Printing Industry Commentary & Analysis

Alexander's Print Advantage's Dan Mortimer on the Need for Automation

Published April 25, 2024

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel talks with Dan Mortimer, Chief Technical Officer at Alexander's Print Advantage, about the need for automation to help manage orders and jobs.

Deluxe Corp.’s Kurt Cron on the Migration to On-Demand Check Printing

Published April 23, 2024

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel talks to Kurt Cron, Director of Digital Technology at Deluxe Corp., one of the largest check printing and payment operations in the country. The company is currently migrating its check printing capabilities to a print-on-demand model.

For Paragon Press, Variable Data Drives Digital Investment

Published April 18, 2024

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel speaks with Macy Flash, CEO of Paragon Press, a printing and direct mail company based in Louisiana. Once all-analog, the company’s variable-data needs impelled the company to go all-digital.

Convertidora’s Gilberto Rodriguez on Increasing Speed to Market

Published April 15, 2024

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel talks with Gilberto Rodriguez of Convertidora (Conver) about the company’s 10-year journey to complement their analog printing/converting business with digital equipment in order to boost their speed to market.

Peter van Teeseling on dscoop

Published April 3, 2024

Kevin Abergel talks to Peter van Teeseling, Executive Director of Dscoop, about what Dscoop as an organization offers to its community, and about this year’s Indianapolis event.

The MGI Story with Victor Abergel

Published March 26, 2024

Dive into the fascinating journey of MGI's transformation and innovation in the printing industry with Victor Abergel, EVP and Managing Director. In this episode of the Digital Embellishment Show, host Kevin Abergel chats with his uncle, Victor Abergel, about the origins of MGI, the evolution from a small team to a global leader in digital printing technologies, the pivotal moments that shaped their success, and the exciting lead-up to drupa 2024.

The Printer and The Suit: Chris Hogge of Harris & Bruno

Published March 18, 2024

Gear up for a fun episode of The Printer & The Suit, where Warren and Kevin sit down with Chris Hogge, the Director of Sales & Business Development from Harris & Bruno International. With a legacy spanning over 15 years, Chris delves into the evolution of printing technologies and Harris & Bruno's role in pioneering inline and offline coating solutions for an evolving market.

Unveiling the Future of Print Embellishments with Jeff Peterson

Published February 27, 2024

Join us in this exhilarating episode of the Digital Embellishment Show as Kevin Abergel, our passionate host, sits down with Jeff Peterson, the Executive Director of the Foil and Specialty Effects Association (FSEA). Dive deep into the world of print embellishments as Jeff shares invaluable insights about the FSEA's mission, the burgeoning trends in digital and traditional embellishments, and the significant impact these processes have on the printing industry.

Michael Aumann from Kurz Talks Digital Embellishments

Published January 23, 2024

Welcome to the latest episode of the Digital Embellishment Show! In this insightful episode, Kevin Abergel dives deep into the evolving world of digital embellishment and explores the significant role Kurz plays in shaping this dynamic market.

Paul Furse from Scodix Talk Digital Embellishments

Published January 18, 2024

In this episode of The Embellishment Show, join Kevin Abergel for an enlightening conversation with Paul Furse from Scodix as he delves into the transformative world of digital embellishment. With a rich background in sign painting, Paul shares his journey towards embracing digital technologies and how they're reshaping the printing landscape. This video is a treasure trove of insights for those curious about the latest trends and technologies in digital printing.

Jordi Giralt Talks About Kama's Digital Embellishment Innovation

Published January 9, 2024

Welcome to another thrilling episode of The Digital Embellishment Show! In this must-watch video, we are honored to host Jordi Giralt, a prominent figure in the world of print technology. Jordi, from the esteemed company Kama in Dresden, joins us to share his incredible journey in the print industry and discuss the remarkable advancements in digital embellishment.

Nick Bruno Addresses the Rumors About Entering the Digital Embellishment Arena

Published December 11, 2023

In this exciting episode of "The Digital Embellishment Show," Kevin Abergel's special guest is Nick Bruno, CEO of Harris & Bruno International. Nick addresses the swirling rumors about their latest development in digital embellishment technology, when we can expect to see their new machine, and what makes it so different from the competition.

Unlocking Hollywood Print Magic: Leiman Chan of Nonstop Printing

Published December 4, 2023

Welcome to another captivating episode of the Digital Embellishment Show! In this episode, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks to Leiman Chan, the visionary behind Nonstop Printing in the heart of Hollywood. Dive into the world of innovative printing as Leiman shares his insights and experiences in pushing the boundaries of digital embellishment.

White House Custom Colour’s Greg Davis on Automation

Published October 17, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel talks with Greg Davis of White House Custom Colour about the technology trends driving his business, chief among them being automation.

Embellishment Mojo: Harness the Style That Makes a Product Pop

Published October 5, 2023

In the highly competitive consumer market where products vie for attention, packaging and labels can be key differentiators. Taktiful’s Kevin Abergel looks at how embellishments can give consumer and retail packaging and labels more shelf impact and convey an impression of luxury and premium quality.

Revolutionizing Digital Embellishment: How a Century-Old Mexican Print Shop Defies the Odds While Having Fun

Published September 12, 2023

In the latest episode of The Digital Embellishment Podcast, host Kevin Abergel from Taktiful interviews Jose Gerardo, a trailblazer in the digital embellishment industry from Felicitos Leal in Monterrey, Mexico. The century-old, family-founded business has managed to stand out in a modern world, thanks to its early adoption of digital print embellishments. The episode covers a range of topics including the business's rich history, competitive edge, and strategies for success.

Maritime Labels and Packaging Expands into Digital Flexible Packaging

Published September 7, 2023

In this video, sponsored by HP, Kevin Abergel talks with Paul Sproule, President and Owner of Maritime Labels and Packaging, a family-owned business founded in 1970. Initially flexo-based and specializing in labels, Maritime bought its first HP Indigo press in 2003, and has grown their digital capabilities since. They recently acquired an HP Indigo 25K to expand into digital flexible packaging.

Unboxing Magic: Our 7-Year-Old VP Explores Italic's New 3D Emblem Line Impress!

Published August 24, 2023

Join Taktiful's 7-year-old Vice President, Aaron, as he unboxes a special package from Italic Press! Get a peek at their brand new 3D Emblem line called "Impress by Italic" through the delightful perspective of a 7-year-old. From the initial touch to the intricate details, experience the magic and wonder as only a child can express. What makes these 3D emblems so unique? How does Aaron react to seeing them for the first time?

Tactile Wonders: 7-Year-Old Aaron Dives into Classic Color's Print Treasures & Sappi's Popup Magic

Published August 17, 2023

New unboxing adventure with Aaron! Our favorite 7-year-old VP, Aaron, is back with another delightful unboxing. This time, we've received a special package from Classic Color! From incredibly tactile samples to an exquisite popup book by Sappi Paper, join Aaron as he marvels at some of Classic Color's finest work. Experience the textures, colors, and surprises of print like never before—through the curious and vibrant eyes of a 7-year-old. How does Aaron react to the tactile wonders?

Launching Impress: Italic Press' Revolutionary New 3D Embellished Emblem Business

Published July 17, 2023

In the latest episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, owners Dan Thompson and Shawn Irvine from Italic Press join Kevin Abergel to discuss the launch of their latest venture: Impress, a groundbreaking 3D emblem business. With their expertise in printing and design, Dan and Shawn have created a one-of-a-kind service that allows customers to transform their logos and designs into stunning, high-quality 3D emblems that can be used on a variety of products.

A Talk with the Embellishment Legend Himself—Jeff Hernandez of Classic Color

Published July 10, 2023

In this episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, Kevin Abergel talks with Jeff Hernandez, Vice President of Classic Color, and a legend in the world of print embellishments. Jeff sheds light on the critical role of embellishments in making a lasting impression, elaborates on the mindset needed to truly impress customers, and how essential it is to know your craft inside and out.

The Printer & The Suit with Al Kennickell

Published June 26, 2023

In the latest episode of “The Printer & The Suit,” Warren Werbitt and Kevin Abergel talk with Al Kennickell, owner of the fourth-generation printing powerhouse the Kennickell Group. Al Kennickell isn't just a printer, he's a living encyclopedia of printing knowledge, enriched with years of hands-on experience. In this episode, they talk about the art of identifying and buying new equipment, how he makes strategic choices for his business, the qualities that make a good OEM sales rep, and the traits that can be a deal-breaker.

A Journey from Pain to Triumph with Digital Embellishment: The Andy Humble Story

Published June 22, 2023

In this episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, Kevin Abergel talks to Andy Humble, the President of Post Press Specialties. Andy holds the remarkable distinction of being one of the pioneering trade finishers to invest in a digital embellishment unit. This episode delves into his transformative journey, including the initial hardships, the learning curve, and how the digital embellishment unit has now become a cornerstone of his operations. But the journey doesn't end there. Andy takes us through his recent phenomenal victory at the FSEA Gold Leaf Awards.

Razzle Dazzle: User Success Stories on Creating Memorable Tactile Experiences

Published June 8, 2023

Taktiful’s Kevin Abergel talks to three US print service providers that have successfully won over customers after installing digital embellishment production systems.

Creating a New Market with Digital Embellishment Technology with Jeff Alexander

Published June 8, 2023

In this episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, we are joined by a special guest, Jeff Alexander, CEO of Alexander's. Jeff is a pioneer in the digital embellishment industry, and he shares his insights on how he created a new market by being one of the first to market with digital embellishment technology.

From Beginner to Master: The Evolution of Digital Embellishments at Truly Engaging with President Dave Baird

Published June 8, 2023

Join us on the latest episode of The Digital Embellishment Show as we sit down with Dave Baird, President of Truly Engaging, to learn about his journey from being a beginner in digital embellishment to mastering the craft and now embellishing nearly 80% of his work. Dave takes us through his early days of experimentation with digital embellishment and shares his insights on how he has evolved his techniques over the years.

Unveiling the Art of Digital Embellishments with Vince Manini

Published June 1, 2023

In this episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, Kevin Abergel talks with Vince Manini, Partner and VP at Team Concept Printing, who shares his unique insights into the art of digital embellishments, revealing industry tips and techniques that have propelled him to the forefront of the field.

Truly Engaging’s David Baird on Specialty Printing with Embellishments

Published May 31, 2023

Kevin Abergel talks with David Baird, President and CRO of Truly Engaging, a company that produces wedding invitations, save the date announcements, and other card and invitations. They are very active in digital embellishments, and David talks to Kevin about some unique products the company offers.

What Makes a Successful Printing Equipment Salesperson, with Paul McCarthy from HP Industrial

Published May 9, 2023

In this episode of "The Printer and The Suit," Kevin Abergel and Warren Werbitt sit down with special guest Paul McCarthy from HP Industrial to discuss the keys to success in the OEM equipment manufacturing industry. Paul shares his extensive experience and insights on what makes a good salesperson in this field, including the essential qualities and skills needed to succeed. He also offers practical tips and advice for anyone looking to improve their sales game. Paul also provides a unique perspective on the world of printing and manufacturing, imagining what it would be like if he were a printer himself.

Meet Jakob Stone, the 20-Year-Old Digital Embellishment Operator at Elite Print Finishing

Published April 24, 2023

Welcome to the latest episode of the Digital Embellishment Show, where we explore the world of digital print finishing and embellishment. In this episode, we have a special guest, Jakob Stone, a 20-year-old Digital Embellishment operator at Elite Print Finishing.Jakob shares his experiences and insights into the world of digital print finishing, discussing his journey to becoming a operator, and the unique challenges he faces in his role. He also shares his tips and tricks for achieving the perfect finish, and how to maintain high quality standards while working with a range of materials and techniques.

The Digital Embellishment Show with Special Guest Adam Stewart from Fresh Printz

Published March 30, 2023

Adam Stewart, Owner at Fresh Printz in Tulsa, Okla., talks to Taktiful's Kevin Abergel about his experiences starting a new 100% digital trade finishing shop with zero prior experience.

Going for the Gold: Pro Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Digital Embellishment Production

Published February 9, 2023

Taktiful’s Kevin Abergel talks to three experienced digital embellishment producers about how they get the best results from different papers, laminates, and foils and how they feed that knowledge back to their customers.

You Have Digital Embellishment—Now, How Do You Market It?

Published December 15, 2022

Taktiful’s Kevin Abergel talks to four print service providers about how they market their digital embellishment services and what levels of customer awareness they’re finding.

The Digital Embellishment Show: Selling Digital Embellishments with Joe DeBoy of NAPCO USA

Published December 12, 2022

Joe DeBoy, the newly minted VP of Sales at NAPCO USA, talks with Taktiful's Kevin Abergel about selling digital printed output in the rigid packaging market and provides some good tips on how to pitch the value on insourcing packaging back into the USA.

Designing For and Operating Digital Embellishment Equipment

Published December 5, 2022

In the latest episode of The Digital Embellishment Show, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks with Dominic Zaidan and Frank Deiuliis of NAPCO USA about embellishment design and equipment operating challenges they have overcome in the digital packaging world.

A Kid's View on Print

Published November 28, 2022

In the latest installment of our new Marketing Digital Embellishment Capabilities video series, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks with Aaron, Taktiful's 7 year old VP and Chief Toy Officer, as he unboxes a print sample kit from swissQprint.

Talking Marketing #SexyPrint with Darren Kenning of Sugar Print

Published November 7, 2022

In the latest installment of our new Marketing Digital Embellishment Capabilities video series, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks with Darren Kenning, the President of Sugar Print, about how to best market digital embellishment capabilities to clients.

Conversation on Estimating Digital Embellishment

Published November 1, 2022

Kevin Abergel and Simon Eccles interview Bowen Griffitt of Post Press Specialties about estimating digital embellishment projects. Post Press Specialties in Kansas City, MO are a specialist print finisher that offers conventional foiling and embossing/debossing embellishment alongside folder-gluing, binding and mailing services.

Cause An Effect: There Are Multiple Factors to Consider When Estimating for Digital Embellishments

Published November 1, 2022

Whether hand-applied, mechanized, or as today increasingly digitized, the embellishment of printed materials to give eye-catching effects has always been an expense on top of the basic print. They are time-consuming and may use more costly materials than standard pigments—but how exactly do you accurately estimate those costs in advance? WhatTheyThink contributor and Taktiful president Kevin Abergel looks at some strategies for creating estimates that won’t scare off the customer or cause the print provider to suffer a loss.

Meyers CRO Talks About Marketing Digital Embellishments

Published October 24, 2022

In the latest installment of our new Marketing Digital Embellishment Capabilities video series, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks with Michael Dillon, the new Chief Revenue Office at Meyers, about how he markets digital embellishments to his clientele.

DMS Color's Matthew Greer on Marketing Digital Embellishment Capabilities

Published October 10, 2022

In the first installment of our new Marketing Digital Embellishment Capabilities video series, Taktiful's Kevin Abergel talks with Matthew Greer, CEO of DMS Color/Gold Leaf Packaging, about how to best market digital embellishments in today's world.

Cutting Through the Confusion: Is There an Easy Button for Digital Embellishment Design?

Published June 21, 2022

Digital embellishment technologies are on the rise, and are making high-end luxurious prints easier and cheaper to do than ever before. Yet the biggest challenge most PSPs encounter is still linked to file design. Guest contributor Kevin Abergel explains how it is still the “wild west” when it comes to embellishment technologies and formats—and it’s not clear who should be leading the charge in educating designers.

Articles by Kevin Abergel