Massachusetts-based custom binder relies on the power and flexibility of Xeikon's technology

Itasca, IL - Xeikon NV, an innovator in digital color printing technology, works with Agawam, Massachusetts-based Bridgeport National Bindery to produce a wide variety of products for its custom printing and binding business.

As the modern descendant of two companies founded in the late 1800's, Bridgeport National Bindery knows a thing or two about making customers happy. Its continued growth and success stem from the customer service philosophy of the company's early leader, Magnus Larsen. The company motto, "Bound to Last", has served as the touchstone for the entire team throughout the years. Furthermore, they have helped improve competition in the binding market where, in recent years, many libraries have found themselves with fewer binding options as mergers and the economic downturn have taken their toll. Bridgeport National Bindery is committed to making sure all libraries--large or small--have a choice in binding and preservation services.

Bridgeport National Bindery's expansion in the print-on-demand business and growing geographical market area, with customers spread across the country, means they need printing technology that can keep up. The company has relied on Xeikon technology in their plant since 1997. Starting with a 13-inch wide web machine, which was used to produce full-color covers; they later upgraded to a 20-inch web. Print-on-demand customers of the company rely on them primarily to print book covers, as well as other larger format items like inserts for books, calendars, maps and posters. Over the years they have migrated from primarily case-bound products to the current market where some 70% of current production is softcover and mechanical bound books.

Xeikon has been its partner of choice due to the flexibility of its solutions and its commitment to continual quality improvement over the years. Bruce Jacobsen, executive vice president of Bridgeport National Bindery says, "The quality Xeikon provides is very good, and has even gotten better over the years. The latest iteration of our Xeikon press delivers high resolution (1200 dpi) without loss of speed. The color management on the latest press is better than ever, as is the consistency. And their flexibility gives us the options we need to serve our customers."

According to Michael V. Ring, president of Xeikon America, Inc., "Bridgeport National Bindery is a prime example of a company that has evolved and adapted with the changing market conditions without losing sight of its founding principles and its core value-proposition. We are pleased to be their partner of choice and wish them continued success."