Printing Industry Commentary & Analysis

Hunkeler Innovationdays: More Important Than Ever!

Published December 19, 2024

This isn’t really a printing show as you would normally expect. Unlike most expos, you will not see the fancy booth setups or other hall distractions, only state-of-the-art digital print and finishing equipment displayed as connected application solutions. In 2023, over the course of four days, the event hosted over 100 exhibitors and about 6,500 people from 100 countries. As a result of the overwhelming interest, this year HID will be expanding their exhibition space.

Heidelberg Breaks New Ground on Production Software

Published December 19, 2024

While we are all familiar with production machine connections, David Zwang talks with Juergen Grimm, Head of Software for Heidelberg, about one of the most important connections...people!

Trends in Labels and Packaging: A New Year is Coming

Published December 3, 2024

During the month of November, we had an opportunity to see the latest NAPCO Digital Packaging research report, and to meet with many packaging converters at the Digital Packaging Summit, to hear first-hand their challenges and opportunities. At the same time, RR Donnelley released their latest Packaging and Labels Insight Report.

RR Donnelley: Trends in Labels and Packaging Study

Published December 3, 2024

This is the second trend report RRD has executed in an effort to gain insights into how companies are adapting packaging and labels operations to market shifts. Their first Packaging & Labels Insight Report was produced in 2023, and they recently released the latest Q4 2024 report.

Mercury Print Productions: From the Basement to the Bleeding Edge

Published November 12, 2024

Mercury Print Productions was founded in 1968 by Valerie Mannix as a typesetter and forms printer in the basement of her little ranch house. They closed off the garage so they could store paper and she would print downstairs. Today, they are successfully operating in 300,000 sq.ft. and are not afraid to try something new.

Kodak: Reestablishing a Brand

Published November 5, 2024

The Kodak brand became ubiquitous with photos creating the tagline a “Kodak moment” and becoming a part of the vernacular. Then came technological and market shifts, bringing them to bankruptcy. However, they are now profitable and innovative again, with what appears to be a future of growth.

M&M Displays’ Chris Mace Jr. on Transitioning from Screen Printing to Digital

Published October 21, 2024

In this video sponsored by EFI, David Zwang talks with Chris Mace Jr., General Manager of M&M Displays, a third-generation company founded in the 1940s that transitioned from screen printing to traditional and digital signage and display graphics 15 years ago, specializing in retail graphics for the trade.

HP Streamlines and Automates the Construction Process

Published October 17, 2024

HP has been involved in print and specifically the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) process with printers that initially produced blueprints and have evolved since. Now they are taking the process to the construction site. David Zwang talks with Daniel Martinez, GM of HP's Large Format Printing Division, about the company's new solutions for this market.

ePS Software Acquires EPMS

Published October 9, 2024

ePS Software is no stranger to acquisitions, but what happens to the company that is acquired and their customers? David Zwang talks with Nick Benkovich, Senior Director Product Management for ePS Software, about their acquisition of EPMS.

Business Update: Heidelberg at LabelExpo

Published October 8, 2024

David Zwang talks with Clarence Penge, Executive Vice President of Heidelberg, about the Gallus One digital inkjet label press that was on display at LabelExpo.

Brooke Hamilton on Becoming PRINTING United’s New Board Chair

Published October 7, 2024

In this video sponsored by the PRINTING United Alliance, David Zwang talks with Brooke Hamilton, President and CEO of NPI, a third-generation business that manufacturers industrial metal nameplates and decals, and produces window and vehicle graphics and signage. She was just appointed Chair of the Board of the PRINTING United Alliance.

David Zwang and Marco Boer on a New Industry “Taxonomy” Initiative

Published October 7, 2024

David Zwang talks with IT Strategies’ Marco Boer about a new taxonomy initiative they have been developing that attempts to correctly describe and accurately size the printing industry.

Product Showcase: Arrow Systems at LabelExpo

Published October 7, 2024

In this video sponsored by Arrow Systems, Shaan Patel, Head of Business Development, talks about the company’s water-based pigment inkjet label printing systems and complementary finishing equipment which were on display at the recent LabelExpo.

Business Update: GEW at LabelExpo

Published October 3, 2024

David Zwang talks with Robert Rae, Managing Director of Sales, for GEW, one of the biggest UV system providers in the world for printing, coating and converting applications.

Canon’s Jason Koyama on the New LabelStream 2000

Published October 1, 2024

In this video sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Jason Koyama, Advisor to Canon USA and Product Manager of the LabelStream 2000. LabelExpo 2024 was the first time the new machine was shown in North America.

Business Update: Graphco’s SD-Italy Augusta F150R PRO CNC Router and Cutter

Published October 1, 2024

David Zwang talks to Graphco’s Chris Manley about the SD-Italy Augusta F150R PRO hybrid CNC routing and cutting plotter, an ultra-high-speed solution for wide-format, display, signage, and industrial production. The machine debuted at PRINTING United 2023 in Atlanta, and so far Graphco has installed six units, with another half dozen about to be installed.

Business Update: Mark Andy at LabelExpo

Published October 1, 2024

David Zwang talks with Duane Pekar, CEO of Mark Andy, at the recent LabelExpo about some of the company’s new technologies and machines that are coming to market.

Seiko Epson Acquires Fiery. Epson??

Published September 30, 2024

When the Fiery acquisition by Epson was announced, many were scratching their heads trying to understand the logic and synergies—although the acquisition does make sense when you look at the expansion and growth rate of inkjet.

Wrapping Up LabelExpo Americas with Tasha Ventimiglia

Published September 25, 2024

David Zwang talks with Tasha Ventimiglia, Group Director for LabelExpo Americas, who recaps this year's LabelExpo Americas, held recently in Chicago and, considering all of the competing events, was welcomed by the print and converter attendees.

September Event Trifecta: It Wasn’t drupa, But It Was Still a Long Week!

Published September 24, 2024

Recently, North America had three print technology events: PRINTING United, LabelExpo, and SuperCorrExpo—all in the same week! All three of them promised lots of new print solutions and equipment. After surviving drupa, I thought I would try to see if I still had the stamina to do this trifecta of events. Spoiler alert, I failed…

EFI at PRINTING United

Published September 19, 2024

In this video, sponsored by EFI, David Zwang talks with Ken Hanulec, Vice President of Marketing, talks about EFI's presence at PRINTING United, as well an overview of EFI's solutions for wide-format printing.

SnapPress Is the Easy Way to Get into Label Production

Published September 10, 2024

David Zwang talks with Kevin Davis, CEO of Allen Datagraph/SnapPress. SnapPress is designed as an entry level press for printers and manufacturers to start label production at a low price point with an easy to use system.

Clemson Senior Grace Webster on Graphic Design and Marketing

Published September 9, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Grace Webster, a senior at Clemson University who is interested in pursuing the marketing aspects of graphic design.

Koenig & Bauer: How Do We Grow the Future of Our Industry?

Published September 5, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Koenig & Bauer, David Zwang talks with Eric Frank, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Product Development, for Koenig & Bauer. They discuss engaging, educating, and growing our industry to prepare for the future growth of print.

PRINTING United: Taking Advantage of All that Is Offered

Published September 5, 2024

In this video, sponsored by the PRINTING United Alliance, David Zwang talks with Mark Subers, President Expositions and Events, PRINTING United. The show covers about 1 million sq./ft., so there's a lot to see and plan. There's never-seen-before equipment, lots of educational opportunities off and on the floor, and a host of new planned networking events. They talk about how to take it all in.

Agfa Is Bringing Lots of New Technologies to PRINTING United

Published September 5, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Agfa, David Zwang talks with Agfa's Deb Hutcheson and Dieter Jancart in advance of PRINTING United. Agfa has been expanding their product portfolio to better support the growing and changing display, packaging, and industrial print markets. They will have their largest display of new equipment at the show.

Clemson Senior Isabelle Stanley on Her Interest in Packaging and Branding

Published September 3, 2024

David Zwang talks with Isabelle Stanley, a senior at Clemson University who is looking forward to pursuing a career in marketing and branding after graduation.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK: SOFTWARE & WORKFLOW—Hybrid Software Drives Smart Print Factories

Published August 28, 2024

Hybrid Software today has grown organically and through the acquisition and integration of an extensive but synergetic group of companies. This has allowed them to build very complete and efficient solutions for both OEMs as well as PSP users. David Zwang explores how Hybrid software can control all aspects of print production.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK: DIGITAL & INKJET—Larger Format Cutsheet Inkjet Has Arrived!

Published August 27, 2024

David Zwang rounds up the six new B2 and B1 cutsheet presses that were on display at drupa.

The Grey Elephant Never Forgets: Unique Solution for Flexo and Offset Plate Management

Published August 26, 2024

The Grey Elephant has created a unique plate scanning and management solution that identifies commonalities, to provide less plate waste.

PRINTING United 2024: You Really Can’t Afford to Miss It!

Published August 22, 2024

Drupa 2024 was a successful event according to exhibitors and attendees. It looks like this success will carry over to Printing United 2024 being held in Las Vegas, NV September 10-12, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. While they are both big events, they are different.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK: LABELS & PACKAGING—Flexo Is Converting for Packaging

Published August 21, 2024

Flexo continues to be the most cost-effective solution for mid- to long-run printed packaging output, driven by the increase in quality and the continued digitalization of the flexo press equipment. David Zwang looks at the latest technological developments in flexo.

PRINTING United Is Preparing for a Historic and Fun-Packed Event

Published August 21, 2024

PRINTING United in Las Vegas will be an exciting event, with lots of new equipment and solutions, education, and time and events for networking.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK: LABELS & PACKAGING—Automating Box Converting Workflows

Published August 20, 2024

When we think about supporting the new demands in packaging converting, we usually focus on the printing, whether that is flexo, offset, digital or inkjet. While each of those technologies has evolved to address the new demands, the actual converting part has lagged behind. Until now. David Zwang explains.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK: DIGITAL & INKJET—B1 vs. B2 vs. B2+ vs. B2 XL: Decisions, Decisions

Published August 20, 2024

How should you make the decision of what size press—be it offset, EP, or inkjet—to acquire? David Zwang weighs the different factors.

RevSpring’s Eric Hollingsworth on thINK

Published August 20, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Eric Hollingsworth, VP of Operations for RevSpring, a transactional print provider with three production facilities to mail a billion pieces a year. Eric is the newest member of the thINK Board.

TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK—LABELS & PACKAGING: Are You Ready for Web2Pack?

Published August 19, 2024

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.” There are also new regulations that dictate the amount of “free space” in a box to reduce packaging waste. Using what has been learned from commercial web2print implementations, there is also a desire to use it for package converter onboarding. David Zwang looks at the current state of Web2Pack

Vivid Impact’s Sam Campitella on Marketing Technology

Published August 19, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Sam Campitella, President of Vivid Impact, a marketing technology business with three production facilities, each of which specializes in different functions—custom developers and third-party logistics, commercial printing and binding, and creative design and video production. The company’s print capabilities center around prodution inkjet.

More Vang Sails from Print into Software Development

Published August 15, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Joshua Hirschorn, VP of Finance & Administration at More Vang, about the origin of the company's name and how it started as a commercial printer but expanded into creative agency work and software development.

Clemson University Graphic Communications Students Visit thINK Ahead

Published August 14, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Dr. Charles Weiss, Professor of Graphic Communication at Clemson University. The Clemson program is one of the few four-year university graphic communications programs. Canon had invited Dr. Weiss and several of his students to attend thINK Ahead.

Koenig & Bauer Durst: An Interesting and Emerging Offspring

Published August 13, 2024

Historically, there has been much “quiet” intercompany collaboration in the manufacturing of press and finishing equipment. However, lately we have seen more outward collaboration between equipment manufacturers. Often, the collaboration ensures that they leverage each other’s strengths, while each of the companies retains their visibility and yet allows for a quicker development and go to market outcomes.

The Mailworks Offers the Full Gamut of Marketing Campaign Management

Published August 13, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with The Mailworks CEO Brianne Baggetta about how the company helps its customers with all facets of a marketing campaign—from design, to printing, to mailing, to analyzing the results.

Printing Impressions’ Mark Michelson on Attracting New Talent to the Industry

Published August 12, 2024

David Zwang talks with Mark Michelson, Senior Editor of Printing Impressions, on the eve of his impending retirement, about finding the next generation of printing industry writers and analysts.

Perfect Communications’ Joe Olivo on the Inkjet Transformation

Published August 8, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Joe Olivo, President & Co-owner of Perfect Communications, a commercial printer that, over the past few years, has been focusing on direct mail for both the gaming and non-profit markets. Although the company still operates offset and toner-based digital presses, they have been avidly pursuing production inkjet.

Packaging Graphics and Diversification with Olberding Brand

Published August 8, 2024

David Zwang talks with David Olberding, CEO, Olberding Brand Family, a century-old company specializing in packaging graphics for consumer goods. Olberding Brand is expanding their focus to include production art and design. As project managers, they handle graphics projects and collaborate with brands and converters.

Nobelus’ Angie Mohni on Industry Trends

Published August 8, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Nobelus, David Zwang talks with Angie Mohni, VP of Marketing for Nobelus, about the latest industry trends she has been seeing, notably automation, sustainability, and insourcing.

PrintMailPro Supplements Digital Inkjet with Offset Printing

Published August 5, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Keith Daboub, President & CEO of PrintMailPro, a Texas-based commercial printer with three facilities, each of which has its own product specialty. A predominantly digital inkjet business, it recently acquired another company to boost their strength in offset.

Canon’s Lisa Weese Recaps the Company’s Latest Product Releases at thINK

Published August 1, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Lisa Weese, Senior Director, Category Marketing & Product Planning, for Canon Solutions America, about Canon’s recent product announcements and releases.

HP's Sustainability in Industrial Printing

Published July 29, 2024

David Zwang talks with Joan Perez Pericot, VP of Sustainability, HP, about the significance of sustainability in their operations. They discuss into HP's methods for assessing and enhancing their environmental impact, their participation in sustainability initiatives such as forest preservation and carbon footprint reduction, and their commitment to designing sustainable products.

Fujifilm's Growth and Expansion in North America

Published July 29, 2024

David Zwang and Hidetoshi (Toshi) Kino, General Manager, Fujifilm, discuss the company's growth and expansion in North America. They highlight the addition of colors and solutions to their machines. They also touch on the challenges of hiring and the company's focus on software technology for automation and cost reduction.

Neyenesch Printing Looks at Inkjet

Published July 29, 2024

In this video, sponsored by Canon, David Zwang talks with Natalie Neyenesch, VP of Operations for Neyenesch Printing, a 125-year-old, fourth-generation family business that specializes in direct mail and high-end boutique work. The company has a mix of offset and toner-based digital equipment and Neyenesch attended thINK to investigate potentially investing in inkjet.

Dataline: A Leader in ERP Software for the Graphic and Printing Industry

Published July 23, 2024

David Zwang sits down with Dirk Deroo, CEO, Dataline, a company specializing in ERP software for the graphic and printing industry since 1997. They talk about the features of Multipress, Dataline's flagship product, and its web-to-print solutions.

KYOCERA NIXKA: Revolutionizing Industrial Printing with Inkjet Technology

Published July 22, 2024

David Zwang and Paul Morgavi, President, KYOCERA NIXKA, introduce the newly merged companies to revolutionize industrial printing with inkjet technology. They discuss the potential of inkjet solutions across various applications and explore the niche market of photo printing and expresses optimism for future growth.

HP Pagewide T700i Packaging Press: The Inkjet Carton Solution

Published July 16, 2024

HP launched a new PageWide packaging press in Würzberg, Germany, at Koenig & Bauer that has a print width that fits nicely between their existing T400 and T1100 series corrugated preprint presses. However, the new T700i is designed for more than just corrugated preprint.

Product Spotlight: Connected Automation: Moving from Mass Production To Mass Customization

Published July 16, 2024

Atomyx a cloud-based platform that can both streamline the print business and production processes, while also reducing the skills needed to do the plant-wide automation integration to support production from Mass Production to Mass Customization. David Zwang takes a close look at Atomyx.

Exploring Atomyx: A Comprehensive Interview with Tom Piere, CEO of Four Pees

Published July 16, 2024

Tom Piere, CEO of Four Pees, comes to the drupa daily studio to talk about the company's Atomyx platform. Atomyx is a three-product suite: Atomyx Manage, which connects APIs and systems in the print industry; Atomyx Prepare, focusing on artwork processing; and Atomyx Layout, which facilitates ganging nesting and smart estimation for print jobs.

Exploring Cloud Solutions with Enfocus

Published July 16, 2024

David Zwang and Tim Bernaerdt, Director, Enfocus, discuss the transition to the cloud, its benefits, and the potential of moving PitStop and Switch to the cloud. They also talk about the growth of the app store and the mixed audience's need to embrace the cloud.

HP Industrial Launches PageWide T700i Packaging Press

Published July 16, 2024

HP launched a new Pagewide packaging press that fits between their T400 and T1100 presses. It is an ideal size and is more than just for litho-lam! David Zwang talks with Barbara McManus, Head of HP Pagewide Industrial Group.

Digital Printing and Automation with HP Indigo

Published July 15, 2024

David Zwang and Noam Zilbershtain, VP and General Manager, HP Indigo Industrial Print, talk about the world of digital printing with HP Indigo. They highlight the significance of automation and intelligent automation lines, and the transition to digital. Zibershtain also discusses importance of solutions, applications, a connected environment and interactions with other companies prioritizing automation.

Exploring PrintVIS: A Microsoft Partnered MIS System

Published July 12, 2024

David Zwang talks with Kasper Tomshoj, CEO PrintVIS, about the PrintVIS MIS system that stands out through its partnership with Microsoft and integration of AI features. They also touch on the benefits of PrintVIS' collaboration with Kodak and the advantages of cloud-based updates and innovation.

Inkjet Technology Evolution and its Impact on the Packaging Industry

Published July 11, 2024

David Zwang talks with Mary Schilling, certified Print Geek, about the evolution of inkjet technology and its impact on the commercial packaging industry at drupa 2024. They highlight the importance of print beyond paper and the role of innovative printing technologies. They also touch on the use of biomarkers and synthetic DNA in inks for security and tracking, emphasizing the significance of tracking and sustainability in various industries.

Highcon Management Transition

Published July 10, 2024

David Zwang talks with Shlomo Nimrodi, who, after five years as CEO of Highcon, transfers his CEO role to Yair Alcobi and takes on the position of Chairman of Highcon.

Product Spotlight: Canon’s PRISMA Home

Published June 27, 2024

PRISMA Home is a unique platform that houses valuable applications and tools in the cloud to help manage and support compatible print production processes. David Zwang takes a close look at how the PRISMA family has evolved.

Product Spotlight: Canon’s PRISMA Home

Published June 27, 2024

David Zwang talks with Karen Di Mora, Sr. Specialist Business Planning & Marketing, Canon USA, about PRISMA Home, a unique platform that houses valuable applications and tools in the cloud to help manage and support compatible print production processes.

A Deep Dive into Highcon's Success and Future Developments

Published June 27, 2024

David Zwang sits down with Shlomo Nimrodi, CEO, Highcon, to explore the company's journey and success in the packaging market. They discuss the rise of digital die-cutting, productivity enhancements and the surprising interest in their solutions from the corrugated market.

Xitron Climbs K2

Published June 26, 2024

At drupa 2024, Xitron introduced K2, a new software system that integrates some of the Hybrid Software offerings to create a complete workflow. David Zwang takes a closer look.

Embellishment and Ecology with Kurz

Published June 26, 2024

David Zwang looks at the new developments in embellishment and sustainability that Kurz was showing at drupa 24.

Would You Like Some Work with That Press?

Published June 25, 2024

While salespeople and web2print solutions still remain important forms of business development and onboarding work, as communication and business processes continue to become more connected, new types of partnerships and connected solutions will undoubtedly play a larger role in business development for PSPs.

Fujifilm Showing Impressive Line of New Products

Published June 20, 2024

David Zwang runs down the myriad hardware and software product announcements made by Fujifilm at drupa 24.

Fujifilm Smart Flow: Taking Workflow Holistically

Published June 19, 2024

David Zwang takes a deep dive into Fujifilm’s Smart Flow workflow software, being demonstrated at drupa 24.

Connected Automation with Atomyx

Published June 19, 2024

David Zwang looks at Atomyx, a platform built on the vision of Connected Automation to enable the profitable production of individualized print jobs at scale, which was being showcased at drupa 24.

Hybrid Software Drives Smart Print Factories

Published June 18, 2024

David Zwang looks at how Hybrid Software has grown organically and through the acquisition and integration of an extensive but synergetic group of companies, allowing them to build very complete and efficient solutions for both OEMs as well as PSP users.

Textile Printing Is Better with PDF

Published June 17, 2024

At drupa 24, Adobe was demonstrating how PDF can be used for textile production. David Zwang reports from drupa’s touchpoint textile display area.

Landa Showing B1 Digital Press with Offset Capacity

Published June 17, 2024

Landa Digital Print’s tagline for drupa 2024 was “Run More,” and they supported that with the introduction of new “faster and smarter” presses. David Zwang looks at the S11 simplex and S11P duplex B1 presses.

HP and Cimpress Embark On A New Chapter Of Collaboration

Published June 17, 2024

David Zwang reports from drupa 24 on the HP/Cimpress partnership and how Cimpress s actively contributing to the development of the newly announced HP Indigo 120K Digital Press.

All4Labels and HP Announce Multi-Unit Press Deal

Published June 13, 2024

As All4Labels continues its plans to completely digitize its production floors, the company announced at drupa 24 that it was investing in several units of HP Indigo V12, HP Indigo 200K and the enhanced version of the HP PageWide Advantage 2200. David Zwang looks at the details of this investment.

FUJIFILM Dimatix Introduces The SkyFire® SF600 Next Generation Printhead

Published June 12, 2024

At drupa 24, Fujifilm announced the new Dimatix SkyFire SF600 printhead. David Zwang taskes a close look at this announcement.

Modern Flexo: Driving the Transformation of Packaging Production

Published June 11, 2024

In this article, sponsored by Miraclon, David Zwang’s looks at recent developments in the technical “rebirth” of flexography that are allowing it to remain competitive as the go-to process for packaging production.

HP and Canva Announce Partnership to Democratize Design and Printing

Published June 10, 2024

HP and Canva announced that they will join forces in a groundbreaking collaboration to provide unique design-to-print services and experiences for over 185 million monthly Canva users with HP Print Service Providers across the globe.

Kodak's PRINERGY Platform and Cloud-Based Solutions

Published June 10, 2024

David Zwang and Jim Barnes, Chief IT Implementation Officer, Kodak, talk about the workings of the PRINERGY platform. They discuss the platform's support for offset and digital printing, and the advantages of cloud and virtualization. They also touch on the adoption of cloud-based solutions and their long-term goal of supporting customers' current environments while shaping the future.

HP Industrial's Future-Ready Printing Solutions with Marcus Weiss

Published June 7, 2024

David Zwang and Marcus Weiss, General Manager, EMEA - HP Industrial Printing, HP, talk about HP's innovative printing and automation solutions showcased at drupa. They discuss the growing interest in general commercial print and HP's commitment to transforming the perception of print through value addition and customization. HP's holistic approach, which includes integrating existing workflows and openness to third-party integration, is also discussed.

Innovations in Book Production with Müller Martini

Published June 7, 2024

Ingolf Fritzsche, Product Manager, Digital Solutions, and Ronald Reddmann, Product Manager, Softcover Solutions, Müller Martini, introduce their latest innovations in book production at the drupa video studio. They highlight a new book block solution that changes folding patterns in under 10 seconds, enhancing productivity and sustainability. The Connex workflow system and high-speed unique book production are key digital advancements.

Digital Transformation in Packaging Industry: A Conversation with Christian Zeller

Published June 7, 2024

Christian Zeller, Head of Marketing, BOBST, delve into the industry's shift towards digitalization and connectivity. They introduce BOBST Connect, a data-driven solution for the packaging value chain. The discussion emphasizes an application-centric approach, end products and customer-centricity. They also highlight the global availability of competence centers and ways to connect with sales teams.

Transforming the Packaging World: A Discussion with BOBST CEO Jean-Pascal

Published June 6, 2024

Jean-Pascal Bobst, CEO of BOBST, shares his company's vision for revolutionizing the packaging industry. He outlines the strategic pillars of digitization, connectivity, automation and sustainability. Jean-Pascal discusses the digitization and automation of machines, starting from PDF files and the shift towards selling machines with performance-driven service contracts. He also talks about partnerships for sustainability and new technologies, and the company's plans for future software-driven solutions.

Die Cutting: The Latest Trends

Published June 4, 2024

Die cutting has been around for a long time, however the growth packaging and of shorter run packaging as well as display production has increased the need for die cutting dramatically. There are lots of new types of die cutting solutions in the market and more coming. In the end it is all about application.

The Multifaceted Print Industry: A Conversation with Smithers

Published June 3, 2024

Sean Smyth, Senior Print Consultant, Smithers, dives into the multifaceted world of the print industry at drupa. He discusses the show's duration, standout exhibits, software and automation and speculates on drupa's future. Also discussed: print technology and innovation, the role of software and robots in print processes, application-based printing, and the importance of packaging and flexible printing.

Highcon 2.0: Transition and Focus on Packaging

Published June 3, 2024

Simon Lewis, SVP Marketing Strategy and Business Development, Highcon stopped by the drupa daily studio to talk about the transition to Highcon 2.0 and the company's focus on packaging. He talks about collaborations with vendors, optimal run lengths, and the upcoming corrugated product, Vulcan.

Exploring HP PageWide Products and Solutions with Yale Goldis

Published May 31, 2024

Yale Goldis Commercial Products and Solutions Director, HP PageWide Industrial, delves into HP's extensive product range, printing volume and upcoming milestone of printing 1 trillion pages. He emphasizes the customer value through upgradeability and the success of the Advantage press.

Exploring HP's Legacy and Future in Print and Imaging with Tuan Tran

Published May 31, 2024

Tuan Tran, President of Print and Imaging for HP, talks about HP's 40-year history in the printing industry. He explores the company's diverse machine portfolio, opportunities across different segments and the convenience offered to customers. He also discusses office workflows, the transition from analog to digital, and the potential of printing technologies.

People Profile: Dr. Raša Urbas

Published May 30, 2024

WhatTheyThink/drupa daily is profiling selected attendees to this year's drupa 24. David Zwang profiles Dr. Rasa Urbas, Head of the Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana.

Exploring the Vision and Growth of PrintOS with HP Indigo

Published May 30, 2024

David Zwang and Gershon Alon, Head of Solutions, HP Indigo, meet up at drupa to talk about the evolution and vision of PrintOS, the operating system for print operations. They discuss customer interaction, order flow, customization projects, and collaboration with Esko.

FUJIFILM Dimatix Introduces The SkyFire® SF600 Next Generation Printhead

Published May 29, 2024

At drupa 2024, FUJIFILM introduced the FUJIFILM Dimatix SkyFire® SF600 printhead. David Zwang provides an overview.

HP's Daniel Martinez at drupa

Published May 29, 2024

David Zwang talks with Daniel Martinez, Global Head and General Manager, HP Large Format at drupa about markets HP is focusing on with potential for growth: décor, retail and backlit textiles.

Exploring HP Large Format: Evolution, Innovation, and Applications

Published May 29, 2024

David Zwang and Michael Boyle, Senior Vice President of HP Large Format, delve into the evolution and scope of HP Large Format. They discuss the changing landscape of large format sign and display technologies, the continuous improvement of media innovation, and the power of HP's latex technology. They also highlight the industrial applications of HP's technology, its flexibility, and HP's dedication to artwork and creativity.

Road to drupa: Komori's Lance Martin

Published May 13, 2024

David Zwang talks to Lance Martin, VP Product Marketing, Komori America, about new offset, inkjet, finishing, and connected automation solutions they will be showcasing in their and their partner booths.

Konica Minolta is Ready for drupa and the Future

Published May 13, 2024

David Zwang talks with Frank Mallozzi, President IPP, Konica Minolta US, about how the company is poised for continued growth.

Road to drupa: Fiery's Toby Weiss

Published May 9, 2024

David Zwang talks with Toby Weiss, CEO of Fiery. Fiery sits in front of the lion's share of production print devices across many applications. At drupa, they will be presenting lots of exciting new technologies to help their OEMs and their end users address market shifts and become more productive.

drupa 2024: A Preview

Published April 29, 2024

In anticipation of the upcoming drupa show, there is usually a “pre-drupa” media event. This has been the place for a sampling of the exhibitors to lay out what they see as their future direction and even pre-announce some of their latest technologies.

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.

Articles by David Zwang