and their ‘future’ production inkjet offerings and applications. In this article he looks at Komori, its products and apparently new role in the sheetfed inkjet space.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Founder Electronics

Published July 27, 2012

In this fourteenth article of the series, David looks at Founder, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at IMPIKA

Published July 2, 2012

In this thirteenth article of the series, David looks at IMPIKA, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at MGI

Published June 4, 2012

In this twelfth article of the series, David looks at MGI, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? My exit interview

Published May 9, 2012

In this article of the series, David shares some observations on drupa, a look at some of the inkjet announcements, potential implications, and offerings.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? Initial notes from the field

Published May 4, 2012

In this article of the series, David takes an initial look at some of inkjet announcements, potential implications, and offerings???

David Zwang Day 1 Report of drupa 2012

Published May 4, 2012

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? Are you prepared to acquire production inkjet? Part 2

Published April 13, 2012

In this 11th and final article of the series, David looks at how to make sense of and apply the information he has presented to make informed purchasing decisions.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Delphax

Published April 6, 2012

In this tenth article of the series, David looks at Delphax, and its new production inkjet offerings and applications.

Are you prepared to acquire production inkjet? Part 1

Published March 26, 2012

In this ninth article of the series, David looks at how to make sense and apply the information we have presented to make relevant purchasing decisions.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Memjet and three unique OEMs

Published March 9, 2012

In this eighth article of the series, David looks at Memjet inkjet technology, and some OEM implementations and offerings to address specific production print applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Screen

Published February 24, 2012

This series by David L. Zwang focuses on current production inkjet products and their application in the market today. This series will run every 3 weeks leading up to drupa 2012. In this seventh article of the series, David looks at Screen, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Fujifilm

Published February 3, 2012

In this sixth article of the series, David looks at Fujifilm, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Ricoh

Published January 10, 2012

This series by David L. Zwang focuses on current production inkjet products and their application in the market today. In this fifth article of the series, David looks at Ricoh, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Océ

Published December 14, 2011

In this fifth article of the series, David looks at Océ, its production inkjet offering and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Xerox

Published November 28, 2011

In this fourth article of the series, David looks at Xerox, its production inkjet offering and application.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at Kodak

Published November 15, 2011

In this third article of the series, David looks at Kodak, its production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again? A closer look at HP

Published October 31, 2011

In this second article of the series, David looks at HP’s production inkjet offerings and applications.

Drupa 2012, the Inkjet Drupa…again?

Published October 14, 2011

This new series by David L. Zwang will focus on current production inkjet products and their application in the market today. This series will run every 3 weeks leading up to Drupa 2012. He will look at the current vendor product offerings, and how they are being used by some of their showcase customers. In this first article of the series, David discusses some background on drivers and obstacles to mainstream adoption to production inkjet.

Just in case you didn’t get it…

Published December 17, 2010

In the twelfth and last article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang finishes his discussion about cross-media communications and production basics, this time with a review of what you should be doing and why you should be doing it.

OK… I get it, but where do I start?

Published December 6, 2010

David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of how you should begin your new voyage into Cross-Media Production.

Analytics: What am I doing and can I prove it?

Published November 22, 2010

In the tenth article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of you need to do to get audience attention, and what tools and services you need to prove you are succeeding.

What are the required and available tools for Print + eMedia

Published November 8, 2010

In the ninth article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of what tools you need for your new workflows. It will cover the options you have for Design and Workflow tools to help you determine what will work most effectively for you.

Building the Infrastructure… Managing both the content and the process

Published October 25, 2010

In the eighth article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of what you need to build a good infrastructure for your new workflows. It will cover Content Management as well as other options you have to determine what will work most effectively for you.

I'm a printer…can I do this, or do I need a degree in programming?

Published October 11, 2010

In the seventh article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of what new skills are required and obstacles likely to be encountered for printers to bring cross-media services into their businesses. It focuses on how to grow the talent, or where to find the talent, that is required to be successful.

File Formats and Standards: Important keys to success

Published September 27, 2010

In the sixth article of this series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a discussion of file formats and standards, two crucial components in cross-media production workflows. It will focus on what the important ones are, and how to keep up with them.

Metadata: Can I get that in a Greek salad?

Published September 13, 2010

In his 5th article on cross-media communications, David Zwang discusses metadata and its role in cross-media production workflows. He looks at the basics of metadata and examines what you need need to know to work in an integrated environment.

So what do I need to know? Print + eMedia Part 4

Published August 30, 2010

In the fourth article of the series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications and production, this time with a high level look at what you need to know to begin implementing eMedia production workflows. This overview will act as an executive summary for future articles that will delve into the specific issues and requirements.

Were we sleeping or just too busy Googling our life away?…

Published August 16, 2010

In the third article of a series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications with some thoughts on how we got where we are and where we are going. This is important background that will help enable print providers and marketing services providers to stay ahead of the curve.

All these new channels: and no Lucy…you still can’t be in the show.

Published August 2, 2010

In the second article of a series, industry expert and WhatTheyThink contributor David Zwang continues his discussion about cross-media communications with details about the new communications channels that print service providers/marketing services providers should be considering as they lay out their cross-media strategies.

So you want to be a Marketing Services Provider?

Published July 19, 2010

David Zwang has a new series for WhatTheyThink readers called “Print + eMedia: the path to success.” David will take readers through the variety of channels printers now have to reach potential customers. This first article goes through the basics of what it means to be a marketing services provider.