The Phoenix Challenge Foundation is a not-for-profit organization made up of industry volunteers committed to developing young flexographic printing professionals. Each year, colleges are invited to compete by solving an industry-specific problem. The students engage in a semester-long process of market research, concept development, design and execution before presenting their solution to a panel of judges.

This year's assignment was to assist a local public attraction with a rebranding, promotion, labeling or packaging project including the creation of 2-3 flexo-printed products. The students from Clemson University chose to work with the Greenville Zoo to design and produce items for a children's scavenger hunt. The project was a huge success with a 45-minute "sell out" at the opening event and the zoo's plans to recreate the products next year.

The products were produced on a narrow web press at the  Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics. Flexo Concepts' TruPoint Orange® doctor blade was used on all press runs of the project. Specifically, Orange was chosen to create a .5pt micro-text as well as apply a specialty doming varnish for scuff resistance. A number of different MicroTip® edges were used to achieve the desired results.

For more information about the Phoenix Challenge Foundation or to purchase a sponsorship for the upcoming Golf Outing on August 5, 2015, please contact Bettylyn Krafft at 704-309-3748 or visit www.phoenixchallenge.org.