The TM-T88VII brings speed, reliability and flexibility enabling merchants to deliver the best customer experience in every environment

As merchants are adapting to an ever-evolving industry with online ordering and ecommerce expanding in retail and hospitality, Epson announced the fastest POS receipt printer in the industry¹ – the TM-T88VII.

As the latest model in Epson’s most popular TM-T88 series POS printer line which has sold millions of units across the globe, TM-T88VII offers lightning-fast print speeds and flexible connectivity between multiple devices to help merchants – particularly in high-volume industries such as hospitality, retail and grocery – deliver the best customer experience in virtually every environment.

Epson Australia MD, Craig Heckenberg, said, “What do Coles, Bunnings, Woolworths, 7 Eleven and so many other household brands have in common with Epson? It’s the TM-T88 receipt printer, now celebrating over 25 years. The TM-T88 series is the workhorse of Epson’s receipt printer line. It’s sleek design and legendary reliability has earned it an important role in the Australian retail landscape, if not globally. Now in its seventh generation, the Epson TM-T88VII is a quiet achiever. Almost always hidden from view, you’ve probably never realised your shopping experiences over the last couple of decades have more than likely involved a TM-T88 series printer and will now likely involve a TM-T88VII.”

The TM-T88VII is the easiest and fastest T88-series product to configure and deploy. The new model delivers fast print speeds up to 500 mm/sec¹ and a high-speed auto cutter, as well as a long printhead and auto cutter life² and a four-year warranty for advanced reliability.

The TM-T88VII can be dynamically shared with fixed PC-POS terminals as well as mobile devices and cloud servers at the same time. With the vertical mounting kit, the printer has flexible configuration options and can connect to almost any system with built-in Ethernet and USB, along with options including Serial, Parallel, Powered USB, and Wi-Fi®.

The TM-T88VII has streamlined the setup process with an improved Epson TM Utility app – available on both PC and mobile devices – which includes a new simple set up tool for easy configuration and deployment of new printers. In addition, the Epson TM Utility app enables integrators to seamlessly upgrade from prior T88 models to the TM-T88VII without losing pre-configured settings and disrupting existing workflows.

As e-commerce and online ordering continues to skyrocket, the TM-T88VII is online order ready and can retrieve orders from a web server and print from web-based applications using Epson’s ePOS™ Print Technology or utilise Server Direct Print technology without installing any additional hardware or POS software integration. Users can easily and securely print as the TM-T88VII offers support for the latest WPA3 Wi-Fi security standard.

Epson TM-T88VII key features include:
• Ultra-fast transaction times – industry-leading print speeds up to 500 mm/sec¹ and high-speed auto cutter
• Reliability you can count on – 4-year warranty; easy-to-clean, water-resistant enclosure; long printhead and auto cutter life²
• Connect to multiple devices simultaneously – using multiple interfaces, printer can be dynamically shared by PC-POS terminals, tablets, and mobile devices as well as cloud servers
• Multi-interface support – built-in USB and Ethernet, optional Serial, Powered USB, Parallel and Wireless connectivity ensure maximum flexibility and futureproofing
• Secure wireless connection – supports the latest Wi-Fi® security standard (WPA3)
• Online ordering ready – Server Direct Print technology allows the printer to retrieve orders from a web server and print a receipt without requiring POS software integration
• POS peripheral support – supports POS peripherals including barcode scanners, customer displays, and more
• Easy setup and configuration – streamline the setup and replacement processes using Epson TM Utility; vertical mounting kit provides flexible configuration options
• Easy to understand – status LEDs and network diagnostic sheet improve on-site network troubleshooting
• Backwards compatible – fully compatible with the existing TM-T88V and TM-T88VI software and same footprint
• Advanced paper-saving functions – top-margin and character-height reduction features help reduce paper usage by up to 49 percent³

The TM-T88VII thermal receipt printer is available from www.epson.com.au, www.epson.co.nz and all Epson authorised channel partners for the RRP of AUD$745.00 and NZD$829.00 including GST.

Print service providers and sign-makers looking to showcase their outstanding examples of work from the last two years can submit their entries in the FESPA Awards 2023 until Wednesday 25 January 2023. 

The FESPA Awards celebrate the achievements of printers and sign-makers from across the globe, recognising their skill, talent, creativity and innovation.

There are 18 categories, ranging from Display, Packaging and Posters to Wrapping, Special Effects, Printed Textiles and Non-printed Signage. For information on all Awards categories visit: https://www.fespaawards.com/information/award-categories

All entries will automatically be considered for four further Awards: the People’s Choice Award, which is voted for online by FESPA’s community; the new Sustainability Award, the Best in Show Award; and the Judges’ Award for Innovation, which is chosen by the FESPA Awards jury.

The People’s Choice Award voting opens on 13 February. Shortlisted entries will be announced on 13 March and will be displayed on site at FESPA Global Print Expo 2023, which takes place from 23 to 26 May at Messe Munich, Germany.

The winners will be announced at the formal Award Ceremony at Messe Munich on 24 May 2023, followed by a drinks reception. All shortlisted entrants will be invited to attend alongside industry media, influencers and sponsors.

For more information on how to enter the FESPA Awards 2023 visit: www.fespaawards.com

Memjet has brought manufacturing back to Australia with advanced robotics. The company has also committed to backing local supply chains and Australian innovation.

‘There are big benefits to vertical integration in Australia,’ says Jason Thelander, Chief Technology Officer, Memjet. ‘We have a stable economy, great scientific and engineering capability, as well as a highly-skilled workforce. With new robotics and ultra-smart software, our manufacturing is competitive with Asia.’

Memjet’s new factory in North Ryde, Sydney, started producing the cores for commercial printing machines in December 2022.

‘Local manufacturing means a US$15–20 million increase in Australian value adds per year,’ says Thelander. ‘And 100% of our output will be exported.’

Memjet is a pioneer of advanced digital ink-jet printing technologies. Memjet print engines are used by some of the world’s best-known printing machine brands. This includes Canon, Konica Minolta, PCMC, MGI and Gallus.

Most of the company’s design and research and development (R&D) work is executed in Australia. Over the past seven years, the company has registered 183 patents, most held in Australia and the United States. Until recently, however, most print engine assembly was done overseas, particularly in northeast Asia.

‘A typical print engine might have print heads from Australia, inks from Japan, and other subsystems from Singapore and Malaysia,’ says Thelander. ‘The print engine would be assembled overseas and then exported to assembly plants around the world. For most models, about 70—80% of the value-add happened in Asia.’

In July 2021, Memjet finished the design of its latest print engine, and several factors made executives consider investing in Asia. Memjet wanted to consolidate its global supply chains. ‘Every country has been hit by supply chain issues over the past few years,’ says Thelander. ‘Like all companies, we want to reduce risk.

‘The advantage of bringing manufacturing back to Australia and vertically integrating is you get more control. We are more in control of our supply chains and our margins.’

Thelander says the new Australia-made strategy includes sourcing most components from suppliers in Australia.

‘When we reach full production, about 80% of the parts for our Australia-built print engines will come from Australia,’ he says. ‘For example, we used to get most of our dye inks from international suppliers. Now, all of them will be sourced from Australia.

Thelander believes strongly in the future of advanced manufacturing in Australia. ‘Advanced manufacturing can deliver a big reduction in factory head-counts,’ says Thelander. ‘The combination of new robotics and smart software means we can reduce manual labour by a factor of between 4 and 7.

‘So, a printhead production line in Asia that used to require 106 people now needs just 28 here in Australia.

‘Advanced manufacturing makes Australia competitive with Asia. It is not that we are “taking jobs” with automation: these jobs would have never existed in Australia — they would have gone overseas along with the supply chain.’

The North Ryde factory will include a collaborative manufacturing centre and house 140 engineers and scientists.

The key is agility. With new AI robotics, Memjet can quickly reconfigure its manufacturing spaces to execute small production runs for external organisations – such as MedTech and electronic-product developers. This helps innovators, start-ups and university spinoffs to make and test prototypes. Adaptable manufacturing spaces also enable innovators to refine their manufacturing processes.

‘This is a revolution in manufacturing,’ says Thelander. ‘It will take us just 90 minutes to reconfigure a production cell from manufacturing one product to another.’

This approach could deliver substantial potential benefits to entrepreneurs, he explains. They can quickly assess their prototypes' commercial potential without investing in a manufacturing line. Entrepreneurs only need to configure “workstations” for their products and design the grippers. All other systems are already in the cell.

‘If you want to be competitive, you need the ability to effectively assemble parts with the lowest possible headcount,’ says Thelander.

‘Our new robots and ultra-smart software enable us to quickly manufacture high-tech, low-run components for other innovators,’ he adds. ‘We can also assemble parts with minimum human input. This is high-efficiency collaborative manufacturing and has a great future in Australia.’

Roland DG Corporation, a leading manufacturer of wide format inkjet printers and printer cutters, today announced the worldwide sales launch of the newest addition to its VersaSTUDIO series, the GS2-24 vinyl cutter, which was previously available in only limited regions. 

VersaSTUDIO is a desktop product line developed by Roland DG to enable anyone to do what was previously possible for only a limited number of professionals. The VersaSTUDIO lineup includes a wide range of digital devices, including a vinyl cutter, printer cutters, engravers and a laser decorator. Their compact sizes, easy-to-use operation, and affordable prices make it possible for those without expertise to easily produce a variety of profitable, high-quality products.

Tony Miller, President, Global Sales and Marketing Division, said, "The GS2-24 announced today is our latest desktop cutter. Since 1988 when we introduced the first cutter/plotter, we have sold more than 500,000 due to their unmatched reliability, precision and value. The GS2-24 is ideal for a wide variety of applications, including sports apparel, T-shirts, indoor and outdoor signage, vehicle decoration, office displays, sales promotion tools and more. It supports a maximum cutter pressure of 500 gf and maximum cutting speed of 850 mm/sec. It can cut a wide range of materials with high productivity and precision, from thin heat transfer sheets and window films to thick paper and even rubber sheets for sandblasting, as well as popular vinyl."

The included Roland CutStudio design software makes it easy to create cutting data such as text, simple shapes, and illustrations. It can also extract outlines from image data. The GS2-24 comes with dedicated plug-in software for outputting directly from widely used design software packages, Adobe® Illustrator® and CorelDRAW®.

"True to our vision of ‘Transforming your imagination into reality’," Miller said, "we have been supporting the digitalisation of various fields through a wide variety of devices. The compact, easy-to-use, and affordable VersaSTUDIO series is the perfect solution for people who want to start a new business, add a second business, or work from home. Especially in recent years, interest in such digital devices has been growing with the spread of digital technology, changing values, and diversification of work styles. That’s why the GS2-24 has now been added to the VersaSTUDIO lineup. We will continue to expand our desktop product line to provide more people with the joy of creation and to contribute to the generation of new businesses."

To find out more about the GS2-24, go to: https://www.rolanddg.com.au/products/vinyl-cutters/versastudio-gs2-24

To find out more about building a home based business using Roland DG technology, go to: https://www.rolanddg.com.au/industry/home-based-business

SCREEN has refreshed product logos for its Truepress series brand of inkjet digital printing systems. The range, which began in 2006 with the release of the highly successful Truepress Jet 520 series of document, transactional, book and direct marketing presses with EQUIOS software, has now expanded to include offset-quality full colour machines, high speed label presses and the upcoming Pac520P and Pac830F flexible packaging presses for sustainable paper and plastics respectively.

“There are now over a dozen variants of our Truepress devices, each with specific traget market benefits,” says Screen GP Australia Managing Director Peter Scott. “We saw the need to more clearly to delineate the three main categories and have refreshed the branding in order to do this, particularly as new devices roll in from R&D into market. Each category also has specific front-end  software requirements, catered for by versions of EQUIOS and other third-party integrated software.”

The changes intend to clarify Screen’s development of products and solutions for each of the commercial/publishing, label and packaging markets. The company plans to begin shipping presses bearing the new branding from March 2023.

Screen has been working to better differentiate its development of products and solutions for individual fields and to increase its ability to deliver new value to its customers. The three categories are:

Commercial/Publishing, mono & colour:Truepress JET

Self-adhesive and other Labels:Truepress LABEL

Flexible packaging, paper & film:Truepress PAC

www.screenaust.com.au

Sonoco, a global leader in diversified packaging, developed a new chuck technology for winding and unwinding operations of paper and board manufacturers. The new technology offers significant runnability improvements for paper and board reels in the most demanding winding operations, especially in centre drum winders and special unwinding stands like sheeters as well as corrugators.

“To meet today’s challenges of paper and board manufacturers and to offer significant productivity improvements in a cost inflation environment, we developed a new generation of chucks exclusively with our partner,” said Markku Ronnila, Product Manager Paper Mill Cores in Europe. “Our new chuck technology is a step change in paper and board winding and eliminates typical problems such as vibration, torque transmission issues and chew-out. We called this innovative technology ViPer Chucks in reference to the improved VIbration PERformance.”

ViPer Chucks offer significant process improvements during winding runs, less vibration leading to reduced web-breaks or web-tension, overall faster winding speeds and reduced chew-out causing less abrasive dirt. Consequently, this avoids frequent chuck cleaning and saves employees’ working time. The chucks also provide better torque transmission for heavy reel weights. The result allows for higher productivity due to significantly reduced process interruptions coming along with an improvement on process safety. Existing chucks can be easily replaced in a plug-and-play solution.

Established in 1964, Bongiorno & Partners was the first organisation in Australia to offer complete coordination of the financial affairs of medical and dental professionals. As a result, Bongiorno has become a market leader by concentrating solely on the medical and dental fields for over 50 years. Recently the company decided to upgrade their in-house business printing solutions and for that they turned to Epson and their Epson Premium Partner, Orion Print Management.

Stephen Boyce with Epson inkjet business printers at Bongiorno HQ

Bongiorno business systems manager, Stephen Boyce, explained, “We had a four-year contract with Orion Print for 17 business printers that was due to expire so, we decided to trial some new machines and manufacturers – one of which was Epson. While some of the other printers were okay, we found the Epson printers to be faster, quieter and far more efficient. These attributes sealed the deal for a complete shift to Epson business printers and printing solutions.”

Epson WorkForce Enterprise WF-C21000

 

At that time Bongiorno were printing an average of 110,000 pages per month, which meant they needed a high performance and robust printing solution.

Stephen continued, “We needed a solution that would be reliable and low maintenance. We also needed a solution that would replace the 17 laser machines we had with better products and without changing the workflows already in place. The Epson inkjet printers ticked all of those boxes.”

Epson inkjet business printers at Bongiorno HQ

 

Stephen added, “With the new office it was decided that we would have a printing hub with all machines in one location rather than machines all over the building. Therefore, we needed fast, compact and cool running machines and it really was a no-brainer that we chose Epson.”

In total Bongiorno purchased a multi-model Epson solution that included their WorkForce Pro WF-C579R network MFP, WorkForce Enterprise WF-M20590 and WorkForce Enterprise WF-C21000 business devices.

Stephen explained, “The requirements for the printer in our reception area were around its need to be compact in size as it was just the reception using it, plus anyone in a nearby meeting room. We chose the WF-C21000 it is very fast at both printing and scanning in both colour and mono and the WF-M20590 was chosen for similar reasons and the fact that a fast mono printer is always a good idea.”

Bongiorno use PaperCut for their Follow Me Print solution which works seamlessly with the new Epson printers and solutions, as Stephen commented, “Our main focus for workflows is scanning to two different applications and scanning to email. The two applications involve scanning to our DMS, Virtual Cabinet and scanning to pdfDocs. Both applications also utilise ‘hot folders’ to pick up scans.”

According to Stephen there are several, tangible reasons and benefits as to why Bongiorno and other companies have and will switch to Epson business printers. He said, “The fact that the Epson inkjet printers have fewer moving parts, are far more reliable and require far less upkeep than laser printers makes them the best option. The print quality is great and they use much less power, plus they generate no heat, which means we can have several machines in a room without worrying about creating a stifling room temperature.”

It's clear that Stephen Boyce and the Bongiorno team see the switch to Epson business inkjet printing and the move away from laser printers as a good, clear and obvious choice as he concluded, “The reliability and low cost of running of the Epson solutions means we are not wasting time or money with less efficient printers. Our management and employees are under enormous pressure to deliver services to our clients with as few ‘write-offs’ as possible. Fast and reliable printing and scanning means there are no interruptions to our workflows due to printer failures. We have found Epson to be the most reliable, cost-effective solution we have had so far. I would give them 9.5 out of 10.”

French software developer Caldera has announced the release of the latest version of  CalderaRIP, its award-winning RIP program for large-format digital printing & cutting. Starting November 2nd, users will be able to upgrade their RIP to Version 16 in order to experience the full range of new features and improvements.

Highlights of this new version include 7 new features that will be available for all Version 16 users and a brand-new licensing experience. Additionally, Version 16 is compatible with the newly released macOS Ventura, and more than 50 new Print & Cut drivers have been added to the software’s ISO.

According to Arnaud Fabre, Head of Product at Caldera, says “We were the first RIP solution to partner with Adobe in order to deliver the best PDF Print Engine to the large-format printing industry, and we are now the first to deliver its 6th version with all its enhancements. CalderaRIP keeps improving with state-of-the-art technologies ensuring reliability & top performance for all our users. We are also proud to continue having Pantone Libraries in our solutions to help our customers deliver outstanding results. Caldera users can trust our solutions to deliver what’s best for them— and to address the new challenges of our industry.”

The first major improvement concerns the licensing experience of all Caldera users. Indeed, CalderaDock has been updated to v2.0, and becomes the central application to register and manage the licenses of all Caldera solutions. When registering a new license, the validation process is now fully automated to save time and ease the installation experience.

Powered by the latest version of Adobe PDF Print Engine (v6), CalderaRIP guarantees the user to always print the rendering expected by the designer. Adobe’s state-of-the-art PDF engine makes it easier to manage extended color gamuts, brand colors, varnish and foils with increased performance, predictability and consistency compared to previous versions— making it possible for users to print impeccable results regardless of the application.

Version 16 users will also benefit from the latest FOGRA standards directly in CalderaRIP to save time and considerably reduce waste, while achieving better results. These new standards are available in the PrintStandardVerifier module, to allow users to perform conformity checks before printing.

In addition to these improvements, Version 16 brings a range of new features designed to ease print & cut operations. Operators having several projects with different cut contours will be able to group them into multi-page PDF files and submit them directly to the software to save time. The VisualCut & GrandCut now include new options, such as the possibility to enter a number of passes to easily cut thicker materials, or to rotate jobs by 180 degrees to ease lamination & sublimation workflows. Also, an Editor has been added to GrandCut to help users synchronizing cut methods and materials— saving the need to modify complex XML files to achieve higher cutting precision. The SmartImport & PrintProof features remain exclusive to CalderaCare subscribers, and provide unique automation possibilities in terms of job submission & customer validation. Sebastien Hanssens, VP Marketing & Operations at Caldera, says “With this new version, we’ve shown our commitment to delivering smarter tools to support our customers’ activities. Whether they operate in a small, medium or industrial print shop, operators can automate their processes with Caldera solutions to focus on added-value tasks. We are confident that printing and cutting with CalderaRIP Version 16 is more efficient than ever before, with the guarantee of delivering excellent results no matter the application”.

caldera.com

Currie Group is hosting a three-day special event on 6-8 December, Horizon By Appointment, which is aimed at businesses looking for automation and innovation in the general commercial print market.

Currie Group says that in partnership with Horizon it is aiming to better understand customer challenges, and provide solutions through its new technology. As Horizon continues to automate, the Horizon by Appointment event will reveal new equipment launched at Igas 2022 International Graphic Arts Show, and discuss the future of finishing.

Will Currie, Product Category Manager – Finishing, Currie Group, said, “Print businesses will be able to assess the latest equipment, without time or other pressures, they will enjoy the full attention of Currie Group, and be able to work through the implications for their specific operations, with these nine one-on-one sessions.

Will Currie

“We will be looking at the latest technology released at Igas, at the applications it will enable, at the workflow, and how to optimise the efficiencies. We will also look at the future, which is almost upon us, with the Horizon Smart Factory, connected machines, and robots."

Horizon by Appointment takes place over three days Tuesday to Thursday 6-8 December at Currie Group national headquarters and demonstration centre at 2-4 Guest Street, Hawthorn, Melbourne.

Print businesses can book for a private session time by opening www.events.curriegroup.com.au with three session times to choose from each day, either 9:30am, 12:00pm or 2:00pm.

A range of equipment will be available for demonstration, with product managers able to answer questions and provide specific advice. The equipment includes:

• Horizon BQ-270V Perfect Binder
• Horizon HT-300 Three-side Trimmer
• Horizon SPF-200L Booklet-making System
• Horizon RD-N4055 Rotary Die-cut System
• Horizon CRF-362 Creaser Folder
• Horizon APC-610 Hydraulic Paper Cutter

Will Currie says, “It will be a completely personalised experience. Horizon is acutely aware of both the pressures on print businesses, and the opportunities that new technology provides. The nine print businesses that come to Horizon by Appointment will find it a most valuable time.”

As well as giving print business owners the chance to check out the latest technology on the market, the sessions will provide an insight into the future. Will Currie says inline automation for finishing and print will deliver real benefits for Australian and New Zealand print businesses.

He said, “Australia has had glimpses of the future, a perfect binder inline with a trimmer for instance, but there is so much more coming soon. Horizon has the ability to connect printing equipment directly to a binding system, to trim systems, have a robot pack it into a box, and have another robot drive it to despatch. All this is coming soon, switched on print businesses will want to make sure they are early adopters.”

The Horizon Smart Factory was first seen three years ago, print businesses attending the Horizon by Appointment sessions will have a video report from the latest developments in Japan.

Click here to book into the Horizon By Appointment event.

Konica Minolta Australia is committed to helping its production print (PP) and industrial print (IP) customers grow their businesses through new opportunities in 2023 with additional investments, products, and solutions, backed by a committed leadership team and wealth of expertise.

The PP/IP market continues to play a key part of Konica Minolta’s strategy in Australia, with the company focused on continuing to build on what it does best. This includes its commitment to customers through innovation, consulting, and service and support backed by its local leadership team, which includes Yohei Konaka, managing director, Andrew Cocker, general manager, production and industrial print, and recently appointed chief sales officer, Dean Hosking.

Yohei Konaka, managing director, Konica Minolta Australia, said, “Konica Minolta, Inc. (KMI) has a huge commitment to the PP/IP industry going forward. In the next 12 months, there is a lot in the pipeline for this space, which will filter through to customers in Australia to benefit from. In the commercial print space, customers are requesting more complex and customised demands that require short run production and personalisation, which means commercial printers need to transform to survive. Konica Minolta continues to bring solutions to the market to address these challenges as well as ensuring its staff are trained, resourced, and visible through key partnerships, industry support, and trade shows.”

Andrew Cocker, general manager, production and industrial print, Konica Minolta Australia, said, “Konica Minolta has seen a post-COVID boom in PP/IP as it helped customers navigate through the pandemic and open new revenue streams and opportunities for diversification. This has seen customers adopt short run and personalised offerings, embellishment, wide format, packaging, and label options.”

Andrew Cocker

 Despite the opportunities, there are still challenges, particularly with skills shortages across the industry. This means that innovations that improve productivity and efficiency are critical. Automation is a key way that commercial printers can counter the talent shortage and ensure that its people are working on the right tasks.

One solution offered by Konica Minolta is the revolutionary Intelligent Quality Optimiser (IQ-501), available on several devices, that automates print jobs to ensure the highest print quality, optimal image position, registration, and colour control for every job. With its high productivity and versatile automation, the IQ-501 is tailored to suit the demands of short run production and fast turnaround times. This technology equips customers to reallocate their employees to more valuable tasks while the IQ-501 ensures quality finishes.

The breadth and depth of experience and knowledge Konica Minolta has in the PP/IP space, backed by the new leadership team and strong sales force, represents a combined 300 plus years of experience in the industry.

Dean Hosking said, “Konica Minolta Australia’s goal is to help customers diversify from and recognise new revenue stream opportunities in the space. PP/IP can be transformative for businesses, so for the Konica Minolta team it’s about helping customers find success in new areas.”

Dean Hosking

 

“As always, this will be backed by the exceptional service and support Konica Minolta customers have come to expect. This is an area we will continue to invest in, looking at ways that we can offer even better service to further improve customer satisfaction. The PP and IP industry will play an important role in Konica Minolta’s success in 2023 and we look forward to our customer’s success being a key driver.”

With today’s brands and packaging suppliers facing a catalog of potentially crippling challenges, Esko has developed its latest software innovations specifically to make it easier for people and processes to connect, to automate operations and to drive operational improvements.

“From the energy crisis and the erosion of margins to material shortages and labor and skills deficits, we know there are many significant challenges for businesses today,” said Jan De Roeck, Esko Director of Marketing, Industry Relations and Strategy. “The role of technology and innovation is key in surmounting these challenges. It is now imperative that companies review their current business operations and identify areas where they can make meaningful improvements and drive operational efficiencies in order that they not only survive but thrive.”

It is in this climate that Esko has developed its software version 22.11, bringing to market new technological developments that will advance the industry, helping businesses form a foundation to identify waste, mitigate risk and optimise opportunity while preparing for the predicted megatrends of 2023.

Esko Release 22.11 includes a host of new features, including:

• Dynamic Subscriptions – a new, cloud-based licensing model for on-premise applications that simplifies global management and distribution of licenses across all sites

• ArtPro+ GMG OpenColor Connector – enabling smarter working with simplified colour management across systems, with state-of-the-art visualisation and automation tools bringing new levels of colour predictability and efficiency across the workflow

• Greater flexo automation – with new PlateID automatic placement and the introduction of nested merging in Flexo Engine, delivering more automation and improved efficiency in the plate room

• Automated workflow improvements – new multi-MIS support in Automation Engine SaaS and new configuration tools in WebCenter to improve user experience

• New FEFCO standards as parametric tools in ArtiosCAD – Esko is the first to bring to market the new FEFCO (the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers) design style standards as parametric tools, in its structural design software

• Integrated Tilia Labs Artificial Intelligence – leverage Artificial Intelligence through Esko Automation Engine; rethink the planning and imposition process and unlock productivity improvements with a seamless interface between prepress data and production data.

“Our key focus with this latest software release is to deliver technology that makes it easier for packaging companies to connect its people and processes, to access data, automate operations and to drive operational efficiency,” said Jan. “Our new Dynamic Subscriptions, for example, are assigned to a group of individuals, rather than one single user. When logging on, each user – wherever they may be based – is simply assigned an available license, provided there are licenses available in the group. When the user ends their session, this license is immediately released back to the group, enabling continuous, uninterrupted access and potentially 24/7 operation without the excessive costs of individual licenses for all.

“Similarly, we know the manual re-separation of images and artwork to match brands’ color accuracy demands can be a laborious and error-prone process,” said Jan. “By automating the re-separation using GMG OpenColor technology – via the new unique integration with Esko ArtPro+ in software version 22.11 – prepress professionals can now accurately visualise colour in before-and-after states and assess color deviations on-screen with precise Delta E readouts.”

Following the recent acquisition of Tilia Labs, Esko is also delivering on the need of brand owners and converters to connect and integrate the entire value chain through upstream digitalisation. “Tilia Labs’ tilia Phoenix solution has now been integrated with Esko Automation Engine,” said Jan. “Featuring intelligent algorithms for sheet layout, estimation and planning, this underlines our commitment to delivering integrated software and hardware solutions that accelerate the go-to-market process for consumer packaged goods. We are filling the gap between converters and brand owners by providing tools to help the converters do the job better, faster and more efficiently.”

Jan said the new Esko Release 22.11 will be available for all Esko software customers from Wednesday, November 9th, before a live webinar event on Tuesday 22nd November examines the new features in depth. “We will take a detailed look at the megatrends set to land in 2023, the issues the industry is likely to face and the challenges and opportunities these will present to businesses,” he said. “Our product experts and customers will share compelling presentations and demonstrations on the role innovation and technology has to play, diving into key topics and showcasing how businesses can advance their digital transformation journey and ultimately build a more sustainable future.”

esko.com

Leading South African manufacturer, NUtec Digital Ink now produces an expanded range of NVC-free UV-curable inks optimised for LED lamp curing on both rigid and roll-to-roll media.

The Ruby ink range offers a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional lamp curing inks and presents print service providers (PSPs) with a wider array of media possibilities due to the cooler cure. From wood, metal and glass to leatherette, vinyl and woven PE, the substrate choices are endless as well as the applications whether for signage, point of sale advertising, interior design, automotive or industrial.

Supplied in various bottle and cartridge packaging configurations, the range’s colour options offer an expanded gamut with CMYK, light colours and white plus a clear varnish option for the protection of prints or for the addition of special effects. 

“Our Ruby UV LED ink range has been well received by PSPs globally and has seen exponential growth in demand over the past year. Just recently we heard that our Ruby R10-HYB white ink for Epson printheads had been chosen for the external branding of some of our country’s passenger trains. A proud moment indeed,” says Darren Claassens, NUtec’s Head of Sales and Marketing. 

NUtec Digital Ink’s innovative UV LED solutions have been developed for a wide variety of printheads including Epson, Kyocera, Fujifilm, Konica Minolta, Xaar, ToshibaTec, Ricoh and Seiko, and are covered by the company’s comprehensive Ink Delivery System (IDS) warranty. The UV-curable inks are free from N-vinyl caprolactam (NVC), produce low odour, and comply to the latest regulatory standards.

Visual Impact Sydney is just around the corner, and businesses keen to keep up with the latest in print, sign, display, wide-format, engraving, textile printing and more are now able to register for the show.

The show will be the first Visual Impact Expo in the Harbour city since before the pandemic, and both Sydneysiders and visitors from across the State and around the country will be keen to see the latest developments at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, from 3-5 May 2023.

“The show theme, ‘Envision Your Success’, is apt for a post-pandemic market, with businesses still grappling with how to meet the changes wrought across the sector over the past four years,” says Sarah Moore, Business Development Manager for Visual Connections, which owns and organises the show.

“We saw at PacPrint in Melbourne that businesses are now firmly looking forward and are keen to invest in their future success – they came to Melbourne with their wallets in hand to see and compare potential business solutions, talk to the experts and take advantage of show deals. Now, we’re offering the same opportunity in Sydney and we’re confident those who were unable to get to Melbourne will be keen to catch up.”

Already, some of the industry’s leading names have confirmed their attendance, including Platinum Sponsor Roland DG, Gold Sponsors Epson, Euro Poles, HP, Pozitive, Spicers, Starleaton and Trotec. Also confirmed are Alfex Laser, Celmac, CMYKhub, Dongguan Thunderlaser, Elizabeth Machines, Guangzhou Cninti, Hexis, Impression Technology, Mutoh, Multicam, Paper Handling Equipment (PHE), Signage Accessories Suppliers (SAS) and Sublimation Systems to name just some.

“Exhibitors are keen to reconnect with the market in Sydney,” reports Visual Connections Events Manager, Charly Blades, “and with innovation always running fast in this sector, there’s sure to be plenty of interest even for those who attended PacPrint in Melbourne in mid-2022.

“Already, a number of exhibitors have indicated they will have new releases at VI Sydney, including some exciting innovations which failed to arrive for the Melbourne show but are now landed and ready to go for VI.”

Registration for the show is now live at https://tickets.lup.com.au/visual-impact-sydney-2023?cat=cat-registration so it’s time to jump online, register to attend…and clear your diary. Suppliers who are still wishing to book one of the remaining stands should act quickly to reserve their space by emailing charlyb@visualconnections.org.au or sarahm@visualconnections.org.au, or calling the Visual Connections office on (02) 9868 1577. 

Since its inception in 1980, Queensland based audio visual and communication solution specialist Videopro has grown to be one of Australia's leading technology companies. Australian owned and operated, one of their key core values is ‘We Care’ and it’s this customer commitment that has seen their business continue to expand year on year. A leading Epson partner for visual display solutions, Videopro recently saved significant operating costs by switching all their in-house laser printers to lower energy consumption and more sustainable Epson inkjet solutions.

Epson WorkForce Enterprise WF-C20600 with Finisher Stapler and High-Capacity Feeder

Videopro CEO, Cameron Douglas, explained, “Videopro’s in-house copiers and laser printers were previously supplied under a cost per page plan and service agreement. The equipment was old, becoming increasingly unreliable and the finance contract was about to end. After hearing about the savings that were to be had by switching to Epson’s document solutions range of business copiers and printers, we investigated how this could benefit our business.”

Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C579R

The result of this investigation would lead to Videopro upgrading to a faster, better featured and more reliable fleet of devices. It was also projected that, conservatively, the company would save many thousands of dollars on service costs. The icing on the cake was that by using Epson’s Heat-Free print technology they would reduce copier-related CO₂ emissions by over 1,600 kg.

Douglas continued, “With our business servicing a wide range of sectors and locations, the goal was to find a technology partner that could provide products that could support our requirements while also maintaining value and consistency with a maintenance and support program. That partner was Epson.”
 
 When starting to look at different options, it quickly became evident to the Videopro team that there were a lot of different stakeholders in the decision-making process and each person brought their own focus points to the process. 

The new Epson printers in use at Videopro

Douglas said, “With this in mind we came up with the assessment criteria that best fitted the requirements across the business. These included initial costs, ongoing costs, suitability of product range and the technology used. There were initially some questions about moving from laser printers to an inkjet solution in a corporate environment, but by experiencing the Epson range of printers we quickly saw the significant benefits of using inkjet over laser.” 

 Having completed a rigorous and comprehensive assessment of all the laser and inkjet solutions available on the market Videopro decided to consolidate their printer fleet and standardise it with all Epson Heat-Free Technology inkjet solutions.

The new Epson printers in use at Videopro

Douglas said, “The Epson WF-C20600 was chosen as the main print device at our head office as this allows for additional finishing options such as the stapler and booklet finisher. A combination of Epson WF-C579RTC, Epson WF-M5799 and Epson WF-M5299 units are used in our other locations that don’t have access to the main printer.”

 
 As Douglas mentioned earlier, there were initially some questions concerning the move from all laser to all inkjet printing solutions and how Epson’s inkjet technology would compare and compete. This is a point and outcome that Douglas clearly wants to emphasise.

He explained, “The technology that the Epson print range uses dispels any issues about inkjet technology. The Epson inkjet prints are fast and high quality, the printers are quiet and consumable support is quick and efficient. Another positive aspect is the reduction in energy usage you get by using Epson inkjet printers. 

According to Cameron Douglas the benefits of Epson’s inkjet printing solutions over any laser solutions are not just obvious but immediate.

He concluded, “By switching to Epson inkjet printing solutions there were immediate savings as the initial costs were less than all other laser options. Ongoing support and consumables are well priced, have a fast turnaround time and there were savings from the reliability of the Epson printers, which have not had any real downtime. Energy savings are certainly a big part of the overall savings too. Overall, we have found the Epson document solutions inkjet range to be beneficial to the business and our users, while also offering a positive environmental impact by reducing energy and CO₂ emissions.”

For more information go to: https://www.epson.com.au/products/printers_for_business/ 

Xaar, the leading inkjet printing technology Group, has launched its revolutionary printhead – the Xaar Aquinox – delivering exceptional reliability, creativity, and sustainability for printing aqueous fluids.

The Aquinox is the latest development from Xaar’s ImagineX platform, and its revolutionary aQ Power Technology provides a radically new approach to how water-based fluids are jetted reliably, delivering a truly transformational industrial printhead.

Xaar’s aQ Power is a combination of ground-breaking technologies designed to optimize the Aquinox’s lifespan and robustness when handling aqueous fluids. These include a redesigned internal architecture, new water compatible materials capable of coping with an extended working range of pH levels, and a revolutionary new drive system enabling optimum drop ejection. This, together with Xaar’s TF Technology ink recirculation, ensures the Aquinox delivers significantly increased nozzle open time compared to typical aqueous printheads.

Water-based inkjet printing has never been more effective or versatile thanks to the Xaar Aquinox’s unique technologies, exceptional print speeds and compatibility with multiple aqueous fluid types. Speeds of over 100m/min can be achieved, and a high native resolution of 720dpi and firing frequency of up to 48kHz, enables high fluid laydown, with maximum productivity. And with Xaar’s High Laydown Technology the drop size capability is extended, making the Aquinox ideal for printing textiles, highly absorbent substrates, or thick film coatings.

Thanks to Xaar’s Ultra High Viscosity Technology the Aquinox is capable of jetting fluid viscosities of up to 100cP. By enabling a wider color gamut and fluids with larger particles and more pigment for higher opacity, colors are more vibrant and whites and blacks stronger ensuring the Xaar Aquinox can bring the latest imaginative designs and finishes to life.

Being able to handle the latest aqueous inks means the Xaar Aquinox not only delivers the impact and creativity demanded, but also helps users future-proof their business in a more environmentally friendly way. Xaar’s technology and its chevron architecture provides a very energy efficient operation, reducing the power required for printheads, printers and end users alike. In addition, the Aquinox’s improved nozzle open time and latency reduces maintenance and ink waste, helping to minimize the total cost of ownership for users.

John Mills, CEO of Xaar, said: “The introduction of the Xaar Aquinox, powered by our ImagineX platform, is our most significant product launch in recent years.

“The Aquinox demonstrates our commitment to driving the future of inkjet into new and ever more sustainable applications, and we are proud of this revolutionary transformation in aqueous inkjet printing.”

Supported by the robust and proven Hydra ink supply system, with its ‘plug and print’ capability and easy to use, intuitive user interface each Xaar Aquinox printhead is easily integrated into new print machines.

The Aquinox comes with development kit that gives OEMs everything they need to get up and running. This includes the ink supply system and printhead drive electronics.

Having collaborated with leading developers and manufacturers of aqueous inkjet inks to rigorously assess and improve performance, the Xaar Aquinox is equally capable of handling dye-based and pigmented fluids and inks, across a wide range of applications.

John concluded: “The Aquinox seamlessly combines all Xaar’s proven technologies and innovations into a truly transformational and reliable aqueous printhead, providing a real step change in reliable aqueous inkjet printing.

“From textiles to ceramics and packaging, we see the Xaar Aquinox breaking new ground, enabling new water-based print applications, many of which were previously not possible with inkjet. “The Xaar Aquinox will revolutionize aqueous printing, helping to deliver a world where you can truly print anything you imagine.”

xaar.com

Australian Sign & Graphics Association (ASGA) has scheduled a webinar on ‘managing bullying and psychological injuries in the workplace’ on November 29, 2.00pm AEDT.

ASGA’s Legal & Business Advisor, Warwick Ryan of Hicksons Lawyers, will outline how psychological injuries now comprise about a quarter of all workers compensation claims and that the lost days for psychological claims are generally three times that of an average physical injury. The risks that businesses face as a result of this proliferation of such claims will be presented as well as strategies to help a business minimise the risk of such claims.

The webinar will be moderated by Vernon Kingman of Kingman Strategies.

“Managing employees is becoming increasingly complex, with safe work policies constantly changing and more demands being placed on management to ensure both the physical and mental wellbeing of its staff are considered. Any business owner that has had to navigate claims of bullying and stress leave would appreciate the value of guidance in this area,” said ASGA President, Mick Harrold.

“The ASGA is fortunate to have Warwick Ryan provide specific advice on this issue as it relates to the sign industry. Access to this advice is of enormous value and would otherwise cost hundreds of dollars if one was to obtain this advice from a legal or HR consultant. ASGA members can get this advice for free by registering for this webinar. Non-members are also welcomed to register for a small fee.”

Cost: free for ASGA members and their staff, $33 non-members.

Register online at: https://signs.org.au/.

Brett Martin is pleased to announce that Colex Finishing Solutions has become its latest Approved Partner following a successful collaboration at PRINTING United 2022 in Las Vegas. Paying homage to the casinos that surround the Las Vegas Convention Center, Colex used Brett Martin’s Foamalux Xtra foam PVC in 6mm to create a dice design on its Sharpcut Pro cutting and routing equipment at the show.

Colex specializes in wide format cutting equipment for Graphic Sign, Display, P.O.P. and Packaging. During the PRINTING United show, the Sharpcut Pro range of cutters were put through their paces, with the Router performing outstanding with the Foamalux Xtra, first routing a design into the foam PVC and then routing the through cut to complete the final piece. 

Keith Verkem, Colex Finishing Solution’s Senior Product Manager, explains the importance of the collaboration, “When we demonstrate our equipment at exhibitions or to potential customers at Colex’s Demo Facility in Elmwood Park, NJ.   It is important that the substrate used is consistent in order to produce the same quality of cut on every sheet. That consistency is achieved from Brett Martin media. Colex Finishing is now able to share cut profiles for the Brett Martin range of products which ensures the cut will be right the first time and every time.”

The companies’ collaboration is part of Brett Martin’s Approved Partner Programme. The Northern Ireland based plastics manufacturer works closely with cutting, printing and thermoforming machine manufacturers to test and showcase the processing capabilities of its semi-finished product portfolio. 

Mark Robinson, Brett Martin’s Sales Manager for the USA and Canada, explains, “It is important for us to work alongside companies such as Colex. We need to ensure that our products can be successfully processed on the equipment which our customers use. Through these collaborations, we can ensure that our products are continuously evolving and performing to the highest standards and kept up to date with the latest technology advances.”

For more information about Brett Martin’s products visit www.brettmartin.com. For more information about Colex Finishing Solutions’ range of cutters visit www.colex.com.

Carl Harman, Imago Leadership, introduced the FESPA Future Leaders cohort. He pointed out that investing in leadership and culture change will be heard in stories rather than on the bottom line - the team member who decided to stay rather than leave, decisions made differently and business relationships on a new footing. Keith Ferrel, Cactus Imaging, Ben Eaton, Starleaton and Troy Cavanagh, Imagbox, gave their insights into better leadership.

The organisers received fantastic positive feedback from both delegates and sponsors in attendance and expressed their support for the next event. Based on the conference's success and the Future Leaders program, planning has already commenced for 2023.

The FESPA Annual Conference was made possible through the generous support of Diamond Sponsor Orafol, Gold Sponsors Ball & Doggett, Durst, Starleaton, Visual Connections, Silver Sponsors Kissel and Wolf, M- Power Software, Cactus Imaging, Bronze Sponsors HVG and Ricky Richards.

About FESPA Australia

FESPA Australia is one of 37 National associations that make up the FESPA federation.
We work together to promote FESPA’s goal to be the leading globally connected imaging community re- investing its profits to inspire, educate and grow our industry. Our members include leading digital printers, screen printers, sign makers, textile and apparel, and promotional products printers who manufacture a diverse range of products.

• Up to ten percent higher net output in folding carton production – printing speed increased to 21,000 sheets per hour
• Entire machine system adapted for high-speed operation
• Pilot user Cardbox Packaging expecting significant boost in productivity with no additional manpower
• Over 300 customers worldwide take part in HEIDELBERG Packaging Day at Wiesloch-Walldorf site

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) is once again underlining the company’s technology leadership in its core business with a world premiere. The option to increase the printing speed of the Speedmaster XL 106 to 21,000 sheets per hour makes this high-performance system the world’s fastest sheetfed offset press and means an annual output of over 100 million prints is now also possible in folding carton production. This press is a particularly good option for companies producing packaging in the 70 x 100 format, who are calling for ever higher machine outputs and end-to-end automation. The increase in printing speed from 18,000 to 21,000 sheets per hour on the Speedmaster XL 106 is especially attractive to these users. The economic benefit is an eight to ten percent higher net output and – provided the full potential productivity is utilised – an amortisation in around two years. In order to achieve this, HEIDELBERG has optimized some 200 components throughout the entire system, from feeder to delivery. For example, two servo motors now drive the feeder directly and, in the delivery, the weight of the gripper bars has been reduced and they have been adapted to the new printing speed to ensure stable and reliable operation.

“Right from its market launch in 2004, XL technology from HEIDELBERG has set the benchmark in terms of productivity, performance, and reliability for high-end applications in our sector. HEIDELBERG has continuously enhanced this successful machine platform ever since,” says Dr. Ludwin Monz, CEO of HEIDELBERG. “With the newly unveiled Speedmaster XL 106, HEIDELBERG is taking sheetfed offset printing performance to the next level and enabling folding carton manufacturers in particular to become more competitive,” he adds.

Pilot user Cardbox Packaging expecting significant boost in productivity

Cardbox Packaging, an international packaging manufacturer headquartered in the Austrian town of Wolfsberg with over 250 employees, makes high-quality and technically sophisticated carton packaging – primarily for the food, beverages, confectionery, tobacco, and cosmetics industries, and also for the healthcare market. The company enjoys a long and successful partnership with HEIDELBERG. Cardbox mainly uses technologies from HEIDELBERG when it comes to further expanding press and post-press operations at its international sites. Consistently high productivity and maximum machine availability are among the keys to success. Whenever possible, Cardbox maximises the potential of the equipment it uses. This includes the Speedmaster XL 106 that has been in operation at the Wolfsberg site since 2018 and always pushes productivity to the limit. That makes Cardbox the ideal pilot user for the new Speedmaster XL 106 with its maximum speed of 21,000 sheets per hour. The company recently took this high-performance press into operation.

“Competition is fierce on the international packaging market. We make no compromises when it comes to quality, reliability, and keeping to delivery deadlines. Consistently high productivity is a key competitive factor in this regard,” says Roland Schöberl, Managing Director of Cardbox Packaging Holding GmbH. “We are therefore delighted to be working with HEIDELBERG and piloting the new Speedmaster XL 106, currently the world’s fastest sheetfed offset press. Following the start-up phase, we expect it to give us a big productivity boost,” he adds.

At the end of the year, to complement the new high-performance press system and optimise the productivity of its post-press operations, too, Cardbox will additionally be commissioning two high-output MK Mastermatrix die cutters that have also only just been launched.

Over 300 customers take part in Packaging Day at Wiesloch-Walldorf site

The new Speedmaster XL 106 was unveiled at the end of October during the Packaging Day held at the HEIDELBERG site in Wiesloch-Walldorf with the motto “Win the Packaging Race”. Over 300 existing and potential customers from all over the world took part in this event to find out about the latest trends on the packaging market and the associated solutions being offered by HEIDELBERG and its partner MK Masterwork. The presentations focused on process automation, sustainability, operational excellence, and industrial solutions for the post-press packaging segment. A live broadcast from Cardbox Packaging’s new production centre in Wolfsberg showed participants the new Speedmaster XL 106 in operation.
Series production is scheduled to start in fall 2023, and further pilot installations will gradually follow over the coming months.

Watch the Cardbox Packaging Video.